Globe Magazine - 2019-2020

GLOBE Volume VII, Issue I

The Bishop’s School 2019-20

>> Portovenere, Italy >> Photo by Claire Zhao

From the Editor-in-Chief

Every Christmas break, my family spends one night eating dinner with my second cousins at their home in Carlsbad. Their father is a police officer who loves to show off his extensive firearm collection, and their mother has always primarily been a homemaker. The eldest of the three children recently turned eighteen and promptly married her boyfriend, who enlisted in the Marines straight after graduating from high school. None of the kids are expected (or even encouraged) to attend college. Their high school classes take a backseat to religion, hobbies, and social life. Ask them about SAT prep and they will laugh. Who would bother preparing for such a worthless test anyway? It’s less than a thirty-minute drive to their house, yet every year it feels like I walk onto an entirely different planet.

My cousins are hardly an exception; nearly two-thirds of Americans age twenty-five and older do not have a four-year college degree. It’s easy to look down on these people, to deride their lifestyle as inferior and obsolete, but we stand to gain nothing from condescension and pride. Instead, if we take a step outside of the Bishop’s bubble and give legitimate consideration to an alternative viewpoint, we can expand our horizons, and maybe even inspire meaningful change in our own lives.

The theme for this issue of Globe Magazine is contrasting perspectives. In a world where the Internet allows us to interact with those outside of our community on a day-to-day basis, it is increasingly important to approach new perspectives with open-mindedness and curiosity. As you read this issue, I hope you will experience a taste of what I feel each year walking into my cousins’ house. Try to move past feelings of shock and contempt for the sake of understanding and harmonious coexistence.

Tommy Sottosanti Class of 2020

Globe Staff: Editor-in-Chief: Tommy Sottosanti ‘20 Head of Layout and Design: Naomi Deokule ‘21 Head of Upper School Submissions: Mira Gowda ‘22 Head of Middle School Submissions: Sharisa You ‘22 Junior Editor: Lila Chitayat ‘21 Sophomore Editor: Clare Malhotra ‘22 Head of Social Media: Nadia Bitar ‘22 Faculty Advisor and Editor: Dr. David Moseley Layout Editors: Lila Chitayat ‘21, Avery Zolfaghari ‘21, Claire Zhao ‘22, Mira Gowda ‘22, Sharisa You ‘22, Nadia Bitar ‘22, Emily Zhu ‘23, Summer Hu ‘25

CONTRASTING PERSPECTIVES 04

Two Countries, Two Islands, Ten Weeks

05

Identity in the Age of Globalization

06

Intersection

08

Homelessness in the United States Versus Other Countries

11

Student Photography

12

War...What is it Good for?

14

The Pollution Solution

16

Different Types of Healthcare Systems

18

How Dare You: Greta Thunberg and the Climate Change Movement

By: Nadia Bitar ‘22

By: Natalie Goldwasser ‘22 By: Emily Zhue ‘23 By: Sharisa Yu ‘22

By: Summer Hu ‘25

By: Bela Gowda ‘24 and Mia Bravo ‘24 By: Nora Bitar ‘25

By: Nadia Bitar ‘22

20

Drinking and Dating vs. Perfection in Plaid

22

Quebec

By: Clare Malhotra ‘22 and Mira Gowda ‘22 By: Anouk Janssen ‘25

03

TWO COUNTRIES, TWO ISLANDS, TEN WEEKS by: nadia bitar

I

n the middle of the southern Atlantic Ocean, two small islands make up one territory with the capital city of Stanley; their name depends on whom you ask. For the English, they are the Falkland Islands, but in Argentina, they are the Islas Malvinas. The reason for this separation was a war between the UK and Argentina in 1982 which was never actually declared.

The two nations had been at odds about this small territory for centuries, but it was finally seized by the British in 1833 and remained in their possession until 1964 when the conflict was turned over to the United Nations.

A year later, the United Kingdom and Argentina began peaceful negotiations to decide the fate of the islands. This should have resulted in a peaceful distribution of land, but it was only the beginning of the Falkland Islands’ story.

The negotiations were still underway in February of 1982, which was almost twenty years later. Then, on April 2, Argentine forces invaded the island and launched the Falkland Islands War. They were able to subdue the British troops stationed there almost immediately and the British were left to transport their task force some 8,000 miles to fight back.

At the beginning of the war, the two countries engaged in multiple battles. However, the fights did not result in any major consequences. The Argentinian air force did not have technology nearly as advanced as that of the British. It was made up mostly of old U.S. and French fighter-bombers and was not equipped with more modern features like radar systems. Nevertheless, Argentina was

eventually able to do some damage, like sinking the British HMS Sheffield on May 2.

Yet, the Argentinian side was weakened in the process of launching the attacks and it ended up losing about a quarter of its planes. This allowed the British to then launch an amphibious attack on the Falkland Islands, which tipped the scales in the United Kingdom’s favor.

First, Argentine commander Mario Menéndez miscalculated where his enemies would arrive, and therefore could not stop the British from landing. Although the Argentinian forces tried to make up for their blunder by continuing to attack the British fleet, it was to no avail. The British were able to advance beyond their landing point and eventually surrounded Stanley, the islands’ capital. On June 14, realizing that there was no chance of victory, Menéndez surrendered. With this, the Falkland Islands War ended just over 10 weeks after its start, effectively becoming one of the shortest wars in history.

Although this was an extremely brief conflict, it has had lasting consequences. In 1983, just one year after the defeat, Argentina’s military government, heavily criticized for its bad judgment, was overthrown and replaced by civilian rule.

Also, the issue of these small islands remained in contention for many years after the war. And the Falkland Islands today? With a population of just under 3,400 as of 2016, the small islands’ economy depends on fishing, but there is a growing touristic interest, mainly from cruise ships. They are currently under British rule, and will likely remain that way: in 2013, a near unanimity of the population voted to stay under British control.

Identity in the Age of Globalization

By Natalie Goldwasser ‘22

L

ast March, I was at a gas station in Israel, and I saw a box of cereal: it was a US brand, made in France, written in Hebrew. That cereal box is proof of globalization in our world. Globalization is the process of cultures, technology, information, jobs, and the economy interacting on an international scale. Not only is the trend of globalization present in our food, but also in our people.

probably thinking, why would you question if your skin is white … but as soon as I start to speak, you’ll notice an accent. When I was little, I used to get frustrated by people who assumed I was Spanish when I told them I spoke Spanish - I didn’t understand why they wouldn’t guess I’m Mexican: it borders the U.S., so why would they think about a country overseas? There is also no Mexican blood in me, so people tell me I’m not Mexican, but I am Mexican; I am a Mexican Jew.

During World War II, my great-grandparents got on a ship in order to escape persecution in Nazi Germany, and arrived in Mexico. I grew up with Patterns of immigration are evidence of human the culture and traditions of Judaism, as well as globalization. There were four major waves of the culture and traditions of Mexico; and now that immigration to the US. The first wave was from I live in the United States, I also have the cultures 1607 to 1830, when approximately 1.2 million and traditions of the U.S. I celebrate Mexican people immigrated to the US, for a variety of Independence day, and there’s not a day that goes reasons, including religious and political freedom. by when I don’t eat tortillas; I have Shabbat dinners The second wave was of approximately 15.3 milwith my family every Friday, and I sing Hatikvah; lion immigrants from the 1830s until the 1880s; I celebrate Thanksgiving, and I stand up and place the third wave was from the 1890s until the 1920s, my hand over my heart as I say with approximately 22.3 milBEFORE THEY EVEN HAVE TO FIGURE OUT the Pledge of Allegiance. I have lion people; and the last wave WHAT THE MEANING OF A WORD IS, OR started in 1965 and is still going HOW TO FIND THE VALUE OF X, THEY HAVE three different cultures wrapped on today, with over 30 million TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THEIR IDENTITY IS. together in one. So when the time comes to check the boxes, people having immigrated so I never know what to say. Is my origin Hispanic far. These immigrants arrived to the United States, or Latino? Technically not? Does origin refer to built a life for themselves, had children, and bewhere someone personally originates from, or is it came a part of the society. Their children have and where their family is originally from? Is it in their will continue to grow up knowing more about the DNA? U.S. than of the countries their parents came from.

What then is the identity of these children?

This is a struggle that I share with millions of kids out there. We live in an era where nothing is When a student sits down in front of a standardentirely from one place or the other, so why is it ized test, before they even have to figure out what that we cannot accept that people are from more the meaning of a word is, or how to find the value than one place, and no longer be asked to check of x, they have to figure out what their identity is. the boxes?

There are usually two sections. The first question gives two options: Hispanic or Latino, and not The idea of race and origin was created to place Hispanic or Latino. The second question gives people into categories, since humans like to comfive options: American Indian or Alaska Native, partmentalize in order to understand where people Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawai“belong.” Since our world has progressed and ian or Other Pacific Islander, and White (including immigration continues to be a large part of our Middle Eastern origin). It always takes me a while history, it is no longer possible to have only five to decide what boxes I will check. I think about it, categories and to ask people to choose. It is time start to bubble one in, then I erase. I go through that we allow the human race to globalize along that process over and over again, until finally, I with our cars, clothes, and cereals. settle on a decision. If you’ve seen me, you are

05

Intersection

By Emily Zhu ‘23

It’s hard for me to balance both the Asian part and the American part of myself

M

y name is Emily Zhu. I’m 13 years old, and I’m Asian-American. Although my identity may seem very simple condensed into those two words, my culture and background are much more complicated.

My mother was born in Japan and immigrated to the United States at the age of 21. My father was born in China and immigrated to the U.S. around the same time, making me the first in my family to be born in America. Therefore, I tend to have more ties to my parents’ culture than someone whose family immigrated generations ago. It’s hard for me to balance both the Asian part and the American part of myself.

On one hand, I have my extended family and my ethnicity. I see that part of my racial identity every winter and summer when I travel back to Japan and China to see both sides of my family. I hang out with my cousins in Japan: we go see temples, amusement parks, and museums with our grandparents. But when we have a family dinner with my mother’s relatives, I feel more American than those sitting at the table, like I’m an outsider looking in. While watching a sports game, my entire family roots for the Japanese team, but I don’t feel the same loyalty or connection that they do. I often struggle to understand the sports commentators; although I am learning Japanese, I will nev-

er be as good as a native speaker. My vocabulary isn’t as extensive and my mind can’t keep up with the speed of a commentator or comedian or actor. I struggle to even communicate. I understand what my family members are saying, but I can’t respond immediately or to come up with the right words to express what I want to say. Even though I grew up speaking Japanese, my English spills into my Japanese, so I have an American accent, which becomes especially apparent among the perfect Japanese of my family members. Apart from my speech, I don’t quite look like my Japanese relatives. In Japan, pale skin is the standard while being tan is an American beauty standard. Every time I’m in Japan during the summer, everyone puts on sunscreen, a large floppy hat, and sunglasses. Sometimes, they’ll even bring a sun umbrella or gloves that cover their arms. Being tanned is seen as “ugly” in Japan. The paler you are, the better. Yet, I spend lots of time in the sun because I play a lot of field sports, eliciting comments from relatives about how tanned I am.

In Japan, I’m not Japanese enough because I didn’t grow up there surrounded by their standards and customs. To make things even more complicated, I still have another nationality to deal with. I have less of a connection with the Chinese part of my heritage.

I never learned Chinese or celebrated Lunar New There’s a wall dividing my school life and my friends Year as a holiday while growing up. I only learned from my house and my family, and it’s a hard wall the smallest bit of Chinese when I took Chinese in to maintain. A lot of my American “traditions” elementary school; and because I never really en- have started to bleed into my home life over the joyed learning it, I quit as soon as I entered 4th grade. years. As a young child, my mother always cooked I also visit China less frequently than I do Japan. Japanese food for lunch and dinner. We rarely ever On the other hand, my school life is ate out, instead eating entirely American. My Asian culI don’t want the Ameri- homemade katsu and ture doesn’t bleed into my school miso soup. But more can culture to take over life at all. I speak English the entire recently, we’ve startday. In my foreign language class, ed to eat out more, and my life because I take I learn French rather than Chinese. my mother cooks more pride in being Japanese I don’t talk about my Asian culture American dishes, like that much, because to my friends shepherd’s pie and pizwho are not Japanese, my culture is completely for- za (both of which I love). I don’t want the eign. It becomes an ordeal where they attempt to American culture to take over my life because connect to something they don’t understand, and I take pride in being Japanese and Chinese. while I appreciate their effort, it quickly becomes The balance of holding onto these three cultures offensive when they don’t know where the line is. is hard, and I have a feeling that I won’t be able to Generally, I refrain from telling them this because I maintain it forever. Maybe, one day, I’ll be at peace don’t want to be rude; it’s a difficult situation to nav- with my identity. For now, though, I keep living my igate. So far, my only solution has been to avoid the dual life in hopes that something will come to me. entire subject, which isn’t exactly a great solution.

Maybe, one day, I’ll be at peace with my identity. For now, though, I keep living my dual life in hopes that something will come to me.

07

Homelessness in the United States Versus Other Countries

By: Sharisa You ‘22

T

here are numerous misconceptions surrounding the homeless in the United States. Some people believe that they either choose to be homeless or that all of them struggle with addiction.

Americans also think that homelessness around the world is similar to the situation that they witness in the United States. Many homeless people around the world are actually employed, but when housing prices are too high, those with minimum wage jobs cannot afford apartments. This is due to a housing crisis that is affecting many places around the globe. Another group left unsupported by many federal government programs are people with disabilities, special needs, mental illnesses, and addictions. Without the support they need, they can’t find jobs to support themselves, leaving them with no way to pay for living space and other necessities. Many people in the United States assume that situations that they witness in their hometowns occur all around the world. However, some countries prioritize reducing the homeless population. Some create federal programs, and many countries have lower rates because of social stigmas surrounding homeless people.

the population homeless. The last world count for homelessness, which took place in 2005 by the United Nations, concluded that there are an estimated 100 million homeless people around the world; and 1.6 billion people lack access to adequate housing. All of these numbers are estimates because people often dispute over which populations the word “homeless” can refer to. Some refer to people only sleeping on the streets, others include the In Australia, the largest cause of homelessness is amounts of people sleeping in shelters, and some domestic violence, but pay inequality is becoming include those sleeping in makeshift shelters or cars. a bigger cause. Another huge cause of homelessness for many countries around the world is nat- The Washington Post recently noted that the ural disasters. After typhoons, fires, and earth- Trump administration is looking for ways to solve quakes, many buildings are destroyed and some America’s growing homeless problems. Presgovernments don’t have enough support programs ident Trump says that the homeless are living for people to rebuild their homes, leaving parts of on our “best highways, our best streets, our best entrances to buildings.” There is also specula-

tion about “humane policing”, “razing existing both sheltered and unsheltered. However, differtent camps for the homeless” or plans to move ent definitions of homelessness, hidden homeless the homeless into “government-backed facilities.” people, and flawed counting methods suggest that the actual number might be about three times largHowever, this does not solve many of the prob- er. The United Kingdom, however, has 320,000 lems that are included in this issue. Not only do homeless people, which is a 4-5% growth— homeless people not have shelter, but many of about 13,000 more people—compared to 2017. them are also suffering from mental illnesses, drug addiction, terminal diseases, and disabili- One factor that has contributed to the rising numties. There is also a growing rate of violence among ber of rough sleeper rates in the U.K. is the new the homeless, so concentrating the homeless Home Office policy, which gives newly welcomed population in one area might cause more issues. refugees only 28 days for their “move on’’ period.

At Boaz Trust shelter, a shelter specifically for asyViolent events—which are fairly common—send lum seekers, it is reported that only 29% of refugees shocks of anxiety to the homeless community and are able to leave asylum shelters within six months. neighborhood residents. On October 5th, in Chi- While many government departments are attemptnatown, Manhattan, a homeless man attacked five ing to reduce the homeless population, the Home other homeless people sleeping on the sidewalk. Office is implementing policies forcing refugees Four of the men died immediately, and the other to be evicted. It complains that it doesn’t receive was in critical condition. After the incident, some of enough government funding to support refugees the homeless peofor longer than 28 days. Critple in the vicinity ics say that if the government were interviewed. can’t support refugees for They claimed longer periods of time, they that—despite the should not take in as many homeless shelter refugees because right now being just a few the government is giving blocks away—the them refuge, then leaving the shelter was danrefugees on the street to fend gerous, and they for themselves. Moreover, found the streets safer. This is a common opinion, when refugees arrive in their host country they as many of our nation’s homeless shelters are infil- face psychological stress, culture shock, discrimtrated with bugs, drugs, and lice. There is a huge ination, and unemployment. Many arrive unable amount of violence and theft, which is why many to speak the native language, making it difficult to of the homeless in the United States tend to opt for find jobs to support themselves or their families. shelters with small locked rooms. Well-kept and maintained shelters or churches are often completely packed and cannot accommodate the number of people in need of a bed. These shelters often open at around 7 p.m., but many have to wait in line for several hours in order to have a place to stay overnight.

For people with day jobs, the wait is impossible, so they have no choice but to sleep on the streets.

THERE ARE 554,000 HOMELESS PEOPLE IN THE UNITED STATES.

Many other countries are faced with a similar homelessness crisis or quickly nearing one. To put in perspective just how horrible America’s homeless problem is, in 2018, during a one night count there were over 554,000 homeless people—

09

Similar crises are not just happening in the United Kingdom, but other countries all across Europe, such as Germany, France, Italy, and Poland.

Every European country has seen extreme growth in rough sleepers—except Finland. The homeless count in Finland has dropped from 18,000 to 6,600 within the last 30 years. The majority of these problems come from a housing crisis taking place in many European countries. Within the past ten years, there has been over a 169% increase in homelessness in England, over 145% in Ireland, and over 100% in Belgium. There have been especially high increases in housing costs in Bulgaria, England, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Poland. However, the country that has been affected the most is Germany. As of 2016, there are 860,000 homeless (including refugees) in Germany, 440,000 of which are refugees. There has been a 150% increase in homeless people between 2014 and 2016. In 2019, there are more than 700,000 homeless people (excluding refugees) in Germany and a 5% increase from 2018 to 2019. The main issue is that rent prices are skyrocketing as the gap between the upper class and the lower class is rapidly growing. On top of that, cities lack affordable housing, even as rural apartments are vacant.

However, Finland still seems unaffected. Within the past eight years, there has been a 35% decrease in rough sleepers. This is due to a national program called “Housing First,” where anyone in need of a home can receive an affordable apartment. The leaders of this program believe that homeless people do not need to have everything under control to get an apartment; instead, a home should be like a strong foundation to help you solve your problems, like finding a job or overcoming mental illnesses or addictions. They believe that living in a safe and secure environment is the first step towards solving problems that prevent rough sleepers from providing themselves with housing. A similar approach is taking place in Tokyo. The government is offering to house to the homeless—even if they don’t have a stable income yet. Despite this effort, Japan’s progression is slower than Finland’s. This might be partly because Japan had a lower initial statistic. According to the numbers that Japanese officials have provided, Japan has one of the lowest rates of homelessness in the world; however

critics and nonprofits claim the number is inaccurate due to the number of hidden homeless people. This results from a social stigma surrounding the homeless population in Japan because many of them are made to feel ashamed of the situation they are in. The Japanese government had been extremely hostile towards the homeless for decades, trying to discourage them from staying in public places, where they are visible to tourists and the general population of Japan. Nobody wants to be seen as homeless in Japan because it is viewed as a disgrace. People wait until the sun sets to set up makeshift shelters in popular parks, and they will leave before the sun rises. During the day they will either go to work or stay under vacant overpasses.

In a United Nations report on homelessness in developing countries by Susanne Peck, it said that the main “drivers of homelessness” are either the “failure of rural or urban livelihoods, or the failure of social support or political action and inaction.”

Even though each country has a different reason for its bad reputation surrounding homelessness, the causes for it are similar. If countries in housing crises take Finland’s example, we will all see a dramatic decline in the number of homeless.

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHY Jasmine Shokri ‘20

Naomi Deokule ‘21

Naomi Deokule ‘21

Claire Zhao ‘22

Jasmine Shokri ‘20

11

WAR...

WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? By: Summer Hu ‘25

O

n October 10th, sixth and seventh graders at the Bishop’s school met Salva Dut, the inspiration for the book A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park. In the book, the story of Salva Dut’s life is recounted with descriptions of the adversities he faces growing up in the war-torn nation of Sudan. The book recounts Dut separating from his family, dealing with the constant threat of war, and joining a group of young refugees called the “Lost Boys of Sudan.”

In Dut’s presentation, he recounted his story and the struggles people in Sudan faced. During his escape, a civil war between Muslim and non-Muslim people caused a split between Sudan and South Sudan. Mr. Dut asked us to think about what war accomplished, noting that he believed fighting was a futile effort.

Dut felt that war was analogous to two siblings fighting. If one sibling takes another’s toy, and they start to physically hurt each other, nothing is really settled. If anything, it makes the problem escalate into two full-scale temper tantrums, which a parent does not want to deal with.

However, many other people think that war is necessary. Thomas Jefferson believed that “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” Many people believe that we fight for good reasons, namely liberty and justice. They also think that war is necessary to correct wrongs so that people can take a stand for what they believe. The American Revolution and Civil War are prime examples. The Revolutionary War was fought for independence and the Civil War was fought to abolish slavery.

World War II was another example of a war fought to end fascism and to stand up against the Nazis.

Many soldiers sacrificed their lives in this war. Many families were torn apart, but their sacrifices helped end a horrendous time of incredible crimes against humanity. The war was fought with great cost to both sides. When the United States dropped two atomic bombs at Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the blast and radiation killed hundreds of thousands of innocent victims and forced Japan to surrender. However, it helped end

“REGARDLESS,WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND WHY WE ARE ALWAYS TRYING TO CAUSE CONFLICT.”

the war, saving lives on both sides by avoiding more conflict, including a possible land invasion of Japan which might have led to millions of additional casualties.

Many people also believe war helps end conflicts. Or does it just cause more tension between countries?

Take for instance the U.S. war on terrorism. On September 11, 2001, Islamic Extremists led horrible terrorist attacks on the United States, changing American history forever. The United States then sought to end terrorism by declaring war, perhaps ending future conflict. However, the war on terrorism is still ongoing after eighteen years, with continued conflict in the Middle East and other regions.

This is why this question of war is so complex. It forces us to dig a little deeper into history and explore the human mind and motives. People choose to believe or not to believe in war because of their

experiences. For Dut, the war impacted his life by constantly forcing him to be on the lookout for danger. However, others may seem more inclined to support war because they have never experienced the horrors of battle firsthand.

It’s difficult to find the defining line between good and bad when it comes to war. There are so many ways you could interpret it, and our discussion could be endless. Regardless, we need to understand why we are always trying to cause conflict. At this moment, there are military troops risking their lives on the battlefield.

If we can assess our motives and feelings about combat, maybe we could look at war with a calmer perspective. As the song, “War” by Edwin Starr asks, “what is war good for?” Is it a platform to fight for our beliefs and values? Is it a way to fight for liberty and justice? Or is it a way to express our hate towards others? You decide.

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The Pollution Solution By: Bela Gowda ‘24 and Mia Bravo ‘24

Bela Gowda ‘24: The Evolution of Plastic Pollution

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entists’ concerns about its impact on oceans have also increased. As a result, the U.S. National MarinFisheries Service held two international conferences in Honolulu, Hawaii, where scientists formed an agenda regarding the research of plastic pollution.

In the late 1980’s, after the research had been fully conducted, the damage of pollution in the ocean was better understood by marine biologists all over the world, who soon began to search for effective solutions to eliminating marine litter.

s many people are aware, pollution is a constant concern in the modern world. However, many people aren’t aware that small changes to our daily behavior can impact pollution on a larger scale. It is predicted that in the year 2050, there will be 42 million more tons of plastic than fish in the ocean. Increased carbon emissions are leading to water acidification, melting glaciers, rising ocean levels, reef bleaching, and record high temperatures around the globe. At the rate this issue is growing, our gen- It is predicted that in eration will likely be the one to witthe year 2050, there ness drastic changes in our world. will be 42 million more

You might be wondering how you can help with this issue ... and will be glad to know there are ways tons of plastic than fish we can all help. Many people are unaware of the presence of plasA major cause of pollution is plasin the ocean. tic in everyday items such as face tic, which litters oceans, beachcleansers and scrubs. The grains es, streets, and cities. Reports of in most face scrubs, such as those from the popular damaging effects on sealife have been in the news since the 1960s. In the early twenty-first centu- brand Neutrogena, are actually tiny plastics called ry, marine biologists began to pay closer attention microbeads which go down your drain and into the to the significant role of microplastics in marine ocean. So, the next time you are at CVS buying face food sources after a high concentration of plas- wash, read the ingredients and make sure you are tic washed up on Pacific Rim beaches. They found doing the right thing for the planet as a whole. Some that seabird ingestion of plastic and the entangle- other large causes of plastic in the ocean are plastic ment of seals in netting led to over 1 million sea bags, straws, and bottles. As opposed to using a new animal deaths each year. As reports of marine trash plastic water bottle everyday, you can buy a reusable have become more prevalent, environmental sci- water bottle and refill it daily. You can also use a metal straw instead of a plastic one in your drink. Instead of paying 5 cents for a grocery bag every time you go to the store, collect reusable canvas bags overtime to carry your groceries home. Additionally, you can replace your plastic doggy bags with compostable bags that can be deposited into the greens section of your landfill. Though many of these solutions require a small investment up front, they will not only save more money in the long term, but also go towards protecting the ocean! Pollution is caused by many different factors, and plastic is only one of them.

Mia Bravo ‘24: Becoming a Pescetarian

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o you remember the last time you ate meat? Unlike many people, I do not. I became pescetarian (someone who only eats meat from fish) in the fall of 2018 when I found out about the problem of farting pigs and cows. I realize how ridiculous this might sound, but what many people are not aware of is the fact that animal agriculture accounted for 16% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2016. When cows digest food in their five stomachs, there tends to be certain consequences that can be quite unappealing.

They belch and fart out large amounts of methane daily. Methane is an extremely potent greenhouse gas that is contributing to global warming. There are hundreds of farms around the world that breed As a wise man once said, “Be part of the solution, not part of the pollution.” We can all play our own part in following this advice by decreasing the amount of plastic we use and reducing our carbon footprints. Just a small step like changing up weekly dinners will make our planet not only cleaner, but healthier as well. So when you see someone buying a plastic bag or chowing down on a nice filet mignon, share your knowledge of how they can reduce the harm they are causing the earth. masses of animals, overfeed them, and confine them to small living spaces until they’re ready to be slaughtered as food. These farms contribute to methane emissions, and the production and transportation of the meat also releases toxins into the air.

Although the problem of animal agriculture seems far too large for one person to make a difference, there are many simple things that you can do to help. Adjusting to a diet with less animal product consumption can help reduce your carbon footprint.

You can commit to a “meatless Monday” every week, or next time you go to Burger Lounge, instead of having the cheeseburger, order their quinoa burger (it’s pretty good). When you go to the grocery store, look at the labels to check if you’re buying something grass-fed or pasture raised or if it was locally sourced. Buying locally sourced foods significantly reduces the carbon emissions created by the processing and transporting of foods from farther places.

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Different Types of Healthcare Systems By: Nora Bitar ‘25

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lthough health care is a universal need and right of all human beings, access to that care differs based on the country. For example, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States all provide health care, but who pays, who is covered, and what services are provided vary.

England has a mix of public and private (paid by private insurance or in cash) health care. Like Canada, the government’s National Health Service (NHS) provides basic care to all citizens of England, such as routine checkups, necessary hospital care, and treatment by a specialist (with a referral from a primary care doctor). Also similar to Canada, NHS only Canada is the closest country to fully single-payer minimally covers prescription drugs, dentistry, and health care system (paid for by the government) in optometry. However, in contrast to Canada, NHS the world. In the Canada Health Act, article 17.2, only provides government doctors. So, if people

“ALL MEDICALLY NECESSARY HEALTH SERVICES PROVIDED BY HOSPITALS AND DOCTORS MUST BE COVERED UNDER PROVINCIAL/TERRITORIAL HEALTH CARE INSURANCE PLANS.” - CANADA HEALTH ACT “All medically necessary health services provided by hospitals and doctors must be covered under provincial/territorial health care insurance plans.”

Canada’s health care system is called Medicare, and it covers every citizen in Canada for most medical needs. Medicare in Canada pays for all citizens to see any private doctor of their choice if the services are medically necessary. However, there are a couple of exceptions such as prescription drugs, dentistry, and optometry, which are paid for with supplementary private insurance companies.

want better or faster care in England, they can pay themselves. Sometimes, to pay for private insurance, people will get health insurance from their job.

Other times they will buy a private insurance policy, or they might pay in cash. With private health care, you get faster care and your choice of doctors.

The United States does not have universal health care or a single-payer system, with the notable exceptions of the military and prisons. Over half of the American population uses private insurance. Those people

most often receive their insurance through their employer, and they still have to pay for a portion of their insurance and treatment themselves. These charges can take many forms, such as co-pays (a small charge paid upfront) or deductibles (the patient must pay a certain percentage of the cost). However, some specific groups of people get health care from the government. For example, for basic medical needs, people sixty-five years and older receive Medicare (different from Medicare in Canada); and people who are extremely poor (for example, a single person who makes below the Federal Poverty Limit of $12,490 in the continental United States) get Medicaid.

Unfortunately, about 10% of people in the U.S. have no health care, because they are not poor enough to qualify for Medicaid and their jobs do not provide insurance.

In conclusion, healthcare is provided in many different ways around the world, such as private, public, and a mix of both. People have different opinions on which model is best, but they all have pros and cons. With public healthcare, services are universal, but the choices are limited or non-existent. With private care, though citizens have more choices(such as selecting doctors), healthcare isn’t provided universally. From an outsider’s perspective it’s easy to pick one model as superior; but, in reality, all systems have costs and benefits, and no one model is perfect.

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How Dare You:

Greta Thunberg and the Climate Change Movement O

One Friday last August, a 15-year old Swedish girl with a sign reading “Skolstrejk för Klimatet” (“School Strike for Climate”) sat outside the country’s Parliament building in an act of environmental protest. Just over a year later, she has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and spoken in front of world leaders at the United Nations. Her movement, now involving millions, has become worldwide. This is the story of Greta Thunberg, from teen protestor to global activist.

school to protest in front of the Parliament building. Within a month, she, along with many classmates and teachers, started striking every Friday in a movement known as ‘Fridays for the Future.’

The initiative grew exponentially, reaching more than 30 countries by February of 2019. In March 2019, Thunberg was featured on the cover of TIME Magazine, further spreading her image.

By the time she came to North America in September to speak in front of the United Nations, her movement had reached millions in well over a hundred countries, having become Thunberg was truly global in its scope. born on January Finally, in December of 3, 2003, in Stockholm, Sweden. Even before be- 2019, TIME Magazine named her the person of ginning her school strikes, she cared deeply about the year. climate change. She is vegan, “How dare you? You Thunberg’s message focuses on cliwhich is beneficial to the environment (the meat production have stolen my dreams mate change and how it will affect industry causes incredible polluand my childhood our planet and the next generation. tion), and convinced her parents She emphasizes that the lack of cliwith your empty to adopt the same diet. She also mate consciousness in older generwords.” does not travel on airplanes. At ations has had devastating effects on one point, her shock at the curthe climate, and that if humans want rent state of the Earth caused her to plunge into to fix them, it needs to happen soon. For example, depression,where she neither ate or talked. Her she stated that in order to keep climate change befirst strike was in August 2018, when she skipped low desirable levels, the European Union should

double its goal of a 40% reduction for greenhouse change in order to aid the environment. However, gas emissions by 2030, claiming that: “This target the negative responses have been just as strong, if is not sufficient to not stronger, than protect the future the positive ones. for children growMany criticized ing up today … it her for oversimneeds a minimum plifying the issue, of 80% reduction or for being too by 2030.”

She extreme, such as has expressed her French president disappointment Emmanuel Main today’s adults cron who stated on multiple octhat “such radical casions, such as positions antagowhen she spoke in nize our societies.” front of the UN, President Trump exclaiming “How expressed his disdare you? You may in a sarcastic have stolen my tweet, saying, “She dreams and my childhood with your empty words.” seems like a very happy young girl looking forward to a bright and wonderful future. So nice to see!”

Thunberg’s actions have elicited many responses, both positive and negative, from world leaders Greta Thunberg and her movement are polarizing and influential figures across the globe. The pos- in the modern era. Some praise her strong stancitive impact has often been called the “Greta ef- es; others rebuke her for them. No matter your fect.” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres as opinion, her rise to becoming the face of the cliwell as numerous politicians have shown support mate change movement in 2019 raises the quesfor her movement, and many wealthy Americans tion: is it too late to fix the damage to our planet? have donated money to charities fighting climate

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DRINKING AND DATING VS. PERFECTION IN PLAID

A Comparison of the College Experiences in Asia and the United States

By Clare Malhotra ‘22 and Mira Gowda ‘22

E

nter almost any college in the United States (U.S.) and you’ll find fraternity houses and sororities packed with students socializing. The typical American college student spends their free time walking around campus, trying interesting and diverse cuisines, playing sports with their friends, and attending class. Classrooms are full of students in sweatshirts and sweatpants, half-asleep with messy hair. Half of the college experience is the social aspect - the friendships and freedom give students their first true sense of adulthood.

On the other hand, enter almost any college classroom in Asia and you’ll see perfect, disciplined rows of wooden desks, straight-backed students, and foreheads wrinkled with anxiety. Most Asian students come to class in formal attire. Extracurriculars are rare, and students spend their time either attending class or sitting in their dorm room studying.

Historically, families have sent their children to Europe or the United States for university, expecting the finest quality education. However, Asian universities have recently experienced a surge in international applications. Top universities in big cities, like those in Japan and Singapore, are well known for the excellent education they provide, and students are also starting to apply to universities in places like Malaysia, South Korea, and India. The main differences between attending university in these two vastly different locations are the intensity of classes and social differences, which both boil down to the traditional societal structure of Asian countries.

One main difference between a college education in Asia and in the United States is the diversity of courses offered. Many colleges in the US offer a

range of class options, and students are welcome to take classes outside of their major, creating a dynamic experience that accommodates their frequent shifts in interest. Some courses even use a discussion or Socratic seminar format, where students are encouraged to speak up and ask each other questions. By contrast, in Thailand, unless they are attending a liberal arts college, students are not invited to take classes outside of the path they have chosen. In general, in Asian universities, discussions are rare, and classes generally consist of the professor lecturing the entire period.

College in the U.S. is customarily seen as “the best four years of your life.” American college life is characterized by parties, drinking, and building friendships. While college students in Asian countries enjoy their social lives, there is a heavier focus on academic performance. Chinese students, for example, participate in ping-pong games, talent shows, and performances; but at the end of the day, grades take priority in Asia more than they tend to in the US. In most American colleges, dormitories play a crucial role in the college experience. Students typically share them with one or more student of the same gender, encouraging the formation of new friendships. In fact, all public universities in California require that all students live on campus for their freshman year. American colleges enforce the idea that the college experience is about more than just academics. Living among classmates teaches students essential life skills such as communication and experience with diversity. Asian colleges, on the other hand, rarely have dorms. International students are sometimes given the opportunity to stay in dorms, but this is uncommon and not encouraged by univer-

“While college students in Asian countries enjoy their social lives, there is a heaver focus on academic performance.”

students, commonly drink as a way to relax and socialize. The 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 34.8 percent of full-time college students ages 18 to 22 engaged in binge drinking (5 or more drinks on a single occasion for men or 4

American universities offer a wide range of clubs and activities. The University of Chicago offers over 400 student organizations, and the campus is alive with events and traditions. Their website declares, “the question isn’t if you’ll get involved, but how.” Common activities at American universities include student government, business clubs, honor societies, music groups, fraternities, and sororities.

In countries like Japan and China, clubs don’t exist at all, as students are expected to find and participate in their own extracurricular activities, independent of school. Fraternities and sororities are an American concept, consisting of a small select group of students who form close bonds with each other.

The dedication and focus found among Asian university students is mostly due to the extraordinary pressure they are under to grow their resume in order to compete in the job market, which is much more competitive than that of the U.S.; a greater number of dedicated, qualified individuals vies for one job that in the States. There’s an abundance of well-educated professionals, so jobs have a higher standard for their employees while hiring. The traditional societal structure of countries like India, China, and Japan is one where children are expected to provide for their family after graduating from college. To most families, college is nothing more than the path to a stable job.

Grandparents — and even parents — retire when their child graduates from college, with the expectation of being able to rely on them financially.

sities. In India, the administration provides student hostels, and each student is given their own room.

Aside from the Philippines, Asian countries don’t have groups like these; school is meant for studying, and partying is not encouraged. Most students who participate in extracurricular sports and arts do so off campus. The schools still have spirit events, with school colors and mascots, but not to the same extent as American schools. Thai students tend to reserve drinking for special occasions, or at least meal times, so as to not influence their academic performance. American college

or more drinks on an occasion for women) in the past month. Even if students at Asian universities wanted to, they couldn’t party as much, due to the fact that in most universities, all electricity is turned off at 11 p.m. sharp. If they don’t return before 11, international students are locked out of their rooms and have to find somewhere else to stay the night.

In conclusion, as the largest and fastest growing continent on the planet, Asia is full of different cultures, people, cities, and opportunities. Though universities in the United States offer many similar features, Asian universities are beginning to experience a sudden increase in applicants, and this is mostly due to the strong scholars they turn their students into.

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QUÉBEC Anouk Janssen ‘25

Q

uébec, La Belle Province, is the only French-speaking province in North America, making it unlike any other place in our continent. Québec is bordered by the province of Ontario on the west side; to the east lies the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador. In the south is the province of New Brunswick and the United States. Québec has an area of 595,391 square miles which is more than twice as large as Texas. Québec is the second most populated province after Ontario.

ly 1900s and is still very popular today. Next is the French Canadian pea soup. This yellow split pea soup most likely was developed when Québec was New France, and men were sent from France for fur trading. Supposedly the soup was a meal that they would eat during their journeys because they had lots of work and this soup is high in calories. Finally, we come to one of the very best, all things maple.

Canada’s largest maple producer is Québec. It could be maple candy, maple sugar, maple taffy, maple butter, whatever it is it’s good! Sugar Shacks, small cabins where sap from trees is taken in and boiled into maple syrup, abound in Québec and some of them have even been going on for centuries. The Erabliere du Lac-Beauport, a Sugar Shack, has its own maple museum. One of my favorite maple desserts is pouding chomeur. The name of this translates to unemployment pudding, and it was created during the Great Depression. Women who had little money at that time, but with simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, water, butter, and brown sugar, would make this delicious treat. Later on, the brown sugar was replaced with maple syrup to make the pouding chomeur we know and love today. My mom often makes this dish at home and we enjoy it for dessert!

The climate in Québec varies greatly throughout the year with cold snowy winters to hot humid summers. The real summer in Québec are July and August - that is when it gets very hot. During this time the temperature is usually in the 80s Fahrenheit - but with the humidity, it can feel a lot hotter than that.

For the other summer months, it is usually a decently comfortable temperature, but in some parts of the province there is still a possibility of snow. As for the winter, that is a whole other story. In the winter it can get as cold as -40 F. In Québec they have an average of around 120 inches of snowfall a year. There are often snowstorms in the winter and every once in awhile, parts of their houses will get buried by snow. In 1998, a huge ice storm hit southern parts of Québec de- Québec loves to throw Carnivals, many of them stroying many electrical lines and much more. Many being a tradition. In downtown Montréal during people were left in the dark for a long period of time. the summer they have a tradition of throwing lots of carnivals which makes this part of Québec very Québec has a variety of different foods, but some of unique. One of the main traditions in Québec is them are just too good, one of which being poutine. the Winter Carnival held in Québec City. It starts Potato fries, cheddar cheese curds, and brown gravy at the beginning of February and ends mid-month. make the perfect meal for any time of the day. Pou- The Carnaval de Québec has been celebrated antine was created in the late 1950s in Québec but we nually since 1955 and it is the biggest winter carnido not know exactly where it was invented as many val in the world. The main attraction at the carnirestaurants take credit. Then there is also Montréal val is the parades led by Bonhomme Carnival, the smoked meat. This is a deli meat that came from mascot. There are also many other fun events like Montréal’s Jewish delis, like Schwartz’s Montréal races, feats, and dances. The carnival is also decoHebrew Delicatessen, which was opened in the ear- rated with lots of beautiful ice sculptures includ-

ing an ice hotel where people can stay overnight.

I am sure most people have gone to see the Cirque du Soleil, a circus that travels all over the world.

Well, this amazing show was created in Québec by a clown! He started out as a clown; then, on his second attempt to go to a bank and ask for money to start a circus, they said yes! Now he is a wealthy man who has an interest in cars and owns around 20-30 cars. Currently, the main offices of Cirque du Soleil are in Montréal. Cirque du Soleil is one of the few circuses in the world that has no animal performers. I enjoy going to watch this circus every time they come to San Diego. It is amazing to watch them do flips and even hang from their hair!

There are many beautiful gorgeous attractions in Québec, and one of the most beautiful ones is Le Château Frontenac. This is a majestic hotel situated in the old town of Québec City above the Saint Lawrence River. The hotel stands 262 feet tall and contains 18 stories, and has 611 rooms and 4 restaurants. The hotel was opened on the 18th of December in 1893 and it is one of the first grand railway hotels in the world, a hotel built by the railroad company for people using the railroads. The original architect of the Le Château Frontenac is Bruce Price.

Another pretty attraction is Saint Joseph’s Oratory, located in Montreal. It is a Roman Catholic church and it is the largest church in Canada, with one of the largest domes in the world. The church stands 423 feet tall and its dome is 318 feet tall. Construction began in 1904 and it was completed in 1967. More than two million people visit the church every year.

One of my favorite attractions that I visit each year is Le Rocher Percé or in English, Percé Rock. Le Rocher Percé, a huge sheer rock, is located on the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula in Québec off Percé Bay. It is one of the world’s largest natural arches in the water and is considered a rich icon of Québec’s history. It is named Percé Rock, pierced rock, because of the 49 foot arch on the south side of the rock. It was named this by Samuel de Champlain in 1607.

I hope you enjoyed this short summary of Québec.

There are many more exquisite places to visit, and you can fly into the province via Montréal, Québec City, or other airports. There are lovely train rides and boat cruises available, and other festivals and activities throughout the year. You will be sure to meet wonderful people and have a fun time during a trip to Québec.

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