news 2
thursday, september 22nd, 2016
THE xaverian Sept 22 2016 Vol 125: Issue 2
OUR TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Emily Keenan xw.eic@stfx.ca Bloomfield 111E T 11-5; W 12-2 R: 11-1; 2-5; F 12-4
ARTISTIC COORDINATOR Devon Chisholm xw.artistic@stfx.ca MULTIMEDIA COORDINATOR Mackenzie St Laurent xw.media@stfx.ca COPY EDITOR Misha Bakshi xw.copy@stfx.ca NEWS EDITOR Marek Viezner xw.news@stfx.ca OPINIONS EDITOR Sebastian Jurga xw.opinions@stfx.ca FEATURES EDITOR Sarah Patzelt xw.feature@stfx.ca ARTS&CULTURE EDITOR Mallori Inzinga xw.culture@stfx.ca DISTRACTIONS EDITOR OPEN email xw.eic@stfx.ca SPORTS&HEALTH EDITOR Shelbi Kilcollins xw.sports@stfx.ca SENIOR REPORTERS Claire Keenan Ian Kemp Georgy Pyle OPEN STAFF WRITERS Nat Krieger Jane Stevenson OPEN COLUMNISTS Chloe Brown Cal Dewolfe Rachel Revoy DISTRIBUTIONS MANAGER Victoria Morgan xw.distributions@stfx.ca xw.eic@stfx.ca for general inquiries xw.managing@stfx.ca for advertising
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StFX in World War 1 & World War 2 How STfX Played a role in World War I & II, And how WWI & II Played a role in StFX
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The Xaverian Weekly is the official student newspaper of St Francis Xavier University. The Xaverian Weekly is published on Thursdays by the Xaverian Weekly Publications Board and is editorially autonomous.
EDITOR: MAREK VIEZNER xw.news@stfx.ca
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Gabriel Richards Features Editor With information from interviews with Dr. Barry MacKenzie, Dr. Katherine Edwards, and from the book The History of St. FX By James Cameron Before the start of the First World War, St. Francis Xavier University looked, and worked very differently than it does today. The University pretty much consisted of Xavier Hall, and a few smaller surrounding buildings, but wasn’t nearly the campus that it is today. Then, in the years leading up to the outset of World War One, some new buildings were built as part of an expansion to the campus due to a rise in enrolment. The gymnasium (what we now think of as the Bower Theatre), and Mochler Hall (which we now think of as the Coady Institute) was built with a chapel, a library, and a small science hall. Along with all of the physical changes to campus, the school had also undergone a transformation of ideals and purpose. The administration had been trying to bring the school into the 20th century, by increasing faculty, and creating programs in sciences as opposed to a mainly liberal arts-focused school, along with priesthood training. So things were going quick well for little old X going into 1914, enrollment was very good, and the new buildings and faculty were sure to keep increasing enrollment, but the war made things a lot tougher. Enrollment dropped from about 218 in 1913 to just 121 by 1918, and the university was teetering on serious financial instability. Many things led to the drop in enrollment, including many potential students enlisting in the war, working with the war effort instead of following their studies to university, as well as some families needing their children to stay home because other family members were serving somewhere in the war. However, Cameron is noted for having said that some students came to the university who without the war and the boost in the economy it brought, couldn’t have afforded it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t just the drop in enrollment that made things so difficult, the war effort was affecting almost every aspect of university life. Four members of the university faculty (about a quarter) left to serve, including Father Miles Tomkins to be a military Chaplin, who had beforehand been running Mt. Cameron Farm, that supplied all of the food to the university
campus. One can imagine the devastating effects that this had on campus life, campus morale, and even the quality of studies with the faculty being so understaffed. In the tough times, the university didn’t sit idly by, watching the war effort going on around them. In fact, despite its smaller size, St. FX did a lot for the war effort in the First World War. In the summer of 1915, President Macpherson guided the university to form a station of the Canadian Officers Training Core (the COTC) and 63 students signed up. This program was a training camp rather than anything run by the military, but it did so well that it attracted a recruiting officer who brought supplies and eventually recruited some of the students. The University also set up a station of the Canadian Army Medical Corps, which resulted in about 100 people drilling on campus, in an effort to keep up with the larger universities that had big medical and nursing programs, such as Dalhousie and McGill. In June of 1916, the Medical Corps got moved to Halifax before getting shipped off to England and eventually serving in France. Of those who were sent, there were 12 medical officers, 26 nursing sisters, and 118 officers and men, 60 of them were St. FX students and alumni. In fact, by the end of the First World War, 340 students and alumni of St. FX as well as the 4 faculty had served with 200 of them engaging in active service, and devastatingly, 34 of them losing their lives. After the war, students banded together to fundraise for a skating rink, as a way to commemorate those that they had lost, that was the Memorial Rink that stood where the PSC building is now, providing a place for students to get outside and get together in the memory of the fallen soldiers until around the turn of the century. After the war, the university recovered, enrollment spiked once more, and because of the economy during the war, more students could afford to go to university, and by about 1939, St. FX had 359 enrolled students. The students union was created in 1939, the university was once again planning a massive expansion to the campus, and had begun by building Morrison hall, taking out huge debts to do so, but unfortunately, the war got in the way of the plans again, this time the Second World War. The war effort needed almost all of the building materials, and strong working men, so there was no
way of moving forward with any of the expansion plans, instead, the university just had to manage to stay afloat Interestingly, unlike WWI, WWII created a boom in enrollment. By 1945, the university had 514 enrolled students, almost 200 more than it had at the start of the war. This boost in enrollment can be owed to a variety of reasons, some might have been avoiding enlistment, the economy was booming and many more families could afford to send a child to university, and in fact, the university was angling itself to men who wished to serve with more specific skills. The war had created a shift in the university towards sciences and engineering as the country as a whole tried to do everything that it would for the war effort. Not only were there more science and engineering programs, but the government was actively funding them and creating scholarships to send students who couldn’t afford it. Even further, the university was creating military specific courses, such as radio and navigation, for young men who wished to serve in radar units or such. All of this together meant that the university was full to the brim. With all of these students on campus and the war brewing on the horizon, the COTC returned to campus. It was then followed by the University Air Training Plan (UATP), and the University Naval Training Division (UNTD). There was training taking place in the gymnasium, and students signing up left and right, and the COTC had over 140 active members by 1940, just after the outset of the war. The COTC organized demonstrations, parades, inspections, lectures, and tried to get the university as involved as possible. Students also found a lot of other ways of getting involved. Many were involved in blood drives and blood donations throughout the war, sending gifts to soldiers, and creating ways of getting involved. The Xaverian Weekly, our very own paper, was staunchly behind the war effort and the allies, and their publications clearly reflect that. Similar to WWI, it wasn’t only the students who were getting involved, in fact, 6 faculty members of the university had enlisted, meaning that despite a large increase in enrollment, they were losing faculty, and the remaining faculty were doing more than double time. At the time there were probably only around 25 faculty in total, and losing 6 would have meant that there was a lot of slack to be taken up. By the end of the war, 749 students and alumni of St. Francis
Xavier University had served, and tragically 49 lost their lives. The students, perhaps driven by the creation of the memorial rink 30 years earlier, began fundraising to build a memorial stadium to honor the sacrifices of those in the second world war. We now call this Memorial Field, in front of Bishops Hall. After the Second World War, the University saw another spike in enrollment, as many veterans had returned and were now getting educated, as well as the University’s new science and engineering programs were in demand, and they were finally able to complete the expansion (a necessary feat considering how many students they now had), bringing the familiar places such as Cameron and McKinnon Hall. While both of the World Wars were devastating on the world, they provided opportunities for a low of growth for the university, and grow the university did.
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Take Back The Night Preet Banga News Editor
A large number of students and faculty marched through the StFX University campus on 22 October to raise awareness about gender-based and sexual violence and to send out the message that it is important to stand together and know that support exists. The annual “Take Back the Night” march, sponsored by the WMGS society, urged the participants to bring a phone or flashlight to “shine a light on sexual violence” and raise awareness about it. The goal of the “Take back the night” was to ensure that we eliminate sexual violence at the University and in all of our communities. It was all about reclaiming the night and the space that is associated with genderbased violence.
making the invisible visible. We know that you or someone close to you has been impacted by sexual violence, whether a sexist joke, derogatory comment about one’s gender, or an act of sexual assault. Sexual violence results in serious short and long term negative consequences for individuals, communities, and societies. At StFX, we know that in the past, some experience of sexual violence were not disclosed often because the person was trying to forget about it, felt it was a private matter, or wasn’t serious enough, thought it was their fault, or didn’t think anyone would help. It is serious, it is not your fault, and we will help, StFX has zero tolerance for sexual violence of any kind….”.
A book “Sexual Violence at Canadian Universities” says at least one in four women attending college or university will be sexually assaulted by the time they graduate. It sends chills down the spine of anyone to think how something as simple as walking back to the hostel or your apartment in the night is not safe
A number of resources are available at StFX such as the StFX Health and Counselling Centre and the Visible @ X Team. Off campus resources include the Antigonish Women’s Health Resource Centre and Sexual Assault Services Association, the Naomi Society. The crowd also raised a huge round of applause to Heather Blackburn, Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Advocate, who is instrumental in making the event possible.
It was heartening to see that all the participants adhered to social distancing norms and other restrictions due to the pandemic. A poster-making session was also organized by the StFX Women and Gender Studies Society before the rally.
Photos by Addy Strickland
Sarah Elliott, StFX Student’s Union President and Catherine Kennedy, the sexual violence prevention and response Advocate were the MCs for the night. The senior leadership at StFX wanted to attend the rally but were unable to do so because of an emergency senate meeting that was scheduled at the same time as the rally. However, their message was shared with the crowd and I would like to state it here because I think these were very powerful and impactful statements, statements through which we can hold them accountable. It stated, “Sexual violence has been invisible for far too long. We thank and commend the visible @ X team, the StFX Student’s Union, and the Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre, and the Sexual Assault Services Association for their leadership tonight for
Addy Strickland, the coordinator of the Peer Support Program as well as the Arts Section Editor also addressed the rally. Addy is a fourth year Honours student in the Department of Developmental Studies and is studying how we can use art and community to forward social change. Addy has been heavily involved in the sexual violence prevention and advocacy on campus and in her speech she provided details of the support being offered by the Peer Support Program at StFX, which is functional inperson this year at Bloomfield 417, MondayFriday 12-5 pm. Addy and Emma Kuzmyk realized the gaps in our campus’ mental health and sexual violence support services and spent a year and a half, building, researching, and convincing administrative members and Students Union that the program was necessary ad a valuable addition to student
wellbeing on campus. Addy says that, “It took a lot of convincing.” But finally resulted in the appointment of the Sexual Violence and Prevention Advocate, Heather Blackburn and the start of the Peer support program. The rally was also addressed by Carla Stevens, a Mi’kmaq woman, and a mother of three amazing daughters. She is the project coordinator of the Circles of Support project. She asked the crowd to observe a moment of silence to honor all the women victims of sexualized violence. She said: “I challenge you as students and scholars to no longer be by-standers and to take a stand against gender based and sexual violence in your community and university.” Last but not the least, Emma Kuzmyk who has worked for Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre, VP Academic for Student Union in 2019 and is a cofounder of Peer Support Program, said: “Not everybody gets to heal from the traumas of sexualized violence but those of us who do, should work toward building a safe community, where healing or being hurt is not something that is reserved for the lucky. You have a duty to the people who aren’t in the room. Please don’t forget about them. There are voices missing from our march today, there are faces who are not in the crows, and we can’t forget about the them, because when we use the word survive, it means that not everybody does. “ For those of us participating in the event for the first time, “Take Back the Night” is the earliest worldwide movement to protest gender-based violence. The phrase “Take Back the night” was used as the title of a 1977 memorial read by activist Anne Pride at an anti-violence rally in Pittsburgh. According to some reports, one of the first “Take Back the Night” marches was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in October 1975, after the murder of a microbiologist, Susan Alexander Speeth, who was stabbed to death while walking home alone.
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thursday, september 22nd, 2016
CountdowntoX-RingCeremony What to Expect This Year? Halle Cordingley News Columnist With November, the countdown to the much anticipated X-Ring Ceremony has started. The Ceremony takes place every year on December 3 and it is a tradition loved by the entire Xaverian community. It is celebrated as a traditional rite of passage for Xaverians that are moving into their next chapter of life. This year’s ceremony brings many challenges as the StFX community fights the coronavirus pandemic. I sat down with Shanna Hopkins, Director of Alumni Affairs and Murray Kyte, Vice President of Advancement, to talk about what we can expect from this year’s ceremony. The two had to introduce a number of changes this year to ensure everyone’s safety, but ultimately these changes allow for us to keep the ceremony in person. Murray explained that it was agreed that if the ceremony can be done safely it must happen as it is so important to the University and students. The plan for this year’s ceremony is very indefinite, and new challenges may result in some changes to the ceremony. Shanna also said that the plan was not concrete, she explained, “The plan is very fluid, and nothing is finalized.” Both Murray and Shanna are Xaverians themselves and understand the importance of the X-Ring and although there will be many changes, both are working very hard to ensure that the event can be the best it can be, while being as safe as possible. Shanna explained, “It’s something that
both Murray and I are very passionate about, as we are both Xaverians. We want to ensure there’s a way that we can safely and successfully host this event.” Some may wonder why the X-Ring ceremony will be inperson, while the Fall Convocation will be virtual. It is important to understand it has nothing to do with priority, but simply risk management. Many graduates that will be a part of Fall Convocation are not currently located in Antigonish and are outside of the Atlantic bubble, while majority of the students that will be participating in the X-Ring Ceremony are currently residing within Antigonish, making it much more possible to have an inperson X-Ring Ceremony. There is much thought going into planning the ceremony in order to ensure that everyone stays safe. As of now, the ceremony will have a very similar layout as the Xaverian Welcome but the major difference will be that while during the Xaverian welcome, students were spread out all across campus in different buildings, for the X-Ring Ceremony, they will be spread out within the Keating Centre. Students can expect to be placed in Coach K Court, The Auxiliary Gym, Conference Centre Rooms, and even the Auxiliary Rink. The ceremony’s traditional order will be flipped around, and the last part of the event will be receiving the ring. Within tradition, students will still get to receive their rings in the main Keating Centre, just in groups, at different times. Other changes from the past X-Ring ceremonies include mandatory masks,
reduced stage party, and a limited number of guests and faculty. Students will also not be allowed to take group photographs after the ceremony. It is also encouraged that family and friends are not invited to StFX or Antigonish to ensure the community stays safe. Additionally, it will be a requirement to RSVP in order to attend as exact numbers are needed to successfully plan this event. During the ceremony, students can expect to be socially distanced and to walk single file when going to receive their rings and during the lighting of the candles. It has also been announced that the Honorable Frank McKenna will be addressing the students during the ceremony.
have this year’s ceremony.” Meanwhile, as the organizers continue to think, plan and have many discussions with Public Health authorities, the StFX community continues to work together and follow safe practices to ensure the event can be held smoothly. Despite the many challenges faced when planning this special event, Shanna and Murray have been working very hard and understand the significance the X-Ring holds to students. Murray concluded by saying, “I’ve gotten a ring, Shanna’s gotten a ring, it is a
unique, shared bond between all Xaverians around the world. Many try to replicate us, but they can’t, there is only one X Ring!” Murray’s words hold true, despite the challenges we face as a community, we need to acknowledge how lucky we are as Xaverians to be able to still gather as a community and share the unforgettable experience of receiving the famous X-Ring that connects us all forever, symbolizes our hard work, friendships, and our one of a kind StFX experience.
Shanna and Murray are working closely with Frank McKenna and his team to ensure he can attend the ceremony and are very hopeful he will get to speak in person as he is currently within the Atlantic bubble. Ultimately, it is essential for the StFX community to understand the importance of continuing to follow public health safety guidelines to ensure the community stays safe from the virus. StFX is in a very special position in that we can still have these types of events. Murray stressed, “A message I would give to the students would be to carry on with staying safe, keep wearing a mask, maintain social distance, wash your hands, keep doing all the things everyone’s been doing because it has allowed us to do things that nobody else in the country can do.” It is critical that we as a community continue to do what we have been doing in order for us to
Want to see your writing in the Xaverian Weekly? Send us your submission at xw.eic@stfx.ca
opinions
5 EDITOR: SEBASTIAN JURGA xw.opinions@stfx.ca
A Part of the Community StFX vs X Will Fraser Editor in Chief I’ve recently been described as having “forgotten what it means to be part of the community,” because of some tweets about Mulroney Hall. To clear things up I want to tell you what it means to me to a member of this community. To frame this discussion, it’s important to differentiate between StFX, and X. StFX is the institution; it is the structures and decisions put in place by administrators to run this organization. X is the community; it is the body of students that live together, learn together, and become friends during their time at this university. Being a member of this community means holding the institution accountable and rejecting the decisions that hurt us. Students have a proud history of action. We have rallied
against sexualized violence, we’ve marched for racial equality, we’ve fought for our rights in response to the waiver. This is the essence of X. We come together en masse when we need each other, and we aren’t afraid to question authority. When we act, we are capable of making change to this institution. StFX on the other hand, puts up a veneer of caring. The performative emails and social media posts that exclaim commitments to equality and promises to change amount to nothing. Instead of funding increased supports for the most vulnerable members of our community, we build shrines to alumni. Instead of adequately funding student advisors, we rename a lounge and raise a flag. As students, we know that we have a choice to either fight or accept. Often, we accept, knowing that we’re unlikely to succeed. To me, being a member of the
community means the time I was invited to participate in a Smith House Colloquium on Free Speech. It means that when the senior admin were gathered in that living room trying to justify the idea of bringing Donald Trump to campus because “it would be huge for us,” I had to either speak up or maintain my relationship with the most powerful people at the university. To me, being a member of the StFX community means the time when I sat in my office listening to a student cry for two hours because they had been made homeless by a residence suspension. To me, being a member of the StFX community means when the university welcomes police to campus with open arms in the middle of the largest protests against police violence in history.
daily promises to change, and the daily failures to follow through. StFX is not a community. Being part of the X community means the time my neighbors in MSB all chipped in to buy care packages for each other during exams.
I go to StFX, but I belong to X. Being part of the X community means the creation of the Peer Support Program, solving a problem the university had failed to address. Being part of the X community means the time that students organized the largest protest march in Antigonish history in support of Black Lives Matter. Being part of the X community means the commitment to each other, and our willingness to change. X is a community.
To me, being a member of the StFX community means the
So, to the people who think
A Unique Remembrance Day This year marks the 102nd anniversary of the end of the Great War Brendan Boucher Staff Writer This year marks the 102nd anniversary of the end of the Great War and Canadians will be gathering in very different ways than past years. A tradition in Canada, along with most of the worlds western nations is to gather on November 11th, the anniversary of the end of World War 1 to honour and remember those who died fighting for our freedom. This year however, COVID-19 has made this nearly impossible for communities across Canada. In Antigonish, 2020 started off with a bright future for Legion Branch No. 59 as they moved the Antigonish cenotaph and First World War memorial from Chisholm Park to Columbus Field to accommodate the evergrowing crowds which gather in remembrance. The project
was reported across Nova Scotia and represented to many how Canada still deeply cares and is thankful for all the veterans that call Canada home. Unfortunately, the Legion will not be able to host a public service at the cenotaph this year due to concerns over the coronavirus. This year like many other events, Canadians are asked to stay home for Remembrance Day and use the day as a solum day of thanks and remembrance. The Royal Canadian Legion will continue this year like previous years to sell poppies at local businesses to raise money and give Canadians a chance to show their support for the Armed Forces without endangering public health. As Canada goes further and further into the 21st century, there remains fewer and fewer veterans of Canada’s participation in the major conflicts of the 20th century. The last veteran of
World War One passed away in 2010 at the age of 109, and World War 2 and Korean War veterans are now an average age of 88 and 95 respectively. This ushers in a generational change that will see Canada lose its elderly veterans and be forced to focus on the veterans of the 21st century war on terror, while not forgetting those who served in peace keeping operations in the 80’s and 90’s. Canada’s approach to caring for her veterans has changed, with advances in medicine there are less people walking with physical battle scars like amputated legs or arms, and more with mental and emotional scars like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The wars in the Middle East have created a middleaged veteran’s group that will need all our support for many decades to come and ask us to remember those who’ve died in pursuit of installing freedom to every corner of the world.
I’ve rejected the StFX community, you’re right. I reject your Mulroney worship, your lies, and your failure to act. If you want us back in the fold, take a note from the students. Follow through on your promises, start treating us as partners in education, and listen when we tell you what’s wrong.
There are young children still without mothers and fathers, and parents who were forced to bury their children before they had the chance to breed families of their own. Although some wars fade into the memory of Canadians, Canada must never forget the veterans who still live with those experiences every day and the loved ones of those who never came home. Surely there will be future world conflict that will see Canada send more of its young people to sacrifice their lives to protect their homes and their families. Students and young people must remember that they are only 1 day away from possibility being veterans themselves.
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thursday, september 22nd, 2016
culture
EDITOR: MALLORI INZINGA xw.culture@stfx.ca
Nova Scotia Kitchen Party The Ultimate Online Nova Scotia Kitchen Party Brings Joy Amidst Pandemic Blues Sophie Hadley Arts & Community Columnist Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all been experiencing the fatigue of social distancing, being away from those we enjoy spending time with. Though restrictions have opened to what we now refer to as a ‘bubble,’ large gatherings are still not permitted. This has inevitably caused muchloved events to be postponed or cancelled. Traditions of gathering with large, attimes rowdy groups of
friends, family, and strangers, have all been put on pause. The spirit of such traditions, however, has remained alive for many here in Nova Scotia since the very start of quarantine in March 2020. The Ultimate Online Nova Scotia Kitchen Party COVID-19 Edition Facebook group (UONSKP) has been steadily gaining momentum since it was first created on March 19, 2020. Following the shutdown of many businesses, and a mandate by the government regarding safe distancing, the group served as a space to
highlight the resiliency of many Nova Scotians and offered a place to support each other from afar. As an online recreation of the classic East Coast kitchen party, the videos of music shared amongst the group quickly became a hit with those who hold Nova Scotia near and dear to their hearts. Videos of families playing music, with some playing instruments like guitar, fiddle and even spoons, breathed life and hope into many of our lives once again. Given the uncertainty of the pandemic, many felt it was
nice to keep this tradition alive, albeit looking a little different from usual. If anything, the online format has given the traditional gatherings a broader audience, and has allowed more people to enjoy them. Some who have moved away from home have said that seeing so many people become involved has cured their homesickness, and allowed them to connect with their East Coast roots again. As the description promises, the idea of the Kitchen Party did indeed clear up some of the
pandemic fatigue we are all surely experiencing. The Facebook group is poised to clear up some of the “doom and gloom” on all of our Facebook feeds, and wished to flood them with kindhearted music and fun. No matter your musical abilities, the UONSKP offers a space to connect, and enjoy some long overdue party vibes from the comfort of your own home. Grab your bubble, grab some food, and sit down to enjoy – or dance it out – to performances some friendly faces around Nova Scotia, or abroad.
All Eyes on Mi’kma’ki Antigonish Residents Rally in Support of Mi’kmaq Rights to Moderate Livelihood Addy Strickland Arts & Community Editor On October 17, 2020, more than 300 people rallied in Chisholm Park to demonstrate their solidarity with Mi’kmaw fishers. The purpose of the rally was to demand that the RCMP and elected officials honour the Treaty of 1752, which guarantees the Mi’kmaq right to fish for a moderate livelihood, and to act to stop acts of violence and terror against Mi’kmaq fishers. This comes after a week of violence in Saulnierville, where white vigilantes have been cutting traps, raiding lobster pounds, and making threats against the wellbeing of Mi’kmaq people. The rally began at 6pm with a drum performance of “Honour Song” by Graham Marshall; Billy Joe Muese; Noah Mathews Crimons; Salena Sylvester; Charlotte, Margaret, and Dolena Poulette; and Michelle, Christina, and Rosie Sylliboy. Following the performance, a number of Mi’kmaq community members, as well as a few settlers, took the stage with words of outrage, encouragement, solidarity, and hope. Chris Frazer, professor of History at StFX, acted as the event’s emcee. An experienced organizer and activist, Frazer also played a large role in making the event happen. Among the speakers was Michelle Sylliboy, a Mi’kmaq artist from We’koqma’q Cape Breton and Professor of Art and Modern Languages at StFX University. Sylliboy emphasized the role of the 1752 treaty, stating that Mi’kmaq
people have been here for a very long time, and will be here for a very long time, despite government efforts to silence or ignore them; “we’re not going anywhere,” she said. She called on settlers—her allies and neighbours—to write their elected officials, and ask for justice. “That email that you send to the Prime Minister is a legal document, and they can’t ignore it … you voted them in. They work for you. It’s pretty clear that they don’t work for me anymore, but they work for you,” she said. Salena Sylvestor, a mom, leader, and Community Studies student who travelled to Antigonish from Membertou First Nation, also took the stage. Sylvestor was emotional, sharing her thoughts about ongoing events in Digby, and explaining to the crowd what was happening there; cut traps, flares, violence, fire. If these acts were being committed by Indigenous people, she stipulated, the RCMP would be employing force to make it stop. She asks, “where’s that force now?” Sylvestor was followed by Mary Isaac, who reminded the crowd about the real root of the issue. “This is about corporations trying to steal our natural resources and keep us fighting as a distraction,” she said, and encouraged everyone in attendance to “unite as one people” instead of resorting to violence and conflict. Dolena Poulette, from We’koqma’q First Nation, April and Darlene Prosper, from Paq’tnkek
First Nation, and Marin McBeath, a history student at StFX, also stepped up to the mic. While the speakers were on stage, two rubber boots also made their way through the crowd, collecting funds to be sent to the front lines in Digby and put towards buying necessary supplies. Attendees raised a total of $1145 in monetary donations, and event organizers are looking to collect further donations in material items to send along as well. Readers looking to lend support are encouraged to write, call, or email their elected officials to call for action. Monetary or material donations are also welcome. Charlotte Conolly, an activist from Halifax (K’jipuktuk), has created a list of the various places to donate, alongside templates for reaching elected officials, lists of most needed supplies, and trustworthy news sources; her list can be found online. The rally ended with a march, led by three young dancers, routed from Chisholm through the StFX campus. Marchers waved at the Antigonish RCMP station as they made their way back along West Street. A livestream of the event can found on The Xaverian Weekly’s Facebook page, here. A recording of the event will also be shared on this week’s episode of Social Justice Radio, Thursday at 5pm on 93.3 The Fox.
DOLENA POULETTE OF MEMBERTOU FIRST NATION GIVING THE OPENING PRAYER. Photo: Addy Strickland
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The Xaverian’s Holiday Choice Be sure to watch out for this great hoilday shopping guide coming out on our wesbite this week Sophie Hadley, Catherine Poag and Addy Strickland Around the holidays, and especially this year, it is important to support local businesses so that their doors stay open for us to enjoy in the coming seasons. In Antigonish, there is fortunately no shortage of businesses to choose from. Our team of staff are going from shop to shop to pick out the perfect holiday gifts to help make your holiday shopping easy and quick this year. We will include our personal favorite choices, which will hopefully
inspire you to do your holiday shopping locally. We have made your shopping easy this year for included in the article are suggestions, in various price ranges, for those of you who may be feeling that classic holiday buying fatigue. Happy Holidays!
Album review: GordDownie’s Away is Mine Jena Cook Staff Writer
On October 17, 2017, Gordon Edgar Downie died at the age of 53, after a short battle with glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. Tragically gone too soon. Gord Downie released both solo albums and was the lead singer of the Canadian rock band the Tragically Hip.
Gord’s brother, Patrick Downie, claimed that Gord worked throughout his entire cancer battle, as his passion for music was what kept him sane. All the songs in Away is Mine were written after his diagnosis. They were the last 10 songs that he both wrote and recorded. His second, but not final, posthumous album, Away is
Mine is two albums in one. First, a regular collection of new songs, and the second half are the same songs, yet entirely acoustic recordings. It was released on October 16, 2020. Marking 3 years after Downie’s death. The album is uplifting and unexpected for a posthumous album. The unedited acoustic version is raw and pure, focusing on his voice rather than the music. His entire album evokes
emotion and his voice is a perfect way to reminisce, this album filled with the last songs he sang before his death. The final song in the album, “Untitled,” is my personal favourite; it is also the one that touches on his disease. All 10 songs were recorded over a period of 4 days in July 2017 just two and a half months before his passing. I
recommend listening to the acoustic section before the others if you plan to listen to the whole thing.
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thursday, september 22nd, 2016
distractions
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EDITOR: NOW HIRING! email xw.eic@stfx.ca
Horoscopes Blanche Pagobo Distractions Columnist
Aries (March 21 – April 19) You will receive tenderness and care. If you are having conflicts with family or loved one, you will be able to improve your relationship and they will delight you with pleasant surprises. Take some short time off and plan a mini vacation. Postpone your shopping please. If you are single, you might be deeply invested in a new low affair. Taurus (April 20 – May 20) You are doing the right thing but this time, reconsider your principles and behavior. It’s difficult but try to restrain your emotions and don’t hit your loved ones with sharp words. Do not get involve in risky business this month because it’ll only waste your time and leave you disappointed. It’s better to use this time for self-improvement rather than search for love. Gemini (May 21 – June 21) You quarrel a lot with your family members because of your temper. Be more compassionate, otherwise you will be misunderstood. The same holds for work, do not show your tough character inappropriately. During the first half of this month, you will receive unpleasant news from your loved ones. Fortunately, a long-awaited purchase is also possible so take it easy. Cancer (June 22 – July 23) You have to reconsider your relationship with your family. Maybe it’s an old resentment but it is making you drift apart from your loved one and this person feels it. Try talking to them and build communication. Be careful with your spending because it might be possible that you won’t get the profit that you counted on. If you are lonely, this month promises a new acquaintance.
Leo (July 24 – August 23) Pay attention to your school issues this month. You built up a lot of unsolved cases and if you don’t get it together, you will end up exhausting yourself later. Put other people’s point of view for now so that you will avoid misunderstandings. If you plan on shopping for something that you can’t get out of your mind, then do it this month. Virgo (August 24 – September 22) Stop making impulsive purchases and try to balance your purchases. Devote the time to your studies as much as possible and you will gain success. Don’t miss your chance! Try not to listen too much to your loved one’s opinions since they do take offense because of your coldness. Libra (September 23 – October 22) If you have a project and you haven’t decided if you want to go forward with it yet, the stars advise you not to miss this chance. An opportunity will arrive and will bring you success and money. During the second half of the month, you will receive good news from your inner circle. An unexpected trip awaits you. Scorpio (October 23 – November 22) Think about every step you take otherwise the result of your decisions could be a high disappointment. Try and balance things out because you often take overwhelming and very risky tasks which affects your well-being. Be less demanding in your relationships with loved ones or you will experience serious conflicts and hard feelings. At the
Sagittarius (November 23 – December 20) There will be a huge improvement in your studies and work. If you get an offer or an opportunity, take it! This month will be a harmonious and favourable time in terms of family so bond and keep in touch with them. Relatives will bring you delight and you might also receive good news from friends. This month is going to be filled with trips. Keep in mind that we are still in the middle of a pandemic though! Capricorn (December 21 – January 20) You have been experiencing a lot of financial problems but this month you can finally get out of that continuous period. Everything is finally going to work out for you! Spend more time with your loved ones and take your time to relax and hear their opinions. They miss spending time with you. If you are single this month, this is your chance! Aquarius (January 21 – February 19) Supress your emotions otherwise you will end up being in a conflict with someone at school or home. Listen to others even though it feels like you are right about everything. Try not to make any serious purchase and you will get through this month just fine. Show gentleness in your relationships because they seek love and understanding from you. Spend some time with your friends and devote your attention to them. Pisces (February 20 – March 20) Be active and assertive this month. Don’t miss out on opportunities and feel free to take on anything that interests you. The first half of November is a great time to take a vacation. Harmony and mutual understanding awaits you within your household. Try to express your feelings more and spend more time with your loved ones.
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thursday, september 22nd, 2016
sports and health
EDITOR: SHELBI KILCOLLINS xw.sports@stfx.ca
Mental Health Resources Mental Health Resources Available On-Campus: How Are They Adapting Around Covid-19? Haillie Green Sports & Health Columnist This year has been one of the most stressful ones the StFX community has collectively experienced; not only are we exposed to the daily stressors of university life, but we are also juggling the whirlwind of challenges that have occurred from the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, those who were already dealing with mental illness often find their symptoms are exacerbated by the current situation, and even those who have not previously sought out mental health resources are doing so now. In this article I will provide a guide to on-campus mental health resources, how you can contact them, and if they are offering adaptations due to the pandemic. First of all, I would like to bring your attention to StFX’s Peer Support Program, which is an amazing resource for any student to utilize. The Peer Support Program provides support to all students, regarding anything you need support with, and they can also take care of referrals if you require them for other resources. You can find volunteers from the
program in Bloomfield Centre, room 417, from 12-5 pm on weekdays. If you are living with a diagnosed learning disability, or if you find that your learning disability is impacting your mental health, then it is recommended you get in contact with the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning. The Tramble Centre supplies students with many opportunities, such as tutoring, note-taking support, tips for time management, and assistance with educational technology. In order to qualify for these supports, you need to have the proper documentation that shows your diagnosis; doctor’s notes and IEPs are not the proper documentation. You can find the Tramble Centre in room 108 located in the Angus L. MacDonald library. In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is necessary to book your appointment online at stfxcal.mywconline. com. You can also contact the Tramble Centre by email at tramble@stfx.ca or by phone at 902-867-5349. For those who are seeking support with an experience of sexual violence, I would suggest contacting
Heather Blackburn, the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Advocate here at StFX. Heather assists those struggling with trauma through listening to disclosures (although this is not obligatory), and by giving referrals if other resources are needed. This is a resource that can certainly be utilized by people who have been affected indirectly by sexual violence as well. Heather’s office is located in Bloomfield Centre, room 313D, or you can reach her by email at hblackbu@stfx.ca or by phone at 902-867-5601. Heather has adapted to Covid-19 protocol by offering both in-person and online options for appointments. Finally, I would like to emphasize the importance of StFX Health and Counselling services. This multidisciplinary resource provides students and faculty with a holistic approach to health. There are currently four therapists available to respond to students, and they are able to provide students with counselling, group programs, treatment approaches, supports, and medical or specialist referrals if needed. StFX Health and Counselling is located on the third floor of Bloomfield
Centre, room 305, but it is required that you make appointments virtually. In order to do so, you must register for Health Myself, which you can find the link for online at mystfx.ca/ health-and-counselling. The adaptation around Covid-19 means that those who are in need of these services must meet virtually with a nurse, who then books a follow-up appointment with your needed resource. There is usually a 1-2 week wait for the StFX Health and Counselling services, unless urgent. I have listed just four of the helpful mental health
resources you can find on campus this year. If you are visiting any of these resources in-person keep in mind that you must wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose, and follow proper social distancing guidelines. Although many of these resources look different this year, each of the mentioned services value your mental health and want to continue to help you! Taking the first step and contacting one of the mentioned mental health resources may seem daunting, but they can give you the proper support that you deserve, and that is more important now than ever.
If you are experincing an emergency, the following resources are available 24/7 -Call 911 -NS Mental Health Crisis Line: 1-888429-8167 -Good2TalkNS: 1-833-292-3698
Nova Scotia Boxer Makes his Mark Custio Clayton Mitchill Brown Staff Writer Custio Clayton, aka “War Machine”, is a Nova Scotian professional boxer born in 1987 in Dartmouth, just two hours from Antigonish. He stands at 5’9” and has an orthodox fight style (left foot in front). He is currently ranked number one in his division for Canada and the 21st in the world (welterweight). He has has fought in 19 professional fights, winning 18 of those. His professional fight record includes 12 knockouts’ (KO’s) with a KO average of 63.16%. In the early days of his boxing career, he participated in the Olympics (2012) where he
was one of only two in his division to represent Canada. Clayton’s accomplishments do not stop there, as he is also a six-time amateur Canadian national champion. Along with the Intercontinental Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Organization (WBO) international champion, the World Boxing Council (WBC) continental champion and is currently the North American Boxing Association (NABA) World Boxing Association (WBA) champion in the welterweight division since 2019. The “War Machine’s” most recent fight had the potential for more titles. On October 24, 2020, Clayton fought against Sergey Lipinets for
the Interim IBF Welterweight Title, his biggest fight yet. Although the fight was declared a draw, Clayton declared himself undefeated. In boxing, as in many sports, there are mental and physical challenges. These are often crucial to help an athlete progress. Clayton’s belief that he won the fight helps feed the mental challenge. By doing so and disagreeing with the judge’s decision he feels justified to be where he is now. Given his statement, “I won that fight,” Clayton still believes in himself. In the past, Clayton has said: “No matter where you come from, if it’s something you want, you have to be your biggest supporter.” it because YOU want it”, he told reporters.
This strong belief is who Clayton is. “Do it because YOU want it”, he told reporters. Nova Scotians and indeed many Canadians continue to watch Clayton’s success, using him as inspiration to realize hard work brings success. When he was growing up, Clayton remembers being told that there were many good fighters from Nova Scotia. Clayton is now among several talented boxers Nova Scotia has produced. One Redcliff Middle School student in Nova Scotia even chose Clayton to do his biography presentation on. Hearing about this, Clayton gave up some of his time to send a personalized message
thanking the student for picking him and expressing how he “always wanted to be an inspiration.” Clayton continues to inspire both professionally and personally.
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Insider Scoop on StFX Athletics Jack Milbank Sports & Health Editor
When walking around campus going from class to class there seems to be something different amongst the students. It is not the masks, the stickers on the floor on indicating where to stand or the hand sanitizer every 10 feet. It is something more...something missing. That inner excitement, that buzz, that something to look forward to seems to be gone for many students Covid-19 has changed many things at X but there is one that hits home for many. The SPORTS! To all the X-Men and X-Women fans that miss cheering for their favorite player, team or university. While unfortunately there are no sports at X so far, all teams are still hard at work preparing for that call saying ‘the season is back on’! You may be wondering how the teams are managing through the changes Covid-19 has caused with practices as well as their season being put off. The head coaches of some of X’s most prestigious teams were happy to give the insider scoop of their league’s forecast, team performance and player morale. X-Men Football: Head Coach Gary Waterman gives his updates on the team’s strateg y while abiding the Covid guidelines. “We have had to adjust the way we do things to ensure that we are following the Health guidelines. It has made it quite challenging at times because of the restrictions to the amount of people who can practice at one time. The current guidelines say that we can have no more than 50 participants on the field practicing. We have 81 players on our roster so we have had to adjust our practices accordingly. It was even more challenging earlier when we could have no more than 10 people in a pod at one time. We found ourselves spending a great deal of time on practice planning. We had to be extremely organized and communicate in advance with our players in terms of how the practice would flow to ensure that we were following the health guidelines. In addition, we
were not allowed to use our locker room early in the process so players were required to bring their gear back and forth from home to practice. There were a lot of moving parts. From a team morale perspective we had to be very deliberate in messaging about focusing only on the things that we can control and not becoming distracted by the things out of our control. Overall I think our team morale has been positive, but our ability to come together as a group has definitely been affected. With the gathering limitations we were not able to bring our team together all at once. The typical team bonding that naturally occurs within a team has been slowed and we have had to be more deliberate in our attempts to get to know each other. No new information about playing next year. We are all waiting to see how things transpire with regards to Covid-19 and what our new normal will look like. However, recruiting has definitely changed. We can no longer bring players to campus for a visit and there is a national ban on inperson recruiting for all sports. Technolog y has been our main method of communication. Between Zoom meetings and online conversations we find ourselves having to come up with more creative ways to build those strong connections with our future X-Men.” X- Women Hockey: Head Coach Ben Berthiaume touches on future play and team growth. “The team continues to not only work hard on the ice and in the g ym but in the classroom, which is a great sign for this group moving forward. We are also very appreciative of the support we are receiving from our Athletic Director Leo MacPherson, President Dr. Hakin and the university administration, without their support we would not be on the ice and doing what we love. As a team we are practicing 4 times a week which consists of a lot of small area games and a 3 on 3 tournament every Friday. The team also has 2 off ice
work out sessions to help prepare for the winter schedule if there is going to be one. We are looking to begin some blue and white games to give us some extra competition in November. The team morale seems to be pretty good considering we are not playing any games and having that competition that they practice hard for. The ability to be together as a group and get on the ice certainly helps with the team morale. We have heard there is a good possibility that there will be an AUS season in January, the AUS will make a decision in the next two weeks. The Atlantic provinces and STFX have done such a great job with COVID 19 pandemic that we are very hopeful we will have the opportunity to have competition begin in January with an AUS season.” X-Men Basketball: Renowned Head Coach Steve Konchalski discusses adjusted practices and team morale. “Since Oct. 1, sports activities in Nova Scotia have allowed up to 50 participants without social distancing or masks (once you leave the playing field you must put on your mask – in locker rooms for example) so we basically have been able to have normal practices for the most part. Prior to that date we were restricted to 10 athletes per group (basket). Right now we are practicing four times a week and preparing for some kind of a season after Christmas. Currently, the AUS is formulating a return to play formula for the winter sports that hopefully will satisfy both Public Health in all the Atlantic provinces as well as the AUS Board (Presidents). My understanding is that a decision will be made by mid-November which of course will be dependent upon the virus remaining under control into the new year. The health and safety of our student athletes are of course our first priority. I would say our team morale is excellent despite the uncertainty prevalent in the world today. Our practices have been
extremely competitive as I know that basketball is an outlet that helps young people cope with the anxiety that covid has brought to the entire planet.”
what is happening. It is heartwarming and amazing to see. Here are some words of encouragements from the X-Coaches to the X-fans:
X-Women Basketball: Head Coach Lee Anna Osei fills us in on the season status and the support they have been receiving. “Earlier in October, U Sports officially cancelled the U Sports Championship to ensure the safety of all student athletes, coaches and athletic departments. This means that conferences will now dictate what the season will look like from a provincial and local standpoint. To date, there are still uncertainties about what the status of the AUS season is. Though nothing that has been confirmed for official AUS games, we are hopeful for the opportunity to play in the future, whether that be in official games, exhibitions or scrimmages. In the meantime, we have a weekly Game of the Week against our male scout players that gives us an opportunity to work on our Xs and Os throughout the semester. Our athletic department has also done a phenomenal job of providing structure for our athletes in programs like StFX Leadership Academy and celebrating varsity Players of the Week. We consider ourselves lucky here at StFX. Our institution is a U Sport school that represents the highest percentage of F2F classes, and this has also meant that we have been afforded some privileges for contact practices with covid protocols of sanitation and safety in place. We have as much as possible simulated our practices and training schedules to provide a sense of routine and normalcy for our players.” It is amazing to hear all the time and effort being put in by coaches, players, athletic management and league officials. The planning and execution that goes into each meeting, practice or team bonding is huge. This is driven by one thing. The love and passion for sport. Even if the season has been put off everyone is trying to make the best of
“X fans! We look forward to hosting you at our home and away games - you collectively are our sixth man! Although we have not had the opportunity to play in front of you, be assured that we will remain ready to dawn the blue and white when that time comes. We appreciate your support , and welcome you to contact varsity athletics if there is any way that we can support you - Hail & Health!” - Head Coach Lee Anna Osei “X fans, we miss you and look forward to the day when we can get back on the field and welcome you back to the games.” Head Coach Gary Waterman “We are so appreciative of the support we get from all our fans. Looking back to last year’s AUS final with 1300 people in the building was incredible and certainly loved all the support, the atmosphere was certainly electrifying. We look forward to getting back to playing in front of our fans soon and showcasing the talent of the women’s game. “ -Head Coach Ben Berthiaume
Meet the Xaverian Weekly Team
Missing: Jena Cook, Claire Schofer