March 7, 2024

THE CORD VOLUME 63 ISSUE 7 • MARCH 7, 2024

THE TIE THAT BINDS WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY SINCE 1926

SHORE CENTRE EXPANDS

BSA HOSTS CONFERENCE

GOLDEN HAWK ACTRESS

TRANS FILM SCREENING

LIGHTING A SPARK

Centre opens new location in Waterloo

Laurier group hosts black high schoolers

Keegan Connor Tracy gives inspiration

Princess Cinemas hosts important film

Hockey player joins the Iowa Heartlanders

News, page 3

News, page 5

Feature, page 10-11

Arts & Life, page 14

Sports, page 19

2•

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

@cordnews

IMPORTANT DATES IN MARCH

The Cord

@thecord.ca

CAT PHOTO OF THE MONTH

@thecordwlu

THE CORD’S IWD PLAYLIST

A MIX FOR LONGER DAYS AND WARMER WE

Last day to withdraw

WUTHERING HEIGHTS // KATE BUSH

Monday, March 11

SATURN // SZA

* courses dropped this day will not be marked as being failed. Possible tuition adjustment will also be examined.

SWIMMING // PALLMER 16 CARRIAGES // BEYONCE

Good Friday Thursday, March 29

PATIENCE // BRITNEY HOWARD NIGHT SHIFT // LUCY DACUS GORILLA // LITTLE SIMZ I KNOW THE END // PHEOBE BRIDGERS FEELIN’ LUCKY // KUE VARO BUT NOT KISS // FAYE WEBSTER BRONTE BEHLING/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MARCH HOLIDAYS

LACY // OLIVIA RODRIGO LOVE ON // SELENA GOMEZ

FROM THE ARCHIVES

THE MAN // TAYLOR SWIFT FEMININOMENON // CHAPPELL ROAN

Mar. 7 - National Cereal Day Mar. 8 - Be Nasty Day

TRAINING SEASON // DUA LIPA

Mar. 9 - Get Over It Day

SUPERCUT // LORDE

Mar. 10 - International Day of Awesomeness

FTCU // NICKI MINAJ

Mar. 11 - Ramadan Mar. 12 - Plant a Flower Day

EXES // TATE MCCRAE

Mar. 14 - National Pi Day

HIT IT // SNOW WIFE

Mar. 15 - Ides of March Mar. 16 - Giant Panda Bear Day

LETHAL WOMAN // DOVE CAMERON

Mar. 17 - Saint Patrick's Day

ANGEL // PINK PANTHERESS

Mar. 19 - Earth Day WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES

JUICY // DOJA CAT

A graphic in the Cord Weekly's Mar. 4, 2015 issue.

NEXT ISSUE APRIL 4, 2024

CORD STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bronte Behling editor@thecord.ca MANAGING EDITIOR Amichai Abraham

managingeditor@thecord.ca

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Haley Richards creative@thecord.ca MULTIMEDIA & WEBSITE DIRECTOR Aysia Steiner multimedia@thecord.ca NEWS DIRECTOR Madalyn Mostacci newsdirector@thecord.ca NEWS EDITOR VACANT news@thecord.ca

ARTS EDITOR Hari Adani arts@thecord.ca OPINION EDITOR Abigail Dombrovsky opinion@thecord.ca SPORTS EDITOR VACANT sports@thecord.ca LEAD REPORTER VACANT news@thecord.ca LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Sadiya Teeple photos@thecord.ca LEAD SPORTS REPORTER Nicole Lovisotto sports@thecord.ca

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Serena Austin Luca Bidini-Taylor Nate Dawes Andrew Eaton Jess Hudson Mervin Joseph Jacob Meron Mehari Bailey McIntyre Elizabeth Mendez Aryan Patel Birnavan Varnacumaaran Jack Vrolyk

“For anyone like Lizzie, who absolutely adores Korean food, Daldongnae is a KBBQ joint that is fun for friends, family or a night out with your co-writer." Elizabeth Mendez and Andrew Eaton

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES All advertising inquiries can be directed to Kurtis Rideout at ads@wlusp.com or 519-884-0710 ext. 3560.

COLOPHON The Cord is the official student newspaper of the Wilfrid Laurier University community.

Started in 1926 as the College Cord, The Cord is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within The Cord are those of the author and do not necessarily refl ect those of the editorial board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or Master Web Printing Inc. All content appearing in The Cord bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

The Cord is created using Macintosh computers running OS X 12.5 using Adobe Creative Cloud. Canon cameras are used

for principal photography.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Ontario Press Council since 2006. Any unsatisfied complaints can be sent to the council at info@ontpress.com.

The Cord’s circulation for a normal Wednesday issue is 4,500 copies and enjoys a readership of over 10,000. Cord subscription rates are $20.00 per term for addresses within Canada.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Canadian University Press (CUP) since 2004.

PREAMBLE The Cord will keep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly.

The Cord believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a matter of controversy.

The staff of The Cord shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly.

When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to

reply at the earliest time possible.

Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff.

The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so The Cord will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on Wilfrid Laurier University, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, and with a special ear to the concerns of the students of Wilfrid Laurier University. Ultimately, The Cord will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate.

The Cord has an obligation to foster freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through The Cord’s contact with the student body.

The Cord will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of the student press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our newspaper.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We would like to acknowledge that Wilfrid Laurier University Publications is located on the Haldimand tract, traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishnaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples.

This land is part of the Dish with One Spoon Treaty between the Haudenosaunee and Anishnaabe peoples.

We recognize, honour and respect these nations as the traditional stewards of the lands and water on which Student Publications is now present.

Cover made by Creative Director Haley Richards.

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

News

• 3 NEWS DIRECTOR MADALYN MOSTACCI news@thecord.ca

NEWS EDITOR VACANT news@thecord.ca

LOCAL

SHORE Centre expands with new location New location on Westmount Road in Waterloo allows for more clinic services

BRONTE BEHLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

On Feb. 20, the SHORE Centre announced on Instagram that they would be opening a new location at 50 Westmount Road North in Waterloo on Mar. 4.

Serving the Waterloo Region for 50 years, the SHORE Centre offers “reproductive rights focused, sex-positive, inclusive and accessible non-judgemental support.”

“The demand for services in Waterloo Region has grown,” said Kayla Orr, Executive Director of the SHORE Centre. The current space on King Street East, in Kitchener, only has one clinic room, said Orr. “We haven't been able to respond to that demand adequately.

This new space will take us up to four exam rooms and will allow us to scale our services to better meet the needs of the region.”

As mentioned in the Instagram post announcing the expansion, the opening of the Westmount Road office aligns with the SHORE Centre’s “mission to empower individuals through comprehensive, compassionate, and inclusive care."

This expansion also allows for expanded services. Medication abortion, pap tests, pelvic exams, birth control consultations and insertions and removals of contra-

JESS HUDSON/CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

ception methods like IUD’s will be available.

“There are also plans in the works to be able to expand our services to encompass gender affirming care,” said Orr. Aquisition of the space took place through a community partnership with the Westmount Place Pharmasave.

“We were able to work with [Westmount Place Pharmasave] to take over occupancy of [the space] in a pilot for how we're going to continue to deliver services,” said Orr. While the university features their own healthcare services through the Wellness Centre, Orr states that the SHORE Centre

works with both universities to “ensure that students are directed to where they're going to receive the care that they need.”

For current patients of the SHORE Centre, the shift in location will only impact those who utilize the Centre’s clinical services.

“All of our counseling services and our administrative and ed-

Coalition of Muslim Women host event to address Islamophobia Kitchener-Waterloo hosts leaders to discuss pressing issues

MADALYN MOSTACCI NEWS DIRECTOR

On Jan. 28, The Coalition of Muslim Women in Kitchener-Waterloo hosted an event to address the rise in Islamophobia in the region.

The event took place one day before the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Day of Action Against Islamophobia with the aim to join in solidarity and discuss steps to combat Islamophobia.

CMW invited leaders from the government, health care systems, school boards, post-secondary education, police services and media,

explained Mifrah Abid, CMW’s ‘Together Against Islamophobia’ program coordinator and the Jan. 28 event lead.

“We assigned different tables to these different systems, and then we invited Muslim community members to sit at each of these tables and discuss their own experiences of Islamophobia across different levels such as systemic Islamophobia, violent Islamophobia and institutional Islamophobia,” said Abid.

They also worked to “collaboratively find an action plan or solutions to this problem. That was part one of the breakfast with system leaders.”

Later in the evening a video contest was held for youth to speak about Islamaphobia to highlight CMW’s new program, added Abid.

Fauzia Mazhar, CMW’s executive

director, touched on the organization’s goal and vision for the event, which was “empowering [Muslim] voices to bring the change and connecting them directly with system leaders.”

“It was important for the community members to come together with system leaders and talk about the impact on them [due to what’s happening] at the global level and how it’s impacting people’s livelihoods,” said Mazhar.

“I saw a lot of positive energy in the room and people talking to each other at all levels, and leaving at least feeling that they were able to share what they wanted to share and were heard,” Mazhar said.

Increases in anti-Islamic hate have been recorded by the CMW within the last year.

Between Oct. 7 and Dec. 28, 2023 there were 83 per cent more

hate incidents in Waterloo Region reported on their platform reportinghate.ca than during the same period the year before, said Abid.

The increase in hate incidents correlates to an increase in Islamaphobia, anti-Palestinian, anti-Europe and anti-semetic hate, said Mazhar.

“Please report. We know there’s a lot of hate and discrimination that happens on campuses, but a lot of times the campus population is not necessarily connected with community support,” said Mazhar.

Individuals can report hate incidents on CMW’s website under “Anti-Hate Services.”

“Understand that we can help.

We support victims based on whatever needs they have.”

More information about the CMW can be found on the organization’s website.

ucation team will remain at our location in Kitchener. Only people coming in from medical appointments will be impacted by this move,” said Orr. The SHORE Centre’s main office at 235 King Street East in Kitchener will remain open.

For more information, visit @ shorecentrewr on Instagram.

IWD EVENTS FRIDAY, MAR. 8, 2024 International Women’s Day Breakfast 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Victoria Park Pavillion, Kitchener Celebrating 2024 International Women’s Day with CMW Open House 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

79 Joseph Street, Kitchener International Women’s Day Market 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Waterloo Town Square, Waterloo Brave Circles - Muslim Women’s Dress Choices 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum, Waterloo IWD - Creating Inclusive Spaces: Arts & Cultures Edition 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Communitech, Kitchener International Women’s Day Screening of “Seagrass” 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Princess Twin Cinemas, Waterloo

4 • NEWS

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

CAMPUS

Students rally for Palestine in the quad

Unified Unidentified brings together students and inspires community for victims of war in Gaza NEWS TEAM THE CORD

On Feb. 13, students gathered in the quad on Laurier’s Waterloo campus for ar ally for Palestine, which was organized by student coalition, Unified Undefined.

Unified Undefined is a volunteer group that is focused on “building bridges between local post-secondary institutions to help create and sustain social change,” said a representative in an interview with The Cord.

The representative said the rally was planned by students who have been waiting for the university to release a “respectable and appropriate statement regarding the genocide of Palestinians by Israel’s colonial project. Because the university had not spoken up, we decided it was time to take action.”

The rally’s purpose, said the representative, was “to show staff, students and faculty that fighting

for a free Palestine unites us all.”

Unified Undefined is composed of post-secondary students from Laurier and the University of Waterloo, and they’re working on expanding to include students from Conestoga College and other Ontario institutions.

Unified Undefined is not affiliated with Laurier or any other school.

One of the main goals of Unifed Undefined is to support action on campus, said their representative.

“We decided that as a collective, it was time to make some noise and bring the fight for a free Palestine to the Laurier community.”

To Laurier students, “You as a student hold much more power than you think you do, and there is a place for you in this activism,” said the representative. “Ignoring global injustices does not make them any less real.” This article was written with notes from Madalyn Mostacci.

SADIYA TEEPLE/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

SADIYA TEEPLE/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

SADIYA TEEPLE/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

NEWS • 5

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 CAMPUS

BSA hosts beating the odds conference

The Laurier Black Students Association holds annual event for local Black high school students

LUCA BIDINI-TAYLOR NEWS EDITOR

On Feb. 9, Wilfrid Laurier University’s Black Student Association (BSA) held their annual Beating the Odds Conference (BTO) where they welcomed over 200 local Black high school students to the Laurier campus to motivate them as they move on to post-secondary education.

This is the 19th year the BTO conference has been held. The event’s theme was ‘educate, empower and excel’ - with talks given by key speakers with backgrounds in anti-racism and mental health.

The conference focuses on promoting the ways new students can excel once they accept their offer letters, said Meron Mehari, 3rd year BBA student and BTO Conference Director at the BSA. “The students were super engaged and most of them were first-time attendees,” said Mehari.

“It was important for us to have engaging conversations. The speakers

MERON MEHARI/CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

were our focal point to motivate students and educate them on opportunities as well as empower them to excel in their academic life,” she added.

Mehari led a dance workshop during the conference, highlighting various dance cultures around the globe.

“I taught them a dance from East Africa where I’m from, alongside a [South Sudanese] dance move and Caribbean move. We put together a

whole dance combo - the students got to see a little bit of each culture, which was amazing,” said Mehari.

Mehari highlighted the value of cultural events and initiatives like the BTO conference when it comes to fostering a community.

“It’s important, especially for students that come from predominantly white high schools or regions, to hear voices or stories that are similar to their experiences,” she said.

“Being surrounded by like-minded individuals, they see themselves in them or they consider a future that they may have not otherwise considered.”

By having a support system from university administration, alumni and the KW community for the BSA and initiatives like their conference “we can make sure that our efforts can reach and inspire more students,” said Mehari.

In the future, the BSA hopes to

expand the conference and host it more frequently than once–a –year.

While February is a good month to hold the conference due to Black History Month, it can be inconvenient with post-secondary application deadlines approaching, said Mehari.

For more information about Laurier’s Black Students Association and the Beating the Odds Conference, please visit the Laurier Website.

6 • NEWS

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

MENSTRUAL EQUITY

Targeted initiatives to address period poverty struggles gain momentum Groups across Canada advocate for the avaliability of period products across university campuses and workplaces.

MADALYN MOSTACCI NEWS DIRECTOR

One in five mestruating Canadians may not be able to afford period products in the near future, according to a survey conducted on behalf of the Federal Government.

This is an example of period poverty, or “the lack of access to safe and hygienic menstrual products during monthly periods and inaccessibility to basic sanitation services or facilities as well as menstrual hygiene education,” according to the National Library of Medicine.

Within the last couple of years,

initiatives surrounding period poverty have gained momentum across Canada.

At Laurier, Hayley Newman-Petryshen has played a large part in the fight for equality.

“Often we think about the material deprivation of actual pads and tampons, but [period poverty] can also refer to having to take time off work because you have endometriosis,” said Newman-Petryshen, who is a Laurier alumn, co-director at Monthly Dignity and a project coordinator with Free Periods Canada.

Both non-profits aim to address the causes and consequences of period poverty and advance menstrual equity for those across Canada.

The stigma around conditions such as endometriosis, when experiencing period poverty, can lead

to individuals feeling embarrassment surrounding possible leaking and the risk of health problems and infection, explained Newman-Petryshen.

Often we think about the material deprevation of actual pads and tampons, but [period poverty] can also refer to having to take time off work.

- Hayley Newman-Petryshen

Many are forced to use other

products like socks, newspaper and toilet paper as make-shift pads, she said.

The lack of period products on the Laurier campus during Newman-Petryshen’s undergrad led to her feeling stranded.

“At the beginning of my second year in 2018 I found myself getting stuck multiple times on campus without products and there was nowhere to find them,” said Newman-Petryshen.

Inspired to make a change, Newman-Petryshen reached out to Laurier Students’ Public Interest Research Group (LSPRIG).

“We started brainstorming awareness ideas, but our first move involved applying for the Student Life Levy, which doesn’t exist on the Waterloo campus anymore, for a pilot project,” said Newman-Petryshen.

“There ensued six years of advocacy that eventually led to a more permanent solution through facilities.”

Currently, through the LSPIRG led campaign, 14 washrooms across the school’s Waterloo, Kitchener and Brantford campuses provide free menstrual products.

While significant advancements have been made when addressing period poverty, there’s still progress to be made.

“The current government program, the Menstrual Equity Pilot Fund, only provides products through the food banks,” which excludes a significant portion of those who experience period poverty, said Newman-Petryshen.

“There is a huge need to think about more creative ways that we can access those more hidden and hard to reach populations.”

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NEWS • 7

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 LOCAL

Police killing renews calls to defund police in KW

SERENA AUSTIN/WLUSP PRESIDENT

SERENA AUSTIN WLUSP PRESIDENT

On Friday, Feb. 23, protestors gathered in front of Waterloo Regional Police Services headquarters in solidarity with Nicholas Nembhard, a schizophrenic Black man who was killed by an officer just days earlier.

According to the Special Investigations Unit, which is responsible for investigating police involved deaths, injuries and shootings in Ontario, WRPS were called to a home on Brybeck Crescent in Kitchener for a disturbance call around 9 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 19.

In a release published the next day the SIU said “upon arriving at the scene, officers encountered a man holding an edged weapon.

There was an interaction, and one officer discharged his firearm. The man was struck.”

The man, 31-year-old Nicholas Nembhard, was then taken to the hospital where he died due to his injuries.

In interviews with the CBC, Nembhard’s brothers said that Nicholas was experiencing a mental health crisis and that they called the police to help him.

"If we knew they were going to do this to Nicolas we would have never called the cops for that," said Nicholas’ brother Mario, who was at the home when police arrived.

Nembhard’s death has renewed calls to defund and abolish the police in the region.

“We need to, as a community, respond in outrage [to police violence],” said Jacara Droog, a social worker and organizer with Fight Back KW and GroundUpWR, at the protest.

Along with defunding and abolishing the WRPS, the other calls-toaction that came with the protest were re-funding the community and

SERENA AUSTIN/WLUSP PRESIDENT

stopping police from responding to mental health crisis calls.

“Increased police budgets make no difference in the support and the care of people in our community. And the amount of Black and Indigenous people who are gunned -down by the police is increasing,” said Ann Marie Beals, an assistant professor in the community psychology program at Wilfrid Laurier University.

If we knew they were going to do this to Nicholas we would have never called the cops for that

- Mario Nembhard, Brother of victim in an interview with CBC

A University of Toronto study released at the end of 2023 found that police budgets have little to do with crime rates across the country, and more specifically that increases to police budgets haven’t led to lower crime rates.

In 2024, the WRPS saw a $13.4 million dollar increase to their budget from last year, adding up to $252.4 million making it the second largest portion of the regional budget. In 2023, more than $200 million of the WRPS’ funding came from property taxes.

“The police's job was to catch people who ran away,” said Beals, referring to slave patrols and the RCMP, who's earliest job was to forcibly remove Indigenous peoples from their land and onto reserves.

“It just has morphed into another form of oppression, using police brutality and using the carceral system. ‘We can't kill you, so we’ll lock you away.’”

SERENA AUSTIN/WLUSP PRESIDENT

08 • GAMES

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

Spring Word Search • Sunshine • Rabbit • Duck • Green • Cloudy • Tulip • Rain

• Clover • Foggy • Paddys • Spring • Cleaning • Fresh • Defrost

Spring Fling MASH Job

# of days

Partner

Location

Gift

Tulip picker

7

Lucky the Leprechaun

Rainbow Road

Pot of gold

Duck coraller

9

Mary Poppins

Emerald City

Lucky Charms

Weatherperson

11

Captain Georg von Trapp

London

Ruby Slippers

Dust bunny remover

12

The Tin Man

Salzburg

Spoonful of sugar

Number Here

My Story On March 15, I began my job as a

. After work, I headed on spring vacation for

days with my spouse they gave me

Instructions •

Pick a number from 1-10.

•

Count each of the category options until you reach the number you selected - mark it off.

•

Continue on, skipping over marked off options.

•

Circle the final option in each category.

•

Write your story!

Maze

. as a gift.

During the trip to

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

PHOTO SPREAD • 9

2024 Students’ Union Election Results CAMPUS

BRONTE BEHLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

On Feb. 1 at 9:00 p.m., the results of the Students’ Union 2024 election were announced at Wilf’s on Laurier’s Waterloo campus.

After the voting period from Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, Ben Jesseau was

announced as the incoming president and CEO for the incoming 2024-2025 academic year. There were three rounds of voting.

“It doesn’t quite feel real yet – but I’m really excited to keep working on behalf of every undergraduate student,” said Jesseau after his win.

“Thank you to everyone that voted, to my campaign team and everyone else. To the other people that ran – you made this campaign that much more fun and competitive. Thank you for being brave and putting your name out there. Super

excited for the year ahead.”

Bilal Tariq, Avinash Godse-Shah, Devananda Nakshatra, Natalie Bounket, Noah Espiritu, Lulia Habtemichael, Aya Ijam, Nicole Lehecka, Daniel Rubinoff, Gabrielle Russo, Anya Russolo and Griffin St. George all won a spot on the Students’ Union Board of Directors.

Acclaimed to the senate were Jiha Arshad, Christopher Matheson, Nicole Lehecka, Aftab Tariq (Brantford) and Lulia Habtemichael.

The Athletics & Recreation Facilities Fee referendum carried, with 70.6 per cent of the vote.

President Spenler, Chair Abu-Rshaid and CRO Orlan Cui read results

President Spenler struggles with champagne

Photo taken with incoming President Ben Jesseau

Celebratory swig for Jesseau Celebratory swig for Jesseau

BRONTE BEHLING/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Laurier’s notable alumnae: Keegan Connor Tracy Editor-in-Chief Bronte Behling interviews one of Laurier’s featured female alumni.

March 8 is International Women’s Day, and the theme this year is “invest in women: accelerate progress,” the Government of Canada announced. This theme highlights the government’s dedication to exemplifying that each Canadian has a “role to play in building a future where everyone can reach their full potential.”

For many women, this involves choosing to study at an accredited university across the country.

Since its opening in 1911, Laurier has been home to many notable female alumni including Mary Berg (winner of MasterChef Canada), Jean Crowder (member of the New Democratic Party from 2004-2015) and Cindy Eadie (former professional third baseman and hockey goaltender) .

Since its opening in 1911, Laurier has been home to many notable female alumni not included in the list above but valued all the same.

The number of notable female alumni from Laurier has led to many awards and recognition ceremonies within the school to recognize the exemplary work produced by female students. One such ceremony is the Outstanding Women of Laurier Gala.

The event, created in 2006, highlights the “phenomenal talent” and “exceptional achievements” of Laurier’s female athletes. Another form of recognition for Laurier’s female students are the Laurier Centre for Women in Science (WinS) scholarships and grants that are given each year to support “women students in science and math-focused fields” as well as research centered on “gender parity in science and mathematical social sciences”.

With support from the university, many women have become featured on Laurier’s “notable alumni” list. One such member is Keegan Connor Tracy, Canadian actress, director and author. After graduating from Laurier with a degree in social psychology, Connor Tracy has starred in popular series such as ABC’s Once Upon a Time (as the Blue Fairy) and Disney’s Descendants series (as Queen Belle).

“At the time, I knew I wanted to be an actor. However, I really wanted to be taken seriously and I thought getting a degree was important,” said Connor Tracy when asked why she chose to study at Laurier. “I looked around and Laurier was the best one.”

After realizing that the business program wasn’t for her, Connor Tracy changed majors.

“To this day, I wish I had stayed in it. At the time, I didn’t even know film school existed. It’s hard to imagine that there was a time before you could go on the internet and find anything you wanted. But we just didn’t have that,” said Connor Tracy.

When it comes to memories at Laurier, one that stood out to Connor Tracy was the year that Laurier won the Yates cup in 1991. In the game, Laurier beat Western University 13 to 12 at the now demolished J.W. Little Stadium.

“A bunch of us made outfits which we painted yellow and purple. I remember winning at the last moment and all of us jumping out onto the field. That is something that I’ll always remember, and it was exciting to be part of that,” said Connor Tracy.

One professor that inspired Connor Tracy during her time at Laurier was Rockney Jacobsen, Associate Professor in the Department of Philosophy who inspired Connor Tracy to make changes in her life. “[Jacobsen] had a such a significant effect on the trajectory of my life that I wrote to him years later,” said Connor Tracy.

This impact resulted in Connor Tracy questioning her religious beliefs due to one of his lectures. “I had until that time been a Catholic and inculcated in Christianity. [Jacobsen] posed a question that made me understand that [Catholicism] was not an absolute. I felt released from its obligation, and it was really life changing for me,” said Connor Tracy.

Now, having long graduated from Laurier, Connor Tracy encourages female graduating Golden Hawks to diversify as they move into the working world.

“Don’t be singular in your focus, because there are so many changes in life,” said Connor Tracy. “Few of us do one thing for our entire lives. If you can diversify your skill set, then you can shift into other avenues that might interest you. If you diversify your skill set, then you will be ready for those challenges.”

These challenges, of course, often involve the continued struggle for equal rights, as Connor Tracy mentions while describing what International Women’s Day means to her on a personal level.

“It’s not that long ago that we were even more under the thumb of the patriarchy than we are now. I think what what’s happening right now shows us that there’s still a threat to our equality, and the fact that we are not considered to be equal in the way that we should at this point in time. It’s why I try to be involved with organizations that put the rights of women and girls at their forefront,” said Connor Tracy.

This belief in equality shines through Connor Tracy’s work and is demonstrated in her two children’s books, This is a Job for Mommy!: An A-Z Adventure and Mommy’s 26 Careers. Dedicated to inspiring young girls, both titles have been well reviewed.

“The best way that we can deal with - for example of global poverty - is if we empower women and girls by giving them bodily autonomy, and an education. This raises everybody up,” said Connor Tracy.

The future of the world lies in the hands of women – and female graduates from Laurier who, as Connor Tracy has, will have an impact on their communities. Let’s continue to lift each other up as female golden hawks. After all, as stated by the Government of Canada, “women’s success is everyone’s success.”

“

Few of us do one thing for our entire lives. If you can diversify your skill set, then you can shift into other avenues that might interest you. If you diversify your skill set, then you will be ready for those challenges.

“

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

12 • PHOTO SPREAD

Female owned businesses in Waterloo

Words Worth Books - 96 King St. South

Loft 106 - 191 King St. South

The Truth Beauty Company - 46 King Street North

Sweet & Savoury Pie Company - 94 King St South

The Hub - 125 King Street West SADIYA TEEPLE/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

• 13

Arts & Life

ARTS & LIFE EDITOR HARI ADNANI arts@thecord.ca

FOOD & LIFESTYLE

Plant-based eating:

More than labels HARI ADNANI ARTS & LIFE EDITOR

Food is one of the most important things you must figure out during your time in university. For many, it’s the first time in your life when you must feed yourself, and there are many decisions to be made.

Finding a balance in the type of food you eat is vital and individual. This article will explore and list some plant-based options for all types of eaters, regardless of whether you consider yourself to be a vegan or vegetarian.

According to Karthik Sekar, the author of “After Meat”, a book about the future of the food industry and its impacts, the world is shifting towards more sustainable meat alternatives due to the ineffectiveness of current practices and the potential for improvement.

“Environmentally, animal agriculture is one of the most destructive industries on the planet. Right

now, animal agriculture takes up about a third of ice-free land on the planet. Changing this is one of the best interventions we have toward climate change,” said Sekar.

Today, Sekar explores alternatives to meat that are more nutritious and do less environmental damage.

Importantly, choosing to steer away from animal products is not only for vegans.

Exploring plant-based foods can also provide variety and excitement in your diet while also making an impact.

There are several contenders for delicious plant-based food.

For those interested in a more traditional bar experience, Jane Bond is a perfect choice. With plenty of different meat-free spins on traditional dishes and great ambiance, it’s worth a try.

Jane Bond is the perfect place to bring friends, especially if you’re looking to introduce yourself or friends to meat-free dining.

After a late night out, Meltwich is a staple for feel-good, affordable food. One of the best parts about Meltwich is their incredible number of options, many of which

HALEY RICHARDS/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

are vegan. Little green markers are spread across their menu, signifying plant-based options for their favourite dishes. Their vegan poutine is delicious and a must-try.

Meltwich is perfect for situations when you’re looking for vegan food while out with friends, giving you and your friends the opportunity to try vegan twists on familiar favourites.

In the past, choosing to follow a plant-based diet meant the sacrifice of one’s favourite foods. How-

ever, today, plant-based dining can be a moment-by-moment choice with no sacrifice involved.

Sekar’s advice to students looking to transition away from eating meat is to “expand your culinary horizons.”

Part of this involves exploring different cuisines that are accommodating to a vegetarian diet, another being the acquisition of a new set of skills in the kitchen.

According to the Journal of Ethnic Foods, Indian cuisine has been

largely vegetarian for thousands of years. This makes Indian food a perfect fit for students interested in exploring different cuisines with plenty of alternatives to meat.

Eating plant-based shouldn’t be reserved for only the vegans or vegetarians among us.

Everybody has the opportunity to contribute to the growing culture of meat-free alternatives around campus, and the chance to discover for themselves how delicious it can be.

INTERNATIONAL STUDY

Exchange student expectation versus reality: is it worth it to decide to study abroad?

BAILEY MCINTYRE ARTS CONTRIBUTOR

To commit to an exchange program abroad is not always as easy.

Things do not always go the way you expect.

I talked to some exchange students at the University of Birmingham to find out what they hope to get out of their exchange experience.

“Getting to experience studying in a different country while also meeting new people,” said Uruguayan third-year economics student Nico Anido when asked why he had chosen to do an exchange program as a part of his program.

As a person that uses English as a second language, Andino also noted how studying abroad inspired him to challenge himself with “speaking a different language every day.” In addition, Andino is dedicated to pushing himself out his “comfort zone.”

Fellow Laurier exchange student Ashley Leue also stressed the importance of taking the time to learn about new cities and their unique

culture.

“I wish to be more independent while also exploring different cultures and seeing how different people around the world live,” said Leue.

Another main point Leue had for choosing an English school in Britain for her exchange is the availability to learn more history throughout the United Kingdom and Europe.

I wish to be more independent while also exploring different cultures and seeing how different people around the world live Ashley Leue, exchange student

Leue revealed that Edinburgh, Scotland was her favourite location that she had visited so far due to its architecture and scenery.

Andino favoured Krakow, Poland as he was able to travel there with a friend and enjoy the city’s culture,

history and beauty.

Being away from home for so long can be challenging, no matter how fun the experience is.

When asked what the most challenging part of this experience has been so far, Leue noted the loneliness she had experienced. “Being away from my family and friends is hard. But also trying to meet the expectation of what this experience was going to be in my head and trying to see so many places.”

“Walking all the way to the laundry building,” Andino joked when asked the same question.

“The weather is definitely the hardest. Walking under pouring rain for thirty minutes to class can be so draining.”

Anido also touched on the fact that being best friends with your new roommates can be a blessing, but isn’t always easy.

“It’s a daily struggle of loving spending time with your roommates, but also trying to find that perfect balance of being with them while also being alone and being comfortable with that.”

What students hope to get out of an exchange and what can happen in reality can differ.

Either way, the experience can be life changing – just make sure you bring an umbrella.

BAILEY MCINTYRE/ARTS CONTRIBUTOR

ARTS & LIFE • 14

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 LOCAL EVENT

Princess Cinema screens trans documentary JACK VROLYK ARTS CONTRIBUTOR

On Feb. 26, I attended a showing of Paul B. Preciado’s film, Orlando: My Political Biography at the Princess Cinema. The viewing was hosted by the Laurier Wellbeing in Film Forum (LWIFF) in partnership with SPECTRUM Waterloo.

Preciado’s film is based on Virginia Woolf’s 1928 novel, “Orlando: A Biography,” which covers the life of Orlando, a poet who lives for almost 400 years during which he goes to sleep as a man and wakes up as a woman.

Woolf’s book, and the title character of Orlando, is heavily inspired by Vita Sackville-West, an aristocrat that Woolf was in a secret lesbian relationship with. In the film, Preciado uses Orlando, as well as his own experiences as a transgender man, to explore the trans experience.

Before the viewing, the audience heard from Laurier professor and event organizer Ketan Shankardass, SPECTRUM Waterloo board of directors member Brooklin

Wallis, and Charlie Davis, a PhD student in communication psychology at Laurier.

Davis discussed his PhD dissertation on the history of trans advocacy in Canada and had some enlightening findings to share. He began by explaining that transgender people in Canada never had ownership of the concept of “transness” - instead researchers controlled the idea when it began to emerge.

He also noted the difficulty of accessing trans healthcare in Canada. Treatments were withheld from those deemed “not trans enough.”

“At no point in our recent history have trans people ever been in control over who is trans, what is trans, and the consequences of being trans,” said Davis on the history of being trans in Canada and beyond.

This led into an interesting explanation of previous divisions within the trans community. Prior to the 1990s, the trans community as we know it today was split into several groups with large divides between them. These groups disagreed over how to define transness and the rigidity of the gender binary.

Once a unified trans community began to form, looser views of gen-

der emerged, such as non-binary and genderqueer. The film explores non-binary and genderqueer identities, and Davis describes the film’s exploration as trans people “reclaiming the definitions of gender from the hands of experts.”

The film itself features 26 contemporary trans and non-binary actors, as young as eight and as old as 70. At its core, the film is a retelling of Orlando’s story, frequently switching out actors as Orlando’s gender identity morphs.

Preciado blends his own trans story with Orlando’s, as well as the stories of the actors within the film, demonstrating that trans people have always existed and, as one viewer put it, the “multiplicity of transness.”

Within the film are powerful tales of the trans community and the bureaucracy that tries to constrain them. As many transition and feel comfortable with their transition, they struggle to be legally recognized for who they truly are.

When asked what freedom looks like for trans people after seeing the film, answers included feeling safe, having autonomy and being at peace. After attending this event, I left the theatre feeling hopeful for a bright future for the trans community.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

LITERATURE

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Comics: Storytelling without compromise HARI ADNANI ARTS & LIFE EDITOR

I love reading comics. Complex, colourful and entertaining, they’re an ideal way to spend an afternoon.

From superheroes trying to prevent doomsday to thoughtful memoirs, there’s a comic out there for everyone.

In Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art, Scott McCloud defines comics as “Juxtaposed pictorial and other images in deliberate sequence, intended to convey information and/or to produce an aesthetic response in the viewer”.

Understanding the difference between the medium and the

content, the word comic has no bearing on the seriousness, depth or cultural relevance of the story itself.

To me, the terms graphic novel, graphic narrative and comic are all synonymous in their definition of an expressive, accessible medium.

As a student, reading comics is a nice change of pace from the onslaught of academic articles and readings asked of me before every class.

I recommend that everyone check out the school’s collection of comics – all of the books mentioned in this article can be found at the Laurier Library.

Watchmen by Alan Moore is one of my favourite comics.

Following a group of vigilantes and their adventures in an alternate reality of America in the 1980s, the story handles complicated and nuanced issues such as politics, sex, and violence.

Not only do the heroes of Watchmen address the realities of the complexities of justice, but the story is unique because of the format.

The book is one of many contradictions – at once, justice is presented as both impossible and straightforward, superheroes are in turns good and evil.

The medium of comics expresses these different perceptions of justice beautifully.

Moore illustrates the complex relationship between good and evil carefully, challenging the reader’s beliefs and assumptions with juxtaposing views illustrated side by side.

Through images, ideas are shared to the reader to be understood at their own pace.

One of the best comics I’ve ever read is Maus, by Art Spiegelman. A retelling of the Holocaust, Maus is a beautiful and haunting memoir

as experienced by Spiegelman’s father, Vladek.

Depicting Nazis as cats and Jews as mice, the book challenged the assumptions society held about the power of the comic upon its release and in many ways, created a new standard for the medium.

Maus set new standards for the power of comics and has since preceded an era of profoundly moving visual storytelling.

Juxtaposed pictoral and other images in deliberate sequence, intended to convey information Scott McCloud, author of “Understanding comics”

Everything from the black and white images to the carefully messy writing depicts a level of emotion unfound in other mediums of storytelling.

As an entirely unique medium, comics are a perfect example of accessibility not necessitating compromise.

Unfortunately, they have the mistaken reputation of being nothing more than a childhood fixation.

As McCloud writes in explanation, “If people failed to understand comics, it was because they defined what comics could be too narrowly”.

Time and time again, comics have shown the depth of which they are capable.

The visual artistry of comics can remove the barriers of excessive wordiness or abstract metaphor, instead choosing to depict life onecarefully illustrated page at a time.

ARTS & LIFE • 15

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 LIZZDREW TAKE ON THE ‘LOO

The best of both worlds ANDREW EATON ARTS CONTRIBUTOR ELIZABETH MENDEZ ARTS CONTRIBUTOR

On a romantic Valentine’s night out, LizzDrew decided to do what any ordinary couple would do – go out to dinner.

However, both writers forgot that every other couple would be doing the same, and ignorantly decided to omit a call for reservations.

After checking out other establishments (including a trip to LizzDrew’s column alumni McCabe’s) and wondering what the next play was, we finally decided to check out Uptown Waterloo’s Daldongnae; a fabulous little spot on the corner of King and Princess Street East.

For anyone like Lizzie, who absolutely adores Korean food, Daldongnae is a KBBQ joint that is fun for friends, family or a night out with your co-writer.

Regardless of the busy night, we managed to secure a spot in line with a 20-30 minute wait time (we have to give props to the quick working staff ).

As we sat down, the first thing we noticed was the unique and heavily detailed decor of the

restaurant, perfectly imitating a coastal fish market.

Aesthetics aside, we jumped in with our drinks: Lizzie, the sophisticated one, got the tried-and-true Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon whereas Andrew chose the Blueberry Soju.

It’s important to note that our moderate alcohol consumption of one drink did warrant many staff check-ins - a testament to both the caring nature of the servers, but also a pushy demeanor that made us feel as though we were doing something wrong.

For the main course, we got to choose from a plethora of different high quality pork and beef options.

After conferencing with our server, we found that the beef boneless short rib and the beef chuck steak were the best choices. The meat tasted fresh and cooked well; even under novice supervision.

The complimentary fresh side dishes that came with the meal were in abundance, including pumpkin salad, corn cheese and soybean paste stew.

Lizzie ascended to heaven with each bite and Andrew appreciated many of the sides, specifically enjoying the stew.

Unfortunately, he found the pumpkin salad’s cold texture a little off-putting. Lizzie particularly

enjoyed the acorn jelly with soy sauce and attempted many times to push Andrew to get past the jelly consistency; she was unsuccessful after the first bite.

In addition to the main sides, we were given a bed of lettuce to use as a vehicle for the meat which also served to increase our veggie intake. The generous inclusion of garlic and a big ring of cooked egg (Andrew’s sworn enemy) also aided in the flavour diversity of every bite. Overall, it was a great and hardy meal sure to send you home rolling out the door.

The true surprise of the meal was the cheap price point. Andrew was a little worried about the bill after the menagerie of food that had been consumed, however the entire meal came out to be shy of $90, crazy given that the drinks themselves were upwards of $30.

The value that you’ll get for the cornucopia of food described above is quite admirable and we can’t recommend this place enough - especially if you’re going with a big group and looking for a relatively cheap meal to split the cost of.

Overall Ratings: Ambiance: 10 out of 10 Drinks: 9 out of 10 Food: 10 out of 10 Affordability: 8.5 out of 10

SADIYA TEEPLE/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

MUSIC REVIEW

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Last Dinner Party is a vocal maximalist’s dream NATE DAWES RADIO LAURIER MUSIC DIRECTOR

The almost ten-month span between The Last Dinner Party’s signing with a major label (before the release of any recorded material) and the release of Prelude to Ecstasy saw the band suffering industry plant allegations and catalyzing a counter-discussion about sexism in music journalism.

A barrage of critical narratives about this album, both scathing

and doting, found purchase long before the album was released.

So, is the album really generation-defining? Scrap-heap trash?

Somewhere in between?

The Last Dinner Party’s Prelude to Ecstasy is an art-pop statement of exactly what’s pictured on the cover - an ambitious and harmlessly picturesque look at the aesthetic-feminine delivered from a fainting couch in a regency-era lounge room, and that’s enough.

Self-described maximalists, the instinct to impress is written into every facet of the album, from the lyrical verbosity to the breadth of the instrumental arrangements.

Overall, when it works, it works, and there are moments where exu-

berance and ambition give birth to achievement.

The best is the transition from the soaring chamber harmonies that close “Gjuha”, an Albanian-language expression of regret over not knowing one’s culture and the energetic staccato piano chords that begin the album’s strongest pop song, “Sinner”.

But not every moment of stylistic excess strikes gold. “Sinner” stands out not only because it crossbreeds ABBA-pop and swaggering post-punk, but also because its blue-note-heavy lead guitar lines played over pseudo-gospel choirs wink at messiness beyond the frame on the album’s cover.

Per the regency stylings that

adorn both Prelude’s baroque album cover and the band themselves, the album unapologetically screams finishing school.

The vocals are delivered with the refined affectation of a graduated Eliza Doolittle.

The album isn’t apolitical, the lyrics bursting at the seams with repudiations of gender roles and heteronormativity. Unfortunately, it all comes across a little bit TikTok-polished.

But that is, admittedly, kind of the point. It’s been argued that this album can’t be judged effectively with the criteria of a system that’s consistently rejected it.

It has to be understood as part of an Ethel Cain or Kate Bush can-

on, where authenticity is gleaned as much from the willful depth of a lyrical swoon as from the ferocity of any poseur alt-rock snarl favoured by the Pitchfork mafia one that’s spent 20 years declaring Prelude’s comparables lazy, tasteless, or inauthentic.

Ultimately, for a lot of the band’s educated theatre-kidtype audience, its flavour is what makes the album special. Sure, this album plays to its base, but given that a noisy segment of the music-consuming populace branded the band undesirables before they’d even released a song, who wouldn’t be happy to just make something good, fun and appreciated?

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

16 •

Editorial

OPINION EDITOR ABIGAIL DOMBROVSKY opinion@thecord.ca

Editor’s Note:

EDITORIAL CARTOON

A world without social media BRONTE BEHLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

You may have read the title of this piece and been shocked - a world without social media? Unfathomable.

Recently, I’ve been thinking a lot about the fact that I was lucky enough to spend the majority of my childhood without the influence of social media weighing me down.

Born in 2000 (SO old, I know) - my first conception of a social media platform was Facebook.

I remember one of my cousins showing my parents how to use the platform, encouraging them to sign up as it was “what everyone was doing.”

Now, the thought of a platform where you can keep in touch with people you haven’t seen in years with a simple click seems simple.

Something we all do everyday.

But, thinking about it more, it doesn’t seem like the human race should have been given this power. Scary thing is, we still don’t know the full long-term impact that social media will have on our species.

It’s only now that we’re seeing the result of kids who have “grown up” on social media contend with what having their entire lives online actually means.

A gigantic online footprint - one that they couldn’t grasp until they have it brought up in an interview that they tweeted something controversial when they were six years old.

I feel lucky that this didn’t happen to me, and I worry about Gen Alpha.

I know, writing this makes me seem out of touch. Shaking my fist while yelling “kids these days,” when I spent my own tween years online and posted some embarrassing stuff.

So, if you have Gen Alpha kids in your life, make sure you stress to them that the internet really is forever.

Some day, they’ll thank you.

HALEY RICHARDS/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Where do we draw the line when considering MAID? SOFIA PLATNICK LEAD COPY EDITOR

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Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) has been controversial in Canada since its inception in 2016 similar to the few other nations that offer it.

In 2022, it was announced by the Government of Canada that there have been over 44,000 MAID procedures.

This is a 31.2 per cent increase from 2021, demonstrating that the procedure is gaining momentum.

Touted as a procedure committed to unwavering dignity, autonomy, and alleviation of suffering, has it reached beyond its own bounds with new proposed implementations scheduled for 2027?

MAID continues to be an important option for individuals facing irremediable medical conditions such as terminal cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and other chronic and progressive diseases which cannot be cured.

Certain criteria must be met for MAID to be approved, including an uncoerced voluntary request for this procedure, although over

time it has become much easier to request and get approval.

These ailments are often seen as indisputable reasons for desiring euthanasia.

For a loved one living daily with unbearable pain or suffering, the option to take agency over one’s decisions about end-of-life care are vital, providing a compassionate alternative for patients burdened by severe pain and discomfort, and allowing them to pass on their own terms.

What’s more contentious is Canada’s decision to expand their MAID eligibility to include only a sole underlying mental illness for MAID by Mar. 17, 2027.

This decision calls into question ethical considerations and the potential for abuse.

The approval of MAID requires that a patient is of sound mind in their decision-making; can this be expected of someone dealing with severe depression or anxiety?

Further, MAID acts as the final step once all other viable treatment options have failed the patient; if a patient refuses to take medications or attend therapy options, does this allow them to bypass these means and go straight to MAID? Paradoxically, doctors take the Hippocratic oath during training and are drilled to “do no harm …”.

Now, doctors are being asked to

end the lives of their patients.

Many advocates worry that this is a step closer to euthanasia for general mental illness, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down’s syndrome and many more non-terminal conditions that might become included.

Some even argue that this program is similar to Nazi era policies to euthanize those with mental illness from the general population.

Mental health cases can be far more complex, as being in a vulnerable state of mind may cloud someone’s judgment and result in rash and final decisions.

This may result in complaints from family members of a patient who decides on MAID without consulting their loved ones.

Take for example a patient who is in a deep depression and has not received proper treatment who decides MAID is the best option.

The patient begins taking routine antidepressants and their depressive symptoms resolve, eliminating entirely the need for MAID. Going forward, the government and medical bodies need to walk a fine line between accessibility and unhindered access to medically assisted death. The choice to complete MAID is final, and every precaution should be taken to ensure that when MAID is chosen, it is the only remaining choice.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

Opinion

OPINION EDITOR ABIGAIL DOMBROVSKY opinion@thecord.ca

Performative tragedy and the misuse of queer representation in the media ABIGAIL DOMBROVSKY OPINION EDITOR

“Dead lesbian Syndrome” is a 1970s literary & TV phenomenon, representing misogyny & homophobia faced by female characters on screen.

Hay’s law, established in the 1930s, was a list of “moral guidelines” that governed cinematic subject matter, restricting and prohibiting anything from profanity to childbirth scenes to homosexual depictions and interracial relationships.

The law lingers today. Prior to this law, films featured numerous homosexuals (1920s-1930s).

During the Great Depression, poverty restricted movie audiences and filmmakers resorted to shock-value to attract audiences.

In response, Will Hays (president of the MPAA) required homosexual

imagery to be inherently negative and representation was regulated with the ban on sex perversion or any reference.

Hardships faced by queer communities bring more drama, viewers and money.

They also reveal the notion that people are historically more comfortable with seeing queerness when it’s punished and want to consume media that subconsciously dissuades thoughts of alignment with the art.

Theoretical overlap between queer and horror movies is made evident when following the framework of the “bad guy” dying first, leaving the “good guys” to be saved. Rudimentary.

A typical retort is “there aren’t that many.” In reality, many websites were created to accurately catalog lesbian deaths since the 1970s, and the trend is disturbing to say the least.

Without cherry-picking niche examples, big name & high-budget productions are the biggest contenders – such as Orange is the New Black and Killing Eve.

The idea that an indication of interest of the same-sex immediately casts a shadow of uncertainty for the character’s longevity on screen is unsettling and unnecessary.

Watching same-sex female representation feels like a ticking time bomb, with an end written as predictably as the explosion.

Homosexual characters are a spectacle, regulated to caricatures of melodramatic, ill individuals who have yet to “find themselves.”

In other depictions, homosexual characters are reduced to something “digestible” for audiences so as not to portray something “other.”

Whether you are the audience or not, it’s clear that there is a disturbing trend that needs to be rectified.

Why are we still seeing these harmful trends in an age where June is celebrated as Pride Month?

Common themes in sapphic media include setting within a time period when queerness is frowned upon or the patriarch is in full affect.

This media frequently ends in a cliffhanger, leaving the viewer con-

fused on if the couple was together or not.

In many cases, one of the women in the pairing is forced to stay with a man to align with the traditional “happy” nuclear family ending.

This type of ending subsequently takes away the true meaning of “lesbian”by making the plot centre around a will they/won’t they dilemma.

The use of sexual/explicit malegaze-centric scenes shift the target demographic more to the male side.

They then pivot sapphic relationships, making them “less uncomfortable” and commodifying desire.

Whilst representation cannot be expected, studios have a responsibility to uphold decent representation.

The doomed-from-the-start cinematic strategy casts a sadistic shadow on the character’s story arc, perpetuating the old narrative that tragedy is for entertainment.

Further, it exemplified that the validity and sanctity of a blissful

love for another is not enough to keep them around.

Between oversexualized homoerotic scenes and the over-abundance of tragic endings, the spectrum for sapphic love on screen is radically polarized, with fewer examples of normalcy to spare somewhere in the middle.

It is inaccurate to state that all media production is for the sake of entertainment and profit, as it is equally inaccurate to attribute what we see presented to us as true “representation”.

Predominantly tragic endings are thinly veiled as representation in an industry that profits off of old guidelines.

An act that is the equivalent of throwing a bone to the dog - giving the community what they want without a care for the kind of representation they’re really asking for.

Why is true representation of these relationships so difficult to portray even today?

“When the day is done, my mind turns to her and I think, why are we to be separated.” - Abigail, The World to Come.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Stardew Valley is the best cozy game JACK VROLYK OPINION CONTRIBUTOR

Do you like cozy games? Spending hours of your free time immersing yourself in a fantasy world where the oppressive loom of bills and taxes don’t exist?

For the last couple of years, I have been completely hooked on what I believe to be one of the best cozy games - Stardew Valley.

This farming sim was made singlehandedly by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone released in 2016 and is incredibly easy to get sucked into.

Think of it like Minecraft with a plot. You leave your corporate job to take over your grandpa’s farm in Pelican Valley.

Really, who doesn’t dream of that instead of the corporate slog?

Once you start farming you meet the local townspeople and start uncovering the huge collection of secrets the valley and its surrounding areas have to offer.

You can fish, mine, fight monsters and start a family. If you

thrive on drama, you can even catch the mayor getting a little too friendly with one of his citizens.

I’ve already put about 325 hours into the game across two farms and I’m not done yet.

The game has attracted a large following of a wide variety of players since its inception, and eight years later we’re still getting updates.

Recently, Barone announced that he was working on a major update to the game, update 1.6.

On Feb. 27, the eight-year anniversary of the game’s release, he announced that the update would be coming to PC on Mar. 19 with

console and mobile following soon after.

This is the game’s first major update in a while, and the list of promises keeps getting better.

So, what can we expect from the update?

According to Barone, we can look forward to three new festivals, late-game content, items and crafting recipes, over 100 new lines of dialogue, winter outfits for villagers and a new type of reward. To top it all off, a new farm type will be debuting.

Barone has also said that the update will have small additions and adjustments alongside new

secrets, and PC support for up to eight people in multiplayer. With a long list of new features, it’s clear to see why fans of the game (including me) are so excited.

I can’t wait to start a new farm and see all the additions in context.

In the meantime, I’ll have to keep working on my current farm.

Hopefully, once the update releases we’ll get more news about Barone’s next game, Haunted Chocolatier, which seems to be similar to Stardew Valley at least in aesthetic.

I cannot recommend the game enough, and now I need to stop writing and log more hours.

18 • OPINION

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

Confessions of a long retired theatre kid BRONTE BEHLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Like many others, I was encouraged by my parents growing up to try numerous activities to see which one “stuck.” For me, this activity happened to be theatre.

Being a homeschooled kid, I began my journey acting in numerous community productions alongside productions put on by the homeschool group I was a part of (yes, this was a thing).

From Templeton the rat in Charlotte’s Web to Glinda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz, the roles I had the opportunity to play were numerous and varied.

Of them, my favourite was getting to play Mary Hatch Bailey in a production of It’s a Wonderful Life – even though my life at the time wasn’t that wonderful due to the extreme teen angst I was facing in my personal life as a 15-year-old.

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

BRONTE BEHLING/CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Growing up as a theatre kid produces mixed results. While it helped my public speaking skills and pushed me to explore the depths of my psyche (I could write a whole article on whether underaged individuals should be allowed to do devised theatre), I was also at my least confident.

Despite the fact that I enjoyed being on stage, I didn’t fit in with the theatre kid community. I was quiet, unsure of myself and desperate to please. Mix that with the

perils of growing up and discovering your sexuality, and it’s an absolute mess.

This didn’t lead to me having many friends or thinking that anyone genuinely liked me. While I understand this is a normal feeling for a preteen, going through these growing pains while being surrounded by extroverts makes them even more dramatic to go through (no pun intended).

It is my belief that signing up to be a theatre kid should come with

a warning – prepare to be humbled and (hopefully) you’ll come away with mostly positive feelings about your experience. At the very least, you’ll have good public speaking skills.

Looking back now, I can appreciate that the things I went through helped me discover who I am today at 23.

The world is filled with extroverts, and now I know how to deal with them and even take on their energy when I need to.

I’ve taken on many “roles” in my life since I retired from doing theatre. Every role, at school and in the workplace, has required some amount or form of performance.

Without having undergone the perils of being a theatre kid, would I be as equipped as I now am to manage them? Probably not. I’d still be the shy kid I once was, waiting for her chance.

After all, according to the great William Shakespeare, “all the world’s a stage.”

Mitigating the impact of burnout culture ABIGAIL DOMBROVSKY OPINION EDITOR

Burnout is the soft white underbelly beneath today’s fast-paced and demanding world, affecting individuals across various professions and lifestyles, but what is it really?

Recently, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges that individuals face both in the workplace and in their personal lives. Women often fall victim to unique circumstances.

I interviewed Yana Spivak, creator of ABridge2Thrive, a foundation to help women navigate adversities in healthy ways.

Spivak’s career started in New York City. For over 30 years, she worked tirelessly in the healthcare system, mainly in the dental industry.

Through hard work and unwavering discipline, she rose through the ranks from the clinical end to administration, ultimately becoming a clinic director.

It is important to note that the clientele is unforgiving; from celebrities and high-ranking politicians to victims of head and neck cancer.

This resulted in an emotional toll, brought to a boiling point due to the pressure to perform. Spivak stresses that her patients “needed a super-attention, a different level of care.”

“I had the idea of starting a foundation and I'm lucky enough

that I have someone who puts a roof over my head. What happens to other women?” said Spivak.

After tumultuous run-ins, misdiagnosis and dismissals from doctors, Spivak was eventually diagnosed with burnout. Collapsing, severe vertigo, dizzy spells, debilitating vestibular issues, nausea, migraines and various endocrine disrupting problems are all part of her daily experiences. These were signs of a conformational change in her brain, visible through CT scans.

When it comes to understanding what factors can lead to burnout, one must look to the human brain: “It can only work for 40 consecutive minutes. That's why all our lessons in schools and in universities are 45 minutes,” said Spivak.

Spivak introduced another way to observe the rise of burnout, further elaborating on the prevalence of our society working in a “knowledge economy” that management has not adapted to.

Boundaries have since expanded; everybody has a work email, cell phone, tablet and a computer.

We are now always accessible.

Women may face unique burnout challenges. A phenomenon called “the Double Burden” describes the dilemma in which women find themselves juggling multiple roles - career, family and caregiving responsibilities that can lead to increased stress.

On top of this, women frequently must manage their emotions as they provide support to others in their lives.

Our brain's response to stress is a complex interplay of various neural and hormonal mechanisms. The brain’s heightened

state of alertness may contribute to increased anxiety, emotional reactivity and a sense of overwhelm that can become unregulated.

While the neurological effects of burnout are concerning, research suggests that the brain has a remarkable capacity for neuroplasticity—the ability to reorganize and adapt.

However, we are now seeing cases in which changes in brain configuration are nearly impossible to reverse. Early intervention is necessary - stress management, mindfulness and adequate rest are crucial.

Understanding the impact of burnout emphasizes the importance of addressing this phenomenon as a multifaceted issue, diving deep beyond the realm of emotions and physical exhaustion.

Recognizing the changes in brain configuration associated with burnout before it has progressed too far is critical.

Employers can and should bear the responsibility to create a supportive work environment in which their expectations are met with equal support, thus preventing burnout. Flexible work schedules and family-friendly policies can help women manage their multiple responsibilities.

The world is always changing, so let it be in the direction in which people can live to experience life, not live to work.

Spivak reminds us that if you don’t put your wellness first, nobody will.

Being told that “You're the strongest person I've ever met” is not the compliment that we need to hear. As long as we fight or flight, we must rest & digest.

AFFEN AJLFE/MODUP.NET

SPORTS • 19

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 FEBRUARY IN PHOTOS

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Golden Hawks fall to Varsity Blues in brutal pre-playoff smackdown BIRNAVAN VARNACUMAARAN SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

MERVIN JOSEPH JACOB/SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER

Feb. 10 Men’s Basketball

Laurier’s men’s Basketball team played at home against UofT on Feb. 16, 2024 at the Athletic Complex. The team headed into the game 14-6, ready to play one of the final games of their season.

Their star player, Taye Donald, returned from an injury that held him back from playing the two games prior.

Their matchup, The Varsity Blues, came into the game with a 2-8 record as well as being named the best free throw shooting team in the league.

The game begun with Laurier winning the tip and Donald hitting the first three pointer. Donald was aggressive in the first quarter, converting multiple tough layups through contact and pulling one off from behind the backboard.

“Tay is an MVP contender on the league, but he just [came] back from a little injury so I felt like he

was trying to get his rhythm,” said head coach Justin Serresse.

Ethan Passley was cooking it up on both ends of the floor, guarding the perimeter while converting two threes on offence.

He accumulated four crucial rebounds in the game, the second most rebounds on the team as a guard player.

Benhur Gebrekidan had a solid showing, demonstrating his abilities as he dribbled past screens and shooting a mid-range from the post position.

“It allows me to be more aggressive offensively and to not be one dimensional. It gives us another dimension to our offensive,” said Gebrekidan on his mid-range abilities.

The highlight of the game came when there was 4:30 left in the fourth and Jalen Levene hit a three, stealing back the ball back from Toronto immediately after they inbounded the ball and throwing a dime to Maxwell Voorpool for another 23-footer. This cut the lead down from 10 to 6.

Toronto was not letting up, and it seemed that Laurier’s efforts might have gone to waste. However, the home squad managed up two

three pointers within 30 seconds, Donald Taye squeezing the last three through with two seconds on the game clock. Unfortunately, Laurier loses the game by two.

It would have been a nice addition to Taye’s MVP level portfolio, but this potential game-winner was not one that Taye says will keep him up at night; “I wouldn’t hit my head on it, you know? I got the shot, that’s what we wanted. It didn’t go in, it happens. We move on to the next one.”

Unfortunately for the Golden Hawks, the Varsity Blues were simply the better team this game.

Although there wasn’t significant pressure on the Golden Hawks to perform, they did not play like themselves, said Serresse, the teams’ coach.

“The whole game, I didn’t like the energy. I didn’t like the flow of the game. I didn’t like how we played offensively, defensively. If you have seen us play before today, you [would] understand that it’s not us,” he said.

“We must find our rhythm before the playoffs, because we’re running out of time. It’s not the time to get away from what we do.”

CANADIAN HOCKEY

Sullivan Sparkes signed to Iowa Heartlanders Sparkes and played a role in this most recent accomplishment.

AMICHAI ABRAHAM MANAGING EDITOR

ARYAN PATEL/SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER

Feb. 16 Women’s Hockey

At the end of February, former Golden Hawks hockey Sullivan Sparkes was signed by the Iowa Heartlanders of the ECHL. This signing marked the end of Sparkes’s tenure playing for the Golden Hawks, where he served as a forward since the 2021-2022 season.

Sparkes looks fondly upon his time as a Golden Hawk, acknowledging its essential role in his recent signing.

“It was crucial to my development as a person and a hockey player,” Sparkes said. “I was able to be around many leaders as a rookie in the league, and I learned valuable lessons about how to carry myself on and off the ice.”

Sparkes competed in 66 regular season games, during which he racked up 12 goals and 21 assists.

He also managed to add a goal and two assists during the playoffs.

Many team members impacted

I was able to be around many leaders as a rookie in the league, and I learned valuable lessons about how to carry myself on and off the ice.

- Sullivan Sparkes, former Golden Hawk forward

“Peter Soligno, our assistant coach, was extremely helpful to me as a resource; he helped me navigate through adversity and felt like a friend more than a coach through my years.”

Sparkes also brought up former teammates James Thompson and Graeme Maclean as role models who helped him get comfortable after initially entering the league.

Trainer Mark Young also played an essential role in keeping Sparkes’ equipment in check and being a positive influence.

Sparkes is a native of Waterloo,

which made his time as a Golden Hawk all the more special, “It has been special getting the chance to attend university here and represent one of the universities in my hometown as an athlete.”

With a new team comes new expectations - not just from his coaching staff, but from Sparkes himself.

He’s currently focused on doing what he can to take his Heartlanders to the playoffs and hoping to score his first professional goal along the way.

“Trying to take it day by day and learn as much as I can in this opportunity I’ve earned,” said Sparkes.

While his time in Waterloo as a student-athlete is behind him, Sparkes still cherishes his time at Laurier.

“Thank you to teammates, coaches, and the student body for giving me some of the best years of my life. I had the time of my life being a Golden Hawk and wish nothing but the best for Laurier,” said Sparkes.

Iowa might be a long way away from Waterloo, but as Sparkes is well aware if you’re a Golden Hawk once, you’ll be a Golden Hawk forever.

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024

20 • SPORTS ATHLETIC COMPLEX HOURS GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 7-5

MONDAYS - THURSDAYS 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

WBASK at Queen’s ATHLETICS AND RECREATION CENTRE, KINGSTON L 56-75

FRIDAYS 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

SATURDAYS 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

SUNDAYS 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

COMPOSITE SCHEDULE THURSDAY, MAR. 7, 2024

WICK

SWIM vs U SPORTS Swimming Championships U SPORTS Championsips POINTE-CLAIRE AQUATIC CENTRE, QUEBEC

FRIDAY, MAR. 15, 2024

TRACK at U SPORTS Track & Field Championships U SPORTS Championships JAMES DALY FIELDHOUSE, WINNIPEG

FRIDAY, MAR. 8, 2024 SWIM vs U SPORTS Swimming Championships U SPORTS Championsips POINTE-CLAIRE AQUATIC CENTRE, QUEBEC TRACK at U SPORTS Track & Field Championships U SPORTS Championships JAMES DALY FIELDHOUSE, WINNIPEG Terpsichore University Dance Challenge RIVER RUN CENTRE, GUELPH

SATURDAY, MAR. 9, 2024 SWIM vs U SPORTS Swimming Championships U SPORTS Championsips POINTE-CLAIRE AQUATIC CENTRE, QUEBEC TRACK at U SPORTS Track & Field Championships U SPORTS Championships JAMES DALY FIELDHOUSE, WINNIPEG

MCURL at 2024 U SPORTS/Curling Canada University Championships FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK Be U Varsity Challenge LIVING ARTS CENTRE, MISSISSAUGA

SATURDAY, MAR. 16 , 2024 MCURL at 2024 U SPORTS/Curling Canada University Championships FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK Be U Varsity Challenge LIVING ARTS CENTRE, MISSISSAUGA

SUNDAY, MAR.17 , 2024 Be U Varsity Challenge LIVING ARTS CENTRE, MISSISSAUGA

FRIDAY, MAR. 22 , 2024 VIEW Dance Challenge Varsity MCINTYRE PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, HAMILTON

SATURDAY, MAR. 23 , 2024 VIEW Dance Challenge Varsity MCINTYRE PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, HAMILTON

SUNDAY, MAR. 24 , 2024 VIEW Dance Challenge Varsity MCINTYRE PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, HAMILTON

Terpsichore University Dance Challenge RIVER RUN CENTRE, GUELPH

JANUARY SCORES

SUNDAY, MAR. 10, 2024

THURSDAY, FEB. 1, 2024

Terpsichore University Dance Challenge RIVER RUN CENTRE, GUELPH

WHOCK vs Waterloo Battle of Waterloo SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO, MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX L 2-3

TUESDAY, MAR. 12, 2024 MCURL at 2024 U SPORTS/Curling Canada University Championships FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 13, 2024 MCURL at 2024 U SPORTS/Curling Canada University Championships FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK

THURSDAY, MAR. 14, 2024 MCURL at 2024 U SPORTS/Curling Canada University Championships FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNS-

FRIDAY, FEB. 2, 2024 WCURL vs York OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 10-1 MCURL vs Guelph OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 6-4 WCURL vs Toronto OUA Championships

GUELPH W 7-2 MCURL vs Brock OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 6-3

MHOCK vs RMC SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX W 5-2

THURSDAY, FEB. 8, 2024

MCURL vs Waterloo OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 6-4

FRIDAY, FEB. 9, 2024

MBASK at Queen’s ATHLETICS AND RECREATION CENTRE, KINGSTON L 68-84

WHOCK at TMU MATTAMY ATHLETIC CENTRE, TORONTO L 0-3

SATURDAY, FEB. 3, 2024

WBASK vs Windsor ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 65-62

RING vs Guelph L 1-3 MCURL vs York OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 8-1 WCURL vs Queen’s OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 3-2 WHOCK vs Western SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX L 1-4 WBASK at Ontario Tech CAMPUS RECREATION & WELLNESS CENTRE, OSHAWA W 87-53 MCURL vs Windsor OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 7-2 MBASK at Ontario Tech CAMPUS RECREATION & WELLNESS CENTRE, OSHAWA L 89-100 MHOCK vs Queen’s Senior Night SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX W 4-2 WCURL vs Trent OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 5-2

SUNDAY, FEB. 4, 2024 WCURL vs Queen’s OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH L 3-6 MCURL vs Laurentian OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB, GUELPH W 8-2 MCURL vs Toronto OUA Championships GUELPH CURLING CLUB,

RING at Guelph Guelph Tournament L 3-7

RING vs Laurentian Guelph Tournament W 6-4

MHOCK at Windsor CAPRI PIZZERIA RECREATION CENTRE, WINDSOR L 2-4 MBASK vs Windsor ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 83-70

SATURDAY, FEB. 10, 2024 RING vs Nipissing Guelph Tournament W 2-1 RING vs Carleton Guelph Tournament L 1-3 WHOCK at York CANLAN ICE SPORTS, TORONTO W 6-2 WBASK vs York Embrace your Culture ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 86-56 MBASK vs York Embrace your Culture ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO L 80-81

SUNDAY, FEB. 11, 2024 MHOCK vs Nipissing SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX W 5-4

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 14, 2024 MHOCK at Toronto OUA West First Round VARSITY ARENA, TORONTO W 7-4

FRIDAY, FEB. 16, 2024 WBASK vs Toronto ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 87-52 WHOCK vs Waterloo Battle of Waterloo & Senior Night SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX W 2-1

MBASK vs Toronto ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO L 75-77

SATURDAY, FEB. 17, 2024 MHOCK vs Toronto OUA West First Round SUN LIFE FINANCIAL ARENA, WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX W 5-3 WHOCK at Waterloo Battle of Waterloo DAN SNYDER ARENA, ELMIRA L 2-5 WBASK vs Western Senior Night ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 79-68 MBASK vs Western Senior Night ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO L 76-79

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21, 2024 WBASK at McMaster OUA West First Round BURRIDGE GYM, HAMILTON L 71-72 MHOCK at TMU OUA Quarterfinals MATTAMY ATHLETIC CENTRE, TORONTO L 1-4 MBASK vs York OUA West First Round ATHLETIC COMPLEX GYM, WATERLOO W 78-72 WHOCK at Waterloo OUA Quarterfinals CIF ARENA, WATERLOO L 3-4

FRIDAY, FEB. 23, 2024 MHOCK vs TMU OUA Quarterfinals PILLERS ICE HAUS, RIM PARK L 1-5

SATURDAY, FEB. 24, 2024 MBASK at Western OUA Quarterfinals ALUMNI HALL, LONDON L 72-92 WHOCK vs Waterloo OUA Quarterfinals PILLERS ICE HAUS, RIM PARK L 1-2

THURSDAY, FEB. 29, 2024 RING vs Brock Provincial Championships Cambridge Sports Park RING vs Western Provincial Championships St. Jacobs Arena