BY YAHYA KARIM

Have you ever seen a line of dominoes fall, one after the other? It starts with just one push, and suddenly, every domino in the line topples. This simple action is called the domino effect, and it doesn’t just happen in games, it happens in real life too. Throughout history, small effects have caused huge events to arise, showing the power of the domino effect.

One example of the domino effect in history is the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914. This small event triggered a chain reaction that led to World War I. After the assassination, countries began taking sides and forming alliances. Tensions grew, and soon, one event after another pulled nations into a global conflict. This war changed the world forever, showing how one event can lead to something much bigger.

Another example is the American Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. One action, like Rosa Parks refusing to give up her bus seat, inspired others to take a stand. Her bravery sparked: protests, marches, and speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream.” These events built on each other, leading to new laws and greater rights for many people. It started small but grew into a movement that changed the nation.

Even in nature the domino effect has caused changes. A small environmental change like cutting down some trees in an area can lead to soil erosion. This erosion can cause floods that might destroy the environment, heavily impacting both the animals and the communities that reside there.

The domino effect teaches us that small actions can lead to big results, both good and bad. This is why it’s important to think about the choices we make and all of their possible outcomes. In our own lives, a small decision, like studying a little every day, can lead to success. In history, small events have shaped the world as we know it.

Next time you see a row of dominoes, remember that every action counts. No matter how small it may be, or what it is caused by. Whether in history, nature, or your own life, the domino effect reminds us that one small push can make a big difference.

BY KHADIJA KARIM

Imagine walking into a room, all eyes on you. It happens to everyone at some point, right? Now imagine those eyes aren’t just curious—they’re filled with judgment. This is a reality many Muslims face simply because of the diversity represented by a piece of cloth. Islamophobia is a problem in Canada, harming many people. Despite Canada’s reputation for being diverse and inclusive, Muslims often face discrimination simply because of their religion.

Islamophobia shows up in hateful actions and words. Some Muslims face verbal abuse, online hate, or even physical attacks. For example, women wearing hijabs might be yelled at, or have their scarves pulled. This creates fear and anxiety, making people feel unsafe in their own neighbourhoods.

Unfair treatment is another issue. Some Muslims face discrimination at work or when renting a home. Others are unfairly judged as dangerous because of stereotypes about terrorism. These false ideas prevent Muslims from feeling fully accepted in society. The effects go beyond individuals and harm communities. When Muslims feel excluded, it weakens the harmony between people and creates divisions. Families may hide their faith to avoid judgment, which breaks trust and prevents that vital connection between diverse groups.

Muslim youth are especially affected. In schools, they face bullying, name-calling, or feel left out because of their faith. Some students feel pressured to hide their identity to fit in, which can harm their self-esteem and confidence. Others struggle with teachers, or classmates who misunderstand, or stereotype their religion. These experiences can negatively impact their mental health and make it harder for them to feel comfortable in educational settings. Schools should be places where all students feel safe and supported, but for many Muslim youth, this is not the reality.

What can we do? First, we need awareness. People should recognize that Islamophobia exists and understand its harm. Schools and workplaces can teach about diversity and promote respect. Governments must ensure laws protect everyone and speak out against hate. Individuals can also help by standing up against Islamophobia. If you see someone being mistreated, support them, or speak out. Being an ally shows that hate is unacceptable.

In conclusion, Islamophobia is a serious issue in Canada. By working together, we can create a society where everyone feels safe and included. Change begins with understanding, and together, we can make Canada a truly welcoming place.

BY AMARI SUKHDEO

Hollywood has long had a love affair with remakes, reboots, and sequels, but in recent years, the trend has exploded in popularity. From Superman to Ghostbusters, studios seem obsessed with revisiting their most iconic franchises. This ongoing cycle of recreating, or expanding beloved films raises a question: Why does Hollywood keep going back to the past instead of creating something entirely new?

One of the driving forces behind this trend is nostalgia. Movies like: Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021) and Superman: Legacy (2025) tap into audiences’ emotional connections to the original films. For many, these iconic movies represent a simpler time, evoking childhood memories, or cultural milestones. In a world where sequels and franchises dominate, it’s no surprise that both new generations and original fans are drawn to these revisited universes. Take Ghostbusters: Afterlife for example. While the 2021 film introduces a new generation of characters, it doesn’t forget its roots. It weaves in references and cameos from the original Ghostbusters films, giving longtime fans a sense of continuity while appealing to younger viewers unfamiliar with the original.

In addition to remaking films, many franchises are opting for a different strategy: adding to the original universe. The idea of a shared cinematic universe (or “multiverse”) has become a popular approach for reviving classic properties. Marvel’s success with the MCU has influenced studios like Warner Bros. and Sony to follow suit with their own expanded universes, such as: The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and Spider-Man’s multiverse. For example, Superman is getting a reboot in 2025 with Superman: Legacy under the direction of James Gunn, who is known for his work in shaping the: Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad franchises. While the film is technically a new beginning for the character, it is set against the backdrop of a larger interconnected universe of DC films. By expanding the universe, studios can create a cohesive narrative that engages fans across multiple films and platforms, from movies to TV series.

For studios, remaking films, or adding sequels to successful franchises is often a safer financial bet. Original films are a risk, while a remake, or sequel can build on an established brand with a built-in fan base. This is especially true for high-budget films where studios want a guaranteed return on investment. Take Top Gun: Maverick (2022) as an example. The movie’s success wasn’t just due to its action-packed plot, but also because it capitalized on the original film’s popularity, appealing to both nostalgic adults and younger moviegoers discovering the franchise for the first time.

Furthermore, the global box office plays a role in this remake boom. Big-budget action films, like: Fast & Furious, or the Jurassic World series, are increasingly geared toward international audiences. Franchises with built-in recognition are much more likely to succeed in diverse markets, making them a more attractive investment for studios.

Remakes and sequels have become a core part of modern cinema, driven by nostalgia, financial incentives, and the appeal of shared cinematic universes. Whether it’s revisiting Superman or expanding on Ghostbusters, Hollywood’s fascination with reimagining and adding to original films shows no sign of slowing down. The challenge remains to balance honoring the past with creating something fresh for future generations. As long as studios find ways to connect with audiences, both new and old, the trend of remakes will continue to shape the film industry for years to come.