13 June 2018

FEATURE

Here and proud

Pride 2018 brings communities closer PAGE 8

NEWS

Unpacking the budget Here’s where the money is going at the U of M PAGE 3

COMMENT

Private profit, socialized cost Winnipeg fronts bill for Whiteout Parties PAGE 7

SECTION

Mind mysteries U of M program looks to unlock genetic expression PAGE 4

VO L 1 0 5 · N O 3 0 · J U N E 2 0 1 8 · W W W.T H E M A N I TO B A N .CO M

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Index

VOL. 105 NO. 30 June 13, 2018

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Garett Williams

editor@themanitoban.com / 474.8293

BUSINESS MANAGER Sohni Tappia

accounts@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Sydney Last

ads@themanitoban.com / 474.6535

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR Malak Abas

me@themanitoban.com

NEWS EDITOR Malak Abas

news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

NEWS EDITOR Ryan Stelter

ryan@themanitoban.com

COMMENT EDITOR Jacob Singleton

comment@themanitoban.com

ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Braiden Pergis

arts@themanitoban.com

SPORTS EDITOR Jason Pchajek

sports@themanitoban.com

COPY EDITOR Matthew Doering

copy@themanitoban.com

DESIGN

DESIGN EDITOR Kellie Huynh

design@themanitoban.com

GRAPHICS EDITOR Evan Tremblay

graphics@themanitoban.com

ARTS & CULTURE

PHOTO EDITOR Asha Nelson

Knowing the Struggle

photo@themanitoban.com

PHOTO AND VIDEO EDITOR Quincy Houdayer quincy@themanitoban.com

LGBTTQ* community dissects stereotypes PAGE 10

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTORS Varshana Lockman Kenny Ingram

EDITORIAL

MANITOBAN

Trans Mountain for the few

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A function of a capitalist state

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From Europe with love

Bison soccer recruit brings international pedigree PAGE 12

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News

News Editors: Malak Abas & Ryan Stelter Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Tuition fees increase as funding falls

Budget 2018-19 brings cuts to research, rise in fees MALAK ABAS, STAFF

PHOTO BY CAROLYNE KROEKER

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his fall, U of M students will demic) Janice Ristock has referred decentralized stance to fund allocaMost of the University Fund, find themselves dealing with the to $60 million in bursaries and schol- tion, and the changes made incentiv- $85.2 million, is returned to faculties repercussions of changes initiated by arships distributed annually by the ize revenue growth within academic through a grant-giving process that the provincial government — primar- university as one method the U of M units. Academic units that partake in allocates money based on several facily, increased educational expenses. takes to meet the needs of students. activities contributing to the U of M’s tors, including revenue generated.

Both undergraduate and graduThe province has also reduced 10.4 net finances receive more in terms of The Rady faculty of health sciate students will see the maximum per cent of its funding for Access budgeted funding. ences receives $23.5 million from the allowable 6.6 per cent rise in tuition grants, an extended education proThe General Operating Fund fund, which translates to about 12.8 fees. This comes after the provin- gram that provides academic support, revenue for the 2018-2019 year is just per cent of its $183 million revenue. cial government passed Bill 31, the personal support and financial assis- over $663.9 million, with 53 per cent The faculty of science receives Advanced Education Administration tance to students, with preference coming from government grants. $848,000, 0.9 per cent of its overall Act, in November, lifting a cap on given to Indigenous students, stuAt the faculty level, the majority revenue of just under $90 million. tuition hikes that had been in place dents from Northern areas, newcom- of revenue is generated by the Rady The faculty of arts receives $674,000, since 2012. ers to the country 0.7 per cent of its When combined with an expected and low-income of $93.4 “Sadly we need to recognize that there really is revenue 0.5 per cent increase in enrolment, the earners. million. increased fees are expected to generThe recent cuts not [$9.5] million in additional revenue because The expenses ate an additional $9.5 million in rev- follow a trend of of the Rady facwhat critics are the university’s operating grant was cut by the ulty of health scienue for the university.

But the increases follow a pro- calling dwindling province by a similar rate when adjusted by ences are similarly vincial budget in March that saw provincial support disproportionate support for universities fall by 0.9 for post-secondary inflation” — Jakob Sanderson, UMSU president — 72.8 per cent per cent, leading UMSU president education, includcompared to the Jakob Sanderson to point out that ing the 2017 nixing faculties of scithe additional revenue is not entirely of an income tax rebate offered to faculty of health sciences, with a rev- ence and arts that devote 42.2 and 49.6 what it seems. graduates working in Manitoba. enue of just over $183.1 million, with per cent of their revenue to expenses, “Sadly we need to recognize that Premier Brian Pallister said at the the faculties of arts and science com- respectively. there really is not [$9.5] million in time the program “wasn’t working,” ing in a distant second, with $93.4 Other allocations for the fund additional revenue because the uni- and added “the thing we should be million and $89.9 million in revenue, include support for the Senior versity’s operating grant was cut by doing with those resources is lower- respectively.

Canada 150 Research Chair’s research, the province by a similar rate when ing the barriers to entry in the first Of the total, a portion from new faculty member salaries, research adjusted by inflation,” Sanderson said. place.” each academic unit augments the start-up funds and $2.1 million to help Sanderson added that if there is University Fund, bringing it to a international students transfer their additional revenue being generated, Unpacking Budget total of $100.8 million. These funds, healthcare plans. he hopes the university will choose to 2018-2019 also collected through taxes on alloThe provincial government also put it toward “improving educational This marks the first year of a new cated tuition and grant revenues, are slashed $3 million from funding to standards.” budgetary model at the U of M. invested in the university’s strategic Research Manitoba, which provides Provost and vice-president (acaThe new model takes a more priorities. funding to research in the health,

natural and social sciences, of which the University of Manitoba is the primary beneficiary. This follows a $2 million cut in 2017. A $1.65 million allotment of total funding is going to expenses previously afforded by Research Manitoba.

From the University Fund, $900,000 is being allocated to “continue to support the objectives identified in the agreement between the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and the University,” and $500,000 is set aside for to the 2018-2019 Indigenous Initiatives Fund, which supports projects relating to Indigenous achievement.

So, what’s next?

Sanderson added that working on contributing to a more sustainable budget plan for next year are goals UMSU will be working to achieve over the upcoming school year.

Sanderson stressed that both himself and Sarah Bonner-Proulx (VP Advocacy) voted against the tuition increase in the board of governors.

Sanderson and his team are planning to work with a student-led accessible education working group, which will be struck at the next board of directors meeting, with the expressed purpose to "implement more open educational resources in classrooms to make course materials freely accessible for students."

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News

News Editors: Malak Abas & Ryan Stelter Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

Regenerative medicine generating research at U of M

U of M prof Mojgan Rastegar and students shine light on rare disorder VARSHANA LOCKMAN

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mbiguity shrouds the neurological processes of the human brain, despite new research continually being published that connects stem cells to brain health and regeneration.

The U of M's Mojgan Rastegar is an expert in this field. Her work focuses primarily on stem cell differentiation for the purpose of creating cell types that can be used to treat neurological disorders.

Rastegar is an associate professor at the University of Manitoba, and a senior scientist in the regenerative

PHOTO BY ASHA NELSON

medicine program in the college of medicine.

The program, launched in 2008, focuses on understanding the nature of stem cells and using them to develop regenerative treatments for a range of health issues. It is the first program of its kind in Western Canada.

“I think within the regenerative medicine [program], we have a very good team of experts on stem cell biology,” she said in a 2017 interview.

Rastegar and her team of research

students focus on a particular neurological disorder called Rett Syndrome, which is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene located on the X chromosome.

Rett Syndrome is rare, affects girls almost exclusively and results in a myriad of health issues, including intellectual disability and seizures.

“We are asking 'What is the unique characteristics of these human Rett syndrome brains?'” Rastegar said.

“So basically, what is going wrong at the molecular and cellular level that leads to compromised brain function in a patient with intellectual disabilities? So when we understand where the problem is, then we try to find a cure.”

The MECP2 gene makes a protein crucial for healthy brain development.

When the gene is mutated, it is either unable to make the protein or is not able to make enough for the brain to properly function.

The proteins produced from the MECP2 gene exist in two variants, called isoforms E1 and E2, and much of their research focuses on experimenting with these variants.

“The balance between these two [isoforms] is important,” Rastegar said.

“Because if [the expression levels of E1] is up, the cell seems to be okay, if

it is down, it causes Rett syndrome.

If this one is down, if E2 is down, [the cell] is okay. But if it’s up, it kills neurons, and it also [has] more oncogenic properties compared to the

mice, Rastegar used the grant to research a more parallel link between the mice and patients being studied by also using female mice in her work.

Rett syndrome “patients in humans are all females,” Rastegar said.

“Within the “Consider the complexity of the brain between mice and humans. So regenerative now you’re bringing the pre-clinical studies from the male mice to a medicine [program], female patient that is human. So a lot we have a very good of results that were done in pre-clinic [were] not really directly transferable.” team of experts on Her research continues to be stem cell biology” — supported by funding both within Canada and internationally, includMojgan Rastegar, ing the recent International Rett associate professor Syndrome Foundation Basic Research Grant Award.

Students within Rastegar’s other [isoform].” research lab have grasped this Through unique faculties like the opportunity. In May, a master’s regenerative medicine program, the student from Rastegar’s lab, who is U of M is a leading site for neuro- also the sister of the author of this logical research, and the world is article, was a finalist in the annual taking notice — Rastegar received Three Minute Thesis competition, in one of two awards from the Ontario which she unpacked Rett Syndrome, Rett Syndrome Association in 2016, and described her research, which which included a $25,000 research focuses on understanding the relagrant for a study where Rastegar and tionship between the mutated protein researchers observed both mouse and and DNA. human male and female brains with “I think, overall, the group that Rett Syndrome mutations. we have here is quite a strong group,” While studies typically use male Rastegar said.

International students feeling budget effects

U of M students agree hike in fees kills university’s competitive edge MALAK ABAS, STAFF

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s the provincial government loosens restrictions on tuition hikes and reduces funding supports to public university education, many international students feel they are bearing the brunt of the consequences.

The 6.6 per cent increase in tuition announced earlier this year applies to all undergraduate and graduate students, including those from outside of Canada who pay more than three times the fees of their resident counterparts.

A rise of 6.6 per cent translates to just under $300 for resident students, and just under $1,000 for international students.

Unique to international students, however, is the recent announcement that the province is scrapping their universal healthcare coverage to save $3.1 million. Manitoba is the first province in Western Canada to do so.

Cristina Aliu, an international student from Spain and vice-president of Arts Student Body Council, has already been forced to rethink the way she will approach her studies in the upcoming school year.

“These changes definitely affect my own experience here as an international student,” she said.

“As I will now have to rely more on scholarships to be able to afford

tuition and if I do not receive any, I may have to work extra hours this upcoming year to also afford all my living costs, resulting in less time to be focused on school.”

Chris Otisi, the 2017-2018 UMSU international student’s representative, said the changes will directly affect enrolment of international students.

“Without a doubt, international students compare which school will be best on the basis of tuition and quality of education,” Otisi said.

“With this increase in tuition, the University of Manitoba will witness a decrease in the admission of international students.”

Aliu noted the additional fees put the price of tuition for international students at the U of M closer to that of other Canadian universities, eliminating the low-cost factor that may have attracted many students to the university.

“Our presence in Manitoba greatly influences the economy and diversity for the better, and increasing tuition for international students would likely make it more attractive for some of us to study somewhere else,” she said.

International students make up about 18 per cent of the U of M’s student body.

These same students provide a significant amount of revenue to Canadian universities — Manitoba saw a 5.6 per cent increase in international university student enrolment last year, and overall international enrolment rose 10.7 per cent across Canada.

International students contribute over $8 billion annually to Canada’s

“These changes definitely affect my own experience here as an international student” — Cristina Aliu, vice president Arts Student Body Council economy.

It has also been argued by some, including NDP leader Wab Kinew, that Canadian universities use the inflated tuition fees of international students to keep domestic student fees low, and losing international

students by removing the U of M’s competitive edge in that regard will eventually cause resident student’s fees to rise even more.

The former NDP government first instituted universal health care for international students in 2012.

The U of M has since included $2.1 million in their 2018-2019 budget to assist international students in the transition from universal to privatelyfunded healthcare.

The budget agenda also notes that the U of M “values international students and is committed to providing them with supports to help them succeed in their chosen programs.”

Aliu said that while these funds will be “very helpful,” she still believes more could be done.

Otisi referred to the funds as “a start.”

UMSU president Jakob Sanderson said that the student union will continue to pressure the provincial government into reconsidering these recent changes.

“We will continue to advocate for more affordable education for international students,” he said.

“And we would warn the provincial government that they risk becoming a far less attractive option for international students if they continue

these types of dehumanizing measures, that will have negative effects on our campus and economy.”

Sanderson added that UMSU is currently involved in finding a healthcare provider that will allow students the highest level of coverage possible.

UMSU has unanimously supported international students’ issues in the past — in March, the students' union council encouraged its members to support petition E-1524, which calls upon Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Ahmed Hussen to allow international students to use full-time paid experiential and work-integrated learning experiences toward their residency applications.

Aliu said that while she has yet to receive any direct support in the process of helping her transition to private healthcare, she believes that the UMSU board of directors will provide support to her and other international students during this trying time.

“I know that UMSU will be working hard to make university more affordable for both international and domestic students, through new initiativesand that they will put the students’ interests first as opposed to monetary benefits,” she said.

Editorial Editor-In-Chief: Garett Williams Contact: Editor@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

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Trans Mountain was not nationalized for all Canadians Marx’s theory of the class nature of the state as relevant as ever JACOB SINGLETON, STAFF

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arl Marx called the fate of the Trans Mountain Pipeline system 170 years ago.

The announcement and details of the nationalization of the Trans Mountain pipeline system and expansion project evokes Karl Marx’s analysis of the capitalist state. In 1848 Marx wrote in the “Communist Manifesto” that “The executive of the modern state is but a committee for managing the common affairs of the whole bourgeoisie.”

For Marx, the capitalist state, with all its sweeping powers, was built to guarantee the profits of private industry. Marx’s analysis holds true as capitalist states routinely pay for industrial waste, suppress labour and ensure access to resources across the developing world. The nationalization of this pipeline by this government is a manifestation of Marx’s theory.

The federal government asserted that the expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline was in the national interest. Ostensibly, an

expansion would lead to thousands of permanent jobs — which it won’t — and, more importantly, it would triple the capacity to transport bitumen to the west coast. Without a doubt, it is in the national interest to ensure that the oil companies roosting in the tar sands triple their profits, if the nation is “but a committee […] for the whole bourgeoisie.”

And it is here that the genesis for the nationalization of Trans Mountain begins.

Even before the nationalization process began, the government was already acting as an arm of private enterprise. Kinder Morgan, the owner of the pipeline, announced that the planned expansion of the pipeline would not go ahead if the federal government had not cleared all opposition to the expansion by May 31.

In response, Minister of Finance Bill Morneau announced the government would “indemnify” the expansion of Trans Mountain against any holdups associated with “unnecessary

tag at $7.5 billion more. But, even $7.5 billion is far too conservative when you consider the fact that every inch of new pipeline is going to be met with activism, legal challenges and Indigenous peoples blocking construction on their land.

The Canadian government will build the expansion no matter the societal, environmental and fiscal cost.

What does the Canadian public get for all the cash they will front?

This luxury pipeline exudes the same quality as a 65-year-old moth-eaten fur coat. For example, just two days before the announcement to nationalize Trans Mountain, 4,800 litres of oil spilled from the aging pipeline. And that is just a fraction of the 146,400 litres spilled since 2011.

In terms of revenue, according to rates listed by the Association of Oil Pipelines, the Trans Mountain currently generates in excess of $300 million annually. This could potentially be a solid source of revenue for the federal government. It might fund green energies or expand social programs. Alternatively, the government could use the money to solve the water crisis on First Nation reserves PHOTO BY MATTHEW SAWATSKY that requires $3.2 billion to resolve — just about a quarter of the cost that delays that are politically motivated.” a hard May 31 deadline for assurances will be spent on the Trans Mountain This would mean paying Kinder by the federal government to have a pipeline and expansion.

Morgan the theoretical profits they clear pathway for the expansion to But a good manager of the affairs might have made if those unsavoury go forward, Kinder Morgan asked of the capitalist class would never “politically motivated” Canadians the government to do the impossi- allow a slice of the oil industry to be had never interrupted the pipeline ble. Legal challenges from B.C. and nationalized long enough to harness business.

First Nations could take months. its economic power for social good.

Moreover, Kinder Morgan is burThe federal government, since dened with $37 billion of debt and nationalizing the pipeline, has conThe Canadian would have needed $5.5 billion of tinually reassured the capitalist class loans from the government to build that the pipeline will not stay in the government the pipeline. Kinder Morgan was in public’s hands for long. Rather, the will build the no shape to build the expansion and government will steward the expandid not want to. sion into existence, and then unload expansion no The federal government, as only it. This doesn’t resemble working for a good manager could, did not allow the Canadian people. matter the societal, the pipeline expansion to die. The This is about ramrodding through environmental Liberals, after all, have the whole the expansion as quickly as possible capitalist class to look after. and then selling the pipeline and and fiscal cost.

So, Prime Minister Justin extension at a probable loss.

Trudeau’s government bought the Make no bones about it, the Private enterprise has always 65-year-old pipeline from Kinder nationalization of Trans Mountain had a contentious relationship with Morgan for the sum of $4.5 billion is for the oil companies and capitaldemocracy. on May 29, which they cannot even ist class.

Kinder Morgan, however, was sell for a profit since they overpaid Even after 170 years, Marx has never going to build the expansion for the pipeline by at least $1.2 billion. something to say about contemporary pipeline. At least their actions and Additionally, costed projections for Canadian politics. finances suggested this. By imposing the pipeline expansion list the price

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Comment Comment Editor: Jacob Singleton Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

City subsidizing Jets’ profits a fruitless venture True North gets the corporate welfare it wants, while taxpayers are on the hook KENNY INGRAM, VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTOR

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innipeggers love hockey and were thrilled when the Jets made the playoffs. Unfortunately, during the weeks and months that Winnipeg remained a contender, it was clear that under the guise of community spirit the real spirit of True North Sports + Entertainment has been one of greed and opportunism.

When our roads need repair, the city’s budget is tight, but when a sports team needs more profits the coffers are full.

Winnipeg Whiteout Street parties promised fun, attracted upwards of 20,000 fans and were arguably accessible — if you had ready access to a computer or mobile device with Internet when free tickets were made available. It is only now in the aftermath that the full cost of the event is coming to the surface. That cost was just shy of $2.2 million.

Remarkably, True North was only required to cover roughly half, while pocketing all $500,000 of beer revenue, and concurrently sticking the City of Winnipeg with a $962,000 bill it will be forced to cover with existing municipal budgets.

This bill is a despicable display of unnecessary corporate welfare.

True North’s Winnipeg Whiteout parties had a simple purpose: to generate hype and fervour for its products — namely being the Jets and Jets merchandise. With the parties’ central focus on stimulating profits for a private franchise, and not on the betterment of our city, the nearly $1 million in taxpayer funds were misused.

This brings to light a recurring

phenomenon in the sports industry, and large industry in general: corporations privatizing profits, while socializing costs.

South of the border, hundreds of millions of dollars in public funds are being used to build gigantic billiondollar stadiums for privately-owned sports teams.

In the fossil fuel industry before the introduction of a carbon tax, oil companies were making record profits yet were nowhere to be seen when their byproduct caused billions in damages in the form of drought, floods and wildfires.

Amazon announced, with a request for proposals that contained the word “incentive” 21 times, it would be looking for a new $5 billion headquarters and 238 cities entered a virtual bidding war over who could provide the most incentives.

In Winnipeg, the Whiteout parties represent only a small chunk of the corporate welfare given to True North. The company already receives about $14 million per year in kickbacks from amusement, property and business taxes, and revenues from government-owned video lottery machines in their sports bar.

When roads need repair, the city’s budget is tight, but when a sports team needs more profits, the coffers are suddenly full.

As it stands, Winnipeg’s elected officials continue to provide gigantic incentives for a corporation that does not require them.

True North has been a WinnipegAs though to insult every taxpayer, The complaints and threats from based investment firm since its con- True North executives threatened to True North have little to stand on. ception, with most of its investments stop hosting the events asserting that The $2.2 million for Whiteout parlocalized to the Winnipeg metro- if someone suggested the responsibil- ties and $14 million in incentives are politan area. There is little evidence ity to pay for all the costs was theirs, merely a drop in the ocean of profits to suggest that True North would Winnipeg would see an end to the the company is making with the help ever consider moving its franchise to Whiteout parties. of Winnipeggers. another city. And while the company All coming from a corporation It seems as though it is now the pockets revenue from tickets, conces- with a multi-billionaire owner of a norm for corporations to expect sions and advertising, it continues to team that made nearly US$120 mil- these incentives that were originally have no issue collecting taxpayer sub- lion in revenue for the 2016-17 season intended for economic stimulus. sidies to further feed its shareholders. alone.

When taxpayer dollars make up

PHOTO BY MEGAN COLWEL

over 10 per cent of the revenue of a franchise, it is no longer economic stimulation but corporate welfare.

Winnipeg must look into alternative ways of achieving a balanced approach of having an entertaining team the whole city can enjoy, while not allowing taxpayers to be defrauded out of millions of dollars.

Features Contact: features@themanitoban.com / 474.6520

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We are Pride QUINCY HOUDAYER, STAFF

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An individual's hat sums up the message of Pride: "We are all human."

An elder joins in the grand entry of the second annual Two-Spirit Powwow at the Forks.

A couple walks in the parade.

ride month, and the festival and are there, year after year, to celebrate events that happen within, can who they are and to celebrate each be a beacon of controversy inside and other.

This collection of pictures is from outside the LGBTTQ* community.

Outside there can be a clashing this year’s Pride Parade, the Trans of fundamental beliefs between dif- March and Rally and the second fering viewpoints, while within the annual Two-Spirit Powwow.

LGBTTQ* community, there also lie These were only a few of the events differences and debate, such as ques- that went on over the course of the tioning the presence of uniformed Pride Winnipeg Festival from May police officers marching in the parade, 23 to June 3, drawing thousands of the idea that Pride should be kept a people to downtown Winnipeg. protest and worries about the festiThis coming together of a wide val’s increased corporatization. demographic of people continues These issues are important for to forge a place for Winnipeg’s the LGBTTQ* community to dis- LGBTTQ* citizens and works cuss and debate. As modern soci- toward establishing representation for ety changes, the various concerns groups that may not have always been that rise to the surface should be readily included in Pride’s history. acknowledged.

Pride is more than a parade or a But there is always something at festival at the Forks. Pride is the colPride that gives us hope for the future lection of individuals who endeavour and serves as a reminder of what lies to build and participate in a more at the core of this event — the people. inclusive, loving community within The event may change, societal this city. norms may fluctuate, but the people Happy Pride, Winnipeg.

A local United church joins in the 2018 Winnipeg Pride Parade.

VOL. 105 NO. 30 June 13, 2018

Features

(Right) Members and supporters of Winnipeg's trans and nonbinary community met outside the legislature to reinforce the theme of this year's Trans March, visibility.

(Far Right) Marchers walk down Broadway unfazed by a steady rain as they proceed to the main Pride festival grounds at the Forks.

A new generation of Pride goers represent their community and march in the parade.

Kelly Brown prepares for his role in the upcoming TwoSpirit Powwow.

A multitude of people came out to enjoy the festivities and different events, including the second annual Two-Spirit Powwow, the Pride Parade and Festival, the Trans Rally and March and more.

Arts & Culture Arts & Culture Editor: Braiden Pergis Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

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Taking pride in who they are LGBTTQ* community opens up about belonging and identity BRAIDEN PERGIS, STAFF

PHOTO BY QUINCY HOUDAYER

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he LGBTTQ* community and its allies look at the origins of stereotypes and the definition of pride, while celebrating at the annual Pride Winnipeg Festival.

Pride Winnipeg’s goal is to create and host an annual festival that reflects its values, promotes equality and praises Winnipeg’s gender, sexual and relationship-diverse communities.

“Pride is about celebrating the history of the LGBTTQ* community and its achievements, while acknowledging that we have so much more work to do globally and here at home,” Trevor Smith, a member of the LGBTTQ* community, said.

“We must not lose sight of the fact that pride is, at its heart, a protest.”

Karan Saxena, the co-chair of the U of M’s UMQueer student group, said students were able to get more involved with the festival due to more advertising through media and word of mouth.

“I was able to see what Pride meant for different people and that was a really good perspective for me,” Saxena said. “It’s just this beautiful conglomeration of different people of the community and people are very willing to acknowledge their privileges to reach out to different community members and to listen to their struggles. It’s a great way for allies to come in and learn on how they can help people.”

Muhammad Ahsan, vice-president of community engagement for Pride Winnipeg, said the event is about inclusivity and partnership between allies.

painful,” he said.

He added that everyone participating in pride should approach it in their own way. At the first Pride festival he attended he went in a mask to maintain his own level of privacy.

“I was able to see what pride meant for different people and that was a really good perspective for me” — Karan Saxena, co-chair, UMQueer

Stereotypes

“Personally, pride is the ability to be yourself regardless of whether you are LGBTTQ* or not,” he said.

“Just accepting yourself because those of us who come from countries where being LGBTTQ* is criminalized, there’s still underground pride events happening. That gives surety to other community members that there is someone who is able to see you, someone who’s able to recognize you and validate you.”

“It’s super important for human beings to know that there are people who are able to see them, not see through them […] If you’re forced to mask your identity, it can be very

Despite activism and increased visibility in popular media, stereotypes remain rampant in cinema.

In 2017, GLAAD, a nongovernmental organization that monitors LGBTTQ* media representation, reported that “18.4 per cent of [Hollywood’s film] industry’s top 125 films included a LGBTTQ* character.” The report also highlighted how movies such as Zoolander 2 set up these characters as punchlines.

“I attribute [stereotyping] to representation and media,” Saxena said.

“There’s nothing worse than hearing things like ‘Huh, all I wanted was a gay best friend.’ When you watch shows, representation matters so much because not until very recently will you see all people from the LGBTTQ* community, [as anything other than] embodiments of stereotypes and nothing else.”

Saxena said that allies and those unfamiliar with the LGBTTQ* community are not to blame for those assumptions, adding that “A big part of getting rid of these assumptions is to be patient and to educate others.”

“When you see something, you will

relate that to your life, so if some- to accept LGBTTQ* people. To him, body acts stereotypically flamboyant, representation is helping to take the you would think that they are gay,” next steps forward. he said. “That’s what the media has “I gave a speech at Pride a few taught you [and] that’s what people years back about relations between around you have taught you […] and the community and our allies and a large part of eradicating that is the main thrust of my speech was through actual representation and ‘I would rather people ask ignonot only in media, but in different rant questions than make ignorant aspects of life. assumptions,’” he said.

“You can learn a lot from your coSaxena said he looks at time worker who identifies as a member in relation to social change, when of the LGBTTQ* community and examining the possibility of complete is not a stereotype in any form.” acceptance.

Ahsan said it is important that “I really don’t think that in the LGBTTQ* characters are cast near future it’s going to be 10 times beyond the stereotypes. better because these things take a “Of course, people need to stop lot of time,” Saxon said. “Only until casting [the flamboyant stereotype], very recently we are getting rid of all but some of us are those stereotypes,” the sexist policies that exist in the he said. “Some community members workplace and we are getting more may be very flamboyant and very towards consent culture, however, sassy and full of expressions, and the media keeps representing rape full of light and energy. They need culture, so it’s hard to be in society to be represented too, but only that educating other people, whereas kind of representation also leads to a media is not ready to do that. stereotypical ideology right there, in “If the media really is willing to that all the LGBTTQ* are like that.” change and we are able to see more He continued on to say that the representation, and meanwhile see media is changing so LGBTTQ* more work alongside that representacharacters are not stereotypically tion, things will get better.” funny, flamboyant or promiscuous.

More resources and information about the LGBTTQ* community, idenChanging times and tity and belonging can be found at the resources to help websites for “Like That” at Sunshine LGBTTQ* people House, Pride Winnipeg, Two-Spirited Smith said that from his own People of Manitoba Inc. and Rainbow experience, society is moving forward Resource Centre.

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Sports Sports Editor: Jason Pchajek Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Valour FC unveiled at IGF Winnipeg professional soccer club to begin play next spring JASON PCHAJEK, STAFF

T

he professional sporting land- to be successful across the country Military inspiration when you grow up,” Clanachan said scape in Winnipeg just got a little and we look forward to having a The name Valour FC was inspired to the hundreds of youth players in more crowded. great franchise here, Valour FC in by the unique story behind Valour attendance After more than a year of specula- Winnipeg, starting next year.”

Road.

It has not been stated by the league tion by fans and media, Valour FC Miller said Valour and the Blue Three men from the same street in if they will ensure Canadian develwas officially announced during an Bombers will have a close relation- Winnipeg — Frederick William Hall, opment through a domestic signevent at Investor’s Group Field on ship, but gave no specific indication Leo Clarke and Robert Shankland — ing quota as in the CFL, however June 6. on what the partnership will look like. all volunteered to serve during WWI. according to Miller it is not out of The team is one of five confirmed He did, however, indicate that the Only Shankland survived. the question. members of the newly formed organizational infrastructure already All three were awarded the A domestic quota “is still being Canadian Premier League (CPL) and in place will be an asset.

Victoria Cross and their street — worked out, but this is a Canadian will take to the field when the league Pine Street — was renamed Valour league so there will be Canadians and officially opens play in spring 2019.

Road in their honour in 1925.

Internationals,” Miller said.

“We want you “That’s still what the soccer opera“Any time you can honour the Blue and Gold connection military and honour what individu- tions team across the country is workplaying for this team Valour FC will be operated by als have done, we’re going to take ing on, what those numbers should the Winnipeg Football Club (WFC), that opportunity,” Miller said. “I be, to put a very competitive and very when you grow up” the same non-profit organization just think it’s fitting for the team in skilled product on the field. And over — David Clanachan, in charge of the Winnipeg Blue Winnipeg to be called Valour FC.” time you’ll see that number grow of Bombers. During a press conference The team will wear the colours Canadians, so we’ll see where that Commissioner, following the announcement, WFC “Valour Maroon,” “Wheat Gold” and ends up.”

Canadian Premier president Wade Miller mentioned “Earth Black.”

There has been no mention yet as that the organization was adamant to how the league’s rosters will be League about bringing professional soccer ‘By Canadians for Canadians’ filled out, with all teams starting to Winnipeg.

A point stressed by the speakers from scratch. However, indications “We’ve been working on this for a during the announcement was that from the league website point toward long time,” Miller said.

“The benefit we have is that we the CPL will be “By Canadians, for walk-on tryouts being held, as well “Over four years to get in at the already have that infrastructure for Canadians.” League commissioner there will likely be direct scouting start of the league, and I think it’s sports entertainment operations,” David Clanachan noted the league and signing by teams. just great for Canadian soccer players Miller said. “We’re able to really wants to develop “hometown heroes” and Manitobans that we’re going to leverage our resources and be able to and make the league the desired The U SPORTS opportunity have our own domestic league. The support both teams.” option for Canadian soccer players.

Unlike for the other major sports Canadian Premier League is going “We want you playing for this team leagues in Winnipeg, the road to

become a CPL player is not clearly defined. However, this may provide an opportunity for U SPORTS — and the U of M Bisons — to grow alongside Canada’s newest professional league.

There are currently 48 men’s soccer clubs in U SPORTS, providing a solid player base to draw from once the CPL begins drafting rosters.

A recent report released by U SPORTS does show that the Men’s Soccer Sport Technical Subcommittee plans to hold discussions with the CPL regarding player drafting. Further, a committee to hold ongoing discussions with the league has already been created.

U SPORTS is already a feeder system for the CFL, with 21 Canadian university grads on the Blue Bombers roster alone. Among the U SPORTS players are Bisons products Thomas Miles, Kienan LaFrance and Nic Demski.

Whether the CPL goes the same route remains to be seen.

However, with season ticket deposits approaching 700 heading into the weekend following the event, excitement is building around Valour FC.

From Wolverhampton to Winnipeg

Bison soccer recruit Katelyn Isfeld has spent time training in Europe RYAN STELTER, STAFF

B

ison women’s soccer recruit Katelyn Isfeld has some international experience on her resume.

The midfielder comes to the Bisons after training with the Wolverhampton Wanderers in England and Rome’s women’s team in Italy.

Isfeld — a Linden Christian School graduate — attended a camp in Winnipeg put on by the Wanderers and was then invited to a training camp in Arizona.

She was then invited to train with Wolverhampton in England for a week in May 2017.

“It was so crazy because obviously in Winnipeg we don’t take soccer as seriously as they do,” she said. “It was pretty crazy to be in a place where

they take it so much more seriously, said. “I was not as good as them but with soccer academy Pro Calcio. She like how we look at hockey.”

I could keep up which was a pretty was then invited to spend a month Isfeld said she was struck by how good feeling and be able to compete with Rome’s women’s team. the level of play matched up to what with those girls.”

In Rome, Isfeld got to participate she had seen in Canada.

Only months after returning in scrimmages with the national “Honestly I was surprised because home from England, Isfeld got a club and attended a match as well. their level of play Rome’s women’s isn’t that much team plays in “Honestly I was surprised because their better than ours Serie A, the highis,” she said. “I est division in the level of play isn’t that much better was expecting country. than ours is” — Katelyn Isfeld them to be just “That was really amazing, but I cool because honestly think you’re with all that our Canadian teams could actu- chance to go to Italy. Diego Reveco, these players and they actually get ally match up with them.” a Winnipegger who plays in Italy, paid for what they do,” Isfeld said.

Isfeld was able to keep up with the came with his coaches to run a camp “So you’re playing with like 25-yearpace of play against English players in Winnipeg in the summer of 2017. old women who are all competing for on the pitch.

Isfeld impressed at the camp and a spot on this team so it was really “I could compete with them,” she was invited to train for a week in Italy intense.”

Compared to playing in England, Italy had a different challenge — the language.

“That was way rougher than being in England because you didn’t understand any of the coaches so it was really hard,” she said.

During her experiences across the pond, Isfeld said she realized the dream of playing professional soccer is possible.

“I think the biggest thing I took away was the dream of playing pro soccer isn’t actually as far away as you think that it is,” she said.

“It’s always just been something that I thought of wanting to do, like the ultimate dream but I never thought I could actually make that.”

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Sports

Sports Editor: Jason Pchajek Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529