UBCO’s Student Newspaper
January 30th 2017 | Vol 30, Issue 9
I’m bossy, I’m the b*tch you love to hate since 1989
Why we march | Consent | UBCO Protests p.3
p.17
p.20
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Campus
News
News
Life
10th Annual Student Leadership Conference Encourages Curiosity p.4
The Phoenix Interviews Reaction UBCO p.6-7
Public Misconceptions of Truth p.10
Art
Opinions
Sports
Tropes That Literally Need to go p.13
Consent can be Sexy p.17
Intramurals at UBCO p.22
Podcasts 101: An Introduction p.14
Sweatpants are not Meant for the Classroom p.19
PGA Starting Strong in the New Year p.23
Why We March p.3
UBC Opens New Aquatic Centre p.5
Kelowna’s Cultural District is Lacking at Best p.15
Confronting a Pro-Life Protester p.20
Coordinating Editor Jacky Deng
Arts Editor Paula Tran
Web Editor Justin Kroeker
Art Director Sarah James
Sports Editor Grayson B. Leahy
Photo Editor David Vassiliev
Production Editor Kelsi Brown
Phoenix Columnist Mark Dreger
Video Editor Riley Petillion
Senior Copy Editor Francesca Gimson
Life Editor Brie Welton
Visuals Editor Sarah Dowler
Junior Copy Editor Nick Huertas
Staff Writer Frances Carruthers
Ad Sales Alex Barberis
Opinions Editor Tyrel Lamoureux
Staff Writer Riley Schlosser
News Editor Laurence Watt
News Writer Sarah Maryschuk
Contributors Michaela Sullivan-Paul, Stephen Dass, Kaylin Ferguson, Nick Vantol, Nour Sallam
coordinating@thephoenixnews.com
University Centre 3333 University Way Kelowna, BC, Canada V1Y 5N3 Office: UNC 132B Phone: 250-807-9296
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thephoenixnews.com Cover by Sarah James and Francesca Gimson Masthead photo by Sarah James
UBCO: A Muslim Perspective p.8
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The Phoenix is the UBCO students’ free press. Editorial content is separate from the University of British Columbia Student’s Union Okanagan (UBCSUO) and from the UBC institution at large. The editorial staff encourages everyone to submit material to The Phoenix but reserves the right to withdraw submissions from publication for any reason. “Any reason” could be material deemed to be sexist, racist, homophobic, or of poor taste or quality. The Phoenix will not publish materials which condone, promote, or express actions which are illegal under current laws. This does not include articles which provide an in-depth examination of both sides of a controversial subject (e.g. legalizing marijuana). The Phoenix is published, in part, by the UBCSUO and is an active member of the Canadian University Press.
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News | thephoenixnews.com | Laurence Watt - News Editor
News
Photo by Nour Sallam/ The Phoenix News
WHY WE MARCH
The Okanagan Valley rallied in solidarity with Washington
Nour Sallam - Contributor
On January 21, over 680 women, men, and children from around the Okanagan Valley rallied in solidarity with the Women’s March on Washington. Marches, rallies, and gatherings took place around the world, with an impressive response that transcended the borders of the United States and spread throughout 81 other countries. The event paid tribute to Philadelphia’s Million Woman March, where African American women protested for their rights in 1997. This year, the marches were aimed at Donald Trump, taking place a day after his inauguration, in light of the offensive and inappropriate statements he made towards minority groups, immigrants, and women.
Though branded as a march globally, people gathered to rally at 10:00 a.m. by The Sails in Downtown Kelowna. The event was organized by two women, Beth Farrell and Alison Moore, both dual citizens of the United States and Canada, aiming to join their daughters and friends marching in Washington, D.C. Inspired by the call to action, the two women co-organized the rally that allowed Kelowna to be the 11th Canadian community to sign up for the event. The turn out of the people exceeded expectations, marking itself as the “largest gathering since the war on Iraq” to happen in Kelowna. The crowd buzzed with people holding up signs advocating equality, condemning bigotry, and asking for those responsible
to step up to the plate. Several children accompanied their parents, hand in hand, as they listened to Beth Farrell speak her opening lines, “We share a common lineage, we’re all human. We share a common home, the Earth. This rally is not about protest, it’s about that connection: our tribal connection to each other.” The rally included speakers that represented women’s rights, the LGBTQ+ community, the Westbank First Nations, and the community of migrants in agriculture. The wide range of speakers symbolized the intersectionality of feminism and its beliefs. “Each community has its own needs,” Alison Moore stated, commenting on the variety of speakers who joined in
protest to protect their rights. “I expect that there will be a mobilization of energy and support for different causes in our communities,” she elaborated. The speakers delivered speeches that celebrated the crowd. “This is powerful,” spoke Chief Roxanne Lindley, addressing the audience, “I see all four races, I see men, I see women, I see young, and I see old.” The event continued with its program of speakers, followed by an open mic session where several people stepped onto the stage of activism to share their thoughts, their worries, and their fears. To some, a march or a rally might not seem as though it would have an impact; however, to the co-organizers Beth Farrell, Alison Moore
along with the millions of people around the world who took their protests to the street, the opposite is correct. “We don’t have to wait and see,” said Moore, “the charge for all of us was that we came out and we listened. We need to step up to the plate and be active in voicing our concerns for a just society… There are people out there willing to help.” Historically, peaceful demonstrations have indeed been a large component in democratic politics. In fact, the Women’s March on Washington alludes to the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, and no one can deny the impact of the civil rally in 1963 where Martin Luther King gave his iconic and powerful speech.
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Laurence Watt - News Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
News
10TH ANNUAL STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE ENCOURAGES CURIOSITY This year’s SLC attracts new and experienced leaders from on and off campus Sarah Maryschuk – Phoenix Columnist
created an environment where speakers could engage their audience with unique ideas, or present on themes and programs that they are passionate about. One of the presenters, Michael Flood, a thirdyear politics, philosophy, and economics student commented, “It was a meaningful experience to both engage with and learn from a diverse group of students. I was humbled to present and converse with such an incredible group of people.” Registration was open to the general student body as well as some of the high schools in the area, and anyone was encouraged to attend. Kristen Peers, cochair of the event explained, “We want all students to attend the Student Leadership Conference. It’s not only relevant to students who are
“ It was a meaningful experience to both engage with and learn from a diverse group of students.
“
On Saturday, January 21, 2017, over 225 students gathered on campus for UBC Okanagan’s 10th Annual Student Leadership Conference. The first conference was held in 2007, with the aim of encouraging students to get involved on campus, and to expand their current leadership, personal, and professional skills. This year’s conference inspired curiosity in students by offering workshops and featured speaker sessions ranging from topics like “Vulnerability is Strength” and “We Are In a Fight! Understanding Conflict” to “Don’t Wait to be Told How to Lead.” The theme of curiosity urged students to try something new, and to dive into their interests in a manner that they hadn’t considered before. For presenters the theme
already engaged in leadership roles on or off campus, but to those who are hoping to get more involved in any capacity. Whether you’re an experienced leader with years of involvement under your belt, or an emerging leader who’s just looking for that little thing they can do better, this conference is open to all capabilities.” Students in attendance ranged from those who are engaged with Residence Life, to those who volunteer for programs like the Peer Mentor Program or Peer Support Network. There were also delegates from Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbottsford, and UBC Vancouver. Several local high schools also sent students to catch a glimpse of what leadership on a university
campus looks like. Presenters ranged from UBCO and TRU students to professional staff such as Associate-Vice President of Students Ian Cull, Alanna Vernon the Associate Director of Ceremonies and Event, psychology professor Dr. Mark Holder, and Campus Life Commuter Students Coordinator Greg Mather. For those who want to get involved with the conference in upcoming years either through attendance or presenting, inquiries can be emailed to campus.life@ubc.ca
KELOWNA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL INTERFERENCE OF SIX YEAR OLD GIRL Man receives four months behind bars after tying up and taking pictures of a child for sexual purposes Laurence Watt - News Editor
in a particular position whilst he took pictures of her. After being arrested, Williams admitted to having a foot fetish and being sexually aroused by ropes. He also told the police that he took the pictures of the girl for sexual purposes. According to Williams’ defence counsel, he was under a lot of stress, as earlier during the same day, his wife had told him she was leaving him. In court, Justice Brad Chapman found Williams guilty of sexual interference of a person under 16 and sentenced him to four months in jail with three tears of probation. Over the past couple years,
“ Williams admitted to having a foot fetish and being sexually aroused by ropes. He also told the police that he took the pictures of the girl for sexual purposes.
“
A Kelowna man has been sentenced to four months in jail after pleading guilty to sexual interference of a person under the age of 16. On April 18, 2016, 27-yearold William Williams reportedly tied up a six-year old girl and took pictures of her for sexual purposes. Williams was initially in a position of trust with the girl and had gotten her mom’s permission to take her out earlier to watch airplanes land at the Kelowna airport. Before heading to the airport however, Williams took them both to his house and asked the girl to remove her clothes. After the girl refused, Williams tied her legs together with rope and forced her to lie
Williams had hung out with students at UBCO in the Heatwave Radio and Phoenix News’ office. According to the station manager of Heatwave Radio, Easton Doran, Williams would sometimes come by the office to hang out and help them with their operations. “He had no formal role with Heatwave,” said Doran. “I knew him as an amateur musician and a flight instructor. I would not have guessed he was so disturbed.” When asked how he and his colleagues reacted when they discovered the news about the arrest and subsequent trial, Doran explained that he felt shaken and repulsed: “I felt so weird. I was in class when
I found out and my body was shaky and like, giddy and I was so repulsed and like shocked that that could happen right under our noses.” Williams will soon be added to the National Sex Offender Registry for 10 years.
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News | thephoenixnews.com | Laurence Watt - News Editor
Image provided by UBC
UBC OPENS NEW AQUATIC CENTRE $39 million facility replaces nearly 40-year-old aquatic centre Mark Dreger – Phoenix Columnist
depth of 4.5 metres. To keep the pools topped up, the pool has a 1.3 million litre holding tank to harvest rainwater from the roof, which is estimated to use 2.7 million litres of rainwater annually. Outside the water, the centre provides a steam room, sauna, 34 showers, and 23 changing rooms. The facility has a capacity of 966 bathers with a mezzanine able to hold 460 spectators. UBC also plans to have a new fitness gym built by 2018. The new aquatic centre will
“ The new aquatic centre will replace the old aquatic centre that was built in 1978.
“
On January 19, UBC unveiled their new $39 million Aquatic Centre on UBC’s Vancouver campus. According to the aquatic centre’s online “facts and figures,” the pool has been under construction since August 2014 and covers about 80,000 square-feet at UBC’s campus. The centre holds a 50-metre and 25-metre pool, along with a leisure pool and hot tub that reaches 4.9 million litres of water combined. The 25-metre pool has a maximum
replace the old aquatic centre that was built in 1978. “We’ve heard from lots of folks who are lamenting the closure of the outdoor pool, because there’s lots of nostalgia attached to it,” Kavie Toor, the Director of Facilities & Business Development at UBC, told the CBC. “As a former student myself, I have had some of those 3:00am experiences of diving in the outdoor pool.” UBC plans to achieve LEED Gold certification for the centre’s environmental
responsibility and resource efficiency. Starting in March the pool will operate from Monday to Friday at 7:30-22:00, and weekends from 9:30-21:00. Access is free for currently registered UBC Students with their UBC Student Card. According to The Ubyssey, the centre will be used for training UBC’s swimming teams as well as the Vancouver Pacific Swim Club and the Vancouver branch of Swimming Canada’s National Training Centre.
information on each candidate and their platforms, including this year’s slate can be found on Facebook.
Le, Liz Stewart VP Marketing: Brooke Cumming, Hannah Magus VP Student Resources: Dylan Stevenson
MSA ELECTIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Check out the upcoming events and programming for this year’s MSA elections Sarah Maryschuk – Phoenix Columnist
The Management Student Association comprises seven individual roles, including a president, who oversees the association, and 6 vicepresidents who take on roles managing events, finances, student resources, corporate relations, academics, and marketing. Every year the MSA holds their election for their new executives, during which candidates can choose to run individually or team up to create
a slate. Slates typically share the same ideals or political stances, and in the case of the MSA, slates often strive to create a sense of community and intention that they would apply to their potential roles as MSA executives. Candidates must individually partake in two separate events—the all-candidates forum, in which each person has up to 2 minutes to introduce themselves, and discussion
surrounds pre-set questions posed by the CRO and questions posed by the audience, and the candidate speeches. During the speech evening, candidates have the chance to address the student body and convey their ideas and any campaign points prior to the start of the polling sessions. This year there are 11 individuals running for the 7 roles, and Ben Dunn is heading up the process as Chief Returning Officer. More
The candidates running this year are: President: Alan Blackwell VP Academics: Marina Costello VP Corporate Relations: Dan Brodrick VP Events: Maddy Campbell and Jarik Wang VP Finance: Ann Huang, Andy
Important Dates: Wednesday, February 1 – Candidate Speeches, EME 1101, 5:30 – 7:30 pm Thursday, Friday – February 2, 3 – Voting, EME 1161 – 9 am – 4 pm
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Laurence Watt - News Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
THE PHOENIX INTERVIEWS REACTION UBCO
News
Photo provided by Reaction UBCO
Reaction UBCO speaks in the face of criticism
Mark Dreger – Phoenix Columnist & Tyrel Lamoureux – Opinions Editor
The Phoenix: With the article that was posted in The Phoenix last issue and looking at your Facebook page, we found a couple discrepancies between what was said in the newspaper and what your Facebook page says. Can you clarify the difference? Jack: There are over half a dozen that have access to the page, and among those people is a ver y diverse group with differing views on what the organization should be, so any discrepancies probably do exist.
TP: What do you want people to know your group as? Jack: As a reaction to the social justice warrior culture, is what I’d say personally. Some may disagree, but I see it primarily as a reactionar y response to that. Jill: What we stand for is mostly Republican Right views, but mostly we made the group so students that have disputes can talk about them on campus without being labeled or judged. I think that our group has gotten a lot of negative feedback because a lot of people think that when you have a differing opinion from them they tend to demonize you, so I think they did that with us, like the rumours spread
of razor blades. No one ever really reached out and talked to us personally to ask us what the group is.
“
TP: What inspired you to start this group?
We don’t mind being offensive, as long as the intent is to argue for an ideology or to argue for ideas, but where we draw the line is being purposefully hurtful or to be offensive for the sake of being offensive.
“
This week The Phoenix sat down with two members of the Reaction UBCO club to discuss their beliefs and plans on campus. The two inter viewed will go by the aliases Jack and Jill.
Jack: I went to so-called progressive, or regressive if you will, events on campus and there’s a certain level of virtue signaling and demonization of white people and European people, and that is a bit concerning. There are a lot of people, especially from the feminist groups, that get ver y excited of this idea of “smashing the patriarchy,” and in response I went to these events and we literally had people apologize for their race and gender, and to me that seems ver y wrong. People should not have to apologize for
their base identity before speaking. That seems to be the antithesis of what these progressive movements want if that’s what they’re pushing. We want to exist as a place to point out this hyperbole and tr y to change discourse into something more reasonable. Jill: Personally I’ve attended a lot of tea clubs that the Women’s Resource Centre has and I saw that when you have opposing views, like if you’re pro-life or you’ve not really faced many microaggressions in your life, a lot of the girls will kind of roll their eyes and they don’t really listen to what you have to say when you speak; they kind of think about what they are going to say next to prove you wrong. I felt that there should be a place to say if
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News | thephoenixnews.com | Laurence Watt - News Editor
Jill: I think ever yone believes ever yone deser ves to have civil rights and freedom of speech and expression, but you have to be careful because you don’t want to push the limit. You don’t want to take away the voice of the people who you think are marginalizing the other. If a group of people of colour say, “Well you can’t talk because you’re white,” or when women say, “we’ve been through so much suffrage; you don’t know what we’re going through because you’re a man,” that’s when we have to draw the line. That’s also why I disagree with the whole pro-life pro-choice debate. I’m a pro-choice person, but it’s a problem when you don’t want to have pro-life protestors on campus; it’s a problem when you don’t want to hear the other side. TP: Where do you draw the line with political incorrectness? Jack: We don’t mind being offensive, as long as the intent is to argue for an ideology or to argue for ideas, but where we draw the line is being purposefully hurtful or to be offensive for the sake of being offensive. There’s a difference between being politically incorrect while presenting a politically
“ We would never endorse or condone any form of racial supremacy or hateful language.
than simply being a group of conser vatives for free speech for example? Jack: It’s been a topic of debate in the group. We did consider that title before the name “alt-right” picked up in the media. We were thinking, “let’s just call us the new-right,” which is what a lot of more moderate alt-right people that used to identify with the title are doing, but at the same time that is kind of the idea of the movement away from political correctness. The Left will constantly berate you and call you “fascist,” “racist,” “phobic this” and all these buzzwords and if you have to keep changing your name, at what point do you say, “you know what, we’re just going to go with this name; it doesn’t matter what you think of it.” It’s a point of debate, but right now we’re keeping it as is, but it’s certainly not unanimous. TP: What would you say to those that believe you run a
racist hate group? Jack: We would never endorse or condone any form of racial supremacy or hateful language. TP: Then you could easily say that anyone of any race, sex, or sexual orientation can join your group? Jack: I’m involved in four campus clubs right now and ironically enough [Reaction UBCO] is the most racially diverse one I’ve been a part of and with the widest range of nationalities. We have international students from many different countries that have editorial rights to our Facebook page. TP: How big is your group? Do you have weekly meetings that people can attend? Jack: We don’t have weekly meetings, but we have group chats and we have occasional meetings. We have about 14 active people that participate. TP: Are you planning to have events or discussions
“ Mostly we made the group so students that have disputes can talk about them on campus without being labeled or judged.
“
Jack: I’d say the biggest difference is that one pushes for the idea of something like reparations, or that one pushes to the specifically marginalized against what they see as a dominant group, while the other pushes for equality. And I see that we primarily no longer see a push for equality but rather a push for reparations.
TP: In the face of alt-right criticism in the media, do you believe calling your group alt-right is a welcoming enough title
“
TP: Your platform says you’re going against these social justice warrior ideas in society. What would you say is the difference between social justice warriors and actual civil rights issues?
incorrect idea or presenting it through politically incorrect arguments. There’s a difference between that and just being a mean person. It’s a hard line to draw, but it has to be drawn somewhere.
to have a platform for people to discuss these issues? Jack: There’s been talk about holding debates with people from the Skeptics Club, so I think that’s one platform we like. And going from there, there are perhaps other activist type things we could get involved in, but a debate would be the first thing.
TP: What’s your reaction to Donald Trump? Jack: Personally, I love Donald Trump. I think he could be one of the greatest hopes for Western civilization as a whole. I think his platform’s been great. I love his sense of nationalism and I think he’ll incite a whole new-age wave of nationalism in various countries. I think it’s a great
“ I’m involved in four campus clubs right now and ironically enough [Reaction UBCO] is the most racially diverse one I’ve been a part of and with the widest range of nationalities.
“
they’re pro-life or whatever they believe in, and that’s why I’m supporting Reaction UBCO.
platform to help push for the European identitarian [sic] movement. I think it’s great to see the crackdown on Islamic terrorism. I wouldn’t call it neoisolationist [sic], but some of his foreign policy I like as well. Yeah, almost ever ything about Donald Trump I’m a fan of. TP: How do you feel about the riots that happened at Trump’s inauguration? Jack: Absolutely deplorable. I don’t see any point by them. I don’t understand what they’re protesting; he’s the president whether they protest or not. I see nothing productive coming at all from the riots, in particular these more extreme groups like Disrupt J20 and some of the more anarchist and communist groups that are causing more trouble than simple protesting. Jill: I am really disappointed how people are reacting and protesting. He won democratically and people
should just accept him instead of demonstrating and vandalizing buildings. He’s the leader of the free world and I don’t think he can lead people well if he’s always reading the news and seeing people protesting. I’m not a big fan of either [Trump or Clinton], but you’ve got to give him a chance because there’s nothing you can do about it. The protestors are just dividing the countr y more by creating violence and I don’t think the protests are a mature way to handle things. Final thoughts. Jack: I think the most important thing to have happen is to break away from the echo chambers we see with almost ever y group. Echo chambers can build up and we’ve lost this plutonian [sic] idealized university where differing ideologies should come and have an open debate, but instead we have people sectioning off in groups where people simply agree with each other and don’t understand outside opinions. I think it’s far more dangerous to shut down a group because we’re worried about having someone offended, because isolating them and not allowing them to collide and have dialectic debate can lead to actual hatred of groups between one another. I think that’s what the social justice warrior movement is doing and I think it’s ver y dangerous.
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Brie Welton - Life Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Life
Life
UBCO: A MUSLIM PERSPECTIVE
Photo by David Vassiliev /The Phoenix News
3 Muslim students talk devotion, tolerance and misrepresentation Brie Welton – Life Editor
Islam: a subject prevalent in recent news headlines, though one just as often misrepresented. In light of the Islamic State’s continuous acts of terrorism, and increasing popularization of prejudice against Muslims by the media, I decided to find out what Islam was really all about. In order to do this, I met with Zarah Feroz (4th year), Amat Zahra (3rd year) and Arya Tanaz (1st year)—three Muslim UBCO students who shed some light on how their religion influences their lives as students, the challenges they face, and how both Muslim and non-Muslims can take action to end the perpetuation of stereotypes about Islam. The central religious text of Islam is the Quran. Islam is based on five pillars: Shahadah, a recitation of the Muslim profession of faith; Salat, praying five times per day; Sawm, periodic fasting; Zakat, giving charity to the poor and finally; Hajj, a pilgrimage. Constraints are also placed on the believers of Islam: Muslims are encouraged to eat halal meat, which is cut with the
recitation of a prayer, not to eat pork or drink alcohol, and to dress modestly. Although these may seem like strict rules, Zarah says that people can choose to follow some constraints and not follow others, depending on their perspective of the religion. “It’s kind of like a guideline to living,” explains Amat, “It’s a lifestyle.” However, as university students away from home, being Muslim is not without some challenges. “Especially [in] first year, when you come into a new environment…there’s a lot of drinking,” Zarah, who is currently in her fourth year, recalls, “even me, who’s not that religious, the first week or two, I was pretty uncomfortable.” Dietary constraints also posed a problem. “We’re supposed to be eating halal food but… it’s not always easy to find halal food everywhere,” says Zarah. Fasting can also be a challenge. “Back home where we’re from, the restaurants can close until the time of fast breaking… over here,
everybody’s just eating in front of you,” explains Zarah, “which is fine, but it can be difficult… a true testament to your patience.” Class schedules also clash with prayer times. However, as Arya explains, her family is understanding of her situation. “My mom’s okay with it,” she explains, “if you can’t pray five times a day at the given times… do it after everything when you go home.” “It’s not a very [binding] and extreme religion,” Amat insists, “I’m not a very religious person but I’ve grown up in a Muslim family, so I have certain principles in my life that I abide by.” Another common misconception of Islam is that the religion condones the oppression of women. “People say that Islam doesn’t give proper opportunities to women,” says Amat, “it’s not true.” Zarah agrees, “It’s not an Islam problem,” she explains, “It’s the men that actually suppress them, not the book.” The association between Islam and the so-called ‘Islamic State’
(better known by its former name ISIS), which is commonly popularized by the media, is also misleading. “Islam is about peace,” says Amat, “we are not supposed to disrespect any person.” With regards to the radicalism and acts of terrorism, these students are just as horrified by the IS as the rest of the world. “For us it’s just as foreign,” insists Zarah, “All this stuff happening with ISIS… it’s definitely not a part of our growing up.” “All the killings, it’s giving us a negative image,” adds Arya, “our religion isn’t anything like that.” “These are just a bunch of radicals,” explains Zarah, “they don’t even follow most of the rules of Islam… what’s happening in the world is definitely more political than religious.” In order to counter this negative stigma surrounding Islam, the solution is education and awareness. “Most people don’t know I’m Muslim,” says Zarah, “I’m just a person sitting next to you in class… I’m just like you. So one day, when people realize that
that’s all it is… [they] will realize that Islamophobia isn’t necessary.” In the past, the Kelowna Mosque has hosted an open house day to encourage members of the community to come and talk to the Imams, as a part of the Meet a Muslim program. Amat believes this interaction is an ideal way to educate people about Islam. “To meet with them and just chat,” she explains, “I think that would take the fear out of most people.” “It’s a sensitive time,” adds Zarah, “Know what’s happening in the world, but try not to judge. Don’t always believe what you read and try to actively go educate yourself.” All three students agree that Muslims also have a role in ending the prejudice. “The responsibility is on us too,” insists Amat. “To all the Muslims out there, try your best to educate others about your lifestyle,” Zarah urges, and to everyone of any religion, culture or ethnicity, above all, “Celebrate diversity.”
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Life | thephoenixnews.com | Brie Welton - Life Editor
THE ANTI-VALENTINE’S DAY CHECKLIST
Illustration by Sarah Dowler/ The Phoenix News
How to beat the blues this Valentine’s Day Fran Carruthers – Staff Writer
Once again, February 14 is looming, and you can almost hear singletons everywhere retreating under their duvets, with a tub of ice cream and Netflix, in anticipation. It is a well-known fact that this commerciallyforged festivity is nothing more than a whirlwind of annual anticipation and disappointment for most of us, so why do we still buy into it? This year, instead of reaching for the tissues and indulging in some commercially-endorsed self-pity, take a look at our ultimate list of non-romantic, anti-valentine’s day plans
that might just make you feel better. 1. Watch an unromantic film, like a horror one. You are less likely to be fearing a life of eternal loneliness when watching an anti rom-com or a horror film (something really gory and gross would be best). Gather together with some (single) friends and play the ultimate antivalentines movie to scare them out of their skin! 2. Have friends over for dinner and be sure to eat very un-romantic, messy food – such as tacos, burgers, pizza. Sit down together, gossip, laugh about how single you
THE COST OF FREE APPS How we’re unwittingly paying with information
Brie Welton – Life Editor
Apps—we all love them, especially when they’re free. However, according to a recent study by CBC’s Marketplace, many free apps have access to a lot more than consumers realize. Due to our tendency to skim through the privacy agreement and terms and conditions
when installing a new app, it is possible that some apps are asking for a lot more than most would feel comfortable sharing. To demonstrate this, Marketplace worked with experts to create a free horoscope app which eight random subjects in downtown Toronto downloaded, each participant only glancing
are, and share the LOVE and carbs. 3. Go on a night out. It may sound like an odd move, but going out on Valentine’s Day could be a way more fun alternative to the traditional romantic pursuits. Plus, tequila shots are a recognized coping strategy for eternal single-ness, and a legitimate way to avoid spinsterhood (see Bridget Jones for details). 4. Watch Bridget Jones’ Diary. Yes, the movie may be a little dated now (it came out in 2001— would you believe?) and yes, it may technically be a romantic comedy, but it is a
classic, and definitely focuses more on the “comedy”. For the majority of the film we see Bridget clumsily navigate her way through her thirties, and countless awkward, undesirable love interests, which is bound to make anyone feel a little better about themselves. 5. Take to the internet to look at some hilarious valentine’s cards and memes—bound to brighten your day. There are some pretty good ones circulating on Twitter and Pinterest, and you can poke fun at some of your smug couple friends with them, too.
6. Watch 500 Days of Summer. What could be better than a film that opens with the affirmation “this is not a love story” to convince yourself of your superior life choices? 7. Go to the gym. It is a known fact that exercise releases endorphins (making you feel better)— plus there is a chance you may meet someone new there. I may follow too many fitness accounts on Instagram, but I have heard that “broken hearts are mended in the gym”. Who knows.
briefly at the terms and conditions. By not thoroughly reading the agreement, these participants unwittingly allowed the app access to their location, camera, contacts, call logs, text messages and microphone, which could be accessed at any given time, regardless of whether the app was in use or not. Marketplace investigators monitored participants’ activities for seven days and gathered incredibly personal information before revealing to subjects at the end of the
week that they had been spied on through the app. This may seem like an extreme case, however, according to the experts who assisted with this study, many popular apps have similar conditions hidden in their lengthy agreements. Some apps like Facebook and Instagram require access to camera and location services in order to complete their designed functions. However, more often than not, the data collected from users is sold by the app to a third party; for example, an
advertising network. The purpose of this experiment was to demonstrate to consumers that privacy can easily be breached through seemingly harmless technology; in this case, a horoscope app. The ease with which the Marketplace investigators collected pictures, data, and other personal information should serve as a warning to those easily swayed by free apps. As the saying goes: nothing in life is free.
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Brie Welton - Life Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Life
PUBLIC MISCONCEPTIONS OF TRUTH A commentary on fake news and societal progress Riley Schlosser – Staff Writer
The world can seem pretty bleak these days, as dozens of depressing news reports rush into our social spheres via Facebook, news channels, and YouTube, constantly reminding us that we should be concerned about the present state of the world. This has been used for positive change in the past, and has certainly produced a shift in the way we as a society view world events and international relations. This past year, specifically regarding the
US Presidential Campaign, social media saw the advent of fake news stories, intentionally circulated to trip people up and sway public opinion on important societal issues. This is an unprecedented idea, and as the New Year progresses, the amount of fake news and other sensationalized global events does not seem to be declining. Social media is a wonderful platform for journalism in the technological era, but the ease of instantly
posting content also makes fact-checking and verifying sources difficult. Furthermore, the easily consumable nature of the Internet simply does not promote an atmosphere where the average viewer takes the time to check facts. Accountability gets lost behind the desire to be entertained, and the truth can be sidestepped with ease. Luckily, people are already growing tired of fake news, and are starting to break the cycle. All it takes to
destroy a negative trend is for the general public to start moving in the opposing direction over a period of time. Thus, if people start learning to recognize fake news, start fact-checking it, stop reposting it, and stop giving it likes and attention, eventually fake news creators will dwindle to a minority. Perhaps something positive has come out of the advent of fake news, however, as people are growing increasingly skeptical of online news stories,
resulting in the increasing difficulty of spoon-feeding the masses. Maybe this will act as a wake-up call to North Americans and spawn a society that doublechecks its media input, an attitude sorely needed in an age of fake hate crimes and tweeting politicians.
Caption This! Brought to you by Consent Tastes Sweet®
Scenario: You’ve connected with someone on campus that’s in a few of your classes. You like being with them and
you’re interested in seeing where the relationship goes but you’re not interested in having sex with them yet. Last night when you were making out, they got a bit aggressive and pushy with wanting to do more with you physically. The interaction has left you feeling a bit strange about things but they don’t seem to know that anything is wrong.
What do you say? What do you do?
“Response”
Action Pride Resource Centre Women’s Resource Centre prc@ubcsuo.ca
wrc@ubcsuo.ca
Third Space ed@thirdspacefoundation.ca
S.A.R.A. sara.ubco@gmail.com
Peer Support Network psn@ubcsuo.ca
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Life | thephoenixnews.com | Brie Welton - Life Editor
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HELP?
Image by Sarah Dowler /The Phoenix News
Local community members discuss international development Fran Carruthers – Staff Writer
On Friday, January 20, the event “What does it mean to ‘help’? : A discussion about humanitarianism and international development”, took place at the Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art in Kelowna. Amid a room in the gallery filled with beautiful paintings, students, professors, and members of the local community gathered to discussing volunteering, “giving back”, and empowerment. The discussion was part of the AlterKnowledge discussion series, run by UBCO cultural studies professor David Jefferess. AlterKnowledge describe their aim as, “to foster community-based knowledge-making, bringing people together to discuss, share, and (un)learn, as a practice of decolonization.” And this ethos was certainly evident from the thoughtprovoking, alternative, and mindful nature of the talk. There were three key
speakers who led the discussion: Kezia Elaschuk, Safeera Jaffer-Hirji, and Hailey Myers. Hailey shared her reflections on her experience volunteering abroad, tackling some of the problematic aspects of terms like “giving something back” and “helping”. When volunteering, she said, “I kept the identity of the helper, and I let these people keep the identity of the helpless”—yet this can be problematic, because it assumes a power imbalance between volunteers and the communities they work with. She also addressed the idea that many of us volunteer in order to get somewhere in life – we put it on our resumes, and tell employers and schools about it. Yet when we do this, it becomes arguably more beneficial to us than to those we are supposedly helping. “When the dialogue became about me, I was comforted”, confessed Hailey.
She also admitted to having felt “guilty” for the way that volunteering made her feel— when she received praise from others, and when she thought about the genuine impact she was having. Safeera spoke about her work with women’s empowerment and experiences volunteering abroad. She has been troubled by the way that the word “empowerment” is appropriated by neoliberalism, stating that “it rests on a western understanding of gender— which rests on a binary”. Essentially, one of the major issues she highlighted was the fact that Western ideas of “volunteering”, whilst often well-intentioned, invoke western discourses and stereotypes which can be harmful and even unintentionally negatively impact development. She asked, “Why are we trying to empower these women? How
is that empowerment even possible when they are still in disempowering systems?” Too often western-run organizations are quick to assume certain stereotypes, such as that of third-world women, “as altruistic, caring worthwhile projects”, whilst men are assumed to be “violent” or “aggressive”. After the three key speakers initiated the debate, discussion was opened up to everyone. People shared their personal experiences with volunteering, at both an international and local level, and the concerns they had. One of the key ideas that came up was whether “help” is the right word – and the connotations it can have. One speaker argued “there are other ways of engaging with the problem of social inequality which don’t fit under the term ‘help’”. Others questioned whether volunteering in the local community
might be less problematic and more genuinely “helpful” than international volunteering (often referred to as “voluntourism”). Fundamentally, the discussion led to some very open dialogue, and critical insights on larger issues such as colonizing narratives, and the power imbalances between those who volunteer and those who are deemed as needing help. As one of the key speakers stated, “We create these kind of spaces to have conversations that don’t often happen.” And that was exactly how it felt—open discussion of a progressive nature, aiming to challenge dominant narratives about humanitarianism.
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Brie Welton - Life Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Life
WINTER FASHION
Once again, Phoenix reporters have sought out some of the finest dressed students UBCO has to offer
Brie Welton – Life Editor, Fran Carruthers - Staff Writer
American Eagle
Polyvore.com
Secondhand
RW& Co.
Forever 21
Adidas
Doc Martens
As February dawns upon us, and temperatures rise a little, the bar for winter fashion has certainly been raised by this week’s street fashionistas. Heels might be sounding on the catwalks of London Fashion Week on February 17, but the only boots made for walking are already strutting their way across UBCO campus, on the feet of our most fashion-savvy students. Here’s our pick of this week’s best-dressed:
Jing Zhang Major: Management Year: 4 Outfit details: Pants – Zara; Shoes – Adidas; Hoodie – university merchandise; Coat – Online
Donovan Klassen
Katherine Jansen
Eli Galik
Major: Civil Engineering Year: 4 Outfit details: Sweater – American Eagle; Pants –RW& Co.; Shoes – Boathouse
Major: Microbiology Year: 3 Outfit details: Overalls – Forever 21; Sweater – Secondhand; Shoes – Ardene
Major: Engineering Year: 1 Outfit details: Jacket – second hand; Jeans – bought in England; Shoes – Doc Martens
Photos by David Vassiliev/ The Phoenix News
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Arts | thephoenixnews.com | Paula Tran – Arts Editor
Arts
TROPES THAT LITERALLY NEED TO GO
Photo by Sarah James/ The Phoenix News
3 overdone literary tropes let down the work of modern writers
Paula Tran - Arts Editor
I’m going to be honest here, the literary and publishing scene right now can use some tweaking when it comes to the content that is being mass produced and consumed everyday. It seems like publishers, especially big name publishers such as Penguin, Simon & Schuster, Hachette, etc., are not willing to take risks. There are a lot of similar novels with similar content being published under similar names, just with different characters and setting. This isn’t just a phenomenon happening in the Young Adult department, which almost everyone in the literary community is talking about. I am talking about fiction and literature as a whole. Whenever I pick up a popular book that has made its way on the New York Times Bestselling list, I never get something original
and extraordinary because it reuses the same tropes over and over again. I am getting really sick and tired of them. It makes me wonder where the ambition and wonder went in terms of literature and fiction. Here are a list of tropes and common things I have noticed that I really don’t want to see anymore. The “Chosen One” trope This trope is probably more common in fantasy and science fiction novels, but this plot device drives me up the wall. This trope usually involves one or two Mary Sues or Gary Stus: perfect characters who everyone (either characters or readers) loves. These characters will hardly make mistakes, and when they do they will never get punished or receive any consequences. These characters usually will have to go on an adventure or
quest to protect their (usually oppressed) society from a big and terrible evil, and are the only ones who are able to do it. They will also (most likely) have a trusty sidekick and a love interest on the side, who are just flat, two-dimensional human beings with one or two character traits at most. Terrible world-building This isn’t just limited to fantasy and sci-fi; contemporary novels who are set in fictional cities and towns are still subjected to limited to no world-building. World-building is one of the most important aspects of your novel. Without a world, your characters will cease to exist beyond the written words on paper. In my opinion, a lot of novels these days lack world building, and it annoys the hell out of me. One, it just shows that you are lazy.
World-building takes time and practice, so don’t skimp on it just to make a tight deadline for yourself. Answer world building questionnaires that are of abundance on the internet. Have a friend look over your world and have them critique it. Ask yourself what makes sense and what doesn’t in the world you have created. I’m not expecting you to become the next Tolkien or whatever, but allowing your readers to have a basic idea other than “this is a desert land” or “this is a forest where elves live in” is nice. And it will also help develop your writing in the end. The Love Triangle I absolutely hate, hate, hate this trope, because it just doesn’t make any sense and it is cringey at best. I especially hate when an author decides to slap in a love triangle
in the middle of what is supposed to be a dark, gritty, and adventurous story, just to make things “interesting”. Say what you want, but having two love interests dropping everything and pining over a protagonist just doesn’t appeal to me. Yes, I understand it is to enhance the drama and keep the plot going, but there are multiple other ways to do that. And giving up everything for a guy/girl just doesn’t seem very logical. To all the publishers out there, I am not the only one who share these sentiments. In fact, you can find a lot of readers who have the same opinions if you dig a little deeper into the World Wide Web. Someone has got to put their foot down on these awful, overused tropes, and it might just start with you.
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Paula Tran – Arts Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Arts
PODCASTS 101: AN INTRODUCTION These ain’t no pre-recorded radio sessions Paula Tran – Arts Editor
podcasts are generally audio files that can be downloaded from the internet to a computer or mobile device, and new installments can be received by subscribers automatically. However, podcasts are not limited to audio files, and I have seen a lot of podcast producers and channels creating video content for their listeners. Podcast episodes may vary in length, and can be as short as a few minutes to an hour. Most people listen to podcasts while commuting to work or while getting ready in the morning. It is important to note that podcasts are not prerecorded radio shows or sessions. While both genres of broadcast media do generally overlap and have similarities, radio and podcasts are often treated as separate entities. Podcasts are usually free from time constraints, and
“ Podcasts are usually free from time constraints, and usually target a specific, niche audience at once.
“
Podcasts are becoming a more popular mode of listening to stories, serials, or informational sessions in North America, and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of podcasts that are available to be streamed, downloaded, and listened to daily. Popular channels such as Serial and TEDTalks have thousands of subscribers, with listeners tuning in to content almost daily. It has replaced the traditional radio in terms of popularity because there is a wider arrange of topics to choose from, and it’s easy to find channels that suit your earbuds. Podcasts and podcast script writing have also been added to a lot of Media Studies and Creative Writing curricula, which reflects the medium’s importance in popular culture. What exactly are podcasts? To put in simple terms,
generally target a specific, niche audience at once. Radio shows, however, usually have strict deadlines and need to please a huge crowd of people at once. As mentioned above, you can usually find podcasts for various topics. To help you get started, here are a few places to look into when beginning to get into podcasts: If you like educational podcasts, look into TED’s channel that regularly posts recordings of their talks online. There are a wide variety of TEDTalks available on their channel and each episode will have the speaker’s name and the topic of the talk as the title. If you like crime and thriller, Serial is a podcast channel that tells a story of a murder/crime in a span of a few episodes. Season 1 deals with a high profile murder and missing
persons case that happened in Baltimore, Maryland years ago, and the producers try to provide an objective viewpoint on the case as a whole. If you like discussion-based content and potentially nerd culture, Hello Internet is one of my favourite podcasts of all time. The episodes might be a bit long, usually ranging from 1-2 hours, but the producers CGP Grey and Brady Haran have really quirky, goofy personalities and cover a variety of really interesting topics.
THE LIST OF NOMINEES FOR THE OSCARS ANNOUNCED JANUARY 24 It looks like the academy is finally considering equal representation
Paula Tran - Arts Editor
to the #OscarsSoWhite protests in the past, and it made “drastic” membership changes in 2016. This includes revoking the voting privileges of members who have long been non-working, and inviting more women and minorities to join. However, it is still important to note that the group still holds a white, male majority; nevertheless, this is an important step in increasing the diversity and representation at the Oscars when compared to last year. Race still continues to be an important topic surrounding the Oscars. Santiago Pozo, a Latino academy voter, voiced his opinion on Deadline.com about the underrepresentation of other minorities in Hollywood. He states that the lack of representation is “a terminal illness for our business, and for the relevance of the Academy Awards. “The Los Angeles
“ La La Land alone was nominated 14 times on Tuesday, which tied with Titanic and All About Eve for the most in Academy Award history according to the New York Times.
“
On January 24, the official list of Oscar nominees was announced for the upcoming 89th Academy Awards on February 26. La La Land alone was nominated 14 times on Tuesday, which tied with Titanic and All About Eve for the most in Academy Award history according to the New York Times. The Academy has also nominated 6 black actors which includes diverse films such as Moonlight, Fences, and Hidden Figures for Best Picture. This is a record in Academy history, and Moonlight alone received 8 nominations. In response to the historic number of Black nominees, director Barry Jenkins said that “it’s an affirmation that film has the power to erode barriers and reveal what makes us all human.” According to the New York Times, the Academy has listened
Times also published a similar editorial which highlights the lack of Hispanic nominees (exception: Lin-Manuel Miranda received a nomination for “How Far I’ll Go” in Moana). Important to note is the lack of Asian nominees on the list of nominees this year, when there is no shortage of Asian directors, actors, actresses, and screenwriters in Hollywood. There were a few surprises mixed in, and some are not happy. On the anime subreddit on Reddit, fans of the Japanese animated movie Kimi no Na Wa were sad and outraged that the movie wasn’t nominated for an Oscar. They argued that the film’s unique plot, character design, and art should make it a good candidate for the Academy Awards this year. Pixar’s Finding Dory received amazing reviews but didn’t manage to secure a spot on
the list this year. Amy Adams gave a strong performance in Arrival but didn’t manage to be nominated for Best Actress this year. Meryl Streep, a legend in her own right, receives her 20th nomination for her acting whereas other legends such as Katherine Hepburn and Jack Nicholson have received 12 nominations each.
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Arts | thephoenixnews.com | Paula Tran – Arts Editor
Photo by Sarah James/ The Phoenix News
KELOWNA’S CULTURAL DISTRICT IS LACKING AT BEST
Disappointment is a word I hear a lot from peers Paula Tran - Arts Editor
loca l a r t com mu nit y is st i l l pr i ma r i ly u nderg rou nd i n Kelow na . Maybe it ’s because I a m a st udent at U BCO, or a m not rea l ly pa r t of t he Ok a naga n com mu nit y, but I do not see ma ny a r t a nd cu lt u ra l ac t iv it ies bei ng adver t ised a rou nd tow n. Most of t he ads I see i n cof fee shops such as t he Green Bea n promote events happeni ng on ca mpus, a nd ha rd ly a nyone else gets recog nit ion. Sad ly, ma ny loca l a r t ists who do per form or d isplay t heir a r t work a rou nd tow n a re usua l ly ig nored or forgot ten about i n a spa n of days. It rea l ly d iscou rages a r t ists for comi ng for wa rd a nd hav i ng t he conf idence to pitch t hemselves out to t he publ ic. Kelow na’s Cu lt u ra l Dist r ic t a lso promotes on ly
“ It wasn’t always like this. According to a colleague of mine, Kelowna used to have a bustling music scene, but it slowly died down as EDM music started to dominate the city landscape.
“
Ly i ng i n a corner of Kelow na’s dow ntow n a rea is t he so-ca l led Cu lt u ra l Dist r ic t of t he Ok a naga n, a corner f i l led w it h t he Kelow na A r t Ga l ler y, a com mu nit y t heat re, a nd a few restau ra nts boast i ng t heir loca l d ishes a nd wa res. T he d ist r ic t, i f it ca n be ca l led one, is sma l l, a nd you ca n wa l k t he ent iret y of it i n about f ive mi nutes. For a cu lt u ra l d ist r ic t, you wou ld ex pec t a teemi ng a mou nt of people wa l k i ng a rou nd or a v ibra nt a r t ist com mu nit y of va r ious k i nds. I got none of t hat here. In fac t, t he d ist r ic t was du l l a nd empt y, a nd I was honest ly qu ite d isappoi nted. W hi le t he Kelow na A r t Ga l ler y is a g reat place to stop by a nd look at t he i mpressive a nd u nique a r t work by loca l a r t ists, t he
speci f ic t y pes of a r t. Fi ne a r t is usua l ly t he biggest focus, si nce v isua l a r t produc ts ca n be d isplayed longer a nd have a longer shel f-l i fe. Per formi ng a r ts, on t he ot her ha nd, such as spoken word poet r y a nd t heat re, a re not promoted as st rong ly. T his is due to t he lack of a coherent t heat re com mu nit y i n Kelow na, but a lso t he lack of appropr iate venues a nd resou rces for t hose who wa nt to pu rsue a ca reer i n t he per formi ng a r ts. Venues i n Kelow na a re few a nd fa r bet ween, a nd renta l fees a re of ten ex pensive. It wasn’t a lways l i ke t his. Accord i ng to a col leag ue of mi ne, Kelow na used to have a bust l i ng music scene, but it slowly d ied dow n as EDM music sta r ted to domi nate t he cit y la ndscape. T his
was most ly because of, he a rg ued, t he r ise of t he st udent popu lat ion i n tow n, where t he com mu nit y is heav i ly EDM-based. W hi le EDM has a t i me a nd place, he sa id, ot her forms of music deser ve recog nit ion as wel l, a nd loca l ba nds have as much va lue t ha n t he fa mous DJs t hat come to per form at Sapphire. He st i l l goes to Ferna ndo’s reg u la rly to l isten to l ive music f rom loca l ba nds, a nd encou rages budd i ng a r t ists to t r y out Mi l kcrate a nd cof fee shops t hat reg u la rly have ja m sessions. For now, t he Cu lt u ra l a nd A r ts Dist r ic t i n Kelow na needs a reva mp, a nd t he whole a r t ist com mu nit y i n genera l needs to pa r t icipate i n order to rea l ly cha nge t he cu r rent su f focat i ng at mosphere.
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Paula Tran – Arts Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
FILM REVIEW: THE FOUNDER
Arts
Illustration by Sarah Dowler/ The Phoenix News
A non-spoilers review of the McDonald’s movie Riley Schlosser – Staff Writer
A movie about the origins of McDonald’s may seem like an unworthy topic for a $7 million studio film, but in fact, the story of Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton) is fascinating. Kroc, a manipulative businessman, discovers a small successful restaurant run by Mac and Dick McDonald (John Carroll Lynch and Nick Offerman), two brothers who have developed the idea of fast food in the 1950’s. Their attempts at franchising McDonald’s have failed and they are content to run their thriving business
out of just one location. The viewer follows Kroc as he helps franchise the restaurant, and systematically gains control over the McDonald’s empire, a compelling story of sketchy business ethics and debased persistence. However, due to the fact that the film’s protagonist is such a morally corrupt and persistently selfish man, many viewers will find it difficult to fully empathize with the story. The characters that the audience does care about are the people that Ray screws
over, but, consequently, are not given nearly as much screen time as perhaps they should have. In many ways, the movie has a sense of hopelessness about it, especially since the viewer knows that in the end, McDonald’s gets franchised, becomes wildly successful, and the morally corrupt protagonist succeeds. It’s almost painful to watch at times. Another pitfall of this movie is the overuse of technical legal jargon and slow-moving dramatic scenes that lend a sense of dullness to
the film. These sequences are not abundant enough to ruin the film, but may be enough to lose the interest of filmgoers who are used to big-budget action flicks. One of the most prominent aspects of The Founder is its profound timing and cultural relevance in a society overrun by capitalist ideals and ethical debates. By telling the story of an iconic American establishment while simultaneously pointing out its debased origins, the film creates in its audience a need
to critique capitalist and corporate principles. This hits home because in many ways, the film chronicles the birth of an American dream that has lead to what we know today as Trump America. The Founder, although a bit bland and despondent at times, is an interesting biopic that makes some very appropriate critiques of societal standards and of Ray Kroc himself, the man who built an empire off of stolen ideas and corruption.
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Opinions | thephoenixnews.com | Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor
Opinions
Photo by Stephanie Prentice
CONSENT CAN BE SEXY
The forms of consent and its importance in real life circumstances
Michaela Sullivan-Paul - Contributor
Have your parents even sat down with you and spoke to you about sexual consent? Did you sit in a classroom, slightly uncomfortable while your teacher drilled “No Means No” into your head? Well in case you’re like me, and you never experienced that, here are some highlights: No does mean no, consent gives you complete and total control over your entire body, always and everywhere, no one can take it away from you, it doesn’t change according to what you are wearing, how much you’ve drank or what you may have stated previously, it is absolute when you make it absolute. There are different types of consent, verbal consent, and non-verbal consent. Verbal is “yes” and “no”, non-verbal is body language, voluntary touching, and also, the absence of words (non-verbal, go figure).
“ When ‘No’ isn’t said, it doesn’t mean ‘Yes.’ Most importantly, if they cannot speak, they are unconscious or they aren’t making any sense, it is not the time to try to have a conversation about sex.
”
Consent feels like a very stiff word; maybe unsexy, some legal undertones, very official. All it really means is “let’s talk about sex”, it just needs to be people respecting people. Actively listening, truthfully sharing, and just talking about it, are all ways to practice sexual consent. Sometimes it isn’t so easy. It isn’t always black or white, yes or no, sexy and not sexy. Sometimes it’s silence, crossed arms and closed legs, or sometimes, it is very devastating sexual abuse. Sometimes, it’s rape. We must also consider the “Yes” in sexual consent, both the use of the word, and the absence of the word. I refuse to actively support consenting adults and their decision to say “No,” while simultaneously shaming people who choose to say “Yes”. We cannot condemn a consenting adult’s decision to engage in sexual activities any more than
we can condemn someone for exercising their right to say “No”. Instead, we need to ensure that all sides of consent can freely and comfortably be chosen. When “No” isn’t said, it doesn’t mean “Yes.” Most importantly, if they cannot speak, they are unconscious or they aren’t making any sense, it is not the time to try to have a conversation about sex. I’ve had the consent talk with many of my partners, it should have been all of them, but I’ve grown and learned. I look forward to the talk, seeing their reaction, hearing their desires and dislikes, and creating guidelines; it forms comfort and excitement. Sometimes, it saves me from a situation I would have regretted the next day. Consent is empowering, it’s a sign of mutual respect and best of all, it makes for great sex. Sometimes the concept gets
confusing between two people who met in a bar, and people in committed relationships, and it shouldn’t be. In every sexual encounter, the rules still apply. Simply because you have made the decision to be exclusive, does not mean you have committed to engaging in sexual activities whenever, wherever. You don’t lose consent when you commit to someone. Regardless of the everchanging factors of life, love, and sex, sexual consent is the common denominator, the variable that never changes. If you have any questions or need more information, check out UBC Okanagan’s own S.A.R.A for resources, advice and upcoming events. Have a Happy Sexual Awareness Month, be safe, be respectful, be happy.
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Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Opinions
Photo by C Ford/ Wikimedia Commons
ARGUMENT AD ‘WHITE’-HOMINEM Political correctness or academic censorship at the University of London
Nick Vantol - Contributor
The School of Oriental and African Studies’ (SOAS) University of London students’ union has insisted that philosophers such as Plato, Descartes, Socrates, and more be removed from their school curriculum. The argument from the student union being that white philosophers should be replaced with African, Oriental and Middle Eastern philosophers. To clarify, these students aren’t seeking to completely abolish white philosophers from their school but to only use them if required and under a critical view point. An example provided in the proposal was “acknowledging the colonial context in which so-called ‘enlightenment’ philosophers wrote within.” This proposal was put forward as a part of “addressing the structural and epistemological legacy of colonialism” at the institution. However, some intellectuals say it is political
correctness taken too far. English philosopher Sir Roger Scruton argued that “you can’t rule out a whole area of intellectual endeavour without having investigated it, and clearly they haven’t investigated into what they mean by ‘white philosophy.’” Dr. Erica Hunter, a member of the SOAS university criticized it as well: “I would firmly resist dropping philosophers or historians just because it was fashionable.” Studying Anthropology, I can’t help but empathize with the SOAS students’ union’s motion to “better represent the university’s focus on Asia and Africa” by applying more branches of philosophy from the regions in which they are focused. The cultural context in which these epistemologies are formed make these understandings more relevant, and thus more applicable to local reality. That being said, I also agree with Mr. Scruton’s point that it seems that these students
“ Yes, the philosophers listed by the students’ union are objectively white, but not all of them are white philosophers.
”
haven’t fully understood what they mean by white philosophy. Philosophy is, in simple terms, the study of the nature of knowledge. It is the science of how we know, what we know (or what we think we know, say many philosophers). Yes, the philosophers listed by the students’ union are objectively white, but not all of them are white philosophers. The philosophies of Plato, Socrates, Kant and Descartes for example, are part of the branch of western philosophy which has many aspects that are applicable in cross cultural examinations. The same is also true for eastern philosophies applied in the western world; for example, Sun Tzu’s Art of War is still applied in western military tactics today. Another aspect of the student union’s argument demonstrates a lack in consistency as to how far they wish for the school to separate from the “legacy of colonialism” as they call
it. If these students were to read Edward Said’s book titled Orientalism, they’d quickly re-evaluate the use of the term “Oriental” in their school’s name, considering its colonial purpose; to instil feelings of exoticism, primitiveness, and thus inferiority, towards cultures referred to as “oriental.” Mr. Scruton seems correct in his point that these students don’t have a firm structure of what they mean by branching away from or being critical of the institution’s colonial past. In reality, these students seem to aiming more so to completely forget it instead of being critical of the possibly applicable, and thus relevant, ideas of these so called white philosophers.
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Opinions | thephoenixnews.com | Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor
Photo by David Vassiliev/ The Phoenix News
SWEATPANTS ARE NOT MEANT FOR THE CLASSROOM University is not the place for sweatpants Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor
As the new Opinions Editor of this paper, I find myself able to vent in a particularly effective way. With that in mind, I find myself discovering things that, while they do not irritate me per se, they do, in the words of Peter Griffin “grind my gears.” One of these things is the abundance of sweat pants at school. We have all seen that one individual who is one step short of wearing a Snuggie to class. This may seem like the perfect way to go to class. They are comfortable, warm, and have the feel of being at home.
That’s the issue—they are not at home. Consideration should be applied when you go to school, because that school is a training ground for your professional career. You are an academic, and you never know who you will meet. As a close friend’s grandfather once said, dress every day for either of two scenarios; the first being you’ll meet the person you’re going to marry, the second being you’ll meet your worst enemy. This is under the presumption that you are judged every second of
“ School is a training ground for your professional career.
”
everyday, and as terrible and discouraging as that sounds; it is true. The modern interpretation of this elder wisdom is that you should be prepared to be judged, whether it is by someone whose eye you’re trying to catch, or whether it is a professor you trying to impress. However, it does provide an interesting concept of first impressions: you want to be prepared for any circumstance. I am not expecting three piece suits and pencil skirts at school, but a happy medium. The
question of yoga pants is therefore also brought into the debate. The simple answer is that there is a time and place for everything; you wouldn’t wear dress shoes to the gym, so you also shouldn’t wear sweatpants to class.
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Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Opinions
Screenshot from the Phoenix News Pro-Life/ Pro-Choice Protest coverage/ YouTube
CONFRONTING A PRO-LIFE PROTESTER Can a pro-life protester hold his own at a University
Tyrel Lamoureux - Opinions Editor
The pro-life protests happened, as you all know, on January 24. The courtyard between the Science building and the Arts building was flooded with prochoice counter protesters with a couple people with outrageously disturbing posters in-between. Several friends of mine who are well versed in the art of debate confronted one of these protesters. I arrived at the scene with these friends already in discussion with an older gentleman, whose name I did not care to ask for. The arguments that they made were made for the “defense of the helpless” and to “protect
innocent lives.” The entire 45 minutes we were talking, it never progressed. He would make a point and we would contest it. We would provide arguments and challenge his opinion. He would pick out one thing that we said and make a new point, never answering our questions. All the while, picking up his poster and pointing it directly at whoever was talking. At some point you need to question why they are here. Why did they choose a university campus to protest at? They cannot expect to change our perspective. After all we are the most liberal spot in the valley. What they
“ He would pick out one thing that we said and make a new point, never answering our questions.
”
are looking for is a reaction. Is to get one person so mad, so angry that they take start a fight, or get caught in a compromising position that makes them look like the victims. We need to keep our cool regardless of how much they upset us, because then they will win. As someone who supports free speech and open discussion about all topics, this was insanely frustrating. It was made clear that this man was not looking to change minds through a real discussion. He was there with an attitude that seemed very passive-aggressive and he expressed his views
in a patriarchal manner that reflected a subtle tone of superiority. His actual argument however, reminded me of a child who would talk over you, repeat the same point, and ignoring all points of contention. But then again he is against women’s rights so who is surprised. For greater insight into the events of the protests, visit our Facebook page The Phoenix News, and watch the video “UBCO Pro-Life/ProChoice Demonstration.”
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Opinions | thephoenixnews.com | Trophy Ewila - Opinions Editor
Photo by Gage Skidmore/ Wikimedia Commons
TRUMP IS PRESIDENT, AND THAT’S ALL WE KNOW Both sides are guilty of extreme hyperbole
Mark Dreger – Phoenix Columnist
After Donald Trump’s inauguration, it has become apparent that productive criticism is slowly dying. Currently, I see 4 main groups: the blind supporters, the useless protestors, the violent extremists, and the genuine critics. I will start with the quick and easy. To those that think Trump is the second coming of Christ and will be the greatest president ever: no one, not even Trump, knows absolutely if he is going to be any good. We can root for him to do what is best for America, but we will have to wait until he leaves office to see how significant he has been. For those that have unreasonably high expectations of Trump, you will be disappointed (unless you only read Breitbart). Then there are the protests the next day, just when maybe the futile whining about Trump was over. First off, these people have the
freedom to protest, but I also have the freedom to laugh at their mass hysteria. Were the protests meant to accomplish something or was this just a feel-good walk? What rights are they concerned about losing? What is under threat from the pro-gay president that is obviously not being hysterically hyperbolized by any means whatsoever? Thankfully most were not completely insane like Ashley Judd, Madonna, or Shia Lebouf, but if these people plan to protest throughout Trump’s term regardless of good or bad policy, then it is clear how the true dividers of the country operate. But hey, if there is one thing the march proved, it is that a lot of people can walk at once with toques on. So brave. But then things reach a completely new level of stupid. If people think smashing windows, blocking traffic, burning cars, and starting violence will
“ Trump will be the US president for at least 4 years, so we should all give him a chance and praise him when he does something good and criticise him when he does something bad.
”
convince anyone to join their side, then do not be surprised when people become Trump supporters just to vote in 2020 against these crazy people, making Trump’s reelection campaign incredibly easy. Ironically, Trump appears more unifying in comparison, but will likely be unable to do so due to the violent extremists maintaining the division. Unless you had lousy parents, throwing a hissy fit will not get you what you want; instead, it could lead to 4 more years of Trump. And then there are the critics, the reasonable few. The critics hold a main philosophy: Trump will be the US president for at least 4 years, so we should all give him a chance and praise him when he does something good and criticise him when he does something bad. He has withdrawn from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which is good; but Trump
and his team are whining and lying about his inauguration numbers, which is bad and stupid. Some policies will be subjective based on political affiliation, but they should be reasonably critiqued instead of immediately praised or rejected because “it’s Trump.” Despite the conspiracy theories of Trump’s legitimacy, he is the president and will remain president. But there is hope if you are upset: America will not become a totalitarian state and there will be an election in 2020. A Trump presidency could be good or it could be bad, so give him a chance to lead and stop dividing the country more than Trump ever could.
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Grayson B. Leahy – Sports Editor | thephoenixnews.com |
Sports
Sports
Photo by Sarah James/ The Phoenix News
INTRAMURALS AT UBCO
With the second semester now underway, the athletics and recreation program continues to grow
Kaylin Ferguson - Contributor
taking place February 20-23. Speaking with some participants here at UBCO who are currently playing on an intramural team, it appears students love the intramural program run here. Megan Walwyn, who plays dodgeball, says “it [forms] a good sense of community and appreciation for sports.” This is Megan’s second time playing an intramural sport, and she clearly enjoys the program here at UBCO. Another player, Joella Koblischke, who is participating in the basketball intramurals this semester says she is “loving it.” She added, “the
“ ‘It is a good sense of community and appreciation for sports.’ – Megan Walwyn
“
Intramurals are back at UBC Okanagan. The first round of intramurals in second semester has begun, and the sports include indoor soccer, basketball, dodgeball, and volleyball. Most sports, excluding dodgeball, have both co-rec and competitive leagues. If you’re wondering what co-rec or competitive means, let me explain. Corec is the league that is recreational meaning it is for fun, or not as competitive. Competitive league would be the opposite, meaning that this is the ‘big-leagues’ people. This semester of intramurals extends until February 10 with playoffs
teams are competitive and enthusiastic,” which has made her experience playing great, and has brought her back to play basketball for a second year now. Overall, students at UBCO seem to love the program run by athletics and recreation. It is a very popular event on campus, as spots fill up very quickly when sign up week begins. If you missed this round of intramurals there is another chance to join in on the action come late February. Sign-ups for the second round of intramurals will go from February 20 until the 30, with league games beginning February
27 and extending until March 31. It is a good idea to sign up early as the demand to play is very high. You can sign up at camprec.ca or visit the customer service desk at the UBCO gym on campus.
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Sports | thephoenixnews.com | Grayson B. Leahy – Sports Editor
SUPER BOWL LI Roger Goodell handing Kraft, Brady, and Belichick the Lombardi Trophy may be the funniest thing football fans will ever see Grayson B. Leahy – Sports Editor
“ ‘Goodell is like the Vladimir f****** Putin of the NFL.’ – Joe Horn
“ of great quarterbacks after his performance against the Packers. He completed 27 of his 38 passes for 392 yards and four touchdowns; that’s 10.31 yards per attempt, while the average across the league for this season was 7.24. Tom Brady’s stats against the Steelers, whose defence was far better than Green Bay’s, were 32 of 42 for 384 yards and three touchdowns. Those stats differences won’t matter to many though, as the Patriots are already three-point favourites in most sports betting books, in a game where the over/under for total score is set at a recordhigh 60 in some. The real story for football fans, aside from the obvious one of who will win the Lombardi
Battle over minimum wage begins amid financial secrecy
Stephen Dass - Contributor
Trophy, is the Patriots dynasty and their relationship to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. Goodell has been on a mission to punish the Patriots at every turn since NE head coach Bill Belichick was caught in 2007 illegally filming the New York Jets’ coaching signals (Spygate). This led to the fourgame suspension of Tom Brady at the beginning of this season, allegedly for his use of footballs with insufficient air (Deflategate). That suspension has almost unanimously been accepted by NFL commentators and writers as an attempt by Goodell to get back at Belichick, Brady, and Patriots owner Robert Kraft. The relationship between the New England organization and Goodell is one of the most entertaining things about the NFL right now, whether you’re a Pats fan or not. I’m a Miami Dolphins fan, so this pains me on a number of levels to say, but I want the New England Patriots to win the Super Bowl. I want to see Goodell have to hand the Lombardi Trophy to the Patriots, who will undoubtedly grab it from him with looks of joy in their eyes at having won and at having taken a great big shot at their greatest critic. Goodell has created an environment in the NFL that is completely different from anything it’s ever been in the 97 seasons since it began, and that’s colloquially become known as the No Fun League. Joe Horn, former NFL receiver and proponent of the touchdown celebration, said in a 2016 interview with Sports Illustrated, “Goodell is like the Vladimir f****** Putin of the NFL,” adding for good measure, “You quote me on that shit.” With that statement in mind, Goodell handing Belichick the Lombardi Trophy would be as uncomfortable and embarrassing for the commissioner as handing Hillary Clinton the keys to the FSB would be for Putin, and I want to see it.
A law firm representing current and former CHL hockey players says that over 350 players have registered for a proposed class-action lawsuit against the Canadian Hockey League. On one side are the Major Junior clubs who, for years, have obtained exemption from paying their players the minimum wage under the Employment Standards Act. On the other side are the plaintiffs, former and current players who claim that CHL clubs are worth millions and that they deserve to be paid the minimum wage. As of the release of a December 2016 affidavit 145 players from the QMJHL, 119 from the WHL and 102 from the OHL have joined the lawsuit. The next chapter in this saga has the CHL and 42 major junior clubs ordered to provide their tax returns and financial statements dating back to 2011 to the plaintiffs. These records will be used to establish profitability and decide how viable a minimum wage is for the CHL.
According to unaudited records the Ontario and Western Leagues combined to generate revenues of $136.7 million in 2015, but cannot afford to pay roughly 850 of its players
“ The WHL claimed revenues of just over $80 million in 2015. The cost to pay the players a minimum wage in that league would be about $300,000 per year per team.
“
With the AFC and NFC Championships now behind us, NFL fans have the mixed feelings of anticipation and impending grief; anticipation for the fifty-first edition of the Super Bowl, and grief at the loss of football until September 7. Super Bowl LI (51 for those of us not fluent in Roman numerals) is set to go in Houston, Texas on Sunday, February 5 between the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons. The Patriots crushed the Pittsburgh Steelers 36-17 in the AFC Championship last weekend, and the Falcons stomped all over the Green Bay Packers 44-21 to win the NFC. Matt Ryan, quarterback for Atlanta, may finally have earned his place in the annals
CANADIAN HOCKEY LEAGUE PLAYERS SET TO DROP THE GLOVES IN COURT in that league would be about $300,000 per year per team, for a total cost of about $6.6 million, which would amount to about 8.25 percent of total revenues. While that seems positive for the plaintiffs, the CHL have also reported “other operating expenses” and without further documentation, any information you hear in the early days of the case should be taken with a grain of salt. Either way the judge will decide whether two-thirds of the junior hockey teams in Canada must live with their finances being open to public scrutiny. Perhaps from there, fans and future players alike can get a better idea whether the former players have a case or whether Canada’s junior leagues would actually be crippled by having to pay their players a minimum wage.
a minimum wage. The WHL claimed revenues of just over $80 million in 2015. The cost to pay the players a minimum wage
PGA STARTING STRONG IN THE NEW YEAR A pair of 59’s highlights the exceptional start to golf’s 2017 pro tour
Grayson B. Leahy – Sports Editor
We’re only three tournaments into the 2017 PGA calendar at the time of this article’s writing, and already this year feels like an all-timer. At the end of 2016, there were only six players to have ever recorded a score of 59 in a PGA round. Now there are eight. In the first tournament of the year, the SBS Tournament of Champions in Hawaii, Justin Thomas earned his second win since joining the Tour. A week later, he won the Sony Open in Hawaii after shooting an 11-under 59 in the opening round. He is the youngest player ever, at 23 years old, to shoot below 60. The back-to-back wins and the exceptional scoring have
earned Thomas a spot in the top ten of the world golf rankings, as he has risen to eighth in the most recent updating. Normally, one round of 59 would make a PGA season exceptional. This year we’ve already got a second courtesy of Adam Hadwin, a 29-yearold product of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Hadwin became the first player ever without a PGA tournament win to record a 59 in an official tournament with his third round at the CareerBuilder Challenge (formerly the Bob Hope Classic) at the La Quinta course in the Coachella Valley in California. The 13-below-par score made Hadwin the leader going into the
final round of the tournament, and the third-year tour member went on to finish second behind Hudson Swafford. “Someone told me there are more people to walk on the moon than those that have shot 59,” said Adam to Global News in a post-round interview. “It sounds slightly ridiculous, but it is true.” Talking about how he felt before the final stroke, he continued, “I thought to myself that if you miss a straight threefoot putt uphill to shoot 59, you’ll never live it down... Then I had to forget that and focus on my routine.”
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