Published by the University Neighbourhoods Association

Volume 12, Issue 6 JUNE 21, 2021 Companies Compete for Right to Residents Sell Cannabis on UEL, Steps from UBC Rally but Achieve Little at UNA Board Meeting

Anti-cannabis petition was launched online; impassioned speeches were made

A delegation of residents did little but evoke sympathy for their cause at a UNA Board meeting on June 15.

The delegates attended the meeting to pro- test the possibility of a cannabis company being granted the right to set up shop in the University Endowment Lands, steps from UBC.

The provincial government—which man- ages the UEL—is taking steps to properly Another change of land use application on the University Endowment Lands, at the former Bubble Waffle Cafe location. handle the applications of two companies seeking licenses, and this includes mea- suring the pulse of the community, part of Neighbours are asked for the following: You won’t find screens or associates glued which are those living or working in Uni- comments; second company is • Taking the time to understand the culti- to iPads. Instead, you’ll receive personal- versity Marketplace. ized service and thoughtful information brought into the fray vation methodology and processing tech- niques of our core suppliers to ensure our regarding cannabis, in a retail environment The issue has garnered wide-spread inter- quality standards are met and that products that will leave you feeling calm and con- est, in large part because of the proximity John Tompkins are appropriately priced. fident. of the companies to UBC—where over Editor • Doing our part to ‘Break through the can- • The BC Government has deemed canna- 60,000 people are studying, pandemic nabis Stigma’ by staying informed of the bis retail an essential service. In response, permitting. latest advancements and breakthroughs in we will be operating all locations under the the industry, as we continue to learn more health and safety guidelines outlined by the The June UNA Board meeting began with A second company has applied for the right about the holistic nature of this incredibly Public Health Agency of Canada. It is our a leader of the anti-cannabis petition, stat- to sell cannabis from a vacant store on the misunderstood plant. top priority to provide a safe environment ing they were a strong group. When asked University Endowment Lands, and like the • Listening to our customers. We are al- for our staff and customers and we are tak- by a UNA director how strong, the peti- first store, the second lies steps from UBC. ways listening to our customers requests ing every possible precaution. tion leader said, “Over 1,000 signatures. and experiences to ensure that we maintain Very strong.” The new applicant is Atheneum Cannabis, relevant and tailored offerings for our local Information given by the UEL Community which lists its head office at 2431 West 41st community. Advisory Council at a public meeting in This was later amended upward to 1,300. Avenue—in the heart of Kerrisdale. The May provided the BURB name. More in- At the same time, a Director questioned first applicant was BURB Cannabis, man- In comparison, advertising at the BURB formation about the companies is expected where all these signatures were gathered. aged in the suburbs of Port Moody and Port website reads as follows: to be made public at another meeting June The answer given was “all over the world.” Coquitlam. • Our stores are designed with the customer 21. in mind. We’ve purposely chosen to “de- Another round of questions and answers Advertising at the Atheneum website offers tech” in favour of an authentic experience. COMPETE continued on Page 3 revealed how child-rich UBC was K to 12. The answer: “About 2,600 children in three elementary schools.”

Fifteen minutes were dedicated to discus- sion, and at the end of it, UNA Chair Rich- ard Watson invited members of the Board to place a motion on the table so that it could be voted on.

When no Director responded, Mr. Watson said, “Well, we will leave it there then.” He then closed the meeting. page 2 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 Former Resident of China Revels in Life in Canada

Canada Day, July 1, 2021 draws near, and with difficult situations and complicated as it does, people pause to reflect on what a issues. Our office has supported many resi- magnificent country this is. Many of those dents facing immigrant & visa related is- who do this come from the Far East. Ying sues, as well as Canada Revenue Agency Zhou came to Canada from China, and she and Service Canada. We have tried our has found here a joy in living. A resident of best to support the Quadra constituency, the University of British Columbia (Chan- and provide updated information regarding cellor Place) and an assistant to Joyce Mur- federal policies & programs. ray, Member of Parliament for - Quadra and Minister of Digital Government, I enjoy sports and pursue an athletic dream. Ying agreed to talk to The Campus Resident This year, I received a Ski Instructor’ li- about her experiences in Canada. cense from the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance. It was a much more interesting What do you enjoy most about living in license for me compared to the Canadian Canada? Finance Service’s certification awarded several years ago. I enjoy most the opportunities of a free lifestyle—to balance my family life, career Canada is a magical place for enjoying a and hobbies. colorful life, especially living on the UBC campus. I can play badminton several days For the past 12 years, my daughters and I a week, go swimming occasionally, run at have spent as much time as possible grow- the running track and go hiking. My next ing up together. My elder daughter went plan is to learn how to sail this summer. to UBC at the age of 15, and graduated from the UBC Sauder School of Business How would you describe what sort of last year. My younger one will go to U-hill Canada is as a country? Secondary School in September, after four years at the Multi-age cluster class. I really To me, Canada is a country full of pos- appreciate Canada’s educational system; it sibilities. You have many options at any can provide a variety of programs for chil- age with any backgrounds. I immigrated dren with different needs. to Canada middle-aged, then I continued to Ying Zhou with her two daughters. pursue my career as an Investment Advisor I have been working at MP Joyce Murray’s at RBC Royal Bank. On a separate occa- office for one and half years. It is totally a sion, I changed my professional direction work for the MP’s office and understand opportunities for youth, young profession- new experience and challenge for me, espe- to run for a seat on the UNA Board when I more of the federal policies and how to ser- als, university graduates, all of diverse cially during the recent COVID-19 times. realized that the board needed a voice who vice the constituencies. backgrounds, giving equal job opportuni- I have worked at the office the majority of can make the voices of others heard, and ties to all, regardless of their family name. the time, and quickly learned how to deal this bridged the culture gap. Also, I can For many new immigrants with similar backgrounds as me, I would like to encour- What has been your most productive age them to look forward and get involved experience since you came to Canada in in your community when moving to a new 2009? country. When I was asked what will hap- pen if I was still in China, I always told The most productive experience has been them no “ifs” for me in my dictionary. the opportunity to get involved into elec- tions and understand more about democ- What do you hope your children will see racy. When I ran for election of the UNA 30 years from now? Board before I became a Canadian citizen, I was deeply impressed by the open mind- I hope that Canada can be safer for immi- edness of our community. My life was grants and newcomers. With the increase of enriched and changed after serving on the anti-Asian racism, Asian children and par- UNA Board. I feel so lucky that I met with ents are feeling more and more insecure. so many outstanding mentors, who spent Even though English is the first language lots of time and energy on coaching me to of my younger daughter, I still need to re- overcome the learning curve. It will be hard minder her to keep away from strangers for me to list all the names, so I just want to when she goes to school on a bus or walk- mention one name, Jim Taylor, the found- ing by herself on campus. ing chair of the UNA Board, who gave me tremendous support at the beginning, and Ying Zhou with her daughter, playing in the snow. I hope that Canada can provide more equal gave me advice on the board issues even up to the month before he passed away. For these six years on the UNA Board, I learned how to combine my personal skills together with my previous work & life ex- perience, working with board members, to strengthen the relationships among the Board, UNA staff, residents and UBC. It was great to witness to the fast growth of the UNA, with the first strategic plan in 2018, and the implemented bylaws in 2020.

Short Biography

I immigrated to Canada 12 years ago with my family from Mainland China. My work experience includes more than a decade in major financial institutions in China and with RBC Wealth Management in Van- couver. Before I started working for Min- ister Murray as a Constituency Assistant, I served the UNA Board as elected Resi- dent Director from 2013 to 2019, including three years as Treasurer and two years as Board Chair. I was Co-chair of the Parent Advisory Council of the University Tran- sition Program from 2013 to 2015. I was awarded the Hidden Hero award from MP Ying Zhou with friends and community members at the Wesbrook Community Centre. Joyce Murray’s office in 2019. THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 page 3

Editor & Business Manager John Tompkins Email: [email protected] Tel: 604-827-3502

Design Production Published monthly by the University Neighbourhoods Association Rebecca Ind Email: [email protected] #202-5923 Berton Avenue, Vancouver BC, V6S 0B3 Canadian Multicultural Celebrations

Canadian Multiculturalism Day is cele- played in a gallery outside the Wesbrook Day, the UNA is running a colouring con- In My Kitchen: brated every year on June 27. The national Community Centre on July 1. Regis- test with colouring pages provided by Na- Italian Umbrian Feast holiday was created in 2002 to acknowl- tration is not required for this show. If tive Northwest. Four lucky winners will edge the wealth of diversity and enrich- you have any questions, please contact receive a prize pack of books and games Date: July 2 from 6 – 7 pm ing cultures which make up the country. [email protected]. created by indigenous artists. Ages: All Ages (children under 16 must This year, the UNA is hosting a series of participate with an adult) events from June 28 – July 2 to celebrate How to enter: Create an original piece of Community of Caring the diversity of Canada and our local com- work in any medium that can be submitted Cookbook Launch Prepare to be transported to Umbria and munity. physically (painting, photography prints, where you will cook virtually with Me- mixed media etc.). Date: June 28 from 5 – 6 pm lissa in her family kitchen. As she shares Canadian Multicultural Day Ages: 16+ stories and traditions of her family you Art Show Bring your piece to the Wesbrook Com- will be creating some delicious dishes munity Centre Lounge with a note that The Community of Caring Cookbook from recipes that have been passed down Submission dates: June 6 to June 27 clearly lists your name, age, contact infor- has arrived, and we are joining together through generations. You will begin with Submission ages :10 – 18 mation and a 50-word summary of your to launch this exciting community proj- a time-honored tradition of making Me- Show: July 1 (11 am – 4 pm) | All Ages piece. ect! In response to COVID-19, the Youth lissa’s favorite fresh pasta, Ricotta Gnoc- Leadership Program has curated various chi, while your fresh tomato sauce, Sugo Youth are invited to submit an original Colouring Contest: recipes and stories from our community di Pomodoro, slowly simmers to perfec- piece of artwork based on the prompt, Indigenous Peoples Day members in UNA neighbourhoods. Join tion on the stove top. In My Kitchen is an “What does Canada mean to you?”. Two us for this launch event to hear stories interactive, virtual cooking class. winners will each be awarded a prize Submissions: Open until June 18, 2021. from your neighbours, watch demonstra- of $100 to Opus Art Supplies and will Ages: 0-9 tions from contributors and celebrate mul- To learn more about all of these events be- have their work featured on the back Display: Starting June 23 at Wesbrook ticulturalism in the UNA community! Par- ing held virtually and at Wesbrook Com- cover of the next UNA recreation pro- Community Centre ticipants will also have a chance to share munity Centre, please visit myuna.ca/ gram guide. Submissions are open from their own stories, food, pictures, and any- canadian-multicultural-celebrations/ June 6 to June 27. All works will be dis- To celebrate National Indigenous Peoples thing related to food and culture.

COMPETE continued from Page 1 comment will likely be disregarded. That be- ing said, even if your content is the same for Meanwhile, the CAC is encouraging UEL both Cannabis retails stores, it is ok, as long residents—renters as well as owners—to as you send them separately, addressing the submit their views on whether a pot shop in two stores separately. the UEL community is a welcome or an un- welcome development. 2. Please ensure you email the following people together: Some commentators have noted the effects To: [email protected] of smoking marijuana on UBC students CC: [email protected]; uelcac@gmail. could be construed from a mostly negative com; [email protected] perspective. Inserted below is a letter from a UEL neighbour urging fellow neighbours to 3. Please be aware the comments period will offer their comments to the CAC. be over very soon (the deadline for the first Cannabis Store, Burb, is due 6/9/2021 be- Dear Neighbours, fore 4:00 pm) so we would urge you to send your email out as soon as possible. We would like to bring to your attention the two Cannabis retail stores that have Sent via email: [email protected] submitted change of land use applications. Currently, they both have boards up at the A second letter in circulation is addressed to village (where McDonalds and Staples are). Jonn Braman, UEL Manager: Burb Cannabis is proposing to use the Copy Smart store space, while Atheneum Can- I am writing this letter to provide comments nabis is proposing to use the Bubble Waffle for two processes, namely rezoning by the Cafe store space. University Endowment Lands (UEL) and licensing recommendations by Metro Van- If you have any comments about Cannabis couver Regional District to the B.C. Liquor retailers opening in our neighbourhood, and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB). I would highly recommend you to send an email following the below instructions Some examples of reasons may include but (please ensure you follow with the instruc- are not limited to: tions as deviation may mean your comments - I am worried about the wellbeing and safe- will be disregarded because as these emails/ ty of my children. letters are addressed to the government, - This neighbourhood is surrounded by a there are rules we have to comply with to huge student population and the opening of ensure it has effect). a cannabis store may negatively affect the health and safety of these young individuals. 1. Please ensure to send two separate - There is an easily accessible cannabis emails/letters as there are two different Can- store that is located on W 10th avenue that nabis stores making proposals. I.e., sending is less than 3km away from UBC campus. one email/letter covering both Cannabis People who want to purchase cannabis can retail stores will not be sufficient and your shop in that store. page 4 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021

Plan will be guided by data, not • COVID-19 cases stable, hospitalizations gatherings officials to continue to use extraordinary dates; COVID-19 both numbers of stable • No limits on indoor and outdoor specta- powers under the Emergency Program Act case counts and hospitalizations • Maximum of five visitors or one house- tors at sports to support the Province’s COVID-19 pan- hold allowed for indoor personal gatherings • Businesses operating with new safety plans demic response. The original declaration are steadily declining • Maximum of 10 people for outdoor per- • In-class K-12 education will continue to was made on March 18, 2020, the day after sonal gatherings operate under existing safety protocols for Henry declared a public health emergency, John Tompkins • Maximum of 10 people for seated indoor steps 1 and 2. In preparation for the return to and can be extended for periods of up to 14 Editor organized gatherings with safety protocols classes in the fall, the COVID-19 education days at a time. • Maximum of 50 people for seated outdoor steering committee will work with public organized gatherings with safety protocols health officials to update safety guidelines. Although BC-wide recreational travel is • Recreational travel only within travel re- now allowed, Canada-wide recreational gion (travel restrictions extended) The government is formally extending the travel restrictions will continue to be en- With more than 76% of adults vaccinated • Indoor and outdoor dining for up to six provincial state of emergency through the forced until Step 3 of the four-step plan. with their first dose and COVID-19 case people with safety protocols end of the day on June 22, 2021, allow- counts and hospitalizations steadily declin- • Resume outdoor sports (games) with no ing health and emergency management (Last updated June 18, 2021.) ing, British Columbia is moving forward spectators, low-intensity fitness with safety with the cautious first step of a four-step protocols plan for a careful and safe restart. • Start gradual return to workplaces • Provincewide mask mandate, business Men’s Community Network “British Columbians have sacrificed so safety protocols and physical distancing much over the last 15 months to help keep measures remain in place GET OUT! GET MOVING! people and our communities safe,” said • Return of indoor in-person faith-based Premier John Horgan. “We have made tre- gatherings (reduced capacity) based on Any time is a good time to get fit. But following the terrible mendous strides with our vaccination pro- consultation with public health 18-month Covid doldrums it is even more important to get out gram, and we are now in a position where and enjoy the freedom while getting in shape. we can move forward with a plan to slowly Step 2: Mid-June (June 15 – earliest date bring us back together. As we have done - milestone reached) MCN is again beginning the walking, hiking, and biking that it throughout this pandemic, we will be close- initiated last year. With Covid restrictions lifting we intend to ly following the guidance of public health • 65% of adult population with Dose 1 schedule these activities starting early to mid July. For updates and supporting people and businesses as • Cases declining, COVID-19 hospitaliza- on our activities please check the following. we take the next steps in putting this pan- tions declining demic behind us.” • Maximum of 50 people for outdoor social MCN Facebook: gatherings Men’s Community Network Engagement (friend/friend request) BC’s Restart – a four-step plan to bring • Maximum of 50 people for seated indoor B.C. back together – will be a slow and organized gatherings (banquet halls, movie Email: gradual return to a more normal life, with theatres, live theatre) with safety protocols [email protected] (get on our mailing list) safety and health protocols such as mask • Consultation process to prepare for larger wearing and physical distancing remaining indoor and outdoor gatherings with safety The aim of the Men’s Community Network is to encourage and in place and mandatory during the initial protocols engage men in common activities. While this is predominantly two steps of the plan. • No B.C. travel restrictions – check local for the benefit of men we do include and encourage women and travel advisories others to join some of our group activities. The four-step plan was designed based on • Indoor sports (games) and high-intensity data and guidance from the BC Centre for fitness with safety protocols Hiking: Disease Control (BCCDC) and Dr. Bon- • Spectators for outdoor sports (50 maxi- Open to men, & women of all ages. Seniors and teens are wel- nie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer mum) come. (PHO). Progressing through the steps will • Provincewide mask mandate, business be measured by the number of adults vac- safety protocols and physical distancing Hiking will be on trails in the Greater Vancouver Area and North cinated, COVID-19 case counts and hospi- measures remain in place Shore mountains. Led by Mohsen Naseri, an experienced hiker talizations and deaths, taking into account who is intimately familiar with local trails. Participants will be clusters and outbreaks. While there are ap- Step 3: Early July (July 1 – earliest date) informed beforehand of the hike date, length, and difficulty of proximate dates, the plan will be guided by the route. The hikes will be held on the first and third weekend data, not dates, and will not proceed to the • 70% of adult population with Dose 1 of each month. We will try to accommodate persons requiring next step until it is safe to do so based on • Cases low, COVID-19 hospitalizations transportation. Visit our Facebook page for details of the Norvan guidance from public health and the latest declining Falls hike on July 3. available data. • Provincial state of emergency and public health emergency lifted Biking: “We have been on a long and tiring journey, • Returning to usual for indoor and outdoor Open to men, & women of all ages. Seniors and teens are wel- and now we can start to chart our path for- personal gatherings come. ward to brighter days ahead,” Henry said. • Increased capacity for indoor and outdoor “To be successful in this next phase of the organized gatherings, with safety plans Biking will be strictly local within the immediate UBC area and pandemic, we need to keep COVID-19 low • Nightclubs and casinos reopen with ca- will accommodate all levels of skill. This is Casual Biking only. and slow. To do that, we need to be slow pacity limits and safety plans Most rides will be 40 to 60 minutes, late afternoon, weather and measured in our approach, gradually • New public health and workplace guid- permitting. Nils Bradley leads this group and will take place each turning up the dial on how we spend time ance around personal protective equipment, week starting 6pm, July 7th. together – whether that is socializing with physical distancing and business protocols family, going to work or visiting friends.” Walking: Step 4: Early September (Sept. 7 – earli- Men only - all ages. Seniors welcome. The step-by-step plan will follow approxi- est date) mate timelines and will ease people and Walking will be mostly through the Pacific Park area and will be businesses slowly out of the pandemic. • More than 70% of adult population with held every week. Day and time TBA. The four steps are: Dose 1 --- • Cases low and stable (contained clusters), Step 1: May 25 - (milestone reached) COVID-19 hospitalizations low All activities will be in accordance with current Covid precautions • Returning to normal social contact and weather permitting. • 60% of adult population with Dose 1 • Increased capacity at larger organized THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 page 5

Letter from UBC President See You on Campus this Fall?

Earlier this month, we celebrated Spring continue to work closely on our plans with Graduation. As was the case last year, the public health officials at the provincial and event took place online. Nonetheless, it was regional levels. We feel optimistic that UBC a joyous occasion, not only for the graduates will be able to safely welcome our students, and their families, but for all of us. faculty and staff back to campus in the Fall.

Thinking of our graduating students and We appreciate that many members of our their proud families always fills me with community will have questions, and some joy. Graduation is a time of celebration and may be uneasy about a potential return to a time to come together as a community, campus. It is important to reiterate that whether in person or online. the health, safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff remain our first I am hoping that the Fall graduation ceremo- priority. As we continue to take guidance ny will once again be in person. Last month, from the provincial government and public the provincial government unveiled its BC’s health officials, we are also prepared to up- Restart plan, a four-step plan to get the prov- date our approach as required. ince back to normal. The plan, which is con- tingent on favourable vaccination rates, case Faculties are currently finalizing the fall counts and hospitalizations, calls for normal course schedules, assuming primarily on- Professor Santa J. Ono. social contact, fully reopened workplaces campus instruction, with selected flexible Photo credit Paul Joseph, UBC. and increased capacity at organized gather- options for continuity of learning where ings by as soon as September 7, just in time feasible. for the start of the 2021-22 academic year. lowing measures will remain in place: Many have continued to study and work We are developing guidance for heads and on campus and others have studied and But in order to achieve this, as many of us directors, supervisors, and managers to • Completing a daily COVID-19 self-as- worked remotely. Wherever we have been need to be vaccinated as possible. We are help identify and support those faculty and sessment and not attending work or school located, we have all been enormously chal- now seeing steady reductions in COVID-19 staff who will transition back to campus when ill; lenged. case counts, declining COVID-19 hospital- over the summer months to prepare for the • Following handwashing and hygiene pro- izations, and increased vaccinations. It looks arrival of students and the start of classes in tocols; We are seeing a brighter road ahead, and I like everyone in the province will have the September — supporting in-person instruc- • Continuing daily cleaning protocols in am confident that together we will success- chance to be fully vaccinated by the end of tion and other key activities and services. indoor settings and on high touch surfaces; fully, and safely, transition back to campus August. If you haven’t registered for vacci- UBC’s research activity will also continue and for the fall academic term. nation yet, I urge you to do so as soon as pos- to increase. • Requiring non-medical masks in indoor sible. It’s quick, and convenient, and it will common areas, depending on the rate of I hope to see you on campus this fall. help us all get back to normal. Key to our approach for returning to cam- COVID-19 transmission. pus is a robust safety planning process — Santa J. Ono At UBC, we have been watching the course in order to ensure the health and safety of I would like to thank everyone who has President and Vice-Chancellor of the COVID-19 pandemic carefully and our community. We anticipate that the fol- supported the university over the last year. The University of British Columbia

UBC Unveils Plan to Restart in September

UBC plan aligns with er and the provincial government’s recently ID-19 Safety Planning Framework is being munity to participate in the provincial CO- Province-wide plan published BC’s Restart plan. developed to align with the COVID-19 Re- VID-19 vaccination program. turn-to-Campus Primer and BC’s Restart The plan details a phased approach to re- plan. This revised framework and accom- “Every adult in BC is eligible to be vac- starting social connections, businesses, and panying guidance documents will allow the cinated. Now is the time to support each Fifteen months ago, faculty and staff at the activities and details a return to normal so- university to maintain a safe learning and other and raise the rate of immunization,” University of British Columbia saw their cial contact starting September 7, provided working environment, reduce administra- said Ono. “If you haven’t yet received your research, teaching and work change in ways more than 70% of the 18+ population has tive burden, and ensure compliance with vaccine, please register and encourage your they’d never imagined due to COVID-19. received an initial vaccine dose — along Provincial Health Officer Orders and Work- families and friends to join the ‘This is our with low case counts and low COVID-19 SafeBC regulations. shot’ campaign at www.thisisourshot.ca.” Now, with public health leaders confident in hospitalizations. the safe resumption of on-campus activities The framework will be available following “While our campuses are safe for our by post-secondary institutions, progress in UBC’s phased approach will allow for updated guidelines from the provincial gov- return, in alignment with public health the provincial vaccination program, public the operational needs of each faculty and ernment in early July. guidelines, there may be some members health measures and declines in COVID-19 administrative unit. All units will need to of our community who have medical con- case counts and hospitalizations, UBC is have an approved COVID-19 safety plan Some faculty and staff have raised con- ditions affecting their transition back to outlining its phased approach to support in place. cerns about building ventilation. A heating, campus,” said Ono. “There are existing faculty and staff returning to campus in • Phase #1 (June-July): Faculty and staff ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) processes to address these concerns, and preparation for the 2021/22 school year who are required on campus to support working group is currently assessing build- we will continue to support faculty and starting in Sept. This approach reflects lis- instructional and operational planning or ing ventilation systems and forming recom- staff who are affected by these situations. tening sessions with faculty and staff, and preparation for the 2021/22 Winter Session mendations based on information from the In addition, those faculty and staff who other feedback from the UBC community. will be advised of their return date. American Society of Heating, Refrigeration may be experiencing anxiety can access • Phase #2 (July-August): Faculty and staff and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Work- support for mental health and wellbeing at “I would like to take this opportunity to who are required on campus to prepare for SafeBC, and the BC Centre for Disease www.hr.ubc.ca/health-and-wellbeing/men- thank those faculty and staff who have been direct, in-person teaching, learning, student Control to ensure a high standard of safety tal-health/faculty-and-staff-mental-health- on campus throughout the pandemic, pro- support and other activities for the 2021/22 and to reduce the risk of COVID-19 trans- resources.” viding key aspects of UBC teaching, learn- Winter Session will begin to transition back mission. ing, research and operations,” says UBC to campus. “For more than a year now, faculty and President Santa Ono. “Together we will • Employees who are not required to UBC Building Operations will continue staff have stepped up to the challenges pre- bring vibrancy to our campuses, as we see return to campus as part of Phase #1 the cleaning of high-touch surfaces and sented by COVID-19. Thank you for your the increased resumption of in-person teach- or #2 – but who wish to return earlier – hand sanitizing stations will remain in ongoing patience and adaptability, and for ing, learning, and research activity this fall.” should discuss this with their deans, vice- place. continuing to provide the high quality of presidents, associate vice-presidents, de- teaching, learning, and research that UBC The planning reflects recent guidance from partment heads, directors and supervisors, In addition to conducting daily self-admin- is known for. We look ahead to the fall with the provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie who will be responsible for making these istered health checks, staying home when a continued commitment to the health and Henry, the Regional Health Authorities and decisions. sick, wearing a non-medical mask when safety of our community, and with hope the BC Centre for Disease Control, outlined required, and washing hands often, the uni- and excitement for welcoming back our in the COVID-19 Return-to-Campus Prim- With safety as a priority, a revised COV- versity is encouraging everyone in its com- students,” said Ono. page 6 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 New Subway Stations Speak of ‘Things to Come’ New rapid transit line along its partners, it will provide fast, frequent and is scheduled for convenient SkyTrain service to B.C.’s sec- launch 2025; major ond largest jobs centre, world-class health services, an emerging innovation and re- construction is underway search hub, and growing residential commu- nities. The following facts are envisioned: John Tompkins • 700 metres will be elevated, extending Editor from VCC-Clark Station to a tunnel portal near Great Northern Way • Five kilometres will be tunneled below the Broadway Corridor from Great Northern A heap of dirt tells the story, and this heap— Way to Arbutus Street not too big—lies just inside the wire fencing • Six underground stations will connect which since June 2 has sealed off two vacant communities and the region, including a di- blocks of Arbutus Street at Broadway. rect underground connection to the at Cambie Street Major construction will commence on • The 99 B-Line bus service will connect Artistic rendering of Arbutus Station street level. these blocks shortly, and two to three Arbutus Street and the University of British Photo credit Government of BC. years from now as gravel becomes con- Columbia crete, commuters will likely consider the rapid transit station here a work of infra- Early work has already begun. Construction structural art. of the elevated guideway, stations, and tun- nel portal is scheduled to begin immediately The organizers of the Broadway Subway with the extension in service in 2025. Project—the Federal Government, Provin- cial Government and Municipal Govern- Two Open Houses were held during the ment—will spend 3.8 billion dollars laying planning stage of the six stations. The pur- the groundwork of a new Broadway Sub- pose of the Station Design Open House #2 way Station project that consists of six sta- was to summarize the feedback received tions and a line connecting them, and while from the first Open House and to present this is a huge amount of money, an even proposed final station designs, including Project and construction signage. larger amount will need to be spent on a sec- additional details about landscaping, avail- ond rapid transit project. able information on station art, next steps for and delivered by the Government of B.C. were available for public feedback. construction, and information on how to stay with contributions from the Government of This second project is—also in the billions involved. Canada and the City of Vancouver. The online Open House of the proposed sta- of dollars category—ambitiously conceived tion designs began on April 29, 2021, and in fetching rapid transit further—from the Feedback which has been received will be The Broadway Subway Project is a key part ran through May 12. The project team was same point in Vancouver (Arbutus) all the provided as input to the City of Vancou- of the rapid transit program in Metro Van- asking for input on the above-ground station way to UBC. ver’s design advisory process to contribute couver’s Mayors’ Council 10-Year Vision. features, including entrances, the adjacent towards the urban integration of the stations The Vision is funded by the governments of plazas and other street-level aspects of the The Broadway Subway Project is a 5.7 km and will be considered by the Project in fi- B.C. and Canada, TransLink, and local mu- stations, as part of the station’s design ad- extension of the , from nalizing the station designs. nicipalities. visory process, developed in collaboration Vancouver Community College-Clark Sta- with the City of Vancouver. tion to Broadway and Arbutus. According to The Broadway Subway Project is funded Once constructed, the project will operate as an extension of the existing Millennium The first online Open House on station de- Line and will be integrated with the regional sign was held in the fall of 2020. In response transit network and operated and maintained to public participation and feedback from by TransLink. project partners, the station designs have UNIVERSITY NEIGHBOURHOODS been updated to include: ASSOCIATION The Broadway Subway Project Corporation • improved lighting; is a joint venture of ACCIONA-Ghella that • accessible paving treatments (tactile, co- Apply to be part of the new will design and build the Project. loured, slip-resistant) to make station access safer for all; UNA Land Use Advisory Committee Once open in 2025, the commute from • reconfigured bike parking amenities; VCC-Clark to Arbutus Station will take 11 • enhanced seating in exterior station plazas; The UNA Board of Directors is establishing a Land Use Advisory minutes, saving the average transit com- and Committee to serve as an advisory committee to the Board regarding land use planning and development on the UBC Campus, as well as muter almost 30 minutes a day and relieving • better integration with the neighbourhood to act as a forum to facilitate discussions on land use planning and traffic congestion along Broadway. and design features to provide a sense of development with residents. place. You are encouraged to apply if you are a UNA resident member With Broadway Subway project site prep- motivated to help build community and have specific knowledge in arations underway and major construction Input from this second online open house one or more of the following areas: beginning, the updated street-level designs will be considered in finalizing the station’s of the six new Broadway Subway stations street-level designs. • Accessibility • Active Transportation • Agriculture • Architectural design • Children and youth • Community planning • Construction/development • Education • Environmental matters • Land development/construction • Landscape design • Recreation • Sustainability • Urban Planning The committee will serve with an appointed chair from the Board and will have support from UNA staff. There are seven spots to fill in this committee and the term of appointment is two years. This is a volunteer committee that will serve without compensation. For the Land Use Advisory Committee’s Terms of Reference, please visit: myuna.ca/una-committees. All interested parties are asked to please submit a resume and cover letter addressed to the UNA Board of Directors to [email protected] before September 3, 2021.

Broadway Subway Project construction begins at Arbutus Street. THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 page 7 Angus Reid Poll Pulls No Punches on Shocking Scale of Anti-Asian Racism in Canada Poll results are revealed on eve intensity of bigotry over the past year. than to Canada regarding issues of bilateral on the issues impacting Asian Canadians, of national forum by UBC; conflict between the two nations. Just seven coalition building across Asian Canadian comments by UBC president According to ARI’s Anti-Asian Discrimina- per cent of Chinese Canadians say this is ac- communities and other racialized communi- tion Index (AADI), respondents of Asian tually the case ties, and effective access and advocacy for Santa Ono are included (including Chinese) descent fall into one of • Nearly the identical number of Asian systemic change. three categories, the Hardest Hit (31%), the (20%) and non-Asian Canadians (17%) say John Tompkins Exposed (35%) and the Unaffected (35%). that they would prefer if the community The second day, June 11, was a working ses- Editor they live in was people from their own race sion informed by discussions from the day Asian Canadians who are older (55+) and or ethnicity before. The event culminated in a public have higher incomes are more likely to be • Asian and non-Asian Canadians tend to session, giving attendees an opportunity to among the Unaffected while the Hardest Hit agree that this issue will take another gen- share the list of bold actions, key priorities, A new Angus Reid Institute poll (in part- are more likely to be younger (aged 18-34) eration to solve. Three-in-five among each and pathways forward that will be presented. nership with UBC) has revealed the shock- and lower income. group say this is the case, while one-in-four ing depth and scale of anti-Asian racism in Asian Canadians (26%) do not think Canada “We all have a role to play in the fight against Canada and the experiences of racism in the Other findings include: will ever overcome some of its discrimina- pervasive and enduring anti-Asian racism,” Asian community. • Asked for their reaction to discrimination tory practices and prejudices – 10 points said forum planning committee member and over the past year or so, 53 per cent of Asian higher than non-Asians (16%) Associate Professor of History, Henry Yu. Release of the Angus Reid Institute poll Canadians said it has been hurtful and stays The full poll data is available at www. “To address it, we must examine anti-Asian came on the eve of the University of British with them. Two-in-five (38%) are troubled angusreid.org/anti-asian-discrimination. racism within the broader context of racism Columbia’s National Forum on Anti-Asian but able to put it aside, while nine per cent against Indigenous, Black and other racial- Racism in Canada, June 10-11, 2021. have not been impacted. The National Forum on Anti-Asian Racism ized communities. Together, we’ll share • Few Asian Canadians say the discrimina- in Canada considered the implications of the stories and create productive solidarities for Key among the poll findings is that Cana- tion they experience is institutional. The vast poll and how to address them June 10-11. change.” dians of Asian descent aged 18 to 34 are majority (86%) say they have not received most likely to have experienced, and been poor or unfair treatment by institutional or- “The discussions this week are crucial,” said This event was made possible through the affected by, anti-Asian racism and bigotry ganizations such as local police, the health UBC President Santa Ono. “Through open generous support of the Canadian Race Re- over the last year. care system, banks, or the justice system conversations with key figures in education, lations Foundation. • 79 per cent of non-Asian Canadians say health care, media, the corporate world, the The ARI study canvassed the opinions of that they view Asian Canadians as warm not-for-profit sector and government, we’ll “These stats are troubling as they expose Canadians of non-Asian and Asian ethnic- and friendly, while half (50%) say that they produce bold actions and key priorities to be the reality of how unsafe Asian Canadians ity and found that a majority (58%) of the feel this group is often mistreated in Canada implemented across the country.” are feeling,” says Mohammed Hashim, Ex- latter group has experienced at least one of a • That said, one-in-five non-Asian Cana- ecutive Director for the CRRF. “We know range of situations related to anti-Asian dis- dians say that they feel most or all Asian Ono added: “Anti-Asian racism will not be false accusations of dual loyalty and being crimination in the last year, while more than Canadians do not contribute to the broader eradicated because of a two-day forum, of the cause of the pandemic have fuelled such one-in-four (28%) report exposure to these community. More (one-quarter) say many course, but we believe the forum will help unprecedented levels of hatred. This forum situations “all the time” or “often”. or most Asian Canadians do not make an ef- spur a much-needed national conversation.” will bring everyone together to consider the fort to fit into broader Canadian society. root causes and the necessary interventions Notably, however, not all Asian Canadi- • One-in-three non-Asian respondents say The first day of programming, June 10, was needed for all of us to confront anti-Asian ans have experienced the same level and Chinese Canadians are more loyal to China open to the public, with sessions focusing racism in the Canadian context.”

Hammered by COVID-19, Restaurants and Bars Rejoice at Reopening

After months of unease, looser did not experience a boom at every estab- tracted through food or food packaging: the Statistics Canada (2021). restrictions may allow businesses lishment. Ordering food online just doesn’t virus can be killed at temperatures above https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily- to breathe a sigh of relief at last have the same appeal as sharing a meal with 70˚C, which is achieved while cooking quotidien/210318/dq210318e-eng.htm friends: “We haven’t seen an increase in on- most meals. line orders since two or three months ago,” Our World in Data (2021). Nicole Duane Mr. Li states, “They have actually dropped Things seem to be looking up for these www.ourworldindata.org/covid- Grade 11 student, slightly.” He adds that, compared to pre-co- businesses— and we, both as customers vaccinations?country=CAN Lord Byng Secondary School vid times, he is currently only able to employ and neighbours, can help each other by half as many staff. Nationwide, employment wearing our masks, booking our vaccine World Health Organization (2020). in food services and drinking places plum- appointments, and washing our hands. www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel- meted by 29.3% in 2020 alone, and there’s coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers- Indoor dining is finally an option after 57 no doubt that the dine-in restrictions have Statistics Canada (2021). hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid- days of to-go bags, delivery fees, and try- exacerbated this decrease in labour. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/ 19-food-safety-and-nutrition#:~:text=can ing to prevent flyaway napkins while eating cv.action?pid=1410022001 on patios. We’re one step closer to a state Fortunately, pent-up demand for the restau- of post-pandemic normalcy, and our eater- rant experience is high. After the restriction ies are eager to welcome customers back was instated back in late March, many of inside. us have glanced longingly into restaurant windows and made mental notes to revisit The pandemic has taken a drastic toll on the our favourite sites once they reopen. As of restaurant industry, from laying off work- June 8th, 62% of Canadians have received ers to shutting down entire establishments. one dose of the vaccine, while 8.5% are It has been a struggle for these businesses fully vaccinated. As those numbers contin- to stay afloat the past year, with the major- ue to rise, many establishments are hope- ity suffering devastating losses. A Canadi- ful that business will eventually return to an survey from early 2021 announced that pre-pandemic levels: “I think things should over a quarter of all restaurants are expect- be close to normal around the end of this ing to operate for 12 more months before year,” says Mr. Li, “or early next year”. considering closure or bankruptcy. Mr. Li, owner of the beloved Chef Hung Tai- Restaurants and bars are maintaining many wanese Beef Noodle near Wesbrook Mall, COVID-19 precautions, including manda- reported a 30% to 40% decrease in sales tory face masks for all staff and customers compared to before the dine-in restrictions. not at a table, sanitizing frequently-touched surfaces, and limiting their maximum ca- Despite the rising popularity of apps like pacities. In addition, there is no evidence UberEats and DoorDash, take-out service that COVID-19 or its variants can be con- Chef Hung Taiwanese Beef Noodle in Wesbrook Village. page 8 THE CAMPUS RESIDENT JUNE 21, 2021 Fireweed Fields

Holly Schmidt asks us to cultivate ma. Schmidt cites Kimmerer’s renowned our relationship with plants. collection of essays, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowl- edge and the Teachings of Plants, as a key Mark Mushet influence on her thinking around the deep Photographer, Writer, learning to be had through strengthening Videographer, human relationships with plants.

“There’s also potential here for cross- cultural exchange and learning around the The title of the artist project Fireweed gifts this plant has to offer and how those Fields fairly bursts with the promise of gifts can be reciprocated,” says Schmidt. expanses of vivid colour on sun-drenched “Plants are teachers.” days. But it’s no passive traipse among the blossoms. Rather the work is a unique, But the question remains: What will you pandemic-friendly outdoor installation actually see once you’ve made the trek that’s part of Vegetal Encounters, Van- out to UBC? Well, timing is key. And it couver artist Holly Schmidt’s three-year will require a repeat visit or two to witness artist residency at the University of Brit- seasonal and successional changes in the ish Columbia’s Morris and Helen Belkin meadow from a new cedar boardwalk in Gallery. Really, the project is more akin a design inspired by fireweed’s delicate, to renewing an important relationship than snaking rhizomes. simply viewing an exhibition. “Fireweed Fields is intended to provide The title caught my attention immediately. contrast to the linear arrangement of UBC I grew up at the top of Capilano Road in Main Mall’s vast expanses of grass,” says North Vancouver in the 1970s, playing Schmidt. “These formal landscapes are among the plants that were reclaiming the rooted in colonial histories and values, so old gravel quarry used for the construction by planting fireweed, I’m hoping to initi- of the region’s Cleveland Dam back in the Fireweed. Photo credit, Mark Mushet. ate a conversation about regeneration.” 1950s. Fireweed was among them. It’s be- witching in late summer as it transforms While the work stands in clear opposition into waving poles clustered with light- to the tyranny of the lawn, I wonder if it catching gossamer curlicues and a riot of will break the bounds of the gallery and light pink fluff. Those visuals are rooted spread, especially given the proximity of deeply in my memory. flower beds and landscaping features. Can fireweed even be contained? But perhaps an introduction is in order for those who grew up knowing only “One plant can produce up to 80,000 manicured suburban lawns. Fireweed is a seeds,” says Schmidt. “And they can travel meadow plant, a member of the evening far and wide on wind currents, which is primrose family, and it likes to populate part of its resilience, but also why it causes freshly disturbed areas such as roads, con- concern for those trying to maintain those struction sites and forest burns. Great nat- landscapes. But the seeds will be collected ural stands can be found a stone’s throw and shared in ways that are culturally ap- away from UBC on Northwest Marine propriate and the plants will be cut and Drive and along the paths of Pacific Spirit composted.” Park. Ideally, Fireweed Fields will help people Schmidt’s project is not focused only on imagine spaces around them with less im- fireweed’s grand, but brief, late-life pre- posed order and with an openness to the sentation. It’s a long hauler that asks for flow of the great unkempt garden of life. It your patience and close attention over seems to me to echo the rewilding move- time, letting you delight as the lawn of the ment, which calls for a wholesale return Belkin is transformed into a full-fledged to the natural “wild” states of our environ- meadow. Ideally, you’ll feel invested Planting fireweed at the Belkin, April 12, 2021. Photo credit, Nigel Laing. ment, wherever possible. But Schmidt re- enough to keep coming back throughout jects that notion. “I appreciate aspects of the summer. rewilding, but there can be a tendency to and situations at UBC, and all of them have brings to mind notions of healing, care and romanticize the idea of nature without hu- “My projects tend to emerge slowly layered and complex histories. The most the resurgence of life, all of which take on mans, suggesting that human relationships through building relationships with people foundational of which is that the campus heightened importance in the midst of the with nature can only taint or damage. I and places,” Schmidt said in an interview is on the unceded, traditional and ancestral climate emergency and the need for cli- think it’s important to look to relation- just as the first shoots were emerging. territory of the Musqueam Nation.” mate justice.” ships of respect and reciprocity.” “There are many distinct botanical sites Of all the meadow plants, why fireweed? As well, fireweed is important to First Na- At a time when people are battling to Schmidt says she is interested in its capac- tions’ cultural practices. It’s used to make save British Columbia’s last stands of ity to adapt. twine and in the weaving of blankets. old-growth forest amidst the quicken- ing pace of global ecological destruction, “It’s the first plant to grow after a forest The project was partly inspired by the ideas Schmidt’s message is potent. fire, or major disturbance, and it provides of ethnobotanist Robin Wall Kimmerer of sustenance and habitat for other species. It the Citizen Potawatomi Nation in Oklaho- “There’s a need to shift from an extractive mindset to one of interdependence and to increase biodiversity,” she says. “I also want to create opportunities for people to slow down and think of a different kind of relationship with the natural world.”

Fireweed Fields essentially asks people to ponder more deeply the complex web of life and our place in it. In a way, this is a perfectly timed intervention. The pandemic has thrust people outdoors and many are taking an interest in local flora. Furthering our understanding of plant life – and renewing a relationship that’s been Holly Schmidt. left fallow too long – is one way to avoid Photo credit, Mark Mushet. Holly Schmidt, artist’s rendering of Fireweed Fields, 2021. returning to “normal” after the pandemic.