Year: 2024

What can I do?

A question we hear so often when an injustice reverberates through the fabric of our collective consciousness.

I want you to start by doing nothing.

I want you to start by feeling everything.

I am a young, inexperienced white woman. I don’t pretend to know much. I only know my truth and how I came to be where I am. I went from “What can I do?” to “I can’t help but do anything I can”. I hope my words will help you do the same. 

Start by feeling. 

So many of us have been ripped away from our emotional bodies. This is not our fault. We did not ask to be born into a world that encourages self-sacrifice, punishes slowing down, and worships at the feet of productivity. We did not ask to be born to mothers and fathers who were born to mothers and fathers who never learned how to feel anything.

I want you to learn how to feel things. Not just easy things. I want you to learn how to feel the hard things. Invite them inside yourself, and give them a seat at your table. Make them tea. Let them stay a while. 

You are safe.

It’s not your fault that you have been born into a world where this is not allowed. Where emotions are dangerous playthings to be abandoned in childhood and never touched again. Our bodies are made to be battlegrounds and war leaves no time for sentiment. 

Once you can feel again, then you will know what to do.

It is our guilt that stops us from moving, our shame that stops us from knowing our strength, our despair that keeps us hopeless, our anger that shuts us down, our fear that makes us cowardly. 

No – It is our inability to let these feelings show us the way that keeps us stuck.

I want you to feel guilt so that when you see a broken Palestinian child on your phone screen, you are more afraid for their safety than for your own. When we deny guilt a place in our hearts, we become afraid of it. We become afraid of the broken child. We look away from the broken child. We do nothing to help the broken child. When guilt speaks, it tells us what we’ve done wrong and helps us know what to do next.

I want you to feel guilt because on the other side of guilt is action.

I want you to feel shame. Shame is a wound. Shame hurts. Buried shame hurts more. It must be uprooted and spoken aloud. It tells us we are bad, we are wrong, we are unworthy. Let shame reveal your wounds so they can be healed. Do not allow shame to keep you afraid of knowing who you are and what you can become.

I want you to feel shame because on the other side of shame is inner power.

I want you to feel sadness so you do not lose your softness to the hardness of the world. Listen to sadness and it will tell you of loss. Sadness whispers empathy. It helps us seek comfort and refuge. Cry. It means your soul is alive.

I want you to feel sadness because on the other side of sadness is hope.

I want you to feel anger. Anger is sacred. Anger is powerful. Stay close to your anger and it will show you your values. Feel anger, but let it move through your body like fire. It will transform you. When anger speaks, it tells us we have been wronged. Let anger show you what is wrong with the world.

I want you to feel anger because on the other side of anger is truth.

I want you to feel scared. Fear is a trickster. A shapeshifter. A helicopter parent in our brain telling us to be careful. Fear wants to protect us, and it will do almost anything to keep us safe. Safe but small. Safe but confined. Safe, but in a danger more perilous than it will ever let us see. Fear can be selfish. It can tell us to save our pride when another human’s life depends on our humility. Feel scared so you can expose fear in its lies and face the real danger before you.  

I want you to feel scared because on the other side of fear is bravery.

I want you to feel everything so that when you are faced with injustice, you do not confuse discomfort with danger. Shame is only paralyzing when we are afraid of it. Sadness is only despairing when we can’t confront it. When you see a Palestinian woman burned half to death, and you want to look away and never think about it again, I want you to feel. Feel the guilt, then peel it back and reveal the shame, then peel it back and reveal the sadness, then the anger, then the fear. Then you will know what to do. Then you will not blame the woman for your distress. You will blame the bomb and the one who sent it.

This too is rebellion. 

The emotional revolution precedes the physical one.

About the Author

Elizabeth Cox (She/Her) is an Acadia student studying nutrition and dietetics. She is originally from Clinton, Ontario, which is located on the land of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Neutral peoples. She now lives in Mtaban(Wolfville), located in Mi’kma’ki, the land of the Mi’kmaq people. Elizabeth is a pro-Palestinian activist who is heavily involved in organizing with the Acadia Collective for the Liberation of Palestine (ACLP). Information about the group can be found on Instagram @acadia4liberatedpalestine, where you can add your name to a letter demanding that Acadia divests from Israel’s genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. The group can be reached by email at [email protected]. 

Image by kacerv21 via Pinterest 

When most people think of cybersecurity, they often envision an image shaped by Hollywood movies. You might picture a genius typing furiously on their keyboard, trying to breach highly encrypted systems in mere seconds. Alternatively, you might imagine shadowy figures behind anonymous masks or scenes where characters work in dimly lit rooms, their screens aglow with cascading green code that appears to be nothing more than 1’s and 0’s running across the screen. Movies and TV shows tend to turn cybersecurity into a thrilling, action-packed spectacle featuring high-tech individuals and heroic hackers, known in the real world as Ethical Hackers saving the day. While these portrayals capture a certain dramatic flair, they often misrepresent the true nature of cybersecurity and its vital role in our lives.

In reality, cybersecurity is an integral part of our daily existence, though its presence may not always be obvious. It is a complex and multifaceted field that extends beyond the flashy hacking scenes depicted in movies. It requires cybersecurity professionals to work together and continuously study due to the many new and evolving threats that arise every day. Think of it as akin to a doctor’s constant need for ongoing education. Individuals in the cybersecurity field must engage in similar continuous learning. Threats come in various forms, such as phishing attacks, ransomware, and malware, each requiring specialized tools and techniques to detect and mitigate. Cybersecurity experts do not rely on quick, on-the-fly code to save the day; instead, they utilize sophisticated technologies like firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, encryption protocols, policies, and even artificial intelligence, among others, to prevent breaches. Unlike the Hollywood myth of hacking occurring within seconds, real-world cyberattacks involve extensive planning and research because this field is ever-changing. This means that events can unfold rapidly, even overnight while you are sleeping.

Hollywood has popularized many misconceptions about cybersecurity, which can distort people’s understanding of the field. A common myth perpetuated by Hollywood is that hacking happens instantaneously. However, that is not the case. Cyberattacks are often slow and methodical. Hackers may spend weeks or even months examining systems, gathering information, and exploiting vulnerabilities before launching an attack. Another myth is the lone genius hacker, whereas in reality, many hackers work together in organized groups. They use collaborative strategies to target multiple systems simultaneously. Hollywood’s portrayal might also lead people to assume that cyberattacks always involve stealing government secrets. While such scenarios add thrill to movie plots, most cyberattacks target everyday businesses, individuals, and small businesses, aiming to steal data, disrupt operations, or demand ransom.

Cybersecurity plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. For individuals, personal cybersecurity involves basic yet essential practices such as creating strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and regularly updating software to patch vulnerabilities. Simple actions like being cautious of suspicious emails or avoiding unsecured public Wi-Fi networks can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a cyberattack. The importance of a holistic approach to cybersecurity was starkly illustrated by the global IT outage experienced by CrowdStrike on July 19, 2024. This incident was caused by a malfunction in a software update, which led to a system failure known in IT circles as the “Blue Screen of Death.” This failure highlighted the critical need for thorough testing before deploying updates. Proper testing ensures that software updates do not introduce new vulnerabilities or cause unexpected issues, thereby preventing widespread disruptions.

In the case of the CrowdStrike outage, the lack of sufficient pre-deployment testing led to significant consequences: hospitals were unable to perform surgeries, flights were canceled, and many employees were unable to work. Such incidents underscore why cybersecurity is a critical concern for everyone. Protecting both digital and physical assets from unauthorized access, whether malicious or accidental, is essential for maintaining operational integrity and safeguarding sensitive information. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and vigilant is key to navigating the complexities of modern cybersecurity and ensuring robust protection in an increasingly interconnected world.

As we advance in the technology age, the challenges in cybersecurity evolve as well. Emerging threats such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and vulnerabilities in the Internet of Things (IoT) are creating new challenges for cybersecurity experts. We play a crucial role in safeguarding data and infrastructure, and nowadays, our work is increasingly intertwined with artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation to help identify and mitigate threats faster. As the digital world grows, the need to be more innovative and forward-thinking in our approach becomes even more critical.

In conclusion, cybersecurity is far more complex than Hollywood portrays. It involves ongoing efforts to protect both personal and organizational assets from evolving threats. By understanding the real-world importance of cybersecurity, we can take simple yet effective actions, such as using strong passwords or passphrases and enabling two-factor authentication, to protect ourselves from hackers. Everyone has a role to play in creating a safer digital environment. Let’s start today by being proactive about your own cybersecurity and encouraging others to do the same.

~(Cyber Girl)

In the annals of history, there are few figures who shine as brightly as Harvey Milk, a visionary leader whose legacy continues to reverberate through the corridors of progress. As we commemorate his indelible mark on the world, it’s imperative to delve into the extraordinary life of a man who fearlessly fought for equality, justice, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Join us as we embark on a journey through the life and times of Harvey Milk, a true champion of human rights and a beacon of hope for generations to come. 

The Rise of an Icon:

Harvey Milk’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming the first openly gay elected official in California is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. Breaking barriers and defying conventions, Milk’s ascent to prominence signaled a seismic shift in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights. With unwavering determination, he blazed a trail for countless others, proving that courage knows no bounds. 

A Voice for the Voiceless:

At the heart of Harvey Milk’s activism was a fervent belief in the power of representation. He understood that true progress could only be achieved when every voice was heard and every perspective valued. Through his impassioned advocacy, Milk amplified the voices of the marginalized, tirelessly championing causes ranging from LGBTQ+ rights to affordable housing and workers’ rights. His unwavering commitment to inclusivity and social justice continues to inspire activists around the globe. 

The Legacy Lives On:

Although Harvey Milk’s life was tragically cut short, his legacy endures as a guiding light for those who dare to dream of a more equitable world. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who continue to fight for equality, justice, and human dignity. From the halls of government to the streets of every city, Milk’s spirit emboldens us to stand up, speak out, and strive for a better tomorrow.

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Harvey Milk, let us remember that his story is not merely one of triumph over adversity, but a rallying cry for all who believe in the power of compassion, equality, and solidarity. In a world often fraught with division and discord, Milk’s message of hope and unity remains as relevant as ever. So let us honor his memory by carrying forward the torch of progress, knowing that as long as we stand together, the flame of justice will never be extinguished. 

The Consequences of Never being Heard but Always Being Seen for Indigenous Women

Within Canada’s legal system, a startling truth becomes apparent: the simultaneous underrepresentation and overrepresentation of Indigenous women within the system has left them without champions. Although they make up less than 4% of all women in Canada, 50% of the Canadian female prison population are Indigenous women. In British Columbia, where the Indigenous population is notably high, a mere 359 out of 14,000 members of the Law Society identify as Indigenous. This alarming lack of representation not only echoes the boarder issue, but deepens the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous women in their pursuit of justice. It’s a crisis that demands our immediate attention and action. 

The problem

The underrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the legal profession, coupled with their overrepresentation in prison and crime statistics, stems from a web of systemic barriers, with educational obstacles serving as the most pivotal challenge. The trickle-down effect of access to education to the being underrepresented and overrepresented of Indigenous women in the criminal justice system is significant. It starts with limited access to early education, evident in the alarming graduation rates. Less than 63% of Indigenous youth graduate high school, a stark contrast to their non-Indigenous counterparts, who boast a rate just over 91%.

If one beats the high school barrier, the path to post-secondary education, particularly in fields like law, presents its own set of barriers. The University of Toronto’s law school identified a mere 7 Indigenous students of a total enrollment of just over 200 new students per a year. If one is able to beat the education barriers, they are met with their next obstacle, the cost of post-secondary and graduate school education. In Canada the average cost of law school is $20,700 per year. This financial burden becomes especially onerous considering that Indigenous peoples in Canada experience the highest levels of poverty, affecting 1 in 4 individuals.

The consequences of underrepresentation and overrepresentation matter

A diverse and inclusive legal system is crucial for ensuring fair representation and equitable justice. When Indigenous voices are absent from legal institutions, the legal landscape lacks the diverse perspectives and cultural understanding necessary for just and effective decision-making. Secondly, the educational barriers that contribute to this underrepresentation perpetuate a cycle of systemic injustice. Limited access to early education and the financial constraints that impede progress to post-secondary institutions, like law school, reinforce disparities, limiting opportunities for Indigenous individuals. Moreover, the overrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the criminal justice system is a manifestation of these systemic inequities. Without representation in legal professions, there is a higher likelihood of misinterpretation, bias, and systemic failures that result in disproportionate incarceration rates.

Addressing these issues is not just about rectifying statistical imbalances; it is about rectifying historical injustices and fostering a legal system that truly reflects the diversity and values of the Canadian population. It is an imperative step towards dismantling systemic barriers, promoting justice, and ultimately building a society where Indigenous peoples are empowered, heard, and treated equitably with in the legal framework. 

A solution

To address the underrepresentation of Indigenous individuals in the legal profession, a possible strategy involves the implementation of mentorship programs. These types of programs can establish crucial one-on-one connections between seasoned legal professionals and aspiring Indigenous lawyers, aiming to break down barriers and empower the next generation. Specifically addressing the systemic barriers, mentorship provides personalized guidance. This includes navigating financial hurdles and overcoming educational challenges, ensuring that Indigenous mentees receive practical advice to navigate complexities that might otherwise discourage them from pursuing legal careers. Mentorship programs extend beyond mere professional advice; they actively contribute to community building within the legal sphere. By connecting Indigenous students with mentors, these programs foster a supportive community, breaking the isolation that may deter some from entering the legal field. Additionally, mentorship serves as a source of inspiration and gaining role models, exposing mentees to successful Indigenous legal professionals. This type of exposure provides tangible examples of what can be achieved, fostering motivation, and instilling the confidence to pursue a legal career. In 1989, Nova Scotia launched a Black-Nova Scotian and Mi’kmaq mentorship initiative in hopes of achieving a diverse population of lawyers in Nova Scotia. Prior to this initiative zero Black-Nova Scotians and Mi’kmaq graduated from Dalhousie Law School, now there is over 180 Black and Indigenous lawyers. 

A compelling example of the impact of representation is found in the journey of British Columbia (B.C.) Family law lawyer Kelly Russ. Inspired by meeting Judge Alfred Scow, the first Indigenous judge in B.C., Russ gained a sense of what was possible during elementary school. Despite spending 13 years in foster care, Russ went on to obtain a law degree and establish his family law firm in West Vancouver, highlighting the powerful influence of representation in breaking down barriers and inspiring success. 

Steps forward

It is evident that the underrepresentation of Indigenous women in Canada’s legal system is a multifaceted crisis with deep rooted systemic causes. From limited access to early education, to financial barriers in pursing legal education, these challenges perpetuate a disparity and contribute to the over representation of Indigenous women in the criminal justice system. A solution is urgent; the idea of mentorship could be that first step of change. 

It should be everyone’s hope that collective efforts will lead to a legal system that not only rectifies statistical imbalances but also dismantles historical injustices, fostering a society where Indigenous voices are truly heard and empowered within the legal framework. The time for action is now.

Aryton Senna, or Ayrton Senna de Silva, was born March 21st of 1960 in São Paulo, State of São Paulo, Brazil. 

Senna’s father, Milton da Silva, was an owner of an auto-parts company, he later switched to the metallurgy industry. Milton da Silva then branched out to construction & livestock. Milton introduced Senna to go-karting when he was 4 years of age.

Senna got his first full sized go-kart at 10, and started racing at the age of 13, which was the age when racing became legal.. In 1977 and 1978, he won the Karting Championship in South America. Then, in 1981, he started living in England and raced for Formula Ford 1600 for the team Van Dieman.

For a little bit afterwards, he went back home and worked for his fathers business. Later returning back to England to drive in Formula Ford 2000. In 1983, Senna raced in Formula Three for the team West Surrey. Senna managed to win the National championship during his time in F3. The next year, he would go off to Formula 1.

Senna won 3 World Drivers’ Championships in Formula 1 as a motorsports racing driver. Senna started off his debut with Toleman in 1984, and then switched to Lotus in 1985. At the time, Senna was also partnered with Elio de Angelis.

 In 1988, Senna made a deal to sign with McLaren. Where he  became teammates with the four-time World Champion Alain Prost. While with McLaren, he won 8 races which broke the current record of races won at the time.

Senna barely won his first title that same year with 90 points, followed by Prost with 87 points. Senna, then, took his second title in 1990, and his 3rd and final title in 1991. After he started to fall out, he moved to Williams in 1994.

His last ever win was at McLaren, at the final race of the 1993 season. It happened to be his 41st victory, that was at the Australian Grand Prix.

He later died at the age of 34 on May 1st 1994 in Bologna, Italy, at the San Marino Grand Prix Formula 1 race circuit. He crashed at the Tamburello corner in lap six, after leading the race for 5 laps and starting from pole position. 

While trying to turn on the left-hand corner, Senna’s car instead went straight, rcashing into a concrete barrier at about 135mph (217 – 218 kmh) head on. His cause of death was during his crash, where, the suspension and the front right wheel from his FW16 hit Senna on the head, causing him to die on impact.

Senna, however, didn’t want to race that day, as the day before in qualifying, Roland Ratzenberger, driver for Simtek, had died at 33. Ratzenberger was only 3 races into his Formula 1 career. David Coulthard would be the driver to replace Senna and make his Formula 1 debut at the 1994 Spanish Grand Prix. 

According to the McLaren Cars Website, the McLaren Senna was dedicated to honour Ayrton Senna: 

“Never before has a McLaren road or race car been inspired by one of our greatest drivers, but the McLaren Senna bears the name of legendary Formula 1™ driver Ayrton Senna, befitting its status as the ultimate McLaren track car”.

The Official McLaren Website also mentions this on the fact of the McLaren Senna: 

“Envisioned by Ayrton Senna before his untimely death, the charitable work of the Instituto Ayrton Senna (IAS) is a remarkable legacy for one of McLaren’s greatest racing drivers. Established in 1994 by his sister Viviane, six months after his fatal crash at the San Marino GP, the non-profit organisation now benefits up to 1.6 million children and young people in Brazil. On the racetrack he was one of the greatest drivers of all time, but his off-track achievements are arguably even greater. Thanks to the provision of comprehensive education, the IAS prepares the youth of Brazil to live in the 21st century and build a better future. McLaren is immensely proud to support the IAS, and to honour Ayrton Senna’s legacy at the highest level of motorsport with our most track-focused road car ever.”

The Spanish Civil War was waged between Republicans who looked to preserve the newly formed Spanish Republic and Nationalists who sought to transform Spain into a Fascist dictatorship.

This war was an important prelude to the Second World War and was internationally recognized as a major conflict.

In the war, both sides received support from important players in the looming Second World War. The nationalists were supported by Hitler’s Germany whereas the Republicans received support from the USSR. 

The war began after a partially failed coup d’etat against the Republican government in 1936. 

The coup left Spain divided in two which escalated to a civil war. 

Most Western countries recognized the Republican government but decided to follow a policy of non-intervention. They did, however, allow volunteers in an International Brigade.

The International Brigades were soldiers from across the world who went to Spain to join the popular front and preserve the Republic. It is estimated around 32 000 people from across the world came to Spain with 1500 Canadians joining the war between 1936 and 1938.

This was amongst the backdrop of appeasement many countries such as the U.K and Canada were participating in, in hopes to keep fascist countries like Germany and Italy from further expanding. This would ultimately be a failure. This went so far that when Prime Minister Mackenzie-King visited Germany in 1937 he would write favorable words in his diary about Adolf Hitler. He compared him to Joan of Arc and commented on his “smooth skin”. 

This strange appeasement policy was not common amongst Canadians who did not think of the Fascist leader in as favorable terms as their Prime Minister did.

When the 1500 Canadians left Canada, it was still in the midst of an economic depression. Unemployment would climb to over 30 percent, and even in the midst of the worst economic times The Canadian Government would not address the issue in any substantial way. This is in contrast to United States New Deal programs, which aimed to put millions to work for good paying wages. 

The oldest party in Canadian history, which still exists in 2024, is the Liberal Party in Canada as the Conservatives have been through too many deaths and rebirths to count. 

The second oldest is the Communist Party of Canada which was extremely active in the 1930s. Founded in 1921, the CPC aimed to be a voice for an alternative economic system inspired by Socialist ideals. The CPC identified The Great Depression as a failure of Capitalism, and in return, were raided multiple times by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. 

The leader of the party, Tim Buck, was imprisoned in 1932 and was the target of an assassination attempt in his cell. Eight shots would be fired into his cell. In 1933, the Minister of Justice admitted that the shots had been deliberately fired into his cell to intimidate him. Norman Bethune, a famous Canadian surgeon and Physician, would become a member of the party. He was one of the earliest proponents of socialized medicine in Canada. He would join the fight in Madrid to help the Republicans in the Civil war. Later in his life, Bethune would aid the Chinese Communists during their civil war by performing emergency battlefield operations on war casualties. He would die in China due to malnourishment and septicaemia. He is recognized across Canada as a hero as well as in China where Mao Zedong authored a eulogy entitled In memory of Norman Bethune.

The CPC would organize further efforts to help the people of Canada, such as the Relief Camp Workers Union, which appealed to Ottawa for work and wages, R.B Bennett would use the RCMP to brutally suppress them.

Canadians were suffering during the depression and were afraid of the rise of fascism happening across the globe. When a group of Fascists attempted to overthrow the Popular Front government of Spain and install a dictatorship, Canadians traveled in secret to Spain to fight on behalf of the republican government.

Similarly, in the United States, members traveled to Spain and created the Abraham Lincoln Battalion named after one of the most famous Presidents of the United States.

The Canadian chose a like-minded name. The Mackenzie-Papineau Battalion was named after two people. 

WIlliam Lyon Mackenzie leader of the Reformers and Louis Papineau leader of the Patriotes. These were the two main leaders of the 1837-38 rebellions in Upper and Lower Canada.

Readers can find an article on that rebelion through this link. 

https://theath.ca/editorials/the-often-forgotten-rebellions-of-1837-1838/

Leaders chose this name not only because of the history of the rebellion but because the current Prime Minister WIlliam Lyon Mackenzie-King was the grandson of WIlliam Lyon Mackeznie. This was an attempt to persuade the government to officially recognize the battalion, which the government decided not to do. 

Volunteers from the United States and U.K were mostly around university age. In Canada, volunteers were mainly older and working class.

The Mackenzie-Papineau battalion fought in several battles through the Civil War. These included the Battle of Teruel and the Aragon Offensive. 

Near the end of the war, on September 21st, 1938, the Spanish Prime Minister ordered the International Battalion to withdraw as defeat was imminent. Madrid would fall several months later on March 29, 1939. Within months of Madrid’s fall, the Germans would invade Poland kick-starting the Second World War.

By the end of the war, 721 Canadians died in the defense of Spanish democracy. 

In the return of veterans to Canada, many were investigated by the RCMP and some prosecuted. 

Veterans of the Spanish Civil War have been repeatedly failed by the Canadian government. Their names were not included in the Books of Remembrance and not commemorated on Remembrance Day. 

Despite this, there are several monuments dedicated to the sacrifice of Canadians enlisted in the Mackenzie-Papineau Battalion. The first was erected at Queens Park, Toronto as well as another in Victoria, BC. The final monument was unveiled in Ottawa and was funded by the Friends and Veterans of the Mackenzie-Papineau Battalion.

Spain did not restore its democracy until the death of Fransico Franco in 1975. 

This Remembrance Day please keep the sacrifices of the Mac Paps in mind and fight for the long awaited recognition of the battalions struggle for Spanish democracy and fight against fascism.