Connect with us

Community News

Year in Review: 2018

Published

6 years ago

on

BY: KABRENA ROBINSON

2018 was quite the year; Outlined by moments and events that were both overwhelming good and bad. For the most part, it could be described as one of the most tragic years in decades, with occurrences of many horrific and fatal incidents such as school shootings, hate crimes, terrorism, and natural disasters. Events that though appalling in nature, ignited a great degree of togetherness across the world. However, there were those swift great moments in the year that brought about euphoria and celebrations, like Canada’s historic move towards becoming the second country in the world to legalize recreational Cannabis and the widely televised and much discussed Royal wedding as well as many worldwide celebrations of progress and developments in politics and even science. 2018 can be highlighted as the year of reflection and strive for change.

#Metoo continues to make an impact

One of these moments involves the dominance of the #MeToo movement that garnered the world’s attention, spreading awareness of sexual assault in 2017. The movement was progressive as ever this year. The viral #MeToo hashtag (first initiated by Tarana Burke ten years ago), was reignited on October 15th, 2017 after American actress Alyssa Milano tweeted encouraging survivors of sexual assault to speak out using ‘#Me Too’ in their tweets. The hashtag spread like wildfire online with more than 500,000 mentions on Twitter and 12 million times on Facebook in the first 24 hours alone. Millions of women posted #MeToo on social media to say that they had been sexually assaulted, abused or harassed. The great awareness brought by the hashtag to sexual assault cases created a major shift in the narrative of the patriarchal power structure and how sexual assault cases are often regarded and dealt with by society. The Harvey Weinstein case in 2017 opened the gate to many more revelations and testimonies from survivors. The impact was so drastic that according to a New York Times article, at least 200 prominent men have lost their jobs after public allegations of sexual assault. A few, including Weinstein, face criminal charges. The article goes on to state that at least 920 people came forward to say that one of these men subjected them to sexual misconduct. And nearly half of the men who have been replaced were succeeded by women. This many would say was a tremendous milestone for female empowerment.

#MeToo in Canada

In Canada, several stories emerged at the start of the year about past allegedly inappropriate behavior of members of Parliament, both male and female, from the four main federal parties. This national conversation influenced many changes to the  MP-to-MP code of conduct, the Senate harassment policy, new rules within the respective political parties, enhanced training for staff on Parliament Hill and new protections for federal workers.

Women in Politics

The impact of the movement and the surge of feminism and female empowerment across the world also had some degree of influence on politics. On November 6, the United States held its midterm elections. Democrats reclaimed a majority in the House and a record number of women and visible minorities were elected to Congress. Among the history makers were Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, the first two Muslim women ever elected to the House of Representatives. This year was deemed as a “historic year for minority women in politics.”

Also, as the rest of the word was cheering on the new era for female advancements, so was the small island of Barbados who elected Mia Mottley as its first female Prime Minister, adding to a growing list of woman-led countries in the Caribbean community.

However, while the year has seen some major growth in the area of female empowerment and representation, there is still a far way to go as women are still greatly underrepresented in politics around the world. Currently, there are only 20 women holding the office of Head of State or Head of Government, which represents only 3% of the total number of international leaders.

The Royal Wedding and Diversity

Another main event that brought about celebration was the much anticipated royal wedding for Prince Harry and American actress Meghan Markle. Unlike any other royal wedding, the excitement that captured the world was due to it being “the most diverse Royal Wedding in Britain’s history”. Markel, now Duchess of Sussex, is of mixed descent. The wedding that had millions tuned in across the world, did not fall short with incorporating the Duchess’ African-American roots with a wedding adorned by elements of the black church, gospel music and an attendance list that greatly mirrored an occasion that for many symbolized a step further for inclusivity and modern culture. 

New Reign

While the year brought a great surge of excitement and intrigue with the British Royal Family and the wedding, there were also significant revolutions in politics taking place in other countries. The Cubans saw the end of the six-decade Castro era as they welcomed Miguel Diaz-Canel as their new president, replacing Raul Castro in April, a change in leadership that might prompt some adjustments to a nation deeply identified with the Castros, who led the successful revolution in 1959 which resulted in the most enduring communist system in the Western Hemisphere. While in May, Iraq, and Syria rejoiced for the first defeat of the Islamic State (a group that has been labeled as a terrorist organization by the United Nations and many individual countries). Both countries have been at war with the Islamic State since 2014. The defeat declared as “end of the war” comes after months of fighting to uproot the militant group in the regions.

Canada Makes history with Cannabis Legalization

Canada also had its own major innovation by making history when they became the second country in the world after Uruguay to formally legalize recreational use of Cannabis and the first G7 and world’s largest country with legal sales on October 17, 2018. The much anticipated moment was met by fanfare and celebration from many Canadians, some even gathering in parks and concert venues to smoke and welcome the new change. Cannabis was banned in Canada from 1923 until regulated medical cannabis became legal in 2001.

Canada’s Wave of Tragedies

While the year was marked by many moments of celebration and innovation, there were some unfavorable and fatal incidents that captured the attention and sympathy of Canadians and people around the world. In the month of April two very traumatic incidents had the entire country in dismay and mournfulness. On April 6th, a deadly bus crash in Saskatchewan left 16 people dead and 13 injured. Among the dead were 10 players ranging in ages 16 to 21, and six team personnel from the Humboldt Broncos, a junior ice hockey team. This has been dubbed as the country’s biggest news story of the year and brought forth a great outpouring of support from people across the country. The town with a population of 6,000 united in support of their lost loved ones, as donors worldwide raised $15.2 million for victims’ families.

A couple of weeks later, the nation was shaken by another horrific incident.
On April 23rd, a van plowed through pedestrians in the Yonge and Finch area, deliberately hitting almost everything in its path. The incident resulted in 10 deaths and 16 injuries, some critical. Alek Minassian, 25, was identified as the suspect and faces 10 counts of first-degree murder and 16 counts of attempted murder. The incident has been ruled out as “the deadliest vehicle-ramming attack in Canadian history”. The tragedy joined many Torontonians and others across the country together in a state of mourning with a #Torontostrong vigil and the memorial scene in Lastman Square and an impromptu memorial in Olive Park. Several crowdfunding campaigns were also set up to raise money for the victims’ families to cover expenses. Both events marked a rather dim and melancholy chapter of the year in Canada.

Escalated Gun Violence in the US

The US also saw 2018 as a year plagued by numerous heinous acts involving gun violence. A total of 328 people has been killed and 1,251 people injured in mass shootings in 2018, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive. 2018 was sullied by horrific incidents of gun violence in schools, places of worship, watering holes and malls throughout the year. In fact, this year, school shootings were at a record high in the US.

According to data from the US Naval Postgraduate School, there were 94 school gun violence incidents this year in the US — a record high since 1970. Though these many incidents caused a lot of fatalities, it brought into focus the conversation on gun control. Many mass shootings and student-led protests for gun control in 2018 have prompted numerous organizations, from advocacy groups to retailers, to take a position on the debate.

After a shooter left 17 dead at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, in February, surviving students launched a nationwide protest movement that included a series of high-profile demonstrations called the “March for Our Lives”.

Natural Tragedies

The US was also shaken by a series of natural disasters that left in its trail great destruction to communities and homes and also tragic losses. The 2018 Atlantic hurricane season experienced two of the most destructive storms in the United States history, Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Michael.

In September, Florence made a landfall in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, accompanied by a huge storm surge and widespread flooding. The hurricane-ravaged communities suffered a total of 53 deaths and billions in property damages. Floodwaters in North and South Carolina persisted for two weeks after the devastation and much of the area is still recuperating.

Not long after in October, hurricane Michael struck parts of Florida. According to weather reports, it was the strongest storm on record in the Florida Panhandle, and was the fourth-strongest landfalling hurricane in the contiguous United States, in terms of wind speed. Florida cities were destroyed beyond recognition by this powerful hurricane that wrecked many homes, businesses, and agriculture. At least 34 were killed with 1,135 Floridians still unaccounted for.

The Great Rescue

While these catastrophes devastated Americans and the rest of the world tuning in, there were brief moments that brought relief. In late June, the news that twelve boys and their soccer coach were stranded in a cave in Thailand’s Chiang Rai province gripped the attention of the world as they watched the great ordeal and rescue that lasted for 18 days. After news of the safe rescue, news outlets around the world both major and small as well as the rest of the world that was eagerly watching shared in the joy and relief.

Buju Free at Last

Another liberating moment at the top of the entertainment news cycles, was the release of international reggae/dancehall superstar, Mark Anthony Myrie famously known as Buju Banton. The entire Caribbean community and fans of the popular artist around the world were in a frenzy after the news of his early release from prison after eight years at the McRae Correctional institution broke. Banton arrived in Kingston Jamaica on December 7th to a heroes welcome and great fanfare from supporters who now anticipate his return to the music scene. He is now set to perform his first concert on March 16th, 2019, at the National Stadium in Kingston Jamaica. 

Prosperity and Progress

Looking back at all the major events that unfolded in the year 2018, the ones that brought us shock, sadness and grief to the moments we were able to rejoice and bask in joy and celebration, is a constant reminder for us to reflect and assess the changes that ought to be made in the coming year. Numerous times this year we were reminded of just how powerful and essential unity in times of adversity is. Whether we were mourning and paying respects to lost lives, being a humanitarian in times of need, cheering on a rescue mission, celebrating revolutions and innovative changes or even challenging the status quo, the common denominator was a collective effort and cohesion.

Heading into 2019, let us reflect on the things that impacted us the most this year and which element of it each of us can contribute to or change in a positive way.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Community News

Canada is Sinking – Is there a correlation between the rising economic costs, and the siphoning of funds to other sources in Canada?

Published

3 days ago

on

November 12, 2024

By

BY ADRIAN REECE

At some point Toronto was a city that people enjoyed living in. Recent political leadership at every level of government has caused citizens to consider moving out of the country as a whole. The high cost of living, coupled with the difficulty affording housing, and remote work becoming more regular has made the rest of the world seem much more appealing for Canadians as a whole.

Many countries are offering travel perks and visas to travelers in the west, to encourage them to visit, or to even move into their countries. Costa Rica, Japan, and France currently have travel perks and have opened their borders to make it easier to enter. Specifically for Canadians and even more specifically Torontonians who work remotely, are looking to countries and cities with lower costs of living. The Canadian dollar goes far in other parts of the world.

We owe the struggling economy to a few factors. Political leadership has greatly impacted the state of Canada, immigration policies that have changed over the years have caused stress on Canadian citizens.

In 2023, the federal government released its new Immigration Levels Plan to welcome 485,000 permanent residents in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025 and 2026. This announcement came on the heels of an Environics public opinion survey revealing a significant increase in the number of Canadians who believe the country accepts too many immigrants. That marks a dramatic reversal from a year ago, when support for immigration levels stood at an all-time high.

The Trudeau led government has held true to their commitment to bring in millions of immigrants in a short span of time. Housing policy is draining the income of Canadians, and political debates do not provide any real answers towards understanding what is going on in the country. Consistent political scandals regarding Trudeau overspending, and not adhering to budgets, and using money that was originally allocated for certain things. Trudeau was audited and it was found that $123 million was given to ineligible businesses, or projects that should have never been awarded at all. This is one in a long list of Trudeau scandals that have been a part of Canada political identity for the last nine years.

Trudeau’s government has even siphoned off funds to their personal businesses, after audits by the auditor general, we have seen too many inconsistencies with the funding of the Trudeau government in misusing funds as well as money disappearing into places that it should not be going.

In June of this year, the auditor general (AG) released two reports about: improper contracting practices, conflict of interest, and funding provided for ineligible projects. What these reports brought to light is an unpleasant reality; politicians and bureaucrats in Ottawa do not always act in the best interest of Canadians.

According to the first AG report, Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), the federal agency responsible for funding green technology projects, demonstrated “significant lapses… in governance and stewardship of public funds.” Nearly 20% of the SDTC projects examined by the AG were in fact ineligible (based on the government’s own rules) for funding, with a total price tag of $59 million. There were also 90 instances where the SDTC ignored conflict of interest provisions while awarding $76 million to various projects. Indeed, the AG found 63 cases where SDTC agency directors voted in favour of payments to companies in which they had declared interest.

The second AG report focused on 97 contracts totaling $209 million awarded by the federal government to the McKinsey & Company consulting firm from 2011 to 2023. According to the AG, the government demonstrated “frequent disregard for procurement policies and guidance and that contracting practices often did not demonstrate value for money.” About 70% of these contracts were awarded non-competitively, meaning no other companies were permitted to bid on the contracts. Interesting!

These findings also follow an earlier report in February that found the federal government “repeatedly failed to follow good management practices in the: contracting, development, and implementation” of the ArriveCAN mobile app, which cost Canadian taxpayers at least $59.5 million.

Is there a correlation between the rising economic costs, and the siphoning of funds to other sources in Canada? Potentially, it will take a lot more investigation to confirm if that is really the case. However, Canadians can see that there has been a drastic change in the economy since the Trudeau government has come into power.

For governments to work there needs to be transparency, and there has been a lack there of in regard to our political leadership in the last few years. There are too many scandals and too many mishaps with money. Too many policies that do not benefit the citizenry, and not enough effort made to rectify the sinking economy.

Canada cannot continue to stay in these dire straits, we are sinking, and leadership plays a big role in the state of the country. We won’t see changes unless we demand it, we can take a page out of France’s method of protest; other countries have set a precedent of what their expectations are, and Canadians need to do the same. They need to demand change and implement strategies to achieve it. Within acceptable methods of protest there exists a strategy and method of changing the nature of Canada’s problems, but it starts with the citizenry. Coming together is the greatest power we have, and we need to utilize it.

REFERENCES:

https://www.environicsinstitute.org/projects/project-details/public-opinion-about-immigration-refugees

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/supplementary-immigration-levels-2023-2025.html

https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_202402_01_e_44428.html

https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_202406_06_e_44493.html

https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_202406_e_44491.html

https://www.fraserinstitute.org/article/scathing-auditor-general-reports-underscore-political-realities

Continue Reading

Community News

The Jamaica Food and Drink Festival – where every bite tells a story, and every sip celebrates Jamaica’s vibrant soul

Published

3 days ago

on

November 12, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

What if I told you that Visa is offering two amazing opportunities that YOU, our loyal readers have an opportunity to take part in? For one of our lucky readers, you have a chance to:

  • Win a trip to Trinidad Carnival 2025
  • Win a trip to Jamaica

“What is this all about Simone,” you might be asking? Well, the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival (JFDF) turns 10 this year, and Visa International is thrilled to be part of the celebration once again. Welcome to the heart of Jamaica’s culinary playground – the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival, where flavours, culture, and music blend into one unforgettable celebration.

Step into the lively Craft Market downtown, where the spirit of Jamaica comes alive. Here, they celebrate the island’s rich history and vibrant flavours – an ode to the past. Guests get a chance to immerse themselves in the legacy of festival favourites like: Crisp, Chopstix, Pork Palooza, and Picante – all in one electrifying space.

Taste, sip, and groove your way through the night, reliving fond festival memories while savouring the global influences that have shaped the iconic dishes we love today – no passport required (except to travel of course)!

As the hot days turn into steamy nights, and steamy nights turn into sweltering days, what better way to close out the festivities than with one last delectable event? The finale is not just a celebration, but a reflection of Jamaica’s culinary renaissance. After four unforgettable days, guests get a chance to honour the island’s: finest chefs, mixologists, and artisans who have made this festival a true showcase of creativity and passion.

Naturally, the festival had to find accommodations that match its prestige, and the only hotels of choice this year are: The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel and The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites. At the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, the Caribbean’s most distinguished address, you will experience the perfect blend of elegance and island charm. Nestled in the heart of New Kingston, surrounded by lush gardens and views of the Caribbean Sea, this 17-storey gem is where business meets leisure in true Jamaican style. You also have the option of immersing yourself in the timeless charm of The Courtleigh Hotel & Suites, a true jewel of Jamaica’s capital city. With spacious accommodations, award-winning dining, and all the modern comforts, it is the perfect way to end your festival experience.

Waldemar Cordero, Marketing Senior Director for Visa in the Caribbean and Central America, expressed his excitement about being involved in the festival’s decade-long run. “We’re really excited to be part of the 10th staging of the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival. It’s amazing to see how far this festival has come, and we’re proud to have been part of the journey over the last 6 years. This festival isn’t just about food, it’s about celebrating Jamaica’s rich culture and the incredible talent that drives it.”

Visa’s partnership with JFDF has grown over the years, evolving from a traditional sponsorship into a dynamic collaboration that enhances the festival experience for everyone. “Our relationship with the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival has deepened over time,” said Waldemar. “We’ve moved from simply being a sponsor to becoming the main partner, working closely with the organizers to bring fresh, exciting elements to the event each year. This time around, we’re especially excited about the initiatives we’re rolling out that will make it easier and more enjoyable for attendees to experience all that the festival has to offer.”

Visa is excited to enhance the celebration of the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival’s milestone 10th year by offering an exclusive hospitality package to Trinidad Carnival 2025. One lucky Visa cardholder who purchases festival tickets between October 16th and November 9th, 2024, will win this incredible experience. This offering includes: two economy class tickets from Kingston, Jamaica to Port of Spain, Trinidad; six nights of luxury accommodation at the Hyatt Regency; and comprehensive airport transfers and event transportation. The winner and their guest will enjoy: inclusive meals, stylish Monday Wear and Carnival Tuesday costumes, and access to premier events such as Brian Lara’s Event and PinkNicTT. Additionally, they will be treated to glamour make-up and photos. This package promises to deliver an unforgettable festival experience and celebrate the unified Caribbean culture in style.

In addition, one lucky winner from our Caribbean neighbour Trinidad and Tobago, who uses the First Citizens Bank card in Trinidad, will win a trip for two to the Food and Drink Festival in Jamaica. This is an all-expense paid trip for two with the winners to ensure the festival and enjoy scenic places in Jamaica such as Dunn’s River Falls and Port Royal. Ready for that almost winter getaway? Visit https://jafoodanddrink.com/ for more details. Good luck!

Continue Reading

Community News

Welcome to the Black Scholars Institute—where excellence thrives, and liberation is pursued

Published

3 days ago

on

November 12, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

At the heart of the University of Windsor’s campus, centrally located in the lower level of the CAW Student Centre, lies a space dedicated to fostering: African-Caribbean excellence, academic growth, and community empowerment: The Black Scholars Institute, or BSI.

The BSI Lounge is more than just a meeting place. It is a safe and welcoming space for African/-Caribbean faculty, staff, and students—a venue that fosters not only academic engagement, but community connection. Here, important university and local events, aligned with the Institute’s mission and values, take place.

The Black Scholars Institute is a multidisciplinary research institute—a home for African-Caribbean scholars at UWindsor. It is dedicated to advancing Black excellence and liberation through scholarship, research, and community engagement. The Institute’s work enriches teaching, learning, and social justice efforts across the University, with a focus on making an impact nationally and globally.

BSI hosts a range of weekly programs that encourage meaningful dialogue and academic collaboration. Events such as “Think Tank Thursday” provide a platform for African-Caribbean faculty and students to come together, exchange ideas, and discuss relevant research and current events. For those who are deep in their academic work, “Just Write” sessions offer dedicated time for focused writing in a supportive environment. “Coffee and Convo,” a collaboration with Leddy Library, creates space to explore Black literature and hold thought-provoking discussions around important topics.

Graduate students are invited to participate in student saloons, where they present their works-in-progress in a safe, inclusive space, where they can receive valuable feedback from peers and faculty members alike. Additionally, the “Black Research Spotlight” shines a light on the groundbreaking work of African Caribbean scholars, providing them with a platform to showcase their research and innovations.

In recognition of the challenges posed by systemic anti-Black racism, the BSI offers its members a membership with the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity, providing on-demand access to a wealth of professional development resources. This is just one of the ways BSI ensures its scholars are well-equipped to thrive and succeed in their academic careers. As a research institute, BSI is committed to supporting Black Studies and promoting excellence in scholarships. One vital aspect of this is the awarding of grants to Black scholars. These grants are instrumental in advancing research that is often overlooked in traditional funding competitions.

While visiting the University earlier this month, I learned more about some of the challenges that have been faced in opening BSI. The establishment of this initiative was approved by the University of Windsor’s Senate on October 7th, 2022. The initiative is in alignment with the University’s commitment to the Scarborough Charter (utoronto.ca) on anti-Black racism and Black inclusion in Canadian higher education. In 2023, the University of Windsor (UWindsor) announced their new academic home that would spotlight: Black excellence, scholarship, research, and community. The inaugural Black Scholars Institute (BSI) at UWindsor, was formally launched in September 2024.

Dr. Clinton Beckford, UWindsor’s Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, envisions that the BSI will be the institutional home for Blackness at the University. “The establishment of a Black Scholars Institute at the University of Windsor is ground-breaking and transformative,” he says.  “It positions the University of Windsor as a post-secondary leader in intellectual thought and practice around Blackness and makes real our commitments to Black flourishing and thriving at and beyond the institution.”

The BSI will work closely with UWindsor’s Interdisciplinary and Critical Studies Department within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Building a Black Scholars academic program represents an innovative plan of action intended to meaningfully understand UWindsor’s approach to African-Caribbean ways of knowing in Canadian universities. The expected output will enhance UWindsor’s research profile in Black Studies and feature scholarly work, special events, speakers’ series, mentorship, and more.

Dr. Camisha Sibblis, the Director at BSI, is hopeful that the institute will enrich the experiences of Black faculty at UWindsor. “We believe that the inclusion of Black peoples, ways of learning and knowledge systems are integral to the growth of our community. The establishment of the BSI is a crucial part of fulfilling the University’s Strategic Mandate Agreement (ontario.ca) and purposefully moving the institution into the future. The Institute will enhance the University’s research profile and will also establish the University as a center of excellence in Windsor-Essex and the Detroit area – a region known for its historic importance for Black people in North America.”

Welcome to the Black Scholars Institute—where excellence thrives, and liberation is pursued through scholarship, research, and community engagement.

Continue Reading

Trending