FREE. WEEKLY. VOLUME 75—ISSUE 14—JANUARY 14, 2021

ORGANIZING SPACE FOR MENTAL HEALTH—P5 CANADA’S GREEN RECOVERY—P11 BE MORE LIKE SPIDER-MAN—P14

A LOOK AT THE GOVERNMENT OF MANITOBA’S FISCAL RESPONSE TO COVID-19

UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG AND DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SPEAKER SERIES PRESENTED BY THE UNITER & THE UWSA Keisha Greaves Founder of Girls Chronically Rock Girls Chronically Rock offers inspired fashion celebrating Muscular Dystrophy and other chronic illnesses.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21 / 7 P.M. ON FACEBOOK LIVE ON THE UNITER PAGE ON THE COVER Dougald Lamont, leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party, is one of many criticizing the current provincial government’s austerity regime. Read more on page 7.

SPEAKER SERIES RETURNS!

THOMAS PASHKO THOMASPASHKO MANAGING EDITOR

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our work at The Uniter in many ways. But one of the longest-lasting impacts has been the delay in our Speaker Series programming. But the hiatus is about to end! For those who aren’t familiar, the Uniter Speaker Series is an ongoing lecture series hosted by The Uniter and its board, Mouseland Press. The folks involved in putting on the Speaker Series try to bring speakers to Winnipeg with unique perspectives that are of interest to our readers, as well as the U of W and downtown communities we serve. Past events have included lectures by musician Vivek Shraya, historian Gwyn- ne Dyer and panel discussions on topics such as meth in the media. While the pandemic put a hold on our in-person events, we are finally ready to bring virtual Speaker Series lectures to the comfort of your laptop or smartphone. The first of the events will take place on Thursday, Jan. 21, with speaker Kei- sha Greaves. Greaves is the founder and CEO of Girls Chronically Rock, a fashion company that makes clothing celebrating and advocating for people living with chronic illness and disabilities. The second, taking place on Thursday, Jan. 28, will feature speaker Matthew James-Wilson. James-Wilson is a writer, journalist and the editor of FORGE. Art Magazine. His longform article for Pitch- fork magazine, “What It’s Like to Be Black in Indie Music,” explored the racism and obstacles that Black musicians face in the independent music space. We’re looking forward to finally bringing the Speaker Series back to our readership. Keep an eye on uniter.ca and SUPPLIED PHOTO our social media channels for info on these upcoming events. Ava Jerao, owner of consignment shop Shapes and Feelings, is one of many Winnipeggers to found a new business during during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more on page 11.

UNITER STAFF CONTRIBUTORS CONTACT US SUBMISSIONS

MANAGING EDITOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER WRITERS GENERAL INQUIRIES Submissions of articles, letters, graphics and photos Abigail Byle are encouraged, however, all new contributors (with Thomas Pashko — [email protected] Callie Lugosi — [email protected] [email protected] Valerie Chelangat the exception of letters to the editor) must attend a BUSINESS MANAGER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Rebecca Driedger ADVERTISING 45-minute volunteer orientation workshop to ensure Olivia Norquay — [email protected] Keeley Braunstein-Black — [email protected] [email protected] that the volunteer understands all of the publication’s basic guidelines. CREATIVE DIRECTOR STAFF ILLUSTRATOR Talia Steele­ — [email protected] Gabrielle Funk — [email protected] In-person volunteer orientations are currently ROOM 0RM14 suspended due to COVID-19, but over-the-phone UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR FEATURES REPORTER and remote orientations can be arranged. Please 515 PORTAGE AVENUE Hannah Foulger — [email protected] Keesha Harewood — [email protected] email [email protected] for more details. WINNIPEG, MANITOBA FEATURES EDITOR ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER R3B 2E9 Deadline for advertisements is noon Friday, six days Charlie Morin — [email protected] Vacant TREATY ONE TERRITORY prior to publication. The Uniter reserves the right to HOMELAND OF THE MÉTIS NATION refuse to print material submitted by volunteers. The CITY EDITOR CITY REPORTER Uniter will not print submissions that are homophobic, Cierra Bettens — [email protected] Alex Neufeldt — [email protected] misogynistic, transphobic, ableist, racist or libellous. COMMENTS EDITOR CAMPUS REPORTER We also reserve the right to edit for length/style. Haley Pauls — [email protected] Callum Goulet-Kilgour — [email protected] MOUSELAND PRESS BOARD OF COPY & STYLE EDITOR VOLUNTEER CO-ORDINATOR DIRECTORS: Kristin Annable (chair), Holly Liu — [email protected] Danielle Doiron — [email protected] Anifat Olawoyin, Larissa Peck, PHOTO EDITOR Andrew Tod and Jack Walker — Daniel Crump — [email protected] For inquiries, email: [email protected]

@TheUniter @TheUniter facebook.com/ theuniter ARTS

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Veteran children’s entertainer Fred Penner is the subject of a new documentary about his life and career.

“I thought Fred’s story was worth telling Susie’s death was followed within the as a feature,” Floresco says. “I was glad I year by the death of their father. Those was able to complete the project the way I two mortality checks are crucial parts of A PEEK AT FRED wanted to.” Penner’s journey to becoming a musician, Floresco rounded out the picture using despite completing a degree in economics the footage he had already shot for the pre- from the University of Winnipeg. PENNER’S WORLD vious two projects. Over the course of the “It is a really unique position to be able COVID-19 pandemic, he filmed new inter- to look at my life and see where it has gone, views with current Penner collaborator Alex and more importantly, where it’s going,” New documentary digs into the history Cuba and several re-enactments to flush out Penner says. the portions about Penner’s childhood. Penner, who has been working nonstop of the beloved children’s entertainer “I’ve covered a lot of territory over my for the past 45 years, has been taking a lifetime,” Penner says. “I’m hoping that pause during the pandemic with his wife HANNAH FOULGER ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR FOULGERSCOVFEFE SPEAKSTORY people will get a sense of some of the cir- on Vancouver Island. cumstances that lead to me committing “I’ve not lost any of my enthusiasm or myself to a performer’s life.” delight in what this can do for myself or A new documentary about the life of Fred Floresco, who grew up watching Penner Penner’s sister Susie, who lived with for an audience,” Penner says. “There is still Penner premiered on Super Channel’s and was able to share the singer-songwrit- Down syndrome, died very young but had a lots more music inside of me.” streaming service on Dec. 4. Fred Penner: er’s music with his own son, met Penner six huge impact on the direction of Penner’s life. This is My World is a feature film by Win- years ago after he saw him perform one of “She really set my appreciation for the Fred Penner: This is My World is available nipeg director Aaron Floresco. It explores his shows for adults. value of music in her life and, ultimately, on Super Channel’s streaming service. Due Penner’s childhood, how he came to work The project has seen three incarnations: in the life of all children,” Penner says.” My to the pandemic, there are no current plans with children and the journey he took to a 15-minute short for Bravo about Pen- music has been very powerful with autistic for a screening in Winnipeg, but there may become the person he is now, but also the ner’s adult shows, a 45-minute film for children, (so) when I was doing my first re- be opportunity for one at a later time. person he is becoming. CBC Gem about Penner’s life and now, a cord, it made sense to direct it to children 92-minute feature for Super Channel. and families.”

THE MATURE REBRAND Grown-up child star releases his sophomore album

HANNAH FOULGER ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR FOULGERSCOVFEFE SPEAKSTORY

Dane Bjornson released his first album monton, where he recorded large portions of when he was 12 years old. Almost 10 years his album of music initially written in 2018. later, he has released his follow-up album, “It ended up being between four differ- Wondering. ent studios with five different engineers, This marks a mature rebranding of the 12 different musicians and between two musician, who has been performing since different cities, Edmonton and Winnipeg,” he was nine years old. His first gig was at Bjorson says. “I used the isolation and the the Greendell Community Centre, per- quarantine to my advantage.” forming at a family day event. He went on This new album demonstrates the mat- to open for bands Down With Webster in uration of the experienced musician, as he 2011 and Said the Whale in 2012. delves into darker material in songs like Shortly after that, he released his first al- “Addicted” and “Battle Scars,” while also bum, Lucky Day, and competed on YTV’s seeing a little light in “Everyone’s Sun.” music competition show The Next Star and “To me, his musical-theatre roots really its follow-up, The Next Star: Supergroup. show. Each song is about telling a story first Bjorson, along with band members Parker and foremost. So beyond the stunning har- Schmidt, Adam Hunter, Bradley Martinez monies and instrumentation, it all serves and Zee Peters formed Electric Avenue, the story and the emotional state of those SUPPLIED PHOTO which received second place in the Super- in it,” Featherfall says, referring to Bjorson’s group competition. performance history with Rainbow Stage Musician Dane Bjornson is transcending his child-star roots with his new album Wondering. Since then, he has developed more of an in their 2010 production of Joseph and the alto voice and has collaborated with Win- Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This album also marks a shift in genre nipeg musician Featherfall. on the album. “Once concerts (are) around again, I would from his pop-rock roots. “In very recent “You can tell he has that theatre background Bjornson hopes to tour with the album love to do a big CD release party at the Park years, I’ve started listening to more funk of ‘yes, and.’” Featherfall says. “He will run across the Prairies or rural Manitoba. He Theatre or at the Good Will,” he says. and R&B. There is a lot of influence from with an idea and explore it to its full potential. plans to release a few more singles and With our song “Limelight,” I sent him rough funk bands like Melt and Lawrence, with music videos from the album. He filmed a Wondering is available on all streaming lyrics and a simple melody, and he turned (it) their implementation of horns and wood- music video for “Addicted” in summer of platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music into a killer hook in just a few days.” winds and big brass sections,” Bjornson 2020, when COVID-19 restrictions were and SoundCloud. says. Benjamin Hill (trombone) and Fred Bjornson studies music recording and more relaxed. production at MacEwan University in Ed- Warner (trumpet) from Apollo Suns appear ARTS THE UNITER JANUARY 14, 2021 5

PLAYING ON PAPER Origin Stories

HANNAH FOULGER ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR FOULGERSCOVFEFE SPEAKSTORY

Jon Klassen son, which won him the Governor General’s Children’s author and illustrator Award for illustration. — He went on to work with some of the pre- Jon Klassen, like many artists, didn’t set out to mier children’s book authors of the decade, have the career he has now. The illustrator and including collaborating with Mac Barnett author of the award-winning I Want My Hat on the Triangle trilogy and Sam & Dave Dig Back trilogy of children’s picture books was a Hole. Klassen is known for his seemingly born in St. Boniface before his family moved simplistic illustrations in watercolour with to southern Ontario. By the end of high school, muted colours, which are delightful and he knew he wanted to become an animator. strange at the same time. However, he loved reading plays and took a Klassen went on to write and illustrate the slight detour to intern at the Shaw Festival as existentialist I Want My Hat Back. He was the a scenic painter. first author to win in both the Caldecott Med- Klassen later studied animation at Sher- al writing and illustration categories for the idan College and developed a successful same book, which inspired two more books following the animals as they pursue their career in animation, working in Vancouver, SUPPLIED PHOTO Los Angeles and Portland on such films as Beckett-esque hat. Kung Fu Panda, Coraline and the animat- “I like writing, but I don’t write naturalisti- Winnipeg author and illustrator Jon Klassen honed his distinct visual style while working in theatre as a ed music video for U2’s “I’ll Go Crazy If I cally when it comes to the picture books. I’m scenic painter. Don’t Go Crazy Tonight.” really tense about it and nervous. Everything Klassen started to post simpler illustrations comes out that way. It is very stiff and normal. to his website with captions. “It started look- It feels like every word just has to go through a ters, or they are performing it badly. The idea work in theatre again, even in set painting. He ing like books, but I didn’t know how you labyrinth to make it out,” Klassen says. of them as performers is a big deal. But you can continues to write from his home in LA, where got a job that way,” he says. He was contact- “I can think about dialogue, because it gets pin it on them.” he lives with his wife and family. ed by art directors and publishers who con- me off the hook as a writer. If they are talking, I Want My Hat Back was adapted into a His next book, The Rock from the Sky, is due tracted him to illustrate children’s books, I’m not writing. They are talking, and the writ- musical at the National Theatre. Klassen did out in April. including Cats’ Night Out by Caroline Stut- ing can be bad, because they are weird charac- not write the play, but he says he would like to

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Interior designer Tara MacTavish says sunshine and colour are two adjustments people can make to their living spaces to improve mental health.

spaces organized and livable,” MacTavish have good task lighting? Am I feeling tired says. One way to do that is “having a place because I’m working in a dark space?’” for everything, whether that (means) get- MacTavish says. FINDING PEACE ting some storage boxes (for) when you are Using cooler tones for a work space can done with it” or another solution. make focusing on a task easier, while liv- ing areas can benefit from relaxing, warm- AT HOME Adding colour er lighting. “The lack of sunshine and colour depress- es my spirit,” MacTavish says. But while Set the tone Arranging living spaces to boost mental health painting a wall might not be prudent, Setting the tone for beginnings and end- MacTavish says there are some easy ways ings can make or break a day, MacTavish HANNAH FOULGER ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR FOULGERSCOVFEFE SPEAKSTORY to incorporate colour, like adding new pil- emphasizes. lows or throws to a couch. Entryways “are important. Making During the long winter months, living to maximize the positivity of their space. If able to paint a certain space, happy them organized, as well, because they can spaces can be a boost or a burden to flag- Tara MacTavish, interior designer and colours like bright yellow or green could become overwhelming. It is the first thing ging mental health. owner of Changes by Design, has a few help boost mood. (you see), and your day has been really “The physical environment can be pointers. stressful, and (if) the first thing you see is both the cause and the symptom of some- Display items with meaning chaos, it sets the tone for being at home,” one’s mental health,” therapist Noah Star Organize your space “Let’s make sure we display those things MacTavish says. says. “What we do outside of us speaks While things may seem out of control in that really bring you joy. Let’s bring them “And if you could do one thing for to what’s inside of us and can become a the outside world, a person’s home environ- out and look at them (to) remind you of yourself every single day, it would be to possible tool. That sense of progress we get ment can feel crushing and disorganized. the good times,” MacTavish says. make your bed and make sure it invites when we maintain our environment can “Especially if you are starting to spend you to enter it. After a (hard) day, and you be an achievable, positive step to better more time inside, it can start to feel more Find your light have your bed made, you open your bed- room door, and your bed is made, there mental health.” crowded, which can really make you feel Depending on budget, there’s the option While a complete overhaul of a home out of control. Right now, when we are is this sense of accomplishment and peace to add lighting. “Now that you are work- when you enter. It sets the mood for going may not be prudent during a pandemic, stressed and feeling out of control, the ing from home, you have to think ‘Do I there are some small things people can do one thing we can control is to make our to bed.” CRITIPEG

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tatingly bleak. The games have a little bit of personalities for the commander. However, everything, and some wacky shenanigans if players want to opt for a more nuanced MASS EFFECT to boot. paragade Shepard, including instances of The trilogy excels at building up Shepard renegade or vice versa, they will have to sac- as a hero of legend while simultaneously rifice the ability to unlock important dia- making them a relatable and flawed charac- logue options that typically lead to desired TRILOGY ter. Every time Shepard overcomes impossi- outcomes at moments in the games. ble odds, like gunning down deadly foes or In each game, Shepard recruits a ragtag Available on PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 uncovering ancient galactic secrets, it feels team of aliens and humans. There is a great earned. Each success feels deeply satisfying, deal of focus put on Shepard interacting, and failures feel justified. befriending, romancing or even betray- That said, a notable gripe some players ing their companions. Shepard’s squad KEESHA HAREWOOD FEATURES REPORTER KEESHAHAREWOOD have with Shepard is the paragon/renegade features characters with interesting and system. Like other BioWare games, the well-developed backstories that they share player is able to control Shepard’s gender, with Shepard over time. What’s more, BioWare’s Mass Effecttrilogy is a collection remaster will feature Shepard’s unchanged appearance, sexuality and dialogue. Unlike the squadmates react to Shepard’s actions of the third-person role-playing shooter story, but with a much-needed upgrade in other Bioware games, Shepard’s dialogue dynamically, which incentivizes players to video games that follow the customizable terms of graphics and gameplay, giving the choices contribute to establishing one of consider their choices carefully. hero Commander Shepard. In this space games a renaissance of sorts. two personality types. It’s one thing to shoot down a giant alien opera, the player controls Shepard as they Since the gameplay and graphics will Depending on Shepard’s dialogue, they monster on an arid desert planet, but it’s endeavour to save the galaxy from the soon be drastically improved, it’s worth can be known as the paragon (a righteous, another to do it with a sassy companion Reapers: a mechanical race of beings hell- taking one last look at the overall quality peacemaking hero) or the renegade (a bru- making clever quips at the same time. bent on death and destruction. of Shepard’s three-part story. tal, victory-at-all-costs rebel). By commit- All things considered, the Mass Effect On Nov. 7, 2020, it was announced Despite the controversial ending, the ting to one personality type over the other, trilogy is definitely one of those games that a remastered version of the Mass Effect story features some unforgettable narrative the player is able to unlock special dialogue to play, especially for fans of role-playing trilogy – entitled Mass Effect: Legendary moments. The games encompass a wide options that significantly influence the video games. Edition – was set to release in spring 2021 range of emotional scenes, from tense to outcome of the story. for PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC. The lighthearted, downright hilarious to devas- This system works well to create distinct

CKUW TOP 30 ARTS BRIEFS THOMAS PASHKO MANAGING EDITOR THOMASPASHKO November 30, 2020 TW = This Week // LW = Last Week // ! = Local content // * = Canadian Content An evening with Grant-writing workshop TW LW C Artist Album Label Ian Williams For many creatives seeking funding for proj- 1 NE Osees Protean Threat Castle Face ects, writing grant applications can be a con- The Pandemic Response Reading Series will fusing, headache-inducing ordeal. Fortunate- 2 RE * Pharis & Jason Romero Bet On Love Lula host a virtual talk with award-winning poet ly, the Winnipeg Film Group is here to help! 3 RE ! Silver Clouds Silver Clouds Disintegration and novelist Ian Williams. Williams’ many cel- WFG will host a grant-writing workshop with ebrated works include the poetry collection 4 RE Alister Spence And Satoko Fujii Imagine Meeting You Here Self Released filmmaker Kevin Tabachnick, who will walk Personals and the Giller Prize-winning novel participants through the ins and outs of writ- 5 RE The Dream Syndicate The Universe Inside Anti- Reproduction. This free event will celebrate ing a successful application. The workshop 6 RE ! Sean Burns It Takes Luck To Get The Best Of Me Self-Released the release of Williams’ newest poetry collec- will take place over Zoom on Jan. 21 from 7 to tion, Word Problems. The talk will take place 7 RE * Tami Neilson Chicka Boom Outside 10 p.m. Registration is $10 for WFG members on Jan. 14 at 7 p.m. To register, visit lauren- and $20 for non-members. For more info, visit 8 RE * Tommy And The Commies Hurtin' 4 Certain Slovenly carter.ca/prrs. winnipegfilmgroup.com. 9 RE Matmos The Consuming Flame: Open Thill Jockey Exercises In Group Form

10 RE * Wares Survival Mint 11 NE Uniform Shame Sacred Bones Cross-cultural beading Theory at Home: 12 NE Silver Synthetic Out Of The Darkness Third Man MAWA (Mentoring Artists for Women’s Art) The Ugly Truth 13 RE * Zoon Bleached Waves Paper Bag will host a virtual cross-cultural beading MAWA continues its free online Theory at 14 RE * Japandroids Massey Fucking Hall Anti- group on Jan. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. This free online event will be facilitated by Genevieve Home series with a presentation from Susan 15 NE Bob Mould Blue Hearts Merge Benoit and will teach how to make earrings Aydan Abbott. The Ugly Truth, which starts 16 NE * Heaps What Is Heaps? Birthday Cake with a “heart design inside a diamond shape at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 14, will examine difficult questions such as, “Is there pressure for wom- 17 NE Peter Bibby's Dog Act Marge Spinning Top using delica beads and brickstitch.” Kits with necessary materials are available for par- en artists to censor their work, soften their 18 RE * Tough Age Which Way Am I? Mint ticipants, who must register by Jan. 16. Kits rage? Is it a given that women’s art should be 19 NE El Ten Eleven Tautology Joyful Noise will be delivered on Jan. 17. To register, email toned down to make it more palatable, poetic, prettier?” For information and registration, visit 20 RE * Nestor Wynrush Roxbury And Wooden Legs Peanuts And Corn [email protected]. mawa.ca/critical-discussion/view/the-ugly- 21 NE Optic Sink Optic Sink Goner truth-with-susan-aydan-abbott. 22 RE ! Pip Skid/Rob Crooks Its Ok Marathon Of Dope

23 RE Black Marble I Must Be Living Twice Sacred Bones

24 NE Various Artists The Harry Smith B-Sides Dust-To-Digital

25 NE ! The Famous Sandhogs Telma Muskwa 2 Self-Released

26 NE * Black Thunder La Fine Creata Transistor 66 Psycho Goreman at Cinematheque at Home

27 RE Vinyl Williams Azure Requiem Pour Un Twister Winnipeg-born filmmaker Steven Kostanski is available to rent via Cinematheque at Home cut his teeth as part of the local horror-com- from Jan. 22 to Feb. 25. The film makes ample 28 NE Quintron And Miss Pussycat Goblin Alert Goner edy film collective Astron-6 (Father’s Day, use of Kostanski’s signature creature effects 29 RE * New Fries The Idea Of Us Telephone Explosion The Editor) before branching out into solo ef- and follows two children who “unwittingly 30 NE A Certain Ratio Acr Loco Mute forts like The Void and Leprechaun Returns. resurrect an ancient alien overlord.” For more Kostanski’s newest feature, Psycho Goreman, information, visit winnipegfilmgroup.com. Words by Callum Goulet-Kilgour Campus Reporter cgouletkilgour FEATURE Photos by Daniel Crump Photo Editor dannyboycrump

A LOOK AT THE GOVERNMENT OF MANITOBA’S FISCAL RESPONSE TO COVID-19

“What the pandemic has done is it’s torn back a veil and shown how rotten our support systems are.” - Dougald Lamont, leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party

Over the past few months, many Manitobans have surely Andrea Slobodian, a spokesperson for the provincial gov- The funding includes the Pandemic Staffing Support wondered how the COVID-19 situation in Manitoba went ernment, says the “government’s No. 1 priority is protect- Benefit ($10 million), the Safe Schools Fund and Safe from being one of the best in Canada during the summer ing our most vulnerable Manitobans from COVID-19 and Restart Contingency Fund ($185 million) and the Caregiver months to being currently one of the worst. ensuring our healthcare system is there for all Manitobans Wage Support Program ($35 million). In fact, Manitoba went from having very few active cases when they need it.” “Our focus remains on making life affordable for Man- in June and July to having, as of Jan. 11, one of the highest “COVID-19 has created unprecedented fiscal and pub- itobans and keeping taxes low while making record invest- numbers of active cases in the country per 100,000 people lic-health challenges for Manitoba, and, in response, the ments on healthcare, education and families,” she says. (248, compared to Saskatchewan’s 316, currently the high- Manitoba government has introduced measures to protect However, the provincial government’s approach has been est). Manitoba’s death rate is second only to Quebec’s. Manitobans and support local businesses,” she says. heavily criticized by many. Since becoming premier in 2016, Manitobans are also facing a severe economic crisis, which “Manitoba has committed $3.2 billion in response to Brian Pallister has focused on an agenda of so-called fiscal is intertwined with the public-health crisis. The province’s the health, social and economic impacts of the pandemic, responsibility. Some have suggested that a lack of funding gross domestic product is expected to decline significantly which is the third-highest level of estimated per capita and for essential services like healthcare has affected Manitoba’s in 2020, and its unemployment rate increased, according to as a percentage of gross domestic product support in the ability to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Government of Manitoba data. country,” Slobodian says.

Feature continues on next page. FEATURE RESPONSIBILITY OR AUSTERITY?

Manitoba Liberal Party leader Dougald Lamont says Manitoba’s disastrous second wave of the pandemic was, in part, caused by the government’s fiscal response.

Is austerity happening in out a situation where such a policy directly well as economic and fiscal resilience.” safe and reduce the spread of COVID-19,” Manitoba? affected many Manitobans. “We will invest when and where it is Jackson says. “Some people who are collecting needed, ensuring the public-health response Other healthcare professionals have Austerity, as defined by Encyclopædia Bri- Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) and individual and business supports are in also been calling for more resources. In tannica, is “a set of economic policies, usu- in Manitoba qualified for the (Canadian place,” she says. November, more than 200 Manitoba doc- ally consisting of tax increases, spending Emergency Response Benefit),” she says. tors wrote an open letter to Pallister, which cuts or a combination of the two, used by “Some provinces allowed them to keep How does fiscal policy affect brought forth their concerns and called for governments to reduce budget deficits.” that money without reducing their EIA. healthcare? more action. While reducing budget deficits is gen- Manitoba didn’t,” Forget says, adding that erally regarded as an important long-term the government “actually clawed it back on Research conducted by the World Bank has goal, many economists, such as Nobel Prize a dollar-for-dollar basis.” shown that underfunding of healthcare and winner Paul Krugman, have found that aus- “They really did hurt the most vulnerable insufficient resource allocation in certain terity measures usually are, in fact, harmful. people in the province,” she says. areas severely restricts the ability of juris- “The healthcare In particular, they can affect growth and Part of the problem, Forget says, is the dictions to deal with COVID-19. Though, system was exacerbate inequality. fiscal imbalance between the provinces and in Manitoba, there is essentially universal University of Manitoba economist Dr. the federal government. In other words, healthcare, many would argue that it is already stretched Evelyn Forget, whose research focuses on Canadian provinces lack adequate revenue highly underfunded. healthcare policies, believes the term auster- to provide adequate services. In the past few months, intensive-care thin before the ity accurately describes the current Mani- “Most of the provinces are in deep trou- units across the province have been nearing toba provincial government’s policies. ble, and Manitoba is one of those provinces capacity, and various procedures not related pandemic ... “Even before the pandemic, they were that is running a structural deficit,” she says. to COVID-19 have been postponed. really quite fixated on reducing expendi- “There needs to be a rebalancing of financial Darlene Jackson, president of the Mani- after three years ture, reducing salary costs for civil servants, responsibilities between the provinces and toba Nurses Union, says “the Pallister gov- streamlining the civil service and eliminat- the federal government.” ernment’s fiscal response has fallen short in of austerity and ing jobs,” she says. Especially now, during this current eco- many respects.” “I think they’ve certainly resisted hiring nomic crisis, government revenues are down. “There simply (have) not been enough healthcare chang- the people that they needed to hire in order However, it is unclear how the provincial resources invested in the frontline to keep to deal with the public-health issues.” government will deal with this situation. up with the COVID-19 hospitalization rates es, there was little For instance, it is only recently that the When asked if Manitobans should expect and case numbers,” she says. government has posted an ad for a provin- spending cuts or tax hikes in the coming “Throughout the healthcare system, the flex left in the cial COVID-19 immunization director. year, Slobodian says the provincial govern- common thread is that a lack of resources While the fiscal policies of governments ment “will continue to invest in Manitoba’s and staff have hampered the pandemic system.” can often seem like they have no impact safe recovery and reinforce public health, as response, and that more robust investment on peoples’ everyday lives, Forget points (was) needed, and still (is), to keep staff

Feature continues on next page. FEATURE RESPONSIBILITY OR AUSTERITY? THE UNITER JANUARY 14, 2021 9

One positive development, accord- al-care homes,” he says. ing to Jackson, is the recently signed It is during the autumn months, memorandum of agreement regard- beginning with the back-to-school ing personal protective equipment. season in September, that the sec- “Under the new (memorandum ond wave of the pandemic hit Man- of agreement), nurses will be auto- itoba hard. Perhaps a higher level matically provided with an N95 res- of funding could have allowed for pirator in more situations, instead things like smaller and more socially of having to request one,” she says. distant classrooms or more support “This now makes Manitoba a leader for long-term care homes. in Canada in terms of (personal pro- tective equipment) access.” Where do we go from Jackson also believes that lack of here? funding in previous years hampered the government’s ability to deal with Despite the fact that many have the pandemic. criticized the provincial govern-

“You have a 14-year cockroach infestation that was never dealt with under two governments ... what the pandemic has done is it’s torn back a veil and shown how rotten our support systems are.”

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“The healthcare system was ment’s fiscal restraint in the past years, Slobodian says it has allowed “The Pallister government’s fiscal response has fallen short in many respects.” - Darlene Jack- already stretched thin before the son, president of the Manitoba Nurse’s Union pandemic,” she says, noting that them to better respond to the cur- “after three years of austerity and rent crisis. healthcare changes, there was little “The Manitoba government’s flex left in the system.” hard work and prudent budgeting Jackson adds that “the govern- since 2016 put it in a far stronger ment should have used the summer position to respond to unforeseen months to build system capacity.” emergencies and much better pre- “Instead, the government sat on pared to face the COVID-19 health their hands and ignored predic- and economic crisis,” she says. tions that a second wave was com- As the vaccination process has ing,” she says. begun, many Manitobans are more Dougald Lamont, leader of the hopeful that 2021 will bring loos- Manitoba Liberal Party and MLA ened restrictions, fewer COVID- for St. Boniface, says many of the 19 cases, and a “return to normal.” flaws in Manitoba’s healthcare sys- However, even the vaccination roll- tem are much more long-term. out has not been without its flaws. “It’s not just this government,” he says. “There’s just been an ad posted He points to a cockroach infes- for a COVID immunization pro- tation in Parkview Place, which was vincial director,” Lamont says. originally brought to the NDP’s “The fact that they’re hiring for attention in 2006, when they held this now really tells you about how government. This long-term care far behind we are,” he says, adding home is the site of one of the worst that “there should have been a plan – and deadliest – COVID outbreaks in place a while ago.” in Manitoba so far. Earlier this month, Pallister shuf- “You have a 14-year cockroach fled his cabinet, which brought infestation that was never dealt with changes to key portfolios. Nota- under two governments,” Lamont bly, Cameron Friesen, Minister of says. “What the pandemic has done Health, Seniors and Active Living is it’s torn back a veil and shown how during the pandemic, was replaced rotten our support systems are.” by Heather Stefanson. Though Lamont believes that now is the Friesen remains in cabinet as Minis- time for governments to step up. ter of Justice and Attorney General, “Crises like this are one of the many believe he was moved due to a reasons that governments exist,” poor handling of the pandemic. he says. Perhaps this leadership change Lamont says Manitoba’s disas- will bring a different approach. trous second wave of the pandemic Regardless, healthcare professionals was, in part, caused by the govern- are urging Manitobans to “follow ment’s fiscal response. the fundamentals.” “By mid-August, the government “Nurses need Manitobans to had committed no new money to keep doing their part,” Jackson says. (going) back-to-school or person-

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“Even before the pandemic (the PC government) were really quite fixated on reducing expen- diture, reducing salary costs for civil servants, streamlining the civil service and eliminating jobs.” - Dr. Evelyn Forget, University of Manitoba economist CITY WHEN PUBLIC SAFETY ISN’T ACCESSIBLE Barriers arise out of COVID-19 protocol for people with disabilities

CIERRA BETTENS CITY REPORTER FICTIONALCIERRA CIERRABETTENS

Public-health measures have transformed mandated to implement policies that re- the way people exist in their environments in move barriers faced by people with disabil- an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. ities. Federally regulated agencies are man- Yet, some protocols implemented in the dated by Bill C-81 to consult with people name of health and safety have created ad- with disabilities to create and implement ditional barriers for people with disabilities. accessibility plans. Caden Flynn is a 19-year-old university However, many private establishments student from Halifax who lives with cerebral do not have the same accommodations im- palsy. Throughout the pandemic, Flynn has plemented – and those who require such ac- spoken on social media about protocols, such commodations have felt the effects adversely. as the removal of public seating in shopping “I know that many of my hearing-im- malls, that have rendered some public spaces paired friends are having a very hard time, inaccessible for people with disabilities. because many businesses haven’t invested in “We’re so tied up in enforcing COVID masks that are see-through,” Flynn says. restrictions – as (we) should be – but we’ve Barrier-Free Manitoba is a coalition of completely dropped the ball on enforcing individuals and organizations that work to- accessibility,” Flynn says. gether to push legislation mandating the re- Flynn says that, for many people with moval and prevention of barriers for people disabilities, the pandemic created con- with disabilities. David Kron, the spokes- SUPPLIED PHOTO trasting circumstances. On one hand, person for the organization, says it is crucial additional barriers have been created. On to ensure accommodations for people with David Kron, spokesperson for Barrier-Free Manitoba the other hand, he says accommodations disabilities don’t get “stamped out” due to that people with disabilities have fought to COVID-19 protocol. have access to for years, like working from “We know a balance has to be achieved, home, have been rapidly made available. but we want to be heard,” Kron says. “For years, we’ve been told that ‘we can’t While Barrier-Free Manitoba aims to with large-text options to not parking in an want your assistance, but I might say yes, do that. There’s no way to do that.’ Then, tackle accessibility on a systemic (rather accessible spot if you don’t require one. and I might be too afraid to ask.” all of a sudden, when COVID came along, than individual) level, Kron stresses that Flynn attests to the importance of asking “People don’t realize that accessibility we magically found a way to make this work being attentive to the needs of people with questions. doesn’t stop at my ability to get into school for everyone,” he says. disabilities can happen on a small scale, too. “There seems to be a misconception that or a hospital. It’s often overlooked that we The Accessible Canada Act (Bill C-81), He says this can mean anything from en- disabled people don’t want to be bothered,” are social. We have friends, we have fami- which came into force on July 11, 2019, is suring content is offered in plain language Flynn says. “I might decide that I don’t lies, and we want to be able to experience life with them.”

SHELTERS WORRY ABOUT THE FATE OF RECENTLY ADOPTED ANIMALS Will ‘pandemic pets’ have a furever home if things return to normal?

REBECCA DRIEDGER VOLUNTEER REBECCADRIEDGER

Animal shelters in Winnipeg noticed a sig- home. People have more time to dedicate to nificant increase in adoptions in early 2020 this animal, so they come down to adopt. after COVID-19 restrictions limited human They’re looking for that companionship,” interaction. Many shelters have changed Johnston says. “It also gives them an excuse their regulations and adoption procedures, to go outside and breathe in the fresh air.” but many Winnipeg residents are still Although animal adoptions have been searching for furry companions. successful during the pandemic, shelter Animal shelters across the city report low owners worry about what will happen to the numbers of animals, and some say their shel- animals when people get busy again. ters were empty over the holidays. Craig Street Cats founder Lynne Scott The Winnipeg Humane Society post- says it has been great to have fewer animals in the shelter, since there is a limited num- ed on social media to announce that the SUPPLIED PHOTO Homes for the Holidays campaign, which ber of volunteers on site due to the current involved reduced adoption fees for Decem- Manitoba COVID-19 restrictions. How- ber, was so successful that the shelter only ever, she worries about the future for these Employees of Winnipeg’s animal shelters are worried for the future of the many pets adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. had two cats left. pandemic pets. “We’ve made this effort to get the animals “I fear that, as people get back to work adopted out before the holidays,” Lenore and live their regular lives, many of the ani- Hume, the communications strategist at the mals adopted will be stuck at home. Or they Winnipeg Humane Society, says. “The ani- get returned, surrendered to the shelter or months ago are no longer there, so I can’t fill money, but we are down 60 per cent in mals deserve a home over the holidays, but it worse,” Scott says. up the shelter to capacity.” donations, which is a huge drop to our also gives our staff a bit of a break.” If there is a surge in surrendered animals, Despite the surge in adoptions, many charity,” Johnston says. D’Arcy Johnston, owner of D’Arcy’s shelters may not have the funds, resources or shelters still struggle with funding. To Even with a drop in donations, shelters ARC (Animal Rescue Centre), believes dogs ability to care for them. continue caring for Winnipeg’s animals, are preparing to bring in more animals in are being adopted more often than cats be- “Right now, we have fewer volunteers shelters have to stay open, and they de- the new year. cause of the need to get out of the house (for working because of the pandemic and less pend on donations. “When the shelters open again, they will walks), even during a pandemic. money and resources available to look after “People are donating less, and I think be filled again in no time. There’ll be an- “As human beings, we are told to so- all of these animals,” Johnston says. “All it is because they are holding onto their imals looking for homes, as there always cially distance and told to stay away, stay the resources that were available to us 10 (are),” Hume says. CITY THE UNITER JANUARY 14, 2021 11 UNPRECEDENTED ENTREPRENEURSHIP Launching a small business in the time of COVID-19

CIERRA BETTENS CITY REPORTER FICTIONALCIERRA CIERRABETTENS

In the summer of 2020, Ava Jerao opened well-received by friends and family. her modern consignment store, Shapes and Firlotte’s beading journey began three Feelings. She’s one of the Winnipeg entre- years ago, when she learned from a Métis preneurs who launched a small business beadwork circle her mother guided. After during the COVID-19 pandemic. working as a historical interpreter at the Operating almost exclusively online, Jer- Riel House National Historic Site last sum- ao sells pre-loved clothing with the goal of mer, Firlotte says she reconnected with her making it easier to avoid fast fashion and Métis culture and found a sense of pride in reduce textile waste. her work. “I’ve always been really passionate about “I was doing beadwork then, but with sustainability, even as a kid,” Jerao says. “I that newfound pride in the culture, I really wanted to create a space online that’s in- just went gung-ho and fell in love with it clusive and accessible and offers different again,” she says. price points.” Firlotte, like many Manitobans, found With roots in Winnipeg’s inner-city, herself out of work due to COVID-19. Jerao has carried a love for sustainability Launching her beadwork business formally and secondhand fashion across the various became a way to secure more income while Canadian cities in which she’s lived. Now, sharing her projects with the public. While back home, she established Shapes and Feel- she says her business is still in the “infantile SUPPLIED PHOTO ings as a way to make a sustainable lifestyle stage,” she says the holiday season increased more seamless and accessible. demand immensely. Ava Jerao is one of many Winnipeggers to open a new business during during the COVID-19 “One of the pillars of Shapes and Feel- When asked what advice she would give pandemic. ings is making sustainable living less daunt- others looking to start small businesses ing, trying to reduce textile waste and amid these times, Jerao suggested hunker- production and (promoting) more ethical ing down on the practical matters of start- shopping,” she says. ing a business, like registering the business with the community and other small-busi- ing her work with other artists as a way to Margaret Firlotte, a Métis beadwork art- name and opening a separate bank account. ness owners and artisans. share projects and get mutual exposure. ist, is another Winnipegger who has started “You can run into road bumps if you Wanting to shift the consumerist narra- “I’ve actually made relationships and a small business in the time of COVID-19. don’t think about those things right at the tive of Black Friday, Jerao partnered with friendships with these people,” Firlotte says. Known by her Instagram alias @beadwork. beginning,” Jerao says. the Wilderness Committee to donate a por- “You get that exposure, but it’s also good for by.margaret, Firlotte launched an online Following the practical first steps of start- tion of her sales on the shopping holiday to your soul.” shop for her projects in the summer of ing a business, both entrepreneurs empha- the organization’s environmental efforts. 2020, as her beadwork had already been size the importance of building connections For Firlotte, this has manifested in trad-

LOCAL NON-PROFIT HOSTS EVENT ON CANADA’S GREEN RECOVERY Could a green recovery for Canada improve daily life?

ABIGAIL BYLE VOLUNTEER ABBYINITIO

Science First, a Winnipeg-based non-profit, of a green recovery for Canada, and Geoff is holding a virtual event called Canada’s Dembicki, a climate change journalist and Green Recovery on Jan. 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. author of Are We Screwed? How a New Gen- Guest speakers will discuss the econom- eration is Fighting to Survive Climate Change. ic, scientific and social elements of a green Originally from Alberta and surrounded and just recovery for Canada in its battle by the oil and gas industry, Dembicki says against climate change and recovery from he relocated to New York to be able to write the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a about climate action in advance of the recent question-and answer-session with attendees. US presidential election. The term “green recovery” refers to a Dembicki was in New York to witness proposed approach to a post-COVID-19 the September 2019 climate strikes, led economic recovery that prioritizes environ- by international activist Greta Thunberg, SUPPLIED PHOTO mentally conscious investment and regu- which he describes as a “huge movement of people demanding aggressive action” on lation over a “business as usual” return to Climate-change jourmalist and author Geoff Dembicki will be a guest speaker at the Jan. 16 virtual pre-pandemic norms. the climate crisis. event, Canada’s Green Recovery. Science First was founded by Nathan In all his time writing on climate issues, Zahn in 2015 as a non-partisan advocacy Dembicki says he had never seen such wide group. Zahn says their goal is to promote support, with climate strikes occurring evidence-based policy on a wide range of is- worldwide amidst widespread public interest. sues, not only environmental concerns. “All this momentum and political power Dembicki says the way to move forward solution,” Dembicki says, adding that the He says the event will cover a range of was building, and then the pandemic hit, and on major climate action is within the frame- ultimate goal for Canada is to transition the issues around sustainability to identify and things were put on hold,” Dembicki says. work of government, because large-scale energy grid from oil, gas and coal, which discuss areas where science can inform policy, Dembicki recognizes that Canada is fac- political action and investment is needed will also create jobs in the process. such as exploring what green recovery is, how ing multiple crises, including the ongoing on a national level. He identifies housing As Dembicki observes, “climate action big of a recovery it should be, what it will look COVID-19 pandemic and its enormous as the type of national initiative that could is often seen as sacrifice and giving things like and what can make it a just recovery. environmental and economic impact – as make a real impact, from building sustain- up. The new way of thinking is that it will Guest speakers at the event include Dr. well as climate change, income inequality, able housing for Indigenous communities improve your life,” because climate policies Fletcher Baragar, an associate professor of social injustice and a housing crisis for In- to retrofitting homes across Canada to be really mean lower energy bills, cleaner air to economics at the University of Manitoba, digenous people. But, as Dembicki observes, more energy efficient. breathe and a more economically equal and who will speak about the economic potential the “pandemic has shown that these crises “Energy efficiency is a significant climate prosperous society, as Dembicki notes. are all related.” CAMPUS NEW YEAR, NEW TASK FORCE Mental-health supports students can expect to see in 2021

ALEX NEUFELDT CITY EDITOR

Now that the University of Winnipeg’s still has the elder-in-residence program. (U of W) wellness and mental-health in- Prior to Code Red restrictions, students frastructure has weathered a full semester without a study-supportive environment of pandemic restrictions, those who sit at or steady internet at home could request critical places in that infrastructure are able on-campus study spaces. to reflect on lessons learned and move into “I feel like with what has happened with the winter term with additional experience. students and with staff, I’m pleased with Shawna Peloquin, president of the Uni- my team and the other departments at how versity of Winnipeg Students’ Association quickly we were able to meet student needs,” (UWSA), says student mental health has he says. “I’m not saying we’ve met the needs been a top priority of the UWSA and cur- of everyone, but with the people I’m work- rently plays a role in all of their initiatives. ing with, I’m glad at how quickly students “I think that, this year, it’s become the were being supported and the way we were backbone of everything we do. All events able to be creative and deliver services.” have some aspect of supporting mental A potentially major new development health for staff and students in the commu- in mental-health efforts on campus is the nity,” she says. creation of an operational task force on the Peloquin says she’s grateful for the quick subject by the U of W board of regents. A transition the university made to online motion was made on Sept. 22 to have the learning, because it allowed wellness infra- board take on a mental-health initiative, structure to shift the work put into physical but according to open-session material, this health and safety into mental health. was referred back to the committee due to “There’s two components to our sup- “technical shortcomings.” port: one is to offer consistent services that The Governance and Community Rela- students can rely on for mental health and tions Committee of the Board (GCRC) re- (guidance as to) services within your com- ceived a presentation on the state of mental munity. The UWSA also has the capacity health and wellness services on Oct. 5 from to do more outreach with students and Jan Stewart, interim provost and vice-pres- create more tools for them to bring back ident, academic. At their next open-session home,” she says. meeting on Nov. 23, they passed a motion She also cites the Green Shield Cana- to establish an operational task force on da health plan as the greatest resource the student mental health. UWSA can provide to students looking for While the presentation did not explic- mental-health support, as it covers $800 itly look at the impacts of the COVID-19 worth of psychology or counselling services. pandemic on the state of student mental Brian Theriault, the clinical co-ordi- health, Rohith Mascarenhas, chair of the ILLUSTRATION BY GABRIELLE FUNK nator and counsellor with the university’s board, said in an email statement that the Student Counselling Services (SCS), says pandemic played a part in the motion be- wellness services have been able to pivot ing passed. online successfully because of collaboration “I wasn’t at the GCRC meeting myself, with the rest of student services, including but I understand that some members of tee, the board’s intention was to make sure many students present in addition to facul- the Aboriginal Student Services Centre, that committee raised the issue in light of it wasn’t restricted to board members, but ty and administrators. Academic and Career Services, Accessibil- specific COVID impacts, and the GCRC involved the university community as a “The fact that about half the committee ity Services and International, Immigrant ultimately raised it to the board for discus- whole to get diverse perspectives of those was students was really good,” he says. “My and Refugee Student Services. sion in October, and it was sent back to the who are directly affected and access the U read on that is that there is recognition that “Here at Student Counselling Services GCRC for further discussion about some of W’s mental-health support system, as we need identification and a plan here to (SCS), we’re able to deliver our services on- of those issues about composition, man- well as those who may have mental-health address student mental health that is thor- line in a meaningful way for students, but date, etc.,” Mascarenhas says. expertise,” he says. ough and going to meet the needs.” connecting with other departments helps us “While I think COVID was the cata- “The board specifically didn’t place any Peloquin says members of the UWSA to identify greater underlying issues,” he says. lyst for the recommendation, it wasn’t the restrictions for joining the committee, as this are taking part in the task force and says Theriault says that in lieu of on-campus board’s intention that the committee would level of detail is beyond the board’s strategic that “it aims to strategize what we can do options to accommodate those greater issues, be limited to examining or addressing only oversight function and is an operational is- for students on a larger level.” a host of new services has been introduced. COVID impacts on mental health, which sue that we decided was best left to admin- “The aim is to create a really diverse For example, SCS now has an intake spe- is again why we left the language broad.” istration to determine,” Mascarenhas says. group of people to be able to bring forward cialist to triage student requests for coun- Mascarenhas says an important element Theriault says he is not aware of any current initiatives that will help,” she says. selling. Webinar Wednesdays and drop-in of this taskforce is that there are no restric- restriction to serving on the task force. Theriault says that because the taskforce Zoom sessions can connect students with tions on who can join. Theriault, who is a member, says that af- is just in its infancy, they have not yet de- service teams. Aboriginal Student Services “By making it an operational commit- ter the first task-force meeting, he felt a lot termined specific areas of the broad subject of good energy and was heartened to see so of “mental health” to focus on.

CITY BRIEFS

ALEX NEUFELDT CITY EDITOR

Career fair going Reckoning with Study Skills On policing and Exploring Conserving the digital memorials Workshops start community Indigenous TB Seal River This year, the University of Win- On Jan 21, Jennifer Scott from Academic Advising is hosting relations knowledge The Manitoba chapter of the nipeg’s annual career fair will be The New School, Dr. Omeasoo several Study Skills Workshops Canadian Parks and Wilder- online, on Jan 19. Students inter- Wahpasiw from the University in the winter 2021 term. Reg- The University of Winnipeg’s On Jan 20, Dr. Mary Jane McCal- ness Society and the Seal River ested in participating can register of Prince Edward Island and Dr. istration is available on the uni- Global College will host the first lum and Dr. Erin Millions, who Watershed Initiative will host on the university’s website and Erin Millions from the University versity website. The first two event in their new virtual Criti- are co-researchers on the Ad- Connecting for Conservation will have the option of uploading of Winnipeg will speak in Memo- workshops will be Skills for the cal Dialogues series on Jan. 14: vancing and Mobilizing Indige- Speaker Series: Paddling Past their resume and sending it to rial Reckoning, an online event Virtual Classroom: Participation, Critical Dialogues on Policing nous Tuberculosis Knowledge: Polar Bears on Jan. 15. The event exhibitors. A full list of the exhibi- on monuments, memorials and Note-taking and Presentations and Community Relations in Impacts of Racially-Segregated will focus on how five Indige- tors is available online. calls for justice. To register, email on Jan. 18 and Start at Your Manitoba. The event is open to Tuberculosis Treatment in Mani- nous communities are working [email protected]. Library: Navigating Library everyone and will feature com- toba project, will present on their to conserve the river and feature Resources Remotely on Jan. 20. munity leaders and members of work in an online event. Regis- Stephanie Thorassie from the the RCMP. tration is available on the Univer- Seal River Watershed Alliance sity of Winnipeg website. and Caroline Wintoniw, who de- tailed her exploration of the river in August as speakers. THE UNITER JANUARY 14, 2021 13

WHAT WOULD JULIE DO? Donna Fletcher, instructor, theatre and film de- partment, U of W

KEESHA HAREWOOD FEATURES REPORTER KEESHAHAREWOOD

Donna Fletcher first discovered her love for Now, Fletcher greatly enjoys being an the theatrical arts as a kid, long before she instructor and working with young profes- ever thought she’d go into teaching, let sionals. She says she is grateful for the op- alone become an instructor for the Uni- portunity to be active in theatre alongside versity of Winnipeg’s (U of W) theatre and being an instructor. And of course, her love film department. for musicals (that originates from a child- “I grew up singing and making up sto- hood filled with music from Carousel and ries and writing plays and loving musicals,” The Sound of Music, among other things) is Fletcher says. “That was just what I always constant and unwavering. loved as a kid.” “You know how people have those When Fletcher discovered she could bracelets that say ‘what would Jesus do?’ I make a living from theatre, she was beyond want one that says ‘what would Julie (An- excited. She pursued degrees in music and drews) do?’” PHOTO BY KEELEY BRAUNSTEIN-BLACK musical theatre and went on to earn a mas- ter’s degree in voice studies at the University — of Toronto – all while Fletcher continued to do theatre on the side. What is something you’ve learned from learned to be patient.” What’s your favourite musical? Funnily enough, one thing Fletcher never your students? “Wow, I have to say Sweeney Todd thought she would do is teach. If you could have any superpower, what changed my life. I would say that’s “I didn’t want to teach at all!” she says. “I’ve learned to listen. I’ve learned (that) would it be? especially in the last five, six years. probably one of the seminal musicals in But when one of Fletcher’s friends at “My daughter just asked me this a couple Rainbow Stage asked if she’d teach him, she I’ve really learned to look at experience my life. I love the musical A Man of No through their eyes. I’ve also learned to weeks ago! I would fly. I would absolute- Importance. It’s a perfect little candy discovered that not only did she have an af- ly fly.” finity for teaching, but a love for it as well. try not to impose my story on them. I’ve box of a musical.”

ADD/DROP PERIOD IF a space becomes available during attend: Exchange Information Session 4. Choose Social Insurance Number Registration” link. the Course Add/Drop Period, you will This year, we are looking for students (SIN) Information The Winter Term (U2020W) Add/ receive an email letting you know that 5. Click on the pencil/edit icon on BURSARIES FOR GRADUATE & PRO- Drop Period is Jan. 6-19. The last day who are interested in becoming FESSIONAL STUDIES EXPENSES you can register through WebAdvisor. UWinnipeg Intercultural Mentors! the right side to drop a U2020W course and not The “Drop Waitlist” Button will have 6. Type in your nine-digit SIN and be charged the fees is Tues., Jan. 19. In this role, students will document Graduate and Professional Studies changed to a “Register” button. Regis- their exchange journey via a series of save Expenses Bursary is available for This is different from the tuition fee ter immediately! (Or drop yourself vlogs, culminating in a professional The University will begin the process students in their final year of an deadline of Jan. 22. Students who from that waitlist using “Manage My video. The position comes with a of creating the T2202 tax forms on undergraduate degree program in drop a U2020W course Jan. 20-22 Waitlist.”) and onwards are still responsible for $4,000 stipend, to be used towards January 22, 2021 in order to have the the 2020-21 academic year that are paying all of the course fees. Please Only students registered in a course your exchange! Applications are via forms ready to be posted on We- applying for Graduate or Professional consult withdrawal schedules. on WebAdvisor will have access to video entry – please see the Exchange bAdvisor on February 28. It is very Studies which begin in 2021-22. 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If Services, these workshops are FREE TERM Jan. 27. be given permission to register in it. you have ever thought about applying, to all students. Topics that will be Students are only admitted from the How do I pay my fees if Student this would be the year to do so. You covered include note-taking, using BURSARIES waitlist if there is space available in Central is not open for in-person can still receive student aid for the the Library, time management, and the course before the end of the Add/ payments? Winter 2021 Bursaries will open September 2020 to April 2021 study academic writing. Drop Period. If space does not become mid-December 2020. Application period even as long as you apply be- The workshops for Winter Term 2021 available by the end of the Add/Drop Tuition payments can be made using deadline will be Mon., Feb. 1. fore or in February. Go to Student Aid will be delivered via Zoom on Mondays Period, students can try to register in the bill payment feature on your finan- and Wednesdays, from Jan. 18 - Feb. the course in a future term. cial institution’s website. Need help getting connected to the MYVISIT APP financial supports you need and 3. Pre-registration is required. For Winter Term, the last day to 1. Log on to your bank’s website deserve to pay for your education? Need to see a Student Central repre- register in a regularly-scheduled 2. Add The University of Winnipeg – Please see: uwinnipeg.ca/academ- Visit the Awards website uwinnipeg. sentative or an Academic or Career Winter Term 2021 course is Jan. 19. Tuition as a bill payee ic-advising/study-skills-workshops. ca/awards to check out our various Advisor? You can now queue for Zoom The waitlist will run for the last time 3. 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This is a great event for students to learn the time and ability to catch up? Did dents who drop a U2020W course semester bus pass for the 2021 Win- about opportunities that can help them you miss any potential marks already? January 19-22 and onwards are still ter term. Applications are available The Zoom waiting room is enabled. work towards their career goals. Recruit- January 19 is also the last day to drop responsible for paying all of the course through our online award application One student will be admitted at a time. ers from a wide variety of companies and most U2020W courses for refund. fees. system and will remain open until Students wait for their turn and need organizations will be available to chat Mon., Feb. 1. to present their UWinnipeg student about potential careers, part-time jobs, UWSA’S HEALTH PLAN AND SINs AND TAX RECEIPTS card (or other photo ID) to talk about volunteer and internship positions, as well U-PASS WEBINAR WEDNESDAYS their account, the same as actual as educational programs. The Canada Revenue Agency requires in-person interactions at SC. all designated educational institutions Registration information is here: The deadline to opt out of the In weekly sessions, Student Services to provide students’ Social Insurance https://app.brazenconnect.com/a/ Greenshield health plan is Jan. 19. See staff will continue to share valuable To add yourself to the queue, please Numbers (SIN) on the T2202 tax uwinnipeg/e/0Z7Q0 theuwsa.ca/healthplan details. strategies and tips to help you succeed use the myVisit app (by Q-nomy) forms and so The University of Win- at UWinnipeg. The next session is on available for Apple or Android phones. INTERNATIONAL nipeg is requesting students’ SIN in WAITLISTS Wed., Feb. 10. Please see: Webinar Turn off the location permission in EXCHANGE order to comply with this requirement. Wednesdays the app. The SMS notification when After classes have started, if you are OPPORTUNITIES There is a module in WebAdvisor and it is your turn shortly will provide the Student Planning through which stu- still on a waitlist for your preferred Looking for exciting, international ex- FALL/WINTER TERM COURSES Zoom info. Student can add them- dents add their SIN to their University course section, you should continue perience? Participate in a UWinnipeg – FINAL WITHDRAWAL DATE selves to the queue 10:00 am - 4:30 record. Please follow these steps: to check your webmail account daily Exchange Opportunity! pm from Monday-Friday. for permission to register off of the The final day to withdraw from a Fall/ waitlist. (NOTE: Professors will Information Session: Wed., Jan. 20 – 1. Login to WebAdvisor Winter Term (U2020FW) class is Thirty-minute Zoom appointments not be handing out permission slips 12:30-1:30 pm 2. Click on Current Students Tues., Feb. 23. No refund is applicable. with Academic and Career Advisors 3. Click on Student Planning/Regis- Courses are dropped through We- can be booked through the myVisit anymore.) Complete this form if you would like to tration or Student Finance bAdvisor using the “Student Planning/ app or via www.myVisit.com as well. COLUMN READING IN COLOUR Disability representation needs to be nuanced, realistic and respectful

VALERIE CHELANGAT COLUMNIST VALERIECHELA

In an article about the (in)visibility of disabili- readers quadriplegia is worse than death. This ty in literature, Daily Cardinal writer Raynee portrayal lacks empathy and feeds into nega- Hamilton likens fiction to a mirror, suggesting tive discourse around disability. that reading about people who look like oneself To non-disabled readers, literature that can help readers visualize what is possible. includes nuanced, realistic characters with When a reader does not see themselves rep- disabilities normalizes and respects them. It resented, or when the representation is harmful, acknowledges their existence as an important what message does that send to them? When part of the fabric of society. other readers don’t see a certain group included, Karol Ruth Silverstein, who authored the what are they left to think? young-adult novel Cursed about a teen new- People with disabilities are underrepresented ly diagnosed with a painful chronic illness in literature, yet, in Canada, over 6.2 million (based on her own experience), explains in people live with one or more disabilities, accord- weneeddiversebooks.org that disability rep- ing to a 2017 survey from the Learning Disabil- resentation bridges “the gap between dis- SUPPLIED PHOTO ities Association of Canada. That is 22 per cent comfort and familiarity, between fear of the of the Canadian population. unknown and true empathy.” Columnist Valerie Chelangat points to Karol Ruth Silverstein’s Cursed as an example of literature that A Toronto Star survey in 2018 found only It’s important to diversify reading lists by in- responsibly deals with disability. two per cent of characters in kids’ books cluding books that feature characters with dis- represent children with disabilities. It is even abilities. One book that could be a great jump- more difficult to find protagonists with a ing-off point is Disability Visibility: First-Person disability when multiple marginalized iden- Stories from the 21st Century. Edited by Alice ing Chloe’s disability, but she also does not experiences in the world in a kid-friendly way. tities are at play. Wong, this collection of personal essays by make it the focus of the story. Exposing readers to realistic and multidimen- Children with disabilities benefit from disabled writers demonstrates the richness and In the children’s section, I would highly rec- sional disabled characters in literature is crucial seeing themselves in books. It widens their complexities of disabled experiences. It paints a ommend I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott, a to eliminate fear and discomfort for able-bod- horizons. It opens them up to the possibili- wholesome image of the everyday lives of people true story aimed at children between the ages ied people, and for those with disabilities to see ties available to them. living with disabilities. of four and eight. Scott, who stuttered as a boy, themselves represented. Disability representation needs to be nu- Another is Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia often felt isolated, alone and unable to commu- anced, realistic and respectful. Disability Hibbert, a romantic, fun read about Chloe, nicate in the way he wanted. In the book, his Valerie Nyamori is a Kenyan-Canadian is often portrayed harmfully in fiction as a a chronically ill computer nerd who makes a father helps him reconnect to the world. writer and bookseller. She loves Winnipeg problem that needs fixing either through cure list to help her “get a life.” On her list, she in- Finally, A Kids Book About Disabilities by but struggles with the winter. She gets or death. One example is in Me Before You, a cludes things such as “enjoy a drunken night Kristine Napper is a great place to start talking through the season by reading any books novel that author Jojo Moyes concludes with out, ride a motorcycle ... have meaningless to children about disabilities. She introduces she gets her hands on and drinking too the assisted death of quadripeligic character but thoroughly enjoyable sex ... do something herself, her wheelchair and the condition she much tea. Will. Will’s determination to end his life tells bad.” Hibbert does not shy away from explor- was born with, and then goes on to describe her

COMMENTS BE MORE LIKE SPIDER-MAN We need to normalize mask use – for the kids

DANIELLE DOIRON COPY AND STYLE EDITOR DANIELLEMDOIRON

This rant starts like many others: with outside their household. something I saw on the internet. In early Showing Highlights characters wearing December, a fitness influencer, Manitoba their masks at tree farms, doctors’ offices mom and acquaintance of mine shared an and grocery stores is just the beginning. En- anti-masker’s critique of Highlights maga- tertainment media, parents and teachers can zines on her Instagram stories. go a step further than simply normalizing The problem? Recent issues of their chil- pandemic life. They can and should try to dren’s publications showed cartoon charac- make this “new normal” fun, too. ters wearing masks. I won’t repeat what the In the United States, PBS Kids released ILLUSTRATION BY GABRIELLE FUNK now-viral post caption said, but another an- an Arthur short about why healthy people ti-masker’s comment caught my attention. need to wear masks. The network also “Folks, this ain’t normal!” had the Kratt Brothers remind viewers to Ain’t that the truth. There’s nothing nor- “Stay strong, stay calm and activate your der-Man is the true hero, because he covers elling masks can also help normalize their mal about life during a pandemic, especially mask power!” his nose and mouth and protects himself use, despite some of the more unpleasant when that includes rarely leaving the house, Even adults are getting in on this. At the and others. Batman is not the hero we need side effects, like bad breath or maskne. Fash- keeping apart from family and teaching pre- start of the pandemic, news outlets quickly right now, because he covers only his fore- ion YouTuber Sierra Schultzzie started using schoolers how to wear face masks. listed song segments to play for the full 20 head and ears.” #MaskItMonday on Instagram to show her It’s fair to say just about everyone is deal- seconds you’re supposed to spend washing A Minnesota nurse told the Star Tri- favourite “mask looks” every week. ing with fear, stress and uncertainty lately, your hands. Locally, Tiber River Coteries bune that positive images of people wearing Despite all the misinformation and but all these emotions are often exacerbat- hung lyrics beside all their sinks, in case masks can help young children make sense fear-mongering circling online, Highlights ed for kids who don’t know or understand humming something from The Greatest of what’s happening right now. is doing things right. Just ask Spider-Man. what’s happening. That’s why it’s crucial to Showman or ’90s boy bands made the task “The way that they understand their normalize the behaviours that are now syn- a little easier. world is through the faces around them, and Danielle Doiron is a writer, editor and mar- onymous with the COVID-19 pandemic: As one San Diego mother interviewed that’s how they feel safe. But when faces are keter who splits her time between Winni- diligent handwashing, staying home and, by The Washington Post noted, her family covered – and we know that from Hallow- peg and Philadelphia. She’s spending the yes, wearing masks. and friends in Taiwan have worn masks for een – it’s like the ground is shifting under pandemic reading, practising yoga and According to Health Canada and the a while, and “the successful messaging re- their feet. So, we need to do what we can cursing out the governments in both cities Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, volves around superheroes.” to help.” she calls home. anyone older than two years old should wear “It’s totally doable,” To-wen Tseng For older kids, celebrities and icons mod- a face mask when in public or around people commented. “All the kids now know Spi- DIVERSIONS

Uranus ends its retrograde at 3:35 AM on Thursday, January 14. Outer plan- ets spend half of the year retrograde, so it’s not that significant when they HOROSCOPES are retrograde, however, the days they change motion are worth paying at- tention to! As Uranus slows down and resumes forward motion, there’s an It's Capricorn season! awareness of the collective consciousness

SOURCE: ASTROLOGY.COM

ARIES TAURUS GEMINI CANCER

You’ll easily be able to keep all of your emo- Someone’s broken promises have been get- If you have any concerns about your health, If something smells fishy to you today, steer tions in check no matter what kind of hassle ting on your nerves, and today they might tip you need to follow up on them. The stress clear of it, and make sure the people you care you have to deal with. Traffic woes won’t you over the edge. It’s fine for you to express you’re feeling by not knowing for sure is proba- about most in the world steer clear of it too. worry you in the least. You’ll have great mu- your frustration with this person. In fact, it’s bly worse than anything you might have to deal You’re smart enough to know that you shouldn’t sic to keep you happy. Grouchy co-workers healthy, but just be careful not to burn any with later. And this proactive attitude should be get involved with stuff you’re unsure of, but not won’t bug you because you’ll be content to bridges. Just let them know that your time is applied to the rest of your life too. Don’t waste everyone has had as much experience as you. just do your work and do it well. The outside too valuable for them to waste with flaky be- any more time procrastinating about doing A few of the more naive people in your life could world simply has no pull with you right now. havior. You’re taking them seriously, and they any unpleasant tasks or having any potential- benefit from someone like you looking out for There’s a calmness and clarity inside of you need to take you seriously too. Relationships ly tense conversations. It’s time for you to take them, so you should take it upon yourself to give that keeps you on an even keel. require tricky conversations every now and charge of things. Show the world who’s boss! them a heads up about untrustworthy people. again. This will be one of those times.

LEO VIRGO LIBRA SCORPIO

At work, now is the time for you to be a model The intellectual in you is very curious right now, Are you afraid to go too deep in a new relation- Having a specific vision of what you want the employee in every sense of the word. Important and it could start reading more into someone’s ship? This person seems like a wonderful ad- next several months of your life to look like is people are keeping an eye on you! Resist the urge statements than they actually mean. Be careful dition to your life, but there’s something about good, but don’t fall into the trap of being inflex- to goof off when you have some free time. If you not to make any commitments based on your them that either confuses or concerns you. ible about it. You can’t move forward in your can, go back and double-check your work to hunches or assumptions. You’re not complete- Take some time to think more about this. Is it life on railroad tracks. The path of life is much make sure you’ve covered all the details. Become ly objective right now, and there is a good bit of a legitimate fear or are you projecting some more fluid than that. You’re going to encounter self-centered in a professional sense. You should wishful thinking at play here. It’s not that you can’t of your own stuff onto them? The conclusion a few bumps in the road, and you need to be only pay attention to things today that will help you trust your own judgments; it’s just that you might might surprise you. Sometimes new people able to react more flexibly. Don’t just focus on or your career. Gossiping doesn’t make the cut. want to get a second opinion about things before enter your life to make you question yourself, how your plans are getting messed up. Work moving forward. not just to enjoy yourself. around the problem and you’ll end up in an even better place.

SAGITTARIUS CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES

Having complete harmony in your life isn’t al- Friends aren’t the people who judge you in If growing your career is your main focus right Someone’s odd comments could confuse ways possible, which is actually a good thing your life. Your friends are the people who can now, you should consider switching your sights you to the point where you’re not sure how because harmony isn’t always helpful. Some- help you get over whatever problems you may to another area of your life. Being too obsessed to take them. Are they complimenting you or times you need some friction to help real solu- be struggling with. Don’t try to hide your faults about your job and where you want to go next insulting you? To fight off this fuzzy and un- tions come about and enable real learning to from them. You will only end up pushing them is creating an imbalance in your life. Friends comfortable feeling, try to spend the rest of take place. Don’t shy away from conflict all away. It’s time to share your worries with a and family will start to feel neglected if you’re your day with people you know, working on the time. Your controversial stance on a cer- person you know can relate to what you’re canceling your time with them in favor of work- things you’re familiar with. Getting your con- tain issue might not make you the most pop- going through. No matter how confused you ing late. You are a multifaceted person, and you fidence back will enable you to see things ular person in the room, but you’re right and are, they won’t think you’re stupid or whiny. need to stay that way! clearly. By the end of the day, you’ll be able they’re wrong! Take the opportunity to try to They will totally support you and help brain- to look back on earlier events and decode educate them. storm some solutions. that person’s odd statements.

THE AGE OF AQUARIUS

WHAT IS THE AGE OF the first day of spring changes Aquarius, then, is about ac- has shaken us all to our core AQUARIUS? about every 2,000 years. knowledging that the system and helped expose the cracks — is broken and not waiting for in society's foundation. An astrological age is a time Out of all the signs, Aquarius someone to fix it. period in astrologic theolo- is the most free-thinking. The We've all experienced a shift gy which astrologers claim Piscean Age was dominated As the Age of Aquarius begins, in the way we relate to power parallels major changes in the by a Christian patriarchal humanity is set to focus on the and safety, so we should development of Earth's inhab- system. The new age is all innovative and socialist ways think of 2020 as the training itants, particularly relating to about making room for a more that only the air element can wheels for a revolutionary culture, society and politics. egalitarian world. generate for us. couple years to come that could change the way we This cycle, which lasts roughly Aquarius is heavily associat- SO WHAT'S NEXT? relate to our communities and 26,000 years, means the ed with getting informed and — what we value in society. zodiac sign visible at dawn on technology. So, the Age of Knowledge is power. 2020 GET PUBLISHED!

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