The Cascade Vol.27 Iss.08

MARCH 6 TO MARCH 12, 2019

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 08

Pushing doors that clearly say pull since 1993

RACISM ON CAMPUS SUS LAUNCHES NEW INITIATIVE BASED ON STUDENTS’ ACCOUNTS

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Why we need to stand with unist'ot'en

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SPEAKING AND LISTENING

CONVERSATION: THE MISSING PIECE IN SUS ANTI-RACISM CAMPAIGN

WWW.UFVCASCADE.CA

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VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

Copy Editor Kat Marusiak kat@ufvcascade.ca

Production Assistant Renée Campbell renee@ufvcascade.ca

Production Assistant Uyen Nguyen uyen@ufvcascade.ca

News Editor Jessica Barclay jessica@ufvcascade.ca

Opinion Editor Carissa Wiens carissa@ufvcascade.ca

Culture & Events Editor Cassie de Jong cassie@ufvcascade.ca

Arts in Review Editor Martin Castro martin@ufvcascade.ca

Multimedia Editor Mikaela Collins mikaela@ufvcascade.ca

Digital Media Manager Jeff Mijo-Burch jeff@ufvcascade.ca

Illustrator Simer Haer Illustrator Cory Jensen

Sports Writer Alex Jesus Staff Writer Andrea Sadowski

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Staff Writer Darien Johnson

Event Reporter Alexandra Johnson

Staff Writer Caleb Silveira

Social Media Writer Laurel Logan

Social Media Writer Uyen Nguyen

CONTRIBUTORS Rylee Buchanan Aleister Gwynne Janice Lang Kemone Moodley

Cover Design: Mikaela Collins Back Cover: UFV Career Centre

WWW.UFVCASCADE.CA

ARTS

Illustrator Kayt Hine

OPINION

Production Manager Elyssa English elyssa@ufvcascade.ca

NEWS

Managing Editor Jessica Barclay jessica@ufvcascade.ca

CONTENTS

FEATURE

Business Manager Quintin Stamler quintin@ufvcascade.ca

Creative Director Joel Robertson-Taylor joel@ufvcascade.ca

CULTURE

Executive Editor (interim) Cat Friesen cat@ufvcascade.ca

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14 9.......Events Calendar

Snapshots.......8 Study Break.......17 @UFVCASCADE FACEBOOK.COM/UFVCASCADE INSTAGRAM.COM/UFVCASCADE Volume 27 · Issue 08 Room S2111 33844 King Road Abbotsford, BC V2S 7M8 604.854.4529 The Cascade is UFV’s autonomous student newspaper. It originated under its current name in 1993, and achieved autonomy from the university and the Student Union Society in 2002. This means that The Cascade is a forum for UFV students to have their journalism published in an entirely student-run setting. It also acts as an alternative press for the Fraser Valley.

The Cascade is funded with UFV student funds, and is overseen by the Cascade Journalism Society Board, a body run by a student majority. The Cascade is published every Wednesday with a print circulation of 1,000 and is distributed at Abbotsford, Chilliwack (CEP), Clearbrook, and Mission UFV campuses and throughout the surrounding communities.

The Cascade is open to written, photo, and design work from all students; these can come in the form of a pitch to an editor, or an assignment from an editor. Writers meetings are held every Monday at 2:30 p.m. in The Cascade’s office on the Abbotsford campus.

In order to be published in the newspaper, all work must first be approved

by The Cascade’s editor-in-chief, copy editor, and corresponding section editor. The Cascade reserves the right to edit submissions for clarity and length. The Cascade will not print any articles that contain racist, sexist, homophobic or libellous content. Letters to the editor, while held to the same standard, are unedited, and should be under 200 words. As The Cascade is an autonomous student publication, opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect that of UFV, The Cascade’s staff and collective, or associated members.

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19.......CIVL Shuffle

NEWS 4......Melissa Walter

SUS anti-racism campaign.......3

OPINION Period talk.......5

6.......Racism campaign

Dear Robin.......7

7.......Editorial

CULTURE Attempts on her Life......13 Mac's birthday.......14

13.......Cascade Kitchen 15.......Laughing Matters

SPORTS Women's volleyball.......16

16.......Rowing

ARTS Soundbites.......18 Green Book.......19

19......Oh Boy

news@ufvcascade.ca Jessica Barclay — News Editor

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

NEWS

SUS //

SUS launches antiracism campaign

“To end racism on campus, we need your stories, we need your voice, we need your experiences”

NEWS BRIEFS Jane Philpott resigns from cabinet Another of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's ministers has resigned from cabinet March 4. In her letter of resignation to Trudeau, Jane Philpott said she will continue in her elected role as MP for Markham-Stouffville, but will be leaving as a member of the Liberal cabinet, citing the recent SNC-Lavalin affair as her reason for leaving.

“Unfortunately, the evidence of efforts by politicians and/or officials to pressure the former attorney general to intervene in the criminal case involving SNC-Lavalin, and the evidence as to the content of those efforts, have raised serious concerns for me,” Philpott said in the resignation letter.

- CBC News

“Historic” child welfare bill tabled Liberals tabled what is being called a “historic bill” for Indigenous children. Bill C-92 looks to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in the foster care system by outlining factors to consider for the best interest of Indigenous children, including emotional and physical needs as well as cultural and spiritual.

According to 2016 census data, 52.2 per cent of children in foster care are Indigenous.

“Thursday, First Nations, Inuit, and Metis leaders applauded the new bill as a turning point in Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination and reconciliation,” reported The Canadian Press.

- The Canadian Press

SUS ROC banner. (Mikaela Collins, March 4, 2019)

JESSICA BARCLAY The Student Union Society (SUS) launched an anti-racism campaign Feb. 25. The stated intent of the campaign is to “to end racism on campus” by gathering stories of students who have experienced racism on campus and elsewhere in their lives. The information will be used to compile a report to inform future SUS programming.

An email announcing the campaign, sent to students, links to the “Race on Campus” (ROC) campaign website, where those who have experienced racism or discrimination are invited to confidentially share their stories through an online submission forum. Several stories have already been published publicly on the campaign website with redacted information.

The Feb. 24 press release added that SUS was also looking for stories about “faculty and institutional racism” on campus, in addition to personal stories of racialized violence.

The Cascade reached out to SUS regarding the campaign’s launch and goals. President of SUS, Gurvir Gill, declined comment.

According to the press release, SUS executives were inspired to launch the campaign after hearing the “heartrending” stories of those at UFV and at other universities who have experienced racism.

“The UFV Student Union Society’s RACE ON CAMPUS Project give students a safe method of telling their story, be it about racial violence, institutional racism and discrimination,

the lack of non-white faculty or university administrators, or about being ‘streamed to fail’,” the press release stated.

The stories, according to the website, are to be compiled into a report by the SUS ad-hoc committee. The committee will review the stories and use them to guide its research on best practices used at universities regarding manifestations of racism and discrimination.

The report will be used by SUS to inform future programming efforts and advocacy work done by the society. It

"We hope to launch educational, communitybuilding programming to empower cultural, spiritual, and racial communities that have been marginalized on campus." may also be shared with UFV administration containing recommendations on how UFV could reduce racism and discrimination on campus.

“As a result of this project, we may learn more about the forms of racism that exist at UFV. Recommendations about how to address incidents of racism will be generated,” according to

the campaign website.

“We hope to launch educational, community-building programming to empower cultural, spiritual, and racial communities that have been marginalized on campus,” stated the press release.

Part of the website also contains a listing of definitions of various forms of racism, including new, interpersonal, cultural, institutional, and structural racism, white privilege, and microaggressions.

Several definitions on the website can be found word-for-word on a blog written by DeEtta Jones, a public speaker and equity, diversity, and inclusion strategy consultant.

Gill said in a short statement over email that there is no plagiarism in the campaign, but did not address why the blogger was not credited.

“There are multiple public use sites, personal experiences, dictionary definitions all on racism,” Gill said over email. “Some may be similar, some may look exactly the same but it does not address the big picture of racism.”

The campaign joins other initiatives at UFV that aim to bring awareness to racism and discrimination on campus. UFV’s Race and Anti-racism Network (RAN) host a number of events each year to bring awareness to topics around racism and encourage dialogue between those on campus.

This year, the group will be hosting the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, where a family of Syrian refugees have agreed to come and share their story.

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NEWS

VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

Profile //

A conversation with Melissa Walter JANICE LANG Melissa Walter is both the head of the English department and an English professor at UFV. Before teaching at UFV, Melissa studied in England at the University of Warwick while researching and writing her dissertation.

She went on to teach at Arizona State University, the University of Oregon, Campion College, and the University of Regina.

Since 2009, Melissa has been a member of Theatre Without Borders, a group which conducts research about early modern drama.

You are currently teaching a course in Indigenizing Shakespeare. That sounds interesting. Can you give us some insight into the course?

Yes, I am working with Alan Reid in biology and Shirley Hardman, senior advisor on Indigenous affairs, on this course. When [UFV] moved its Chilliwack campus from the Yale Road site to the current CEP campus, the university made a promise to move the Shakespeare Garden as well. So far, this has not been done.

In planting a new Shakespeare Garden, it is important to attend to Indigenous voice and vision. In our class, we are working to propose a design in a spirit of truth and reconciliation. Both campuses are on unceded Sto:lo territory, and a new Shakespeare Garden would mean delving into Mother Earth. How do we do this in a good way? To do this we are learning more about the history of the UFV theatre program, which for its first 40 years was based in Chilliwack, and about the history of Shakespeare Gardens, about local Indigenous plants and gardens, about the history of the CEP lands including Indigenous story and Canadian legal frameworks, and about truth and reconciliation in Canada today.

Do you have any advice for students who are new to English courses?

Set aside quiet, focused time to read the assigned material. As you are reading, make notes of your responses and questions. Also, to quote one of my teachers, “Reading is re-reading.” You're going to need to read the material more than once, most likely. And if the reading is poetry, basic preparation for class really requires that you read it two or three times, at least once aloud.

What's your biggest pet peeve in the classroom?

Melissa Walter and her giant sunflower. (Melissa Walter)

What brought you to UFV? I grew up in Victoria (as I now know, on unceded Songhees/Lekwungen and W'Saanec territory) and I have family in Vancouver as well. I was looking for a chance to return to this region and was very happy to find a position at UFV.

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I don't like it when students try to take shortcuts by reading online “study aids” instead of reading the assigned materials. The whole point of studying literature is to read it and connect it to your personal experience and to the social and cultural context.

Do you have a recent book out? Can you tell us a bit about it?

Rethinking Shakespeare Source Study, which I coedited with my colleague Dennis Britton from the University of New Hampshire, is about how recent changes in how scholars understand cultural

exchange and diversity in Shakespeare's England, authorship, and audiences affect their understanding of the sources of Shakespeare's plays. It's also about how digital analytics and databases change this understanding.

If you could have a conversation with any author from the past, whom would you choose? Why? Isabella Whitney, 16th-century English poet. Because she was a working woman, not from the nobility, who published poetry, including a satirical poem critiquing social inequality in London. We don't know that much about her life and I would like to know more about it.

You are a member of Theatre Without Borders.

Based on the information on this group's web page, Renaissance theatre seems to be a prevalent topic. Do you have any involvement or interest in Renaissance theatre?

Theatre Without Borders is a group of scholars that study Renaissance (early modern) drama and theatre, primarily within Europe. Yes, I have a huge interest in this topic, which includes commedia dell'arte, French classical theatre, the theatre of Golden Age Spain, and the theatre of Shakespeare and his contemporaries.

What social issue are you most passionate about right now?

I think it is a really important moment for Canada and especially for non-Indigenous people to adjust their understanding of Canada and realize that certain systems and laws need to change in order to respect Indigenous sovereignty and create a more honourable and just Canada. For instance, changes are needed in health care, child welfare, education, parks, and the justice system. I think all citizens and residents of Canada should read the summary report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and consider what it means to them personally to be treaty people and Canadians or residents of Canada, and consider what action they can take.

What do you do to unwind and de-stress?

I go to a dance or yoga class, read a novel, and/or go for a walk in the woods with my partner. He has a woolly dog named Aldo, so we take the dog along on a leash. I also like to listen to music.

OPINION

opinion@ufvcascade.ca Carissa Wiens — Opinion Editor

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

Life //

The rights of a landlord on pet ownership So you want a pet but can’t have one…

Illustration by Kayt Hine

ANDREA SADOWSKI Finding a decent place to live in Abbotsford on a student’s budget can be a challenge, to say the least. An even harder task, however, is finding a place that allows pets.

While looking on Craigslist, the number of suites available that actually allow pets are few and far between. As much as I love animals, I can see why landlords don’t allow them: they can cause significant damage, are constantly noisy, and poop wherever they please. Howev-

“I can see why landlords don’t allow them; they can cause significant damage, are constantly noisy, and poop wherever they please. However, children do the same, and you cannot place a ban on having children.” er, children do the same, and you cannot place a ban on having children.

According to the B.C. government, a landlord is allowed to set the rules regarding the size, kind, and number of pets, and can make other pet-related rules that the tenant must follow. A reasonable, personable landlord will at least be willing to negotiate the ownership of pets, especially a landlord whom you have a long-standing relationship with and have proven your worth as a responsible tenant. However, it is well within the landlord’s right to deny you from having a pet, which is really too bad considering the benefits that pet ownership can have upon a student’s life.

There is no doubt that petting a furry creature for a while vastly improves a student’s mental health, which improves their ability to study. Research shows that having access to therapy animals on campus reduces feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety in college students. I would prefer the company of dogs to humans any day. As a person

who appreciates cuddling, but not talking, I am all for owning a dog, or cat, or any furry animal really. And after a stressful day at work or school, there is no better feeling than coming home to a dog that is out-of-their-mind excited to see you. Owning a dog encourages exercise and makes a great ice-breaker for people who are really weird about meeting other people. Owning a pet also teaches immature college students how to be responsible for another living being. A pet requires you to manage your time, money, and energy better than if you just had yourself to worry about.

According to a study done by the Angus Reid Institute, 63 per cent of B.C. respondents felt it was within a landlord’s rights to prevent their tenants from owning pets. According to Canada Mortgage and Housing, landlords in B.C. can legally deny potential tenants based on whether or not they own pets, as well as bar tenants from adopting a pet while they are still under the lease agreement.

Sadly, I have never lived in a place that has allowed cats or dogs. If you had any idea how much I love animals, you would realize what a shame that is. But I have found ways to work around it: by bargaining with landlords to be able to keep small pets, such as guinea pigs and rabbits, by walking dogs for a little extra cash, or by house-sitting for friends who own cats.

“After a stressful day at work or school, there is no better feeling than coming home to a dog that is out-of-their-mind excited to see you.”

If you live in a place that doesn’t allow pets, yet are missing the company of animals, seek alternatives like I did.

If you are absolutely desperate to own a pet, let that be your motivation to complete your degree so that you can get a higher paying job that will allow you to live somewhere other than an $800 Abbotsford basement suite with landlords that control your life choices.

B.C. //

Period talk

New West school board is providing a stress free period experience for students KEMONE MOODLEY In a historic moment for B.C.’s schooling system, New Westminster will become the first school district in B.C. to provide free menstrual products for their students.

Selina Tribe, a resident and activist of Vancouver, has been actively campaigning for free sanitary products in schools throughout the city since the beginning of this year. Tribe finally received a win when the New West school board trustees voted to seek funding to install free pad and tampon dispensers in their schools. Students of the New West dis-

“One in seven Canadian girls will miss school because they cannot afford the products necessary to make their periods manageable.” trict will now have free access to menstrual products, which Tribe hopes will prevent girls from wanting to “remove themselves from activities, from extracurricular or athletic activities, also social activities, and in the worst case … miss school.”

According to Mark Gifford, a New Westminster school board chairman, the campaign only started to receive the attention it needed when it was dropped into the trustees’ laps.

This lack of attention is due to people having false ideas of what periods actually are and being greatly misinformed on the use of menstrual products, specifically tampons and how they are used. The stigma around periods contributes to many individuals in our society being unable to see the necessity and importance of easily accessible menstruation products. Furthermore, people still believe in the silencing of the period: don’t talk about it, don’t address it, pretend it doesn’t exist.

But this isn’t the 18th century. Women of the western world can vote, they can have jobs, and they can be part of their government. Not to mention, Google exists now; you can look things up. So I have to wonder, going into 2019, why is there still so much stigma around periods?

The fact that the New Westminster school board agreed to provide students with free menstruation products should not be shocking. It should not be revolutionary for our schooling system. The revolution should have come and gone; the historic moment should have been in the past. There is so much drama centred on periods, that talking about them publicly is political.

Periods are uncomfortable and, for some

unfortunate souls, they can have you doubling over in debilitating pain. Getting rid of the mystery and shame around periods will help people understand that it isn’t just mood swings, and that learning about them is crucial toward becoming a more sympathetic and compassionate person.

As Tribe alludes to, the stigma around periods affects the welfare of young girls. In fact, according to an article by the Financial Post, on average, one in seven Canadian girls will miss school because they cannot afford the products necessary to make their periods manageable. Girls will stop participating in society if they cannot comfortably take care of their periods.

By not having an open discussion about periods we’ve created a toxic cycle where girls, and the women they become, feel humiliated, insecure, and unsafe to talk about the complications that come with having periods. A cycle where women won’t help young girls navigate the complications of periods because it’s taboo to talk about them. A cycle where women are afraid to help girls.

And, by extension, a cycle where women and men are afraid to talk to each other about periods.

People have periods. People have been having periods since the beginning of hu-

Illustration by Kayt Hine

manity; this is not a new thing. We put so much of our resources into understanding technology, the environment, the military, and even transport into space. Yet, when it comes to periods, we are still so hesitant, archaic in our willingness to grow our society’s understanding of something that half the population goes through and will continue to go through.

Make no mistake: this is a historic moment for B.C. schooling. This is a moment that will hopefully provide a stepping stone for the future of Canadian schools.

But the fact it took this long to reach this point is an indicator that our society is not truly as progressive as we like to believe.

And this lack of progression is hurting everyone whether they know it or not.

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OPINION

VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

SUS //

Let’s talk about racism

Student Union’s racism campaign is an effort that misses the mark KEMONE MOODLEY

Eradicating racism from UFV campus.

Is it possible? UFV’s very own Student Union Society (SUS) tries to convince us that it is as their “Racism On Campus” campaign goes into its second week. Yet it does not address the actual problem here: the racism conversation.

On the off chance that the student union’s campaign was built out of a genuine desire to provide justice and not a marketing scheme to boost their image, their attempt to “end racism” is wholly misguided. Yes, they do a fantastic job of giving us a basic definition of what racism is, but their method to “end racism” is problematic, not because they can’t give us a satisfying conclusion but because they’re not actually providing a

“It’s the equivalent of doing nothing with great effort.” platform to talk about racism. Instead, with apparent lack of awareness on their part, the student union is collecting stories on racism in order to put them in a report that is entirely private to the public.

Now, I’m not going to get into the whole hierarchy of racism and its sub levels of intercultural and ideological discrimination. Thats its own conversation in itself, and would take too long to explain that there are perspectives that, even though I am brown, I don’t have the authority to talk about.

What I can do is acknowledge the obvious: ending racism requires us listening to those who are oppressed while also acknowledging the hurt that has been inflicted. It requires one person acknowledging that they are in the wrong and are benefiting from being so.

Here’s the problem with this.

We all know who’s in the wrong in Western society — colonists and their descendants who continue to benefit from a system that relies on the active oppression of others. A system where people are denied jobs based on their names or the colour of their skin. Where people in certain areas have to go through great difficulties just to reach a voting station and perform their most basic rights as a free individual. Where people are more likely to be stopped by police while walking home from the store or arrested because they fit a racial profile. Or, more simply, where people have their cultures

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infringed upon by those who couldn’t wait to be invited to participate in it.

It’s the whole definition of privilege.

Yet, how do you approach the ones who are in the wrong? Tell them they are wrong and simply expect them to agree? To get them to realize that we’re asking for humanity? To have our pain acknowledged without someone griping about political correctness culture?

How do you get them to listen?

You see, the problem isn’t just about racism. It’s about having an actual conversation about racism. It’s about asking someone to be willing to come down from their social pedestal and share their power with the oppressed — that is, people of colour and people from cultures of colour. And it’s about listening in a way that doesn’t trivialize what the oppressed are feeling.

In the Western world, people of colour have spent a long time not being heard.

And while it has been getting better, a few decades of simply talking without people really listening doesn’t make right the centuries of mistreatment and hurt that this society works so hard to hide.

It is true that students do deserve better. But I have to respectfully disagree with all students deserving better in this one instance; it is the students who face racism who deserve better.

Being judged on your skin tone and your culture is not fun. In fact, it’s quite awful to be judged for something you have no control over. As someone who has experienced this, I would like to talk about it. I would like to talk about it in a safe space, and so would, I’m sure, the thousands of other students who’ve also had to deal with racism at some point in their life.

The student union’s campaign fails to give a voice to those who are facing racial discrimination. By compiling all the stories of racial injustice in one private report with no clear indication of how this report is going to conquer racism, it’s the equivalent of doing nothing with great effort, and beginning the silencing of the racism conversation on campus.

The students need a public forum where they can talk about the racism they go through. They need a public forum where other students can read about these racial injustices, and where anonymity is an option for those who prefer it.

Publicly talking about racism is not an easy thing to do. There are times where, by simply mentioning your feelings on racism, you become categorized as a problematic person who simply won’t

Canada //

I am free to read Canada’s Freedom to Read Week works to eradicate censorship CARISSA WIENS Canada’s annual Freedom To Read Week, which took place Feb. 24 - March 2, 2019, continues to encourage every citizen in the country to gain awareness of the censorship threats that still take place in Canada, and to celebrate every citizen’s right to read. The week long event was created in 1984 by the Freedom of Expression Committee of the Book and Periodical Development Council, who monitor censorship issues around the country and advocate for various materials to be published, regardless of pushback.

Throughout the years since the development of the event, the committee has taken censorship matters into their own hands.

According to a pamphlet published by the Freedom of Expression Committee, “We have resisted attempts to ban books and magazines from public schools and libraries. We have protested the legal ban on imported gay and lesbian literature and attempts to censor the internet. We have criticized government bills and judicial decisions that restrict Canadians’ freedom to publish and read.”

Canada has had pushback on tons of materials in the nation from citizens against the publication of certain pieces and organizations, like schools, who don’t want specific books in their library. The beloved book Bridge to Terabithia has even been challenged, because plenty of critics didn’t like that a child dies (spoiler alert).

Alongside their attacks against censorship, the committee recognizes the right every Canadian citizen has to read, whether that be magazines, blogs, Twitter, novels, cookbooks, or memoirs. Unfortunately many Canadians do not have easy access to literature.

Author Katy Anderson explained in aforementioned pamphlet that even in this day and age, “Many Canadians are missing the educational and economic benefits that come with affordable in-

give it a rest. Yes, maybe people aren’t giving it a rest, but that’s because people are still not being listened to.

Contrary to what people wish to believe, racism is still very much present in our society; our society has just gotten a lot better at trivializing racism into a golden ticket that allows you to be more right than someone else. Falsely believing that facing racism can be equated to a fashion statement where you can be more virtuous than those with privilege. At the same time, those with privilege believe that talking about racism puts them in danger of being attacked and often invokes a rush of

ternet access.” She said that this could be changed only if the federal government would implement a national broadband strategy.

The federal government could do plenty of things to improve the country, but the committee feels that since it is the right of everyone to read, we need access to the literature in order to exercise our right. If everyone was able to have better access to libraries and internet at home, the chances for obtaining a higher education could improve, which is always a good thing.

In Abbotsford, we should continue to be grateful that we have quick connection to the internet at home, on our phones, and at UFV. We also have oodles of reading materials right at our

Since it is the right of everyone to read, we need access to the literature in order to exercise our right. fingertips. The Fraser Valley Regional Library has three locations in Abbotsford alone, with plenty others around the Valley.

The reason we need to continue reading and exercising our right to do so, whether that be for pleasure or academic purposes, is perfectly said by the National Reading Campaign: “Without access to reading that engages us as individuals, we lose the vital opportunity to develop a comprehensive world view. Reading is an indispensable tool, and diverse choices are the key to a well-rounded society.” This means that each of us must connect with literature that interests us (such as LGBTQ2+ materials, satirical political cartoons, foreign novels, or memoirs) because the more we read the more empathetic and open-minded we become, which will lead to a community that supports each other.

words to explain how they’re not racist.

Both these groups fail to take a moment to stop and truly think about the suffering that comes with facing racism. Both these groups choose what they want to hear about racism rather than listening to what is actually being said on the issue.

And that’s the actual problem with the campaign. Not that the student union is doing this campaign poorly or that it’s insulting. But because they’re also contributing to the silencing of the racism conversation.

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

Advice //

Editorial //

Dear Robin Sick of not having sick leave CAT FRIESEN According to the CBC, B.C. government officials are reevaluating the Employment Standards Act and are considering adding seven mandatory unpaid sick days to it.

This means all employers, even those who have many short-term or part-time workers — roles often filled by students — will be obligated to allow leaves of absence for either illness or family/personal issues.

Larger companies often already have a plan in place for crisis situations and longterm injuries or illness, but smaller businesses and entrepreneurs usually don’t.

For employees who don’t have a plan, B.C. currently allows for five days family leave, but has no sick leave protection. Of the Canadian provinces and territories, B.C. and Nunavut are the only two that have no protection in place.

The CBC also stated that the majority of the committee reviewing the Employment Standards Act agreed that seven days sick time was adequate, but that “most employers are opposed to sick leave.” Since B.C. doesn’t have protection for sick days, people may find themselves going into work even when they’re too sick to be there, simply because they need the money or are afraid of being fired.

Although it’s about time the act is reexamined — it hasn’t been altered since 1994 — the changes aren’t enough. If there’s a family emergency such as a serious illness or death, it’s going to take more than a few days to sort out what needs to be sorted and to grieve. Same with an injury; a broken leg takes six to eight weeks to heal, and if you work in a job where you’re expected to stand or walk most of your shift, seven days won’t cover it by a long shot.

I realize these are special cases.

Not everyone will have a major injury or suffer the illness or death of a relative while working, but for those who do, there needs to be something better in place than seven mandatory days off. Which leads to another issue: these days are unpaid. No, I don’t expect employers to cover two months of wages while someone is healing, but there needs to be a plan for when things like this do happen.

Beyond this, we need to talk about what’s not being talked about: mental health. According to the Globe and Mail, there are upwards of 500,000 Canadians are unable to work due to mental health struggles every week. Al-

though I’m an advocate for a personal selfcare day once in a while, this obviously isn’t a solution in and of itself, but it can become necessary on days where our stress levels are maxed out.

So yes, it’s great the government is reevaluating our Employment Standards Act — as students working in short-term or part-time work, we need to be able to book days off for midterms, or emergencies, or when we catch the fourth cold of the year, or even for a personal day once in a while.

What’s not so great is that the government doesn’t seem to be taking into account the fact that seven days isn’t enough in most cases, and that these days are unpaid. Even with the right to call in sick if necessary, people may not do it because they need to pay the bills, or may fear the backlash from employers when they do.

I’m not proposing 30 days paid sick leave for all employees per year, but I am proposing evaluation of special cases, and flexibility from employers. If nothing else, this proposed change is a sign that the government is aware of the needs of part-time workers, and by extension, students. Here’s hoping this conversation leads somewhere.

ROBIN HALPER Life is tough and confusing and weird.

We all need help sometimes, and when you need an expert opinion, you turn to an expert opinion-giver like Robin Halper. Whatever problem you’re facing in life, Robin will have a solution. The Cascade cannot guarantee the effectiveness of Robin’s unique approach to life, but if you’re in a jam, get some advice by writing to halp@ufvcascade.ca Hobby lobby Dear Robin, Lately I’ve been thinking about picking up a new hobby (or one other than going on The Bachelor forums and commenting my brains out) because I don’t have enough papers to write to fill my time. But I’m quite short on money these days and everything costs so much. Do you have any ideas of an affordable and accessible hobby I could try?

From, Boredom on the brain Hey Bored,

Illustration by Cory Jensen

I highly recommend the Stitch n’ Bitch club that meets at the Clearbrook Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m (they’re actually called the Knit n’ Stitch club but we all know what really goes on there). They are a hoot and a half and always have the best gossip about their granddaughter’s creepy boyfriends and where to get the freshest cinnamon buns in the city. Just pick up a ball of yarn at the dollar store and they’ll show you how to knit, needles included.

Another winner is UFV’s intramurals club. I don’t care enough to look into it for you but just Google something along those lines. I think the intramurals are still a thing; it

was a few years ago at least, and I’m sure it’s free.

Robin A better choice Dear Robin, I feel like there’s gotta be better food options on campus. Are they hidden somewhere? Is there a secret menu at the cafe? Will Fair Grounds actually make a proper cappuccino if you ask them? I’m just tired of burnt coffee and bland burgers from Triple O’s.

Sincerely,

Craving on Campus Hello, You have come to the right person for this problem. Since the Canoe and Finnegans have been closed, we don’t have anywhere on campus to grab a beer. If you’re craving a cold one, tap twice on the Fair Grounds back door. The staff know what this means. Someone will open the door for you. Give this person a crisp five and they’ll let you into the back where they keep their own craft beer. They have a bottle opener on the fridge and a stool to sit on so the public can’t see you drink your troubles away. A way to improve the burgers at Triple O’s is to put those Hardbite chips in them with some drips of hot sauce. Done. Another delight is the secret menu at Tim’s.

Tell them you would like a pumpkin spice latte. They might say, “No, we don’t serve that right now.” But give them a wink with your left eye and for an easy two bucks they’ll fill your hands with a cup of piping hot pumpkin-flavoured latte. I hope this helps.

Robin

7

BRIEF BITS OF BITE-SIZED BREVITY

SN S AP HO TS

CURTAILED COMMENTARY ON CURRENT CONDITIONS

Illustrations by Simer Haer

Elephants upstairs I am utterly shocked at how loud the upstairs people are in my house. I share a basement suite with a roommate and I swear, there is one person upstairs that literally smashes their feet against the floor when they walk.

They stomped so hard the other week that it knocked a piece of art off my wall and took a chunk out of my baseboard. There goes my deposit. Besides the weekly kitchen bowling sessions (I’m pretty sure they have a whole team up there), they re-arrange furniture for hours at a time and drop everything they pick up.

Not only is it loud, it’s just plain discourteous. I’m starting to fear

that they’re doing this on purpose to try and get us to move out so they can hike up the rent.

On the bright side, if they get any louder I might be eligible to file a noise complaint. In the meantime, I’m thinking of attaching a pair of steel-toes to some broomsticks and kicking the ceiling, but that doesn’t seem like the most effective idea so if you have any suggestions I’d love to hear them, besides actually talking to them about this. (Come on people, we all know face-to-face communication isn’t going to solve any of our problems; I’m trying to be petty here.)

8

Sitting in the front row of class has its benefits. You don’t need to see students in front of you scanning their Facebook feed, online shopping, or watching YouTube.

Or if you are denying the fact that you need glasses, it makes the board much easier to read.

For me, the greatest pleasure of sitting in the front row is being able to smell the sweet scent of whiteboard markers; the same smell that transports me all the way back to when I was five and drew pictures of trees on my dad’s

office whiteboard. Or when I was nine when I fought my brothers to gain possession of a shared smelly marker so that I could essentially shove it up my nostril to get the greatest possible high off of this addicting scent. In the end, maybe this isn’t a benefit of sitting at the front, as the nostalgia becomes so strong that it distracts me from the lesson, but it’s always fun to remember.

Andrea Sadowski

Darien Johnsen

A meme for the suffering I sit in my bed at 9 p.m. covered in chocolate wrappers, watching The Office, avoiding my assignment at all costs despite its impending due date. I begin scrolling my feed and come across a meme: “Me waiting for my assignment to do itself,” below a picture of a girl lounging in a robe wearing a facemask. I laugh to myself and send it to my friends saying, “Literally me.” For a moment I am no longer stressed, and completely amused by my situation. There is something so satisfying about the camaraderie of meme

The smell of nostalgia

culture. Whether it is procrastination, an empty bank account, or mental instability, it is comforting to know you’re not alone. It is nice to acknowledge the struggle in a way that is lighthearted. It can be so freeing to take a look at your life in all its dysfunctional glory and laugh.

I continue scrolling the meme page: “Pray for me y’all ... nothing’s wrong I’m just a university student.” Isn’t that the truth? Cheers to the universal struggle; you’re not alone.

Rylee Buchanan

A daily snooze Every day I take a nap. Even days with class at 1 p.m. I wake up at 8:30 a.m., do a bit of work, drink my coffee, and read part of a novel. Usually once 10 a.m. strikes, I pick up my cat and bring him to the bed, where I comfortably sleep on my stomach while he lays on my back. We are usually out cold for a good hour and a half, sometimes two. When I wake up I have plenty of time to still have a lunchtime breakfast and pack my bag for the day. I kiss my cat goodbye and head out the

door, arriving at my class at 12:55 p.m. I’ve heard some people say they don’t have enough time to nap. Please. I’ve been slaying this schedule for a long time now and still manage to have a social life, job, and keep my studies under control while going to bed before midnight. If you want to jump into the nap life, I urge you to get off that couch and under the layers of blankets today, and put that paper off for another hour.

Carissa Wiens

Legend:

Community Events are in UFV Events are in Music Events are in Art Events are in Cultural Events are in

Blue Green Red Purple Yellow

Note:

Some of these events require tickets, most are on Facebook.

If something catches your eye, take to the internet for more details.

March 6 Graphic Design Dept. Doughnut Sale: NYC Study Tour Fundraiser @ Breezeway (Outside, between Buildings A and B) (Abbotsford Campus), 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Trades Open House @ Trades and Technology Centre (Chilliwack Campus), 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Long Night Against Procrastination (LNAP) @ Building G (Abbotsford Campus), 5:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids’ Sake @ Galaxy Bowl (Abbotsford), 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Life Drawing Studio Session 2 w/ instructor Jesse Klassen @ House of Fine Art (Abbotsford), 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Sumas Mountain Film Festival @ Matsqui Centennial Auditorium (Abbotsford), 7:00 p.m.

March 7 Human Trafficking - Canada’s Secret Shame Film Presentation @ Ann Davis Transition Society (Chilliwack), 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Lunch & Learn: Digital Marketing @ Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.

UFV Career Fair @ Envision Athletic Centre (Abbotsford Campus), 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

March 8 West My Friend @ Acoustic Emporium (Chilliwack), 11:00 a.m.

President’s Leadership Lecture Series: International Women’s Day Panel @ Room B101 (Abbotsford Campus), 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Voices from Home: Samson Crowe, Ben Cottrill, Tyler Born, Cambree Lovesy, and Josh G @ Sippchai Café (Abbotsford) 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.

March 11 Buffalo Jones, Silent Transition Band, Hollow Groves & FFC @ Captain’s Cabin Pub (Mission), 8:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Harpdog Brown & The Uptown Blues Band @ Tractorgrease Cafe (Chilliwack), 9:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

March 9

Yoga + Music + Beer @ Old Yale Brewing (Chilliwack), 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

March 12 Drawing Feature “The Mouth” w/ instructor Glenn Tait @ House of Fine Art (Abbotsford), 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Seminar: Success with Seeds @ Devan Greenhouses (Abbotsford), 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

UFV Theatre Presents: Attempts on Her Life @ Room D105 Performance Studio (Abbotsford Campus), 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The Health and Wellness Show @ Tradex (Abbotsford), 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

March 13

Goat Yoga @ Maan Farms (Abbotsford), 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.

Lego Extravaganza for Holmberg House Abbotsford Hospice @ Room B140 (Abbotsford Campus), 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Life Writing Workshops @ The Reach Gallery Museum (Abbotsford), 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Hoedown For Hospice @ Evergreen Hall (Chilliwack), 6:00 p.m.

Opening Reception: Women in Art Exhibition @ Kariton Art Gallery (Abbotsford), 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Farmteam @ Tractorgrease (Chilliwack), 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Roadside Attraction: Tragically Tribute @ The Well (Chilliwack), 9:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.

Cafe Hip

Glow Yoga @ Room E105 – North Gym (Abbotsford Campus), 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

March 14 Paint N’ Take Acrylics w/ Nan Newman @ House of Fine Art (Abbotsford), 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m.

Scholarly Sharing Initiative: Let There be Light, Narco Sects @ U-House Room F125 (Abbotsford Campus), 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.

Celebrate Pi Day @ FVRL Clearbrook Library (Abbotsford), 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Book Celebration: Potlatch as Pedagogy @ Gathering Place, CEP Room A1457 (Chilliwack Campus), 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards @ Quality Hotel & Conference Centre (Abbotsford), 6:00 - 9:30 p.m.

March 10

Bottom Shelf Bourbon @ Tractorgrease Cafe (Chilliwack), 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

The Health and Wellness Show @ Tradex (Abbotsford), 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

St. Pat’s with Murphy’s Lagh @ The Railyard (Mission), 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.

Listen Write Now Brunch @ Tractorgrease Cafe (Chilliwack), 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

March 15

Luck O’ The Irish: Hosted by Cascadia Wind Ensemble @ Matsqui Centennial Auditorium (Abbotsford), 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

UFV Sustainability Case Competition 2019 @ Room B101 (Abbotsford Campus), 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Unfaithful Servant @ Tractorgrease Cafe (Chilliwack), 9:00 - 11:00 p.m.

9

The soulful and bluesy sounds of the Mission-based band, Swamp City, filled the Skwah First Nations community hall Friday night. There was dancing and laughter, and tables filled with people munching on snacks while enjoying water from small, flowery teacups. Despite the casual atmosphere, the community’s presence was for a more serious reason. The Wet’suwet’en Strong benefit concert was hosted by the Skwah First Nations in an effort to raise awareness of and support the land defenders at the Unistot’en camp, who are trying to stop the Coastal Gaslink (CGL) pipeline that is planned to run through the Wet’suwet’en Nation’s territory near Houston, B.C The evening began with a traditional opening ceremony led by Eddie Gardner, a Stó:lō elder from the Skwah First Nation in Chilliwack, B.C. and an elder-in-residence at UFV’s Chilliwack campus, and Ronnie Dean Harris, an artist, hip-hop and poetry performer, and facilitator based in Stó:lō Territory. In a Facebook post about the event, Gardner said that this evening was about raising awareness of Wet’suwet’en, Gitumt’en, and Unist’ot’en people on the front lines who are standing up against destruction of their land, water, and traditional food sources.

“This is their last stand, as most of their land has already been usurped, taken over and occupied by others,” Gardner said in the post.

The TransCanada pipeline is planned to run from the outskirts of Edmonton through B.C., all the way to the energy company LNG Canada’s Kitimat port facility on the west coast where the liquified natural gas will

be exported. The pipeline is to be built by the company’s subsidiary, Coastal Gaslink. Late last year, hereditary leaders from all five clans of the Wet’suwet’en Nation called for a stop to the construction due to the fact that free, informed, and prior consent for the project was not obtained from them.

“The five clans of the Wet’suwet’en will never support the Coastal Gaslink (CGL) project and remain opposed to any pipelines on our traditional lands. There is no legitimate agreement with CGL as reported in the media,” Chief Kloum Kuhn, of the Laksamshu clan, said in a press release from the Office of the Wet’suwet’en.

The Unist’ot’en house group camp on Wet’suwet’en territory was set up in 2009, in response to the proposed construction of the pipeline. Since then, a global outpouring of support has been seen for the land defenders, and many people are travelling there to support and to learn while also providing their skills to the camp. Many other clans on Wet’suwet’en land have also set up their own checkpoints in support.

“Folks in the community realized that they needed to reoccupy that territory, thereby proving that this isn’t just backcountry, this is unceded territory that is being used by the communities,” said Mike Goolde of the Stó:lō Research Centre. Goolde is Wet’suwet’en, and works on rights, titles, and referrals cases at the People of the River Referrals Office in Chilliwack. When the Kinder Morgan pipeline was first proposed (another pipeline project that runs through B.C.), his office was tasked with reviewing the existing pipeline, advising leadership, and helping them decide how they would like to move forward.

Governance over the Wet’suwet’en Nation is hereditary, and made up of a matrilineal system of 13 houses, five clans (Gilseyhu, Laksilyu, Gitdumt’en, Laksamshu, Tsayu), and 38 house territories, including the Unistot’en house group. Five hereditary chiefs represent the five clans of the Wet’suwet’en nation and maintain the final jurisdiction over decisions to do with the land.

In an effort of reconciliation, Canada has committed to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP). The UNDRIP is an international constitution intended to enshrine the rights of Indigenous people in all countries.

It is the product of 25 years of deliberations among U.N. member states and Indigenous groups. So far, numerous acts in this constitution have been broken.

In January, videos surfaced online of armed RCMP destroying and climbing over the barrier at the Gitdumt’en territory checkpoint in order to grant access to CGL employees. This was in response to a court-ordered temporary injunction issued to the company that prohibited the Wet’suwet’en from interfering with CGL work and would grant them access to the territory to do survey work. The RCMP forcibly removed and arrested 14 land defenders. This violates Article 10 of the UNDRIP, which states Indigenous people should not be forcibly removed from their land. Article 26 is being violated, in which Indigenous people have rights to the land, territories, and re-

The role of hereditary chiefs in Wet'suwet'en Nation.

Wet'suwet'en Nation Unist'ot'en is aff liated with Dark House, one of 13 hereditary house groups under the Wet'suwet'en Nation in British Columbia's Interior. A non-proft society, the Office of the Wet'suwet'en represents the interests of hereditary chiefs in the area. sources that they have traditionally owned; as is Article 32, the right to the requirement of government to obtain free, informed, and prior consent before beginning any projects that may infringe on Indigenous rights; and Article 18, the right for Indigenous people to participate in decision-making matters that may violate their rights. On top of that, the temporary injunction order that was issued to CGL only permitted them to do survey work, but they have been widely documented bulldozing and destroying the land. Upon looking at the Environmental Assessment Certificate issued to CGL, the instructions state that all tenure land holders will be notified six months in advance of this construction, which the Unistot’en camp claims they did not do.

Coastal Gaslink has also been breaking Canadian laws. In January, multiple news sources and the Office of the Wet’suwet’en reported that Wet’suwet’en traps had been cut and piled next to a cabin, and land had been bulldozed by Coastal Gaslink. This meant that CGL violated the B.C. Wildlife Act. Section 46 states that “A person who knowingly damages or interferes with a lawfully set trap commits an offence.”

The Office of the Wet’suwet’en released a statement on Jan. 25, which stated that CGL was in violation of its work permit because the appropriate archaeological impacts assessments had not been completed. Coastal Gaslink has stated that they had completed the assessments, but the statement from the Wet’suwet’en said that there was no way to properly do these surveys until the spring of 2019, when the snow and frost had cleared.

Then, on Feb. 15, construction on the pipeline was ordered to stop after two stone tools were found on the property where CGL planned to build its workers’ camp. Archaeologists say the tools could date back 2,400 to 3,500 years.

It appears that many popular Canadian

news sources don’t promote First Nations news or cover it as in-depth or as continuously as they could. Indigenous media and news remains separate from these news sources. Global News, CTV, The Province, and the Vancouver Sun don’t feature any Indigenous news on their main pages nor do they have links to Indigenous sections.

The Province and the Vancouver Sun both have entire sections on the front page for sports; CTV, Global News, and The Province have links to cannabis sections, but nothing about First Nations or even a visible link to First Nations news. “Indigenous” or “First Nations” must be typed into the search bar for news articles on Indigenous topics to even show up. CBC is the only site of these five major news sources that has a link to an Indigenous section. While the media is still accessible, it is not promoted and therefore has the effect of keeping it out of reader’s minds. It may not be on the radar of most student’s attention, but if more interest is generated among our community, the media will be forced to take a look at it on a deeper level. There is evidence of broken laws and violated rights to be concerned with here, and we need to start asking about it because it affects us all.

“So there’s so many aspects that I would hope the non-indigenous community would familiarize themselves with and learn from and there’s a lot of aspects of my community that we don’t see covered in the headlines and the major stories that are happening there,” said Goolde.

The complication of consent stems from how permission to build through First Nations territory was obtained by CGL. While CGL state they obtained consent from all First Nations communities, they have only obtained consent from the elected leaders.

In order to truly obtain free and informed consent, they must consult with and obtain consent from the five hereditary leaders, as

elected leaders have no say over what happens with the land.

Coastal Gaslink hasn’t obtained their consent, so they have no right to say that First Nations along the pipeline route have consented to the project, which is exactly how they’re trying to frame it.

Looking at the two systems of governance more carefully will show us that the body of elected leaders was imposed on First Nations through the Indian Act, which was put in place in 1867 by the Canadian government.

John A. MacDonald has been recorded as saying in 1887: “The great aim of our legislation [the Indian Act] has been to do away with the tribal system and assimilate the Indian people in all respects with the other inhabitants of the Dominion as speedily as they are fit to change.”

Justin Trudeau has said in a recent town hall meeting in Kamloops, B.C., that the Indian Act is a “colonial relic.”

While some elected leaders have publicly consented to the project and signed agreements with CGL, hereditary leaders have not. The media and government tend to portray this as a complicated issue, but it really isn’t; hereditary leaders must give their consent. The cooperation of the elected leaders with CGL also isn’t complicated when you look at the difficult conditions some of the Northern Indigenous communities are faced with.

“They are living in third-world conditions and I do not harbour any resentment towards the elected chief and council … especially the ones that are very remote and well off the highways, not close to any municipality … looking at the amount of money that’s available if they agree to the pipeline, they never had a deal on the table like that, they’ve never been to the table before and it’s an impossible situation for them to be expected to turn down an opportunity for them to lift their people out of poverty. But that poverty has been imposed on them by so many other resource extractive sectors both in and out of the territory and all the successive governments that have marginalized us for the last several hundred years. At least a fraction of my community up North have enough strength left to say no,” said Goolde.

Most First Nations in B.C. have never signed treaties ceding their land, including the Wet’suwet’en nation, yet the Government of Canada still holds the title. We at UFV reside on unceded Stó:lō territory, land that was “acquired” by the Canadian government and has never been returned.

Indigenous communities have a long history of attempts to seek recognition of ownership and Aboriginal title over traditional land and resources. The Gitxsan House of the Wet’suwet’en Nation recorded one of their first acts of publicly asserting ownership as occurring in 1872, when chiefs from the house blockaded the Skeena River from trading and supply boats in an effort to protest the actions of miners on their territories.

Further, see the case of Delgamuukw vs. British Columbia, when thirty-five Gitxsan and 13 Wet’suwet’en hereditary leaders took the Canadian government to court to stop logging on Gitxsan territory. The case began as early as 1984 and wasn’t resolved until 1997, after over a decade of fighting through all levels of the court system. The case concluded that the Government of Canada had no right to extinguish Indigenous peoples’ claim to the land. According to the Canadian Encyclopedia the case “defined Aboriginal title as Indigenous peoples’ exclusive right to the land, and affirmed that Aboriginal title is recognized as an ‘existing Aboriginal right’ in section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.” So, we see that even though the courts have recognized the title to the traditional territory of the Wet'suwet'en Nation to be one of their exclusive rights, the land has never officially been returned.

Goolde, who grew up calling himself Gitxsan Wet’suwet’en said: “[The Delgamuukw court case] really took its toll on the relationship between the Gitxsan and the Wet’suwet’en and there was not consensus in leadership on how to proceed at a number of different points. So much so that even though we won the court case that laid the groundwork for a title case we no longer had the consensus and the strength within to continue with yet another court case to prove title.”

Because of the lack of consensus and deterioration within

the relationships of the two tribes, a rift opened between them.

“After the mid-‘90s, I was told that I was no longer Gtixsan Wet’suwet’en, I am just Wet’suwet’en…

There was a political break between the two and it went right through the middle of families that had members on both sides. We have been healing from that political break ever since, and we’ve come a long way. We are once again a strong and united tribal unit, but we still to this day have the Office of the Wet’suwet’en and the Gitxsan have their own office.

“It’s an example of the toll [it takes] when First Nations are faced with legal challenges over decades. … It divides us and it weakens us,” said Goolde.

A statement released on Feb. 7 by the B.C. government states that the Province of British Columbia has agreed to start a new path of reconciliation with the Office of the Wet’suwet’en, but the Unist’ot’en clan has responded on their Facebook page saying that they are not involved in this conversation. The statement refers to this as an “optic of reconciliation” and the Unistot’en continue to demand that all work on the pipeline stop before they will become involved, stating, “We do not believe reconciliation is possible when our Wet’suwet’en people face the barrel of a gun … the Office of Wet'suwet'en negotiations do not represent Unist’ot’en interests.”

The strain of an ongoing battle to have not just one’s rights, but also one’s way of life and culture acknowledged, can manifest itself as more conflict and trauma. This has been the case for some Indigenous communities as legalities have systematically broken clans apart and keep furthering that divide. According to Sakej Ward, an Indigenous governance department member from the University of Victoria who spoke at the Wet’suwet’en Strong benefit concert on Friday, this constitutes cultural genocide: a term used to describe the deliberate destruction of the cultural heritage of a people or nation for political, military, religious, ideological, or racial reasons.

The Government of Canada, despite knowing that the Indian Act is problematic, are still using it to get their own way. The hereditary system of governance is not new and politicians should have been acknowledging it years ago, as the Trudeau administration should also have carefully and thoughtfully done before it got to this point. It is not appropriate to tip toe around it and play dumb after.

Peter Grant, the lawyer who worked on the Delgamuukw case said in a recent interview that, “For over 21 years, the governments of Canada and B.C. and any lawyer who has done any level of Aboriginal law would understand that when you’re dealing with the Wet’suwet’en people … on traditional territory, you’re talking about a system of hereditary chiefs.”

The divisions the pipeline has created doesn’t stop with First Nations communities. It seems everybody has an opinion on the matter and it is dividing all of us. But this is by design. We are pointing fingers and placing blame on each other, but the people who should be called out are the major oil and gas companies and the banks that support them. And this may be hard to hear, but we are all paying for the pipeline and supporting the violation of human rights in ways that we don’t even see. It is very likely that the bank you keep your money in has a hand in this project.

Royal Bank, TD, CIBC, BMO, and numerous other banks are lending massive amounts of money to Transcanada for the pipeline.

“It’s oil and gas companies that are signed with those pipeline companies … [that] stay out of the limelight; they don’t have to deal with the backlash, they’re not the ones that have to deal with First Nations. I feel pipelines are more of a distraction distracting us from who the real players are, and I don’t think the average citizen understands that,” said Goolde.

Furthermore, both the federal and provincial governments are subsidizing oil and gas projects with our tax dollars. Just take a look at your paycheck, your investment portfolio, your CPP, or your pension fund and you will most likely see oil-soaked money.

“I found out the hard way that … all of my money was sitting with major banks and oil and energy companies and all the rest … it goes to the bank. If it’s one of the top five or six major banks, most likely they are bankrolling oil and gas companies.”

If you’ve ever considered switching to a credit union, the time is now.

“When I sit back and look at my paycheque I realize the pipeline companies are laughing at me because they’re building a pipeline with my money … they’re not building it with their own money, it’s all heavily financed through banks and other people’s pension plans; they don’t want to take any risk with their own cash,” said Goolde.

As students with the privilege to attend university, we have the resources to learn about these historical issues on a deeper level. The truth is, we have all been lied to. Settlers and Indigenous people alike have been fed misinformation growing up, and the history books haven’t fully or completely recorded the atrocities that have been imposed on First Nations since Canada was established. It is our national shame, but we have an opportunity to educate ourselves and do something about it.

“Everything that leads us to our opinion of First Nations and their place in this country has been built up over our lifetimes, and for many of us, it could take the rest of our lives to deconstruct and rebuild that opinion,” said Goolde.

We have seen, on a global scale, that the pursuit of a wealthy state and a booming oil industry have so far resulted in social and environmental devastation, especially in Indigenous territories.

We can’t keep going down the same path knowing that it leads to nothing but a violation of human rights and the destruction of the environment, because there is no light at the end. We can’t expect a sustainable energy industry to magically pop out of the ground, because it never will. We need to be actively demanding a shift to sustainable energy sources on a large scale and with vigor. If we allow one-sided economic argument to dictate how we run our society, we leave no room for innovation or growth in new industry. First Nations communities deserve more than one option for development. More importantly, governments need to listen to their people. We can’t allow the violation of humans rights in the name of jobs and economic growth.

Indigenous communities and land defenders have made it clear that this is about more than just economic growth and resources. “These are not resources, this a life force that we have relationships to,” said Mel Bazil, a Wet’suwet’en activist, teacher, and UFV alma mater, in a recent video. Mel helped to establish the Unist’ot’en camp in 2009.

By violating traditional land and ignoring Indigenous voices, the Canadian government is further damaging the relationship between themselves and the First Nations people. The Canadian government has put $40 billion into this pipeline (the largest private sector investment in Canadian history), money that could have gone far in Indigenous communities. The Trudeau administration and all politicians need to stop spouting off reconciliation rhetoric that they have no intention of following through on. Trudeau has said that “It is not for the federal government to decide who speaks for [the Indigenous community],” but he has proven himself to be a hypocrite by doing so anyways.

This rhetoric is wearing thin. As stated by Goolde: “In First Nations communities, we’ve been hearing that term [reconciliation], for a long time.

It feels like a government term; it’s a made up word that doesn’t carry much meaning anymore

because … government officials are getting very good at government speak. They sound like they understand what they need to do … but there’s been nothing changing that indicates that there is ever going to be a balance in power or a change in the jurisdiction.”

We all get it: we need money, we need jobs, we need economic growth, but this shouldn't be reduced to just an economic issue — this is a major human rights and environmental issue. We also can’t let it divide us, because without the protection of our environment, future access to all of our rights as people will be impossible as our resources will be polluted, scarce, and corporatized. “[It’s] everyone’s responsibility to uphold environmental justice, for the benefit of future generations and in honour of our ancestors,” said Gardner.

This issue impacts everyone. If not now then 10 years down the road, or less, as climate change is rapidly altering our environment in many ways.

We can take action by just being aware of what companies we support, switching to a credit union, demanding green energy sources, and being vocal to companies about what kind of behaviours we want and expect to see from them. Give your local MP a call or an email and look up the supporter toolkit available from the Unistot’en camp website. Seek out Indigenous media sources like the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and search for and read Indigenous and climate articles on popular news sources; they keep track of what you look at and if they see more people viewing a certain type of article they will be encouraged to cover more about that topic.

More importantly, educate your peers about what is going on. We are the ones with the power to change. We are the ones with the voice and the voting power to demand our government follow through on their promises and begin to shift our economy in the right direction: away from bloated corporations with a monopoly on resources that don’t belong to them, and towards the rightful owners of the land and citizens of the country, so that we can all benefit, together.

CULTURE CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

culture@ufvcascade.ca Cassie de Jong — Culture Editor

Preview //

Attempts on her Life to play at Black Box Theatre

Unconventional play promises weirdness and wackiness ALEISTER GWYNNE This March, UFV’s theatre department is presenting Attempts on Her Life, written by Martin Crimp. The play is directed by award-winning actor and director Alex Lazaridis Ferguson, who is co-artistic director of internationally-acclaimed performance group Fight With a Stick. The cast is drawn from students in UFV’s theatre program.

The description given on the poster advertising the play, located in Building D close to the Black Box Theatre where it will be performed, says: “Who is Anne? Is she a terrorist? A good daughter? Is she a tree? Do we remember her

dialogues, within the mind of the character Anne acted out on stage. Like a person’s thoughts, these voices are sometimes contradictory, go off on tangents, and say things that one wouldn’t likely say out loud.

“What I saw was enough to make me eager to see the whole play in its final form.”

The subjects of Anne’s musings often touch upon late-20th-century themes (many of which are still relevant today) such as pornography and ethnic violence. The mature subject mat-

thusiasm and creativity to their work, and they clearly enjoyed themselves.

“I chose them all because they are good listeners and sensitive people and can work as an ensemble,” said Ferguson. There were a lot of spontaneous moments, and combined with the unconventional nature of the play, I often found it difficult to tell what was in the script and what was a mistake or ad-libbed. What I saw was enough to make me eager to see the whole play in its final form.

Will we find out who Anne is? I doubt Attempts on Her Life will give audiences a clear answer, but they will come to know who Anne is as a person,

Column //

Cascade Kitchen: Super Easy Milk Buns

Super Easy Milk Buns. (Mikaela Collins)

MIKAELA COLLINS You’re a student: you like saving money. You’re a human being: you like bread. Making bread at home is super easy, cheap, and totally delicious. Use these buns for sandwiches at lunch or dinner, or to have with butter and jam for breakfast. Or whatever you want; I’m not a cop.

Ready in: 1 hour 45 minutes Makes 10 buns Ingredients: 45 ml (3 tbsp) active dry yeast or instant yeast 60 ml (1/4 cup) and 175 ml (3/4 cup) lukewarm water, separated (if using active dry yeast) 5 ml (1 tsp) and 22 ml (1½ tbsp) white sugar, separated (if using active dry yeast) 250 ml (1 cup) milk 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour 6 ml (1¼ tsp) salt 30 ml (2 tbsp) melted butter 1 egg (optional) Sesame seeds (optional)

Attempts on her Life. (Darren McDonalds

or are we inventing her? Come and find out.”

The advertising blurb sounds intriguing, but what the play delivers will be quite different from what you might expect. I had the privilege of attending one of the rehearsals and have a foretaste of what the play will be like. While I only got to see two scenes be rehearsed, they were consistent with each other in tone and presentation, and I believe they are representative of the story overall. Attempts on Her Life is essentially a series of interior monologues, or rather

ter and use of coarse language means that Attempts on Her Life is not for the easily upset. Ferguson said he chose the play due to its language, and “the fact that it’s very open to whatever the company wants to do with it.”

It was a pleasure seeing Ferguson and company at work.

They have been making up for lost time on rehearsals due to delays caused by the snowy weather last month. Despite the pressure, Ferguson and his cast and crew brought a lot of en-

and will likely be entertained in the meantime, assuming they are fans of raunchy comedy or the avant-garde.

Attempts on Her Life will be playing at the Black Box Theatre in room D105 on UFV’s Abbotsford campus. Performances will be held on March 12–16, 19, and 21–23. Those wishing to see the play should visit https:// www.ufv.ca/plays/shows/ to check showtimes as these vary by date, and to reserve seats since space in the venue is limited.

Step 1: If you’re using active dry yeast, put the 60 ml (1/4 cup) water in a big mixing bowl, then the dry yeast, then the 5 ml (1 tsp) sugar, in that order. Yes, it’s important. Cover the bowl with a tea towel. Wait 10 minutes; if it gets frothy, you’re good! If not, either your water or your kitchen was too hot or too cold, so adjust and try again! If you’re using instant yeast, just pour the yeast in the full cup of lukewarm water and wait 5 minutes.

Step 2: Literally just dump everything else in.

Step 3: Mix until a shaggy dough forms and dump it onto a floured counter. It should be just dry enough so it’s not sticky; you can add more flour if you need to.

Step 4: Knead it 7-10 minutes until the dough is stretchy and the outside feels silky; it’s okay if it looks lumpy!

Step 5: Get a big bowl and pour in cooking oil to coat the bottom and sides, then put the dough in and coat that too. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for an hour in a warm (not hot!) place.

Step 6: Preheat the oven to 200 C (400 F).

Step 7: After an hour, the dough should double in size. At this point, it’s absolutely essential to picture someone you hate and their stupid face, and punch the dough into submission. Knead it another 3 or 4 times.

Step 8: Cut the dough into 10 chunks. YouTube how to form buns.

When the chunks look like buns, put them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 9: Mix a beaten egg with a splash of water and brush (or spoon) it on top, then sprinkle with the sesame seeds. For a sweet glaze, mix milk and sugar instead.

Step 10: Bake them for 16 minutes.

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CULTURE

VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

UFV Event //

Mac celebrates fifteenth birthday and retirement among friends UFV community comes out to show support for Mac CAT FRIESEN On Tuesday, March 5, Mac celebrated his 15th birthday, as well as his retirement as resident therapy dog of UFV, in the Envision Financial Athletic Centre with dozens of students, staff, and faculty present.

At the time of retirement, Mac and his handler, UFV counselor Dawn Holt, had been working together at UFV for 13 years, helping thousands of students during this time. Not only has his service been exemplary, his inclusion at UFV was a groundbreaking experience.

“Mac became the first facility therapy dog from PADS to be placed in a non-healthcare, non-residential setting, and is the longest serving assistance dog in PADS history,” said Alisa Webb, vice president, students and enrolment management at UFV. Mac’s inclusion at UFV was a trial run — he was only supposed to stay on a year — because, at that time, a therapy dog had never worked in a university setting. But Holt worked to make her vision happen.

“With some convincing and research behind me showing that an animal in your presence does reduce levels of cortisol, reduce the breathing rate, reduce heart rate and blood pressure, release oxytocin; because we had that research backing us up I was able to make the play for having Mac

here as a pilot program,” said Holt.

Dawn and Mac have done great work together, but what’s more important is that they’ve inspired numerous other universities to follow their path.

“There are hundreds of dogs all around the world in university settings making a difference because of the steps that were taken here at UFV,” said Tara Doherty, marketing director for PADS. In closing, Dawn put into words what Mac could not.

“He would tell us to be mindful of ourselves. Pay attention to what you need in each moment and each day. Eat when you’re hungry. Sleep when you need it. Move your body when it tells you to. Seek comfort when you feel it; reach out for help if that’s what it is. Be aware of what you’re feeling each day, and try to accept yourself for the wonderful, imperfect being that you are.”

Mac also hopes that we can find it within us to be compassionate with ourselves and others, and to find our passion. He gave his best each and every day, even in his later years, and he wants the same for us. If it hadn’t been for Holt and her belief in Mac’s abilities, he wouldn’t have spent the last 13 years helping an immense amount of the UFV community.

“He came to be because of a community of people that believe dogs can make a difference,” said Doherty.

Mac at his birthday/retirement party in building E. (The Cascade)

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CULTURE

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

UFV Event //

Laughing Matters UFV gets a taste of stand-up comedy

versity students and helped emphasize how different comedians generate different reactions. Her perspective of moving to Canada On Friday, March 1, the University of the and experiencing things in Vancouver for Fraser Valley welcomed comedians Cliff the first time showed the humour in moving Prang, Sophia Johnson, and our very own to a new place.

English professor Rajnish Dhawan. The Professor Rajnish Dhawan was the last coevent was hosted by English professor Alex median to take the stage. Professor Dhawan Wetmore, as a seminar for his course ENG will be hosting UFV’s Got Talent during Val271: The Rhetoric of Stand-up Comedy. ley Fest this month, and will be participatNew to this semester, the course descriping in a comedy battle on CBC called “Up tion states that it will introduce students “to Next.” His jokes centered around his expebasic concepts and terms from the field of riences as someone who has immigrated to rhetoric, and apply them to the analysis of Canada, playing heavily on stereotypes, and a particular contemporary cultural context.” using humour to help show the ridiculous This includes political debate, Indigenous nature of cultural assumptions. Dhawan rights claims, and social media, as well as knows how to play the crowd and understand-up comedy. Dr. Wetmore planned this stands his audience well. His jokes centre as an opportunity for his students to experiaround problems that seem to be faced often ence how rhetoric is applied during a standin the Fraser Valley, centreing specifically up comedy show. This event marks a turnon being “a walking stereotype.” He jokes, ing point in understanding the importance “I am multiculturalism,” and uses this to of humour and how it can apply to educabreak down barriers. His style of comedy tion. Opening the event, Dr. Wetmore joked is extremely relevant to UFV and received about self-deprecating humour, and his play large waves of laughter from the audience.

Afterward, the comedians sat down for a panel to discuss their methods and how they apply to rhetoric. This was extremely useful in pointing out the relationship comedy shares with language. Professor Wetmore had prepared a variety of questions, beginning with how they get their ideas. Prang opened up about his role as a father and how it helps create scenarios that he can play on. He also uses journaling, improv, and practice. His experiences as a husband and father are his fuel.

Comedy panel discussion. (Mikaela Collins) Sophia Johnson talked about writing her jokes at open mic nights and finding dive bars on words saying “laughing matters” helped to practice in. “Imagine the worst pub and emphasize how important laughter can acthree weird dudes in the back,” and that is tually be. Although claiming not to be a where she gets some of her material. She performer, Dr. Wetmore fit in well with the likes to free talk and also “just see what lineup that was to come. sticks and stays.” Johnson’s method plays on Cliff Prang took the stage first. Prang has the audience and their reactions. This allows been a comedian most of his life, and did imher to mesh with real-time events, while also prov in high school. He has always enjoyed feeding off her prepared material. making others laugh, and decided to take Professor Rajnish Dhawan said he gets his stand-up comedy seriously as a career five material from his experiences in Canada. He years ago. He is married with three kids, uses these experiences to build on a premand previously worked as a pastor. He likes ise and create his unique style of comedy. to draw on his life experiences and puts a Throughout the event one thing became funny, sometimes dark twist on many of his very clear: laughter can bring a group of jokes. His transition into becoming a prostrangers together. As each performer went fessional comedian made for some funny on, the air in the room seemed to get warmmoments and he plays with that as part of er, as students and staff laughed together. his bit. The crowd was in hysterics with his The event itself helped to emphasize how jokes on work, parenting, and his experirhetoric can truly be a “laughing matter.” ences in the Fraser Valley. Prang’s humour This event was a great success. It was nice hit the mark for many who attended, creatto see students come out to something that ing jokes that were very specific to where we was both entertaining and educational. The live. creative ingenuity of the UFV English deNext to perform was comedian and acpartment hosting a comedy event to help tress Sophia Johnson. Originally from New teach students about the applications of Zealand, her jokes are centred around her rhetoric is something we hope to see more experiences as a “Kiwi” as well as being a of. Events like this give students the opporwomen in an industry like comedy. Her entunity to learn, while also enjoying a good ergy and crass humour lit up the room with laugh. This event helped to emphasize the a completely different kind of laugh. Johnimportance of laughter, and how comedy son’s persona was easily understood by unican apply to the study of rhetoric.

ALEXANDRA JOHNSON

Q & A //

Q&A with local musician David Ivan Neil The talented artist behind songs about life, Tinder, and Tim Hortons cups ANDREA SADOWSKI This past Saturday I had the pleasure of seeing a set performed by David Ivan Neil at Carport Manor. This one-man show got laughs by revealing that one of his songs is about a “Roll Up the Rim” Tim Hortons cup he threw in the garbage at the Edmonton airport, and engaged the crowd by getting them to sing along to his song about fake Tinder accounts.

David is a strong showman, songwriter, and vocalist and I got to talk to him after the show about the meaning behind his songs and why he pursues his passion of making music.

dio… or just singing in the shower.

So of all of the songs you write, how do you decide which ones are worthy enough to be recorded?

It’s mostly an emotional feel for me.

Anybody can write a song that sounds real and can sound like it’s going to resonate with people. But it has to resonate with me, and I have to feel something

You have such a unique sense of humour when writing songs.

When I’m listening to a song and think it’s about something deep, you reveal it’s actually about a Tim Hortons cup you threw in the garbage. Are any of the songs you write serious?

They’re all just stories. Humour is a big part, but humour is the cover fee to get into something more serious. Humour just knocks down some walls, and then maybe it will hit them in the gut.

You have released EPs on Apple Music and Spotify — is that how most people discover you?

The internet is a funny thing. Anyone in the world can find you, but you actually have to play shows and you gotta do something to get their attention. There are a lot of bands.

Everytime I write I go: “Oh, I’m another band. Oh joy, everyone needs another song.”

But there are not a lot of other musicians like you where it’s just you, your voice, and a guitar.

I’m kind of lucky because I can only do it one way. I am not a musician per se; I don’t know how to really play guitar or know the notes or anything.

So what made you decide to pursue this if you don’t see yourself as a musician?

Daniel Johnston, that’s about it. Daniel Johnston and Half Japanese. Those are the two guys that after I listen to them I think “So anybody can do this.” I love just looking at people and wondering “What would your songs sound like?”

Like just walking down the street, what would you sound like? Because I don’t think people would see me normally and think “Oh, he’s writing Terminator 2 songs or he’s writing songs about coffee cups.” The actual writing process is either just misheard lyrics from the ra-

David Ivan Neil. (David Myles)

when I sing it. I will either write jokey songs or songs that I don’t know what the hell they mean. Either way, something has to feel right.

What is the best song you’ve ever written and why?

The song that I love the most is the one I haven’t released yet. On the record it’s going to be called “Free” but I used to call it “It’s Fucking Free” and it’s basically just about me talking about making music, getting my CD to bands, buying cool merch from bands, talking to bands... That’s my favourite one and going to be the last song on the new album.

So do you have any advice for any aspiring musicians?

Do whatever feels right to you. I used to really hate playing shows, and now I kind of like it. I think on Lululemon bags it says: “Do something that scares you everyday.” That’s kind of true, I like that.

I am scared of everything. The main guy from Western Jaguar, he used to do open mics at one of the places around the corner from here, and I would show up and I would suck, and just do it.

If you want to play music, go to open mics — go every week. Just find another open mic and just do it. And you’ll just get better. All you can do is just keep doing it. No one is born ready so you just have to keep practicing.

Watch out for David Ivan Neil’s new album releasing this summer and check out his work already released on Apple Music, Spotify, and Bandcamp.

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SPORTS

CULTURE

VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

sports@ufvcascade.ca The Cascade — Sports Editor

Volleyball //

UFV volleyball: a look back at the up and down ways of the Cascades in 2018-19 A mix of highs and lows for the Cascades in 2018-2019 ALEX JESUS This season was a weird one for the UFV Cascades volleyball squads. Sure, they struggled on the court at times, and yes, the men’s team nearly went winless, but if that’s true, why does the mood around the volleyball teams seem so positive? This could be for a few reasons, but it all starts with their respective seasons.

The men’s team had a rough go. They went 0-10 to start the season, losing every game and only registering five set matches twice on that streak. One might imagine that a winless squad wouldn’t feel too great, but UFV could be seen living it up on the side lines, cheering for teammates and always bringing a level of excitement to the games. If you didn’t know their record, you would think that the Cascades were defending champs just from the amount of passion and fun they brought

to the game. The hometown fans in attendance at the Envision Financial Athletic Centre always seemed to appreciate that, as they showed up again and again to watch their team play.

The Cascades wound up registering two

UFV Cascades Sports Scores March 2 – March 3, 2019 Women’s Rugby Sevens

They were two of the most profound wins across all sports at UFV. At 2-22, the Cascades didn’t accomplish what they wanted, but the wins they had were done in an exciting fashion, and the fans appreciated that.

The women’s team also struggled at times, but never to the same degree as the men’s team.

Opening weekend, the women started out 0-2, which would turn out to not be indicative of their season. They actually had a great eight-game stretch in which they went 7-1 but closed out their last five games of the season going 2-3.

The Cascades went 14-11, which by all means constitutes Cascades volleyball in building E. (UFV Athletics) a successful season. They did indeed get a shot at the playwins, both against the same team: their offs, but on the opening day of the PACcrosstown rivals, the Columbia Bible Col- WEST quarter-finals they lost a very tough lege Bearcats. Those wins were from five match with the Capilano Blues, who were set matches, hard-fought and hard-earned. the number five seed compared to UFV at The vibe with this team was if they were number four, although the Cascades won going to win, they were going to earn it. their regular season matchups by a match

Game/Date: Canada West Women’s Rugby Sevens Series – Tourney #3 Result: Sixth Place

score of 3-1. While this could have been viewed as a sad ending to a good season for the UFV team, it was arguably anything but. The future for the Cascades seems brighter than ever, and though team captain Kim Bauder finished her fifth year of eligibility, many other players stepped up.

UFV has submitted a bid to move it’s volleyball program into the next highest conference. With a possible switch to the Canada West conference on the horizon, it’s hard to tell whether or not the Cascades teams are ready for it. If you ask them, they’ll welcome the competition with open arms. Surely, the fans won’t mind. If they loved these teams in PACWEST, they’ll love them at the next level.

Rowing //

Athlete profile: UFV rowing’s Michelle Olive Michelle Olive talks about her introduction to the sport of rowing, her career at UFV, and much more ALEX JESUS Of all UFV’s various sports teams and clubs, the Cascades rowing team is often one of the most underappreciated. With larger sports teams often garnering more attention, the UFV rowing squad has quietly become one of the Cascades’ most competitive teams.

Just last December the team went to the Canadian University National Championships in St. Catharines, Ontario. On that trip was third-year rower Michelle Olive, who has had a competitive and fun-filled career with UFV. It may surprise you to know that Michelle’s start to rowing did not come in high school or prior, but right here with the Cascades.

“I started in university, actually,” said Olive, who placed fifth in her category in the 2018 Canadian University National Championships. “In my first semester, I decided that I wanted to get into some sort of sport or athletics, since I’ve always kind of been active in my life. I saw this poster in the bookstore about rowing and I was like ‘Oh, that looks kind of cool.’”

As it turned out, though Olive was starting from scratch, the environment of rowing wasn’t too much of a shock. “Didn’t know much about it, but I have always liked water sports. I grew up at the lake … Water sports sounded cool and [UFV]

16

had a learn-to-row program starting up in the fall. I just emailed the coach and got started.”

Any time you start a sport, there’s a learning period where you grow and develop, but there’s also a period where you noticeably improve and get better. For Olive, this came in her second year, after seemingly taking every possible opportunity in her first year. “In my first year I wanted to go to as many regattas as pos-

“You’ve got to have that inner motivation.” sible. I told my coach, ‘I just want to learn, get as much experience at this as I can,’ and she put me into multiple races, some of them even ones the team wasn’t necessarily going to but I chose to go, kind of on my own, to gain the experience.”

When it comes to different sports there is no doubt that they all usually involve a high level of competitive drive. In terms of intricacy, rowing isn’t too different from other athletic ventures, according to Olive.

“In a way it’s probably similar because you have to push yourself to keep going and keep working harder, and you’ve got to have that inner motivation.”

“With rowing there’s kind of an indi-

vidual aspect as well as a team aspect to who graduates after this semester and has it. You’ve not only got to have that inner put in four years total with UFV rowing, motivation to keep going and going even knows that better than anyone. For more of when you feel like you can’t go anymore, this compelling interview (with video) be which happens quite often … You’ve also sure to check out The Cascade on YouTube got to work with each other in the boat.” as well as the official website ufvcascade.

Unlike other sports, rowing has factors ca for more sports interviews and content. outside of the players that can affect performance. When it comes to conditions, Olive says they play a massive role in how a race can go. “The boats are very light …

The smaller the boat, the worse it is. Sometimes when the water is too rough and there’s too much wind and too much waves, they’ll actually not allow the small boats to go out.”

There’s no doubt that when it comes to rowing, there’s a lot more to it than the expected physical deMichelle Olive and team in Fort Langley. (UFV Athletics) mands. Olive,

STUDY BREAK

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

Crossword //

Made by Cassie de Jong

ACROSS 1: A home fire-protection device that automatically detects and gives a warning of the presence of fire.

5: The largest artery of the body which supplies oxygenated blood to the rest of the circulatory system.

6: The American comic book/ magazine series that first introduced Superman.

8: A pair of lenses set in a frame that rest on the nose and ears, used to correct eyesight.

10: A public sale in which goods or property are sold to the highest bidder.

11: A large art museum in Paris where the Mona Lisa is stored.

13: A small arm of a sea, lake, or river.

14: An experience involving the perception of something that is not actually present.

LAST ISSUE’S

ANSWERS:

Cascade Calamities

Horoscopes //

Astrological mysteries interpreted weekly by Morgana the Mystic

Aries — Mar 21 to Apr 19 The last month has not been easy for you, and March might not provide the break you deserve but it will give you an opportunity to process and heal. This is a significant time for the people close to you as well; take note of those who offer shoulders to lean on and those who don’t. You’re on the cusp of new growth so don’t let others hold you back.

Taurus — Apr 20 to May 20 Your patron planet, Venus, entered Aquarius earlier this week. Use this time to disconnect from your more materialist side and embrace your inner pragmatist. This week is a great time to share with others your creative aspirations and discuss what your ideal future would look like.

Gemini — May 21 to Jun 20 Expect quite a few ups and downs, Gemini, especially in regards to your professional life. Your latest projects could use some revisement, but the finished products will grant you great pride and success. Don’t get yourself down about others’ critiques — they come from a place of caring. You should hit your stride once you accept that not everything goes perfectly on the first try.

Cancer —Jun 21 to Jul 22 Don’t be afraid to push your luck. You like to play it safe and it might be holding you back from making decisions regarding relationships and your career. The unknown does not exactly inspire confidence in you, but taking chances will be the key to moving forward. In other words, be brave, Cancer.

Leo — Jul 23 to Aug 22 Retracing your steps can feel like retreat. You don’t often return to things you thought you’d already solved or worked through, but this week will drudge up the past. It’s up to you if this is a good or bad thing. Use this second chance as a reminder to be more thorough.

Your impulsivity is not always a benefit.

Virgo —Aug 23 to Sep 22 Spring is about reinvention. While the recent weather hasn’t exactly been encouraging, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look for new opportunities. As a mutable sign, you’re open to embracing change. Use this to your advantage and seek out people or things that inspire you to broaden your horizons.

DOWN 1: In poker, a hand of cards all of one suit and in a continuous sequence.

2: A diplomat of the highest rank, who acts as a representative from one country to another.

3: A large, upright, bell-shaped, brass wind instrument of bass pitch, with three to six valves.

4: The rebirth of a soul in a new body.

7: A small rodent with soft gray fur and a long bushy tail, native to the Andes Mountains in South America.

9: A style of music with a strong offbeat that originated in Jamaica in the 1960s, and was the forerunner to reggae.

12: A long poem, derived from ancient oral tradition which narrates the deeds or adventures of legendary figure.

Across: 1: Beaver 3: Pawn 4: Palaeontology 6: Copenhagen 7: Rhinestone 8: Contact Lenses 10: Heir 11: Norway

Down: 1: Beta 2: Reincarnation 3: Pylon 4: Pacific 5: Yankees 7: Rotor 9: Emmy

Illustration by Elyssa English Sagittarius — Nov 22 to Dec 21 For someone larger than life, “downtime” can seem like a chore. It doesn’t have to be a drag; you have the unique ability to make anything exciting. Use this period of apparent inactivity to work through and revise your long-term aspirations. Seek inspiration from your past but be wary of repetition.

Capricorn — Dec 22 to Jan 19 Your devotion to yourself and others seems to be unwaning and this is what draws people to you. You’re on the verge of great success, whether it be personal or professional.

Be prepared to embrace new ideas and techniques that will help ease any worries that have arisen during your journey.

Libra — Sep 23 to Oct 22 If you have a lot on your mind this might not be the best time to share it. Your emotions have been all over the place and have left you unsteady and unsure. Try thinking things through before you broadcast them to the world; you’ll have an easier time sharing if you know exactly what it is you want to say.

Aquarius — Jan 20 to Feb 18 You might feel like everyone around you is in on a joke, while you’re struggling to figure out the punch line. You spend quite a bit of time with your head in the clouds, and while this allows you to be a great innovator, you miss out on what happens down on Earth.

Settle down this week, Aquarius. Embrace practicality.

Scorpio — Oct 23 to Nov 21 Mercury goes retrograde this week, and this isn’t just an event people use to justify ghosting someone. While you might not feel the effects in regards to your relationships, expect a few roadblocks in your creative ventures. Inspiration might be lacking this week, so use this time to confront the more practical or financial sides of your newest project.

Pisces — Feb 19 to Mar 20 A new moon in Pisces will bring about a strong emotional shift that will help to alleviate any worries you might be having in the middle of your season. Don’t fear honest discussions with others; a little confrontation can help avoid bigger issues later on. Be both sympathetic and uncompromising.

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ARTS

arts@ufvcascade.ca Martin Castro — Arts Editor

VOL. 27 // ISSUE 08

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2018

Soundbites //

CHARTS

SHUFFLE

1

Daniel Romano Finally Free

2

Kristin Witko Now Am I Feeling (Single)

3

Kellen Saip Winding Road

4

Fever Feel Fever Feel

5

future star Ava Max - “Sweet Psycho” i will fight the devil and i will win This Armenian chanteuse actu-

6

Devours Curmudgeon (single)

7 8

Le Mal Tunic Complexion

10

Homeshake Helium

12

lounge FM Love Will Let You Down Pale Lips After Dark

13

Brandon Isaak Rise'N'Shine

14

Henry Hey Bro (Single)

15

Joni Void Mise En Abyme

16

Colin James Miles to Go

17

Day 6 Remember Us: Youth Pt. 2

Julia Holter Aviary

18

INTERIOR DECORATOR

CIVL Station Manager Aaron Levy is pretty checked out on the world around us, between Ontario student media and services basically being declared “over” and this whole liberal scandal that's requiring either a conservative government or one led by a party that's never led federally before, so here are some songs that have come into my head lately.

ally grew up in Milwaukee, despite the intense Euro-trashiness of this undeniable earworm and her actual European background. I heard this on Pasta LeE HARVeY OsMOND Tuesday while I was watching OKC vs. the New Orleans PeliMohawk cans last week, and I'm failing

to not narrate my life to it.

Fet.Nat

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AARON LEVY

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Sneaks Highway Hypnosis

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Future Peers I'm Sorry

Talking Heads - “Psycho Killer” Like, OKC is so psycho, their offense is psycho, Paul George is going ma, ma, ma ma, ma, or some such. It's easy to do that to this one too: “Triple double, Westbrook says ‘don't you touch me, don't you touch me.’ Bomb bomb, bomb bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb awaaaaaay.”

Weezer- Weezer (Black Album)

Weezer’s latest self-titled release (one of six, so far) is constitutive of the faded pinkishred tassel on a hat (bought for a laugh at a flea market corner stall on a weekday) whose originally marginal utility has long since outpaced its worth as a fashion item. This is to say, a hat so ludicrous that it renders its enjoyment inherently ironic.

2016’s Weezer, at least, called back to the bittersweet kitsch that made the band the powerhouse it once was. In comparison to their first three records, that 2016 release did away with any attempt at progress in favour of focusing on hedonism, on fun. In comparison to 2016’s Weezer, 2019’s Weezer has forgotten

how to have fun but tries really hard to pretend it still knows how, hoping we won’t notice.

So again we find 2019’s Weezer to be a hat at a flea market, a knock-off of a product whose original manufacturing business has fallen into disrepair, sold at a 70 per cent markdown.

It’s still enjoyable, sure, but the final product is only a shadow of the original model, made by a company who at the moment remains only a shadow of what they once were, forced to peddle their brand on a knockoff of their earlier success in a bid to remain solvent.

MARTIN CASTRO

Kristin Witko - “Good Advice” Peter Gabriel meets Cocteau Twins? I think that's how I recently described Kristin Witko to a friend who was wondering what kind of music she did.

Or maybe that's what she has on her bandcamp, and my description supplemented Cher for Cocteau Twins? Not sure, but they're each appropriate descriptions!

Blessed - “Rolled in Glass” This is the track that changes the game of challenging Canadian indie rock and accessible postpunk right now. It opens the upcoming debut full-length from this local quintet who is about to demolish SXSW with the likes of Wintersleep, Rich Aucoin, and And You Will Know Us By The...

Hozier - Wasteland, Baby!

All songs on Hozier’s Wasteland, Baby! are sleepy in the best way possible. Even “Nobody,” one of the more upbeat songs on the album, gives the effect of trying to stay up past the point of being tired — you’re bopping along, you feel weight on your eyelids, but you’re feeling good regardless.

Although the album centres on mundane topics — love, heartbreak, etc. — it does so in a way that makes you feel as though you’re hearing about it for the first time. Hozier’s style is such that, even though he is quite alike to

other songwriters, his are the songs that stick in your mind, while all others like it follow in his footsteps and get lost amid a sea of similarity.

Unfortunately, there’s no great distinction between Wasteland, Baby! and Hozier’s previous self-titled album. (“Almost (Sweet Music)” carries with it the sound of “Someone New,” from Hozier’s self-titled album.) But I will say that Hozier could sing about washing his socks and he’d still find a way to make it sensual.

And that, my friend, takes talent.

CAT FRIESEN

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ARTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

Album //

Harlem’s Oh Boy capitalizes on a triedbut-true formula MARTIN CASTRO Before launching into a boppy little rockn-roll number, the first track on Harlem’s sophomore release (2010’s Hippies) offers a prediction: “Someday soon you’ll be on fire, and you’ll ask me for a glass of water.

I’ll say no. You can just let that shit burn.”

The effect is one that sets a tone for that record: energetic, playful, and vaguely sinister.

In comparison, Oh Boy is more laid back in its tonal aspirations, and leans heavily on a smoother production that sees the tracks on the record glide one to another with less finality, yes, but also with more purpose.

For example, the bluesy “Click Your Heels” is a ballad at heart, calling back to early Monkees rhythmic patterns while slowing things down considerably when compared to 2010’s “Someday Soon.” It’s an interesting stylistic break, because while the band’s chemistry remains more

or less the same, and their playing remains loose and fluid, the lack of urgency in many of the tracks combined with a production that is drastically lush paints the threesome in a vastly different light without really having to change many of its core elements.

In this sense, there’s less of a departure from their earlier material than might appear at first glance. The lazy, feel-good “Me and the Boys” takes an ideological page from laid-back ‘70s summer hits like Mungo Jerry’s “In the Summertime” and The Stampeders’ “Sweet City Woman.” This trend continues for much of the record, and while not many of the ideas presented are clearly and purposely new, their iteration on Oh Boy is refreshing in its lack of cynicism. That’s in itself a feat, when

performing slow ballads like “Smoke in (which, admittedly, drags the record down Mirrors,” whose slower tempo and love- halfway), there is always a blind optimism letter lyricism always run the risk of fall- sneaking around the corner of each track.

This is especially apparent on “Dreams is Destiny,” the chorus of which is both dreamland optimistic and downcast at the same time.

This isn’t to say that the record is without its faults. The band’s throwback aesthetic on this particular go around also sees them miss the mark by putting together solid but uninspired numbers, such as “Cry Now Cry Later.” Although there’s nothing technically lacking in the track, it falls flat almost entirely due to the fact that it takes no risks, and instead of safe, what we get ends up being boring after the first minute or so.

Although it’s not Harlem’s best record, Oh Boy will entertain anyone looking for something to conjure the appeal of early rock’s spongy, lush twang, while also bringing a more contemporary production ing into the realm of overly-saccharine quality to the table. mindlessness. Even with its slower pace

Movie //

Green Book is both thought-provoking and laugh-provoking Comedy/biography examines a familiar topic from a unique angle ALEISTER GWYNNE You probably would not expect a biographical story about racism set in 1960s America to mesh well with a road trip comedy, yet Green Book, directed by Peter Farrelly, does exactly this, and pulls it off surprisingly well.

Based on a true story, Green Book centres around Anthony Vallelonga (Viggo Mortensen), a.k.a. Tony Lip, an Italian-American bouncer working at the Copacabana nightclub in New York. After the Copacabana closes for an extended period, Tony goes looking for work to help support his family. He finds a job as a driver/bodyguard for an African-American pianist called “Doc” Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali), whose performing tour will take him through the American South. The movie is set in 1962 at the height of the civil rights movement, so things are almost guaranteed to get ugly, and they do. The film gets its name from a real-life travel guide published by and for African Americans during this period to help them find safe and accepting places to stay, which Tony uses to help plan his itinerary.

There is a lot of friction between Tony and Don Shirley. Tony is quite plainly racist. He not only uses racist language and throws around stereotypes, but is also the kind of man to throw the glasses that some black plumbers at his house were drinking out of into the trash.

Shirley is highly sophisticated and received a classical education in Russia. He only plays more popular music because Americans would not accept a black classical pianist.

Shirley finds himself in an uneasy position. He does not identify with African-American culture, and yet his race prevents him from being accepted among the white high society that he plays for. Tony on the other hand is not at all ashamed of who he is. He is working class and proud of it. Tony points out (in a very tactless way) that

his experiences and lifestyle make him more “black” than Shirley. This of course does not go over well. Shirley, for his part, is annoyed by Tony’s boorish manners and is frustrated by Tony’s unwillingness to better himself, despite comparatively fewer barriers.

The slobs vs. snobs dynamic is a big part of the movie’s humour, much of which comes from Tony’s outrageously crude words and actions, with Shirley in the role of the straight man. In addition to the blunter forms of comedy like this, there are also subtle and clever jokes as well, many of which involve callbacks to earlier scenes. While the mixing of comedy and drama is uneven, it does not feel jarring or out of place. The funny moments add a lot to the film and do not detract from the more serious moments, and they serve to encourage people to see a movie dealing with a heavy topic that they might not otherwise. The film also features an appealing soundtrack incorporating less modernly known (but still evocative and enjoyable) popular songs from the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Whether Green Book succeeds in conveying its message is debatable. The story is told from Tony’s perspective, not Shirley’s, and possibly falls into the mighty-whitey trope, especially in his role as Shirley’s protector. There are also shades of the magical negro trope in Shirley’s efforts to make Tony a better person. However, there are complications to this, since both characters learn things from each other, and the class

and employer/employee dynamic between them usually puts Shirley in a higher position. If there are any out-ofcharacter stereotypes at play, perhaps they cancel out, and perhaps that was a deliberate decision. In Green Book I don’t really get the sense that one side is patronizing or being patronized; however, my perspective as a white man may not be the most reliable. I would encourage you to see the film and judge for yourself, since it is well worth seeing in any case.

It may not have gotten much publicity, but I found Green Book to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and I suspect this will be one of the movies from 2018 that people will remember for a long time to come.

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2019

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