lack History Month special pullout supplement inside "An irresponsible press... will make the criminal look like he's the victim and make the victim look like he's the criminal. If you aren't careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed and loving the people who are doing the oppressing. —MALCOLM X
ubyssey bed ridden since 1918
by Federico Araya Barahona RICHARD LAM PHOTO some UBC players may find their way to the Sydney Olympics. It's TANYA PICKERELL IS AT A CROSS- clear, it would seem, that Reimer roads, but you would never know would assemble a national team from watching her tonight. using some of the parts from his Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen winning UBC engine. Tanya does Spirit' blasts through the PA as the not see the connection that clear Birds warm up before facing the Vwstty voleybal ly, though. Manitoba Bisons. One after one, Reimer is no ticket to the they spike the volleyball over the .star Tanya Pickerel national team, she points out. The net, missing at times, but mostly familiarity can cut both ways. hitting. This is a team on a mis "He knows my potential, "but he sion and Tanya's no exception. also knows my weaknesses," she She jumps up high, all fired up says. and focused, and buries the ball. chases a Besides, she adds, Reimer is "Go Tanya!" screams a team not the type of coach that would mate. Pickerell acknowledges the take her just because he knows support and rolls up her short her. sleeves to her shoulders. Does he have no feelings? Showtime. The Birds play it dan "He has feelings," Tanya gerously tonight and fall behind answers, laughing, "you can't put twice before coming back to that in the paper— Tanya Pickerell steamroll over Manitoba. Their says..." record improves to 13-1, a nation What Tanya does say is that her al championship is a little closer priorities have changed over the tonight. All in a night's work. last year. She got engaged recently— "He's a great guy"—and she also thinks her body needs a year off ODDLY ENOUGH, TANYA PICKERELL from competition. was supposed to play varsity bas But there's more. Tanya has been ketball. It wasn't until the summer thinking about going into education, after grade ten that she started play possibly coaching. ing volleyball. And even then, it was "My plans right now are getting a fluke. A coach saw her play and con married," she says, "and getting into vinced her to give volleyball a tr} the faculty of education; get my degree Tanya would eventually learn the and then I'll focus on volleyball after game quickly enough to participate in that." the provincial summer games. The national team, she adds, offers But it wasn't easy. "I didn't know no guarantees. She could get cut three how to play," she remembers, "and I months before the Olympics, and see was really lost out there." Her team . ' three years of work slip away from her. mates, however, consistently encouraged Then again, there's the possibility of her and helped her learn the game by the playing pro in Europe. And there's also end ofthe summer. beach volleyball in California. From that point on, Tanya never looked "I'm in a position where nothing is really back and concentrated on volleyball. hcl for me," she says, "I'm not guaranteed to "In grade eleven and twelve, I never really get into education, and I'm not guaranteed to knew what exactly I wanted," she says. "I just make the national team." This is the first time, knew I wanted to play volleyball." Tanya admits, she doesn't know where life is Seven years later, tlie two-time Canada West leading her, where eveiything seems like a gam All-Star says she has no regrets. Volleyball was the ble. right sport for her. Volleyball observers seem to agree. servbio it IN THE MIDDLE OF A PHOTO SHOOT, TANYA SAYS HER grad photographer didn't like her very much because THIS IS TANYA PICKERELL'S LAST YEAR OF VARSITY VOLLEYBALL, she kept smiling, ruining serious poses—grads are sup which means this is her last chance to win a Canadian uni posed to ponder the future seriously. versity national championship. The Birds came close last right Four months away from her university graduation, year—finishing third. Tanya Pickerell is seriously thinking about taking a year Tanya wants to win. watch from the bench and scream, a frustrating exercise for off. "Getting a national championship is the difference someone used to being in control, contributing. "I have never had a school life," she says, adding that between an A+ and an A," she says, adding that even a sil "By the second day, you're like, get me on the court- she doesn't feel like a student at UBC. She feels like an ver medal at this year's nationals would be disappointing whatever it takes," she says. It took time, and now she's athlete who plays for UBC. It would be nice, she says, to for her. This is her last chance, no next year for Tanya back, chasing that national championship, concentrated v- study at the library, instead of in the team room before Pickerell. This is it. ball glory. practice. But "it" almost vanished last November when Tanya "I want a gold," she adds. "I want a win." Tanya Pickerell will probably take a year off at the end of severely sprained her ankle. this season and the rest of her life will come after that. But, The injury, which sidelined her for two months, reduced first, there's this crazy championship she really wants to Tanya from athlete to spectator. Suddenly, there was little BIRDS COACH DOUG REIMER WILL TAKE OVER CANADA'S win. she could do to help her team win. All she could do was Senior NationaLTeam,this year, raising expectations that She's got her heart set on it. • 2 THE UBYSSEY, FEBRUARY 7, 1997 news Inf I grad student fees rocket by Sarah Galashan and Scott Hayward repairs and less money to do any copying," Neuman said. It's official—the Board of Governors has tripled The majority of people on Senate, however, felt that tuition for new international graduate students to UBC had a responsibility to the international students. Classifieds $7087 per year. "I think it's imperative for the university to recog Despite opposition from both the Senate and the nise the role of graduate students," said Dean of For Sale Employment Opportunities Dean of Graduate Studies, the BoG voted Thursday to Graduate Studies Frieda Granot increase fees for current international graduate stu Granot said she also worried the fee increases One Way Ticket to Toronto on the dents' by 24 percent this fall. Those who begin after would force international graduate students to pur First Saturday of Reading Week Looking for work this summer? September 1, 1997 will pay an additional 250 per sue their studies elsewhere. (Feb.15). Please call Jason I'm hiring motivated workers to cent. "From all the information that I had gathered ©418-1405. paint in Victoria. Contact Paul The increase was initially proposed to alleviate from universities in [eastern Canada] that had raised ©221-8199. future strain on several faculties in light of the tuition fees for international students, it had a devas Yamaha Piccolo for Sale. YPC-81. provincial government's $ 1.6 million cut to the uni tating effect," she said. Like new $1800 obo. Treeplanters: visit the tree- versity's funding. Granot and three graduate students presented Michelle ©221-6707 planter's website, a non-profit Wednesday's special meeting of the Senate, how their case to BoG Thursday morning. public service. Includes informa ever, showed there was considerable opposition to Zoology student Leah MacFadyen told the Board the proposal. The meeting ended with a vote of 3 0-2 5 she felt "relegated to a money pot," adding that she Accomodations/For Rent tion on equipment, getting hired and legal aspects of planting and in favour of asking the BoG "in the strongest possible brought 20 years of education from Scotland as well ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE more. Unaffiliated with any com terms [to] rescind their proposal to increase tuition as new techniques that put her ahead of her IN THE UBC WINTER SESSION pany. fees of foreign graduate students." Canadian colleagues. SINGLE STUDENT RESIDENCES http://www.canuck.com/~chstolz During the debate, Dean of .Arts Shirley Neuman BoG Faculty representative Phil Resnick called the Rooms are available in the UBC stressed that Arts undergraduate students are among increases "draconic," and proposed less drastic fee the most neglected at UBC and need the extra money single student residences for Get a jump on the summer!! Now hike. The Board, however, voted in favour ofthe orig increased tuition would provide. inal increases by a margin of 4-3. Student BoG reps qualified women and men stu hiring painters, crew chiefs, and dent applications. Single and "A budget cut is a budget cut The bigger it is, the David Borins and Jeff Myers were among the opposi marketers for summer positions. fewer faculty positions, the fewer sessional lecturers, tion, while Resnick was the lone abstention in the shared rooms in both "room only" Experience preferred, but not the fewer teaching assistants, less money to do any final vote. • and "room and board" residences necessary. Vehicle an asset. are available. Vacancies can be Wages range from $7-12/hr. rented for immediate occupancy Work begins early spring. Call in the Walter H. Gage. Fairview Dylan at 879-3258. VST/Regent referendum flip-flops Crescent. Totem Park. Place by Chris Nuttall-Smith and 1265 opposed to giving voting couraging," she said. Vanier. and Ritsumeikan - UBC Miscellaneous/Services status to VST and Regent, Stronge Regent College and Vancouver House Residences*. Applicants A series of election goofs means revised her original announce School of Theology students have who take occupancy of a resi the Vancouver School of Theology ment Wednesday, telling council paid full AMS student fees for the dence room are entitled to reap- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Regent College lost, then won, the referendum had passed. past five years. But in order to vote plication (returning student) priv Info call 688-5303 then lost a referendum that would Then AMS Researcher and on AMS council they must win a ileges which will provide them have made them voting members .Archivist Sheldon Goldfarb, dis referendum. with a "guaranteed" housing Transcription Services Available. of the AMS. covered Thursday morning the Stronge was also surprised. "I assignment for the 1997/98 Flat rates, quick completion. Zoe Stronge, AMS elections referendum required 75 percent just assumed we only needed a Winter Session. Call Verbatim Professional commissioner, announced last voter approval—not just 50 per majority to pass a referendum, I Please contact the UBC Housing Transcription Services. 733-3422 week the referendum hadn't cent—in order to be accepted guess it's unfortunate that I Office in Brock Hall for informa passed because it didn't reach the under the BC Societies Act assumed that—it probably would tion on rates and availability. The Looking for 27 studens who want mandatory approval rate of 10 Janet Shim, Regent College's have saved a lot of hassle after Housing Office is open from 8:30 to lose weight. Call 325-3554. percent of UBC students, or 3200 representative to AMS council, counting had we known and we am - 4:00 pm weekdays, or call yes votes. hadn't yet heard about the wouldn't have had to do all that 822-2811 during office hours. Are you a scuba diver? Enjoy But further research put quo requirement when contacted by research into quorum." * Availability may be limited for selected dive sites with the rum—10 percent of the daytime, The Ubyssey Thursday morning. Shim expects Regent and VST some residence areas and room supervision of a PADI instructor: on-campus student population—at "We lost, then we won, now will try again for voting status in a 2999. With 3018 people in favour types. Jean-Paul Tremblay 224-9119; we've lost again—it's pretty dis future AMS referendum. • [email protected] Housesitting Wine $3 a bottle Come and make your own Reliable woman is available to at Angel Winemaking. Broadway/ housesit 8-12 months. Ch.refer Alma 730-6060. ences available. 681 -6098 or 432- Enter to Win 7631. Wanted: 96 people serious about fabulous flowers or chocolates for your losing weight. All natural. Karina Looking to Housesit near UBC. 21 221-5152. special valentine y/o female student. Tidy, reliable. References available. Beth 922- 9170. Deadline for Free Pick up entry cards from Speakeasy in SUB or the Women Students' Office, Valentine's Personals: Hall #203 and return them by Feb.12 @3:30 pm. Simply answer the question: Wednesday, Feb. 12 How do you ask jour partner "•for consent in a respectful Student '"'^ and caring way?
Entries will be judged *•'* ; Classifieds and winners notified by •_ . , * phone Feb.13 •'..'»., <• Each Friday in The Ubyssey. Brought to you by the Come by SUB 245 to place your ad Safer Campus Peer Educators fr< >m (Deadline: Wednesdays) the Women Students' Office. "*^K^ *•%&. the Free workshops are available to interested ' .,-,/•,-' . -' students on issues of campus safety and *,* \ ? communcation in relationships. Call for more information: T Women Students' Office 822-2415 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 1997 THE UBYSSEY 3 Student health braces for measles strike by Sarah Galashan our campus any day. are established for the mass immunization, and said stu "I think logically there's going to have to be some cases dents should consult with either their parents or a physi A province-wide measles immunization program is setting [at UBC], because there's so much interaction between SFU cian to find out if they need a second shot. up shop at UBC, following news that over 45 SFU students and UBC," he said. Wynn Horn, communications officer for the Ministry of have contracted the virus. But the situation at UBC, Salzman stressed, is not yet crit Health, said anyone who suspects they have measles should The mass vaccination program, which has already ical. contact their doctor by phone. immunized 80 percent of the student population at Simon "One case doesn't suddenly send off panic. But it's true "People who get the symptoms are asked not to go to the Fraser University, will be offered to 217,000 students, fac that if there's a case it obviously gets people a bit more wor hospital, not to go to their doctor. People are showing up in ulty and staff at post-secondary institutions across BC with ried," said Salzman. Emergency and are spreading highly contagious germs all in the week. Student Health has already vaccinated over 200 students over the place," he explained. So far, no one at UBC has been diagnosed with the in the last week, and staff worry this campaign will bring a Symptoms of measles can include a high fever, cough, measles, but UBC Student Health Services public health flood of students that their staff cannot handle. conjunctivitis (red eye), and sensitivity to light, followed by physician Dr. Jim Salzman said he expects the virus to hit Salzman urged students to wait until locations and dates the onset of a red skin rash. • AMS recommends BoG election recount by Chris Nuttall-Smith "To hear that the whole election is shrouded in contro this year." versy takes away from the euphoria of winning the elec Ivanochko added the Action Now organisers probably The controversy surrounding this year's AMS election tion...but I certainly understand the need for a recount if won't seek a court injunction on the election results. peaked Wednesday night following news that all election that's the will of council," Myers said in an interview fol AMS Elections Commissioner Zoe Stronge said she will results would stand, except one. lowing Curry's report. report to council in two weeks on how to avoid similar prob Following an investigation into complaints of voting and Ivanochko, who lodged the initial complaint with Curry, lems in future AMS elections. • ballot counting irregularities, AMS Ombudsperson Michael said she was upset that Curry limited his Curry said he found no evidence that alleged irregularities investigation to incidents reported after had any substantial effect on the results of the five AMS the unofficial election results were executive races. released on January 27. "I don't think it is appropriate to allow an unsubstantiat Curry told council that complaints ed rumour to nullify the collective democratic decision of made before the release of the results thousands of student members of the Alma Mater Society," were in the elections committee's juris Curry reported to the packed council chambers. diction and felt they were properly han He did, however, recommended a recount for the Board dled by the committee. of Governors race, in which the second position was won by He also refused to release the sign-in a margin of only 10 votes. sheets from individual polls to com Curry was asked to investigate three complaints lodged plainant Heather Hermant for inspection. by Action Now organisers Heather Hermant, Tara Curry said the sheets would not provide Ivanochko and Michael Hughes last week. Curry blocked an accurate account of who voted. When the official release of the election results until his report he voted in the election, Curry said, he was completed and accepted by council. didn't even remember to sign the poll Council voted Wednesday to accept the report and to rec sheet. ommend the Senate Elections Committee, who has jurisdic "I'm disappointed that council takes tion over the BoG positions, recount the ballots for that race. the election process as lightly as they do," Jeff Myers, who won the second Board of Governors seat said Ivanochko. "It seems to be the atti by 10 votes over Action Now! candidate Kera McArthur, tude that irregularities happen and we risks losing his seat if the Senate Elections Committee can't do much about it, even when the accepts council's recommendation for a recount. irregularities are serious like they were Science councillors quit AMS in election protest by Chris Nuttall-Smith and it isn't democratic," said Philip Ledwith, Science Undergraduate Society vice-president The four students representing the Science external, in an interview following the council Undergraduate Society on AMS council quit meeting. Wednesday over the handling of complaints of "We know of at least 10 or 15 arts students and widespread irregularities in last month's AMS at least 10 or 15 science students alone who have RICHARD LAM PHOTO election. all voted several times—five or six—and we could Students angry at UBC's role in the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic The science representatives were angry that substantiate those with lists and with names if we Conference made their concerns known Wednesday, gagging the Goddess of council accepted the recommendations from AMS had to and if we had more time," Ledwith said. Democracy in front of the SUB. Ombudsperson Michael Curry's investigation into But in his report, Curry said no one came for "We are transforming the goddess of democracy into the goddess of complaints of widespread irregularities in last ward with evidence of election fraud. Such evi hypocrisy," said Dave Jago, an organiser of APEC Alert, a student organisation month's AMS election. Curry recommended that dence, he said, would be crucial before overturn protesting APEC-related activities. council accept the election results, with the excep ing the results of the election. "We are very upset and disappointed that the administration has forgotten tion of the Board of Governors race, in which the The science councillors' decision means about human rights abuses and invited dictators such as President Suharto of second seat was won by a ten-vote margin. approximately 5600 science students will be left Indonesia to come to our campus for lunch," he said. The science councillors said the results should without representation on AMS council. Jago was concerned students were not consulted about hosting the sum have been completely overturned. Ledwith said he will go to council meetings but mit at UBC, and said many students are not aware of the poor human rights "You cannot have the credibility of govern won't participate. The other three science council records of many APEC countries. ment when it's been elected by this kind of lors, Kathryn Murray, John Fournier and Orin Del APEC Alert plans to hold a general strike in the fall if the conference con process: when the students feel—and a large Vecchio won't likely return to council, Ledwith tinues as planned. , . number of students feel—the process isn't fair said. • -Cans Lees
ANOTHER REWARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
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4 THE UBYSSEY, FEBRUARY 7, 1997 3^£ UBC FilmSod Fri-Sun, Feb.7-9, Norm Theatre, SUB 7:00 PM Midnight (Fri. only) APPLYING Ghost & The Darkness Rumble Artists of the world unite! WEST 10TH OPTOMETRY CLINIC in the by Sandra Cheung to pursue social action through their Some of these workers smile broadly sometimes with even-toned objectivi TO feline, Bronx Dr. Patricia Rupnow, Optometrist 24 hrs, That Thing You Do art. Mary Kelly worked in collabora for the camera, while others look dis ty. A series of photographs show a MARY KELLY: SOCIAL PROCESS / tion with other artists in faith that, interestedly beyond. We face these pair «f hands at work, with no faces !3ffl®mMamfflmEB&fflfflffleimEE@MmfflafflmMmm&&fflmMeMmB2ffl3mMaffleieimm®M2ffl® COLLABORATIVE ACTION together, they could engage society women and their personalities first appointed to them and no indication General Eye 4320 W. 10th Ave. LAW SCHOOL at the Charles H. Scott Gallery and motivate it to change. before going on to the rest of the of gender. But underneath is a job Vancouver, BC and Vision Care th until Mar 16 For example, 'Women and Work' installation. Throughout the work, description for each, with the num IN THE UNITED STATES: (604) 224-2322 e use o is the collaborative effort of Mary these faces are projected onto photos bers of male and female workers in Three years ago, Mary Kelly's Gloria Kelly, Kay Hart and Margaret Har of working hands, documents, facts these laborious positions—and in How AND WHY Patri came to Vancouver, taking on rison. These women address the and figures which inform the viewer most cases, the number of men is om the issue of masculinity. Now the working conditions of female work on factory working conditions. zero. The viewer is left to deal with A CANADIAN'S PERSPECTIVE i essay contest i these images and numbers herself. Contact Plant Operations New York based artist, teacher, ers m a tin box factory in South These collaborations show how far Facility or by phone, fax, or e-mail to Subject: "The Responsible Use of Freedom" writer, curator and critic has England at a time when the Women's the challenges to equality in the work Also included in the show are returned, this time to reintroduce her Liberation movement was very active place extend. Photocopied docu smaller works—'Prima-Para,' 'Folded MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1997 report any campus building Students Eligible: All 3rd and 4th year UBC undergraduates. works from the early 1970s at the in Britain and the Equal Pay Act was ments by the factory's health workers Vests' and 'Prototype for Document Grounds or grounds problem and All graduate students. Charles H. Scott Gallery at the Emily being implemented. The actual work are placed behind acrylic, heighten I'—also from the early period. These 12:30-1:30PM request service. Carr Institute of Art and Design. is a large installation of mixed media ing the sense of genuine objectivity. played a part in developing one of Prize: $1000.00 Those familiar with Mary Kelly's including black and white photogra Mary Kelly is never blatantly obvious Kelly's best known works, 'Post Trouble? phy, taped interviews, film loops, about her point. At times, the work is partum Document.' Exterior Lights Only work will recognize her interest in BUCHANAN BUILDING Facilty or Grounds Deadline: May 30,1997 photocopied documents and charts. simply about the way things were for Social Process / Collaborative ph: 822-2173 feminism, psychoanalysis and con- ph: 822-2173 Winner: August 31,1997 ceptualism. Her early works, of which Upon entering the gallery, the workers in the factory and does not Action is a great opportunity to view ROOM #D-230 fax: 822-6969 fax: 822-6969 Application forms may be picked up Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm at "Women and Work' make up a large viewer is faced with a long list of directly deal with gender equality. Kelly's early developmental works e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Please give complete details including CONTACT NAME and NUMBER St. Mark's College, 5935 lona Drive, at the extreme North East corner of campus. part, were created at a time when the names and photographs of the faces Yet that theme is there in each and a treat for those familiar with EieiBfaiirUBBlBfBlBiBiagiaBIBJBJBMBMBIi^^ hope for social change moved artists of female workers in the factory. part of the work, sometimes silent. Kelly's recent material. • Grace Happens to choirs with Wigs'n'Guns
SOOK-YIN LEE-Wigs'n'Cuns [Zulu] equally varied. The album notes don't make this music to come out of Western Canada since Andy Wigs'n'Guns is Sook-Yin Lee's second solo album too clear, but many sound effects are produced by Boone reinvented soul. since leaving Bob's Your Uncle. It's solo in the toys: a wind-up skipping rope, miniature guitar Gospel can be great—soulful, energetic, infec Win atrip complete sense ofthe word: this time round, Lee and electronic toy beat. box. Lee plays with. Lhem, tious even to the most devout unbeliever. Witness (ool. did it all herself, from writing to engineering to sampling and mixing until their toy origins are the Harlem choir on U2's Rattle and Hum. But producing. (Okay, some friends helped out on undecipherable. Vancouver is worlds away from Harlem, appar some of the Hacks.) Lee is now working with two other musicians ently. SUU, Grace Happens, recorded at UBC's for two Perhaps surprisingly, the album doesn't suffer as Sook-Yin and The Chevrons. Wigs'n'Guns Freddy Wood Theatre, isn't ai. had. on the techanical side. What comes out, pure Sook- amply demonstrates that Lee, though obviously Ironicly, the ensemble shines in O Sifuno Yin, is at once simple, minimalist hypnotic and influenced by electrox>op, cartoons, torch, twang Mungu, an African spiritual. The basses do well A study where you clever. Although most songs are about "love at the and blues, inhabits a musical space apart from the with the tune's moody, rhythmic foundation and to sunny end of lhe twentieth century," as Lee puts it, they norm. She's having fun there, too, and would the sopranos, altos and tenors feed well off the have a quirkiness that makes them stand out. probably love il if you'd come play. support Too bad the soloists sound like they're 1 From the oh-god-it's-my-ex of 'Knock Loud' to the -Jenna Newman singing from an 1880 prairie Methodist hymn- playful sexploration of 'Cats, Cums & Rubber book. f ' San Diego* Cocks,' Lee's candour makes it easy and interest THE UNIVERSAL GOSPEL CHOIR- But, Heavens to Betsy, it would be unfair to don't have to open a ing to see where she's coming from. Grace Happens [anima mundij miss the point of this album: it's a heartfelt min courtesy of America West Airlines Lee uses a range of vocal approaches, some Ever wondered what it would sound like if a gling of talents intended more for inspiration and times speaking conversationally, sometimes bunch or hankies put oui a live gospel record? praise than anything. crooning like k.d. lang, sometimes wordlessly You'd get something like the Universal Gospel Wouldn't Andy Boone be proud. single book. wandering all over the place. Her instruments are Choir's Grace Happens, possibly the whitest - Chris Nuttall-Smith by Chris Allison about his outrageous antics, the minutes into the film. (T Just till out an entry form at the j) Wally, Dangerfield network president (Burt Reynolds) Granted, there are odd MEET WALLY SPARKS gives Wally an ultimatum: clean up moments where the formula sight at Cineplex theatres the show or it's gone! With his last gags work, but the film never 7 #t.***M&*n*vis* i*llai*+*«+*mv*'** i—Amariw deserve no respect chance, Wally goes after an inter drags itself above poverty level in In case anyone was wondering view with the conservative laughs for more than a few sec what Rodney Dangerfield has been Governor of Georgia, who has onds. This is director Peter up to since Back to School, he cer openly denounced Wally's show as Baldwin's debut feature, and I cer tainly hasn't been developing profane. With some luck and the tainly hope he can get the funding worthwhile comedies. help of his producer, Wally ends for a second project so he can Dangerfield's latest film finds up invited to an uppity political redeem himself. If Rodney 9*etmiaMf 12th - 14th him in yet another comedy in party at the governor's mansion, Dangerfield is wondering why he which he still gets no respect. where he uncovers a sensational gets no respect, it's because he's 9:00am - 5:00fvm Wally Sparks (Dangerfield), a fast- story riddled with sex, political making bottom-feeder comedies talking host of a tactless TV tabloid scandal and the makings of a rat like Meet Wally Sparks. • show, is verbally bashed by the ings bonanza. Yes, there is a plot lowest of his rivals, including among the tired one-liners and cameos by Geraldo and Morton sexual innuendos, but it's essen UBC Downey Jr. and a wide assortment tially garnish on a very bland meal. Humanists' We're looking for women who are correctly women take the Pill. of sitcom first-stringers such as Meet Wally Sparks is one of Society Roseanne and Tim Allen. those films that has one wondering i/fa> do maAewotu AeadfeowruJ considering starting oral contra For further information on how Showcasing alien lesbian Elvis why it was even made. Or, for that Humanism and matter, why one paid eight dollars ceptives (birth control pills) for to participate, give us a call at the impersonators and men in love Sociobiology" with their wives' dogs will tend to to see it. Dangerfield plays the same the first time. We are conducting number below. If you qualify, invite that, however. There are no character we saw in Caddyshack A lecture by a clinical trial of a birth control you'll get six months worth of free hints of decency here, and neither and there is, in fact, one line taken Dr. Pat Duffy Hutcheon Sparks nor his producer (Debi directly from that film. Meet Wally 12:30 PM, February pill that's been approved and on birth control pills. In return, we'll FREE WALLY: Meet Wally Sparks (Rodney Mazar) intend any. Sparks tries for a Spinal Tap-esque 11th, Buchanan D205 satire of talk shows but fails five the market for several years. ask you to fill out some question Dangerfield) ... if you dare! With advertisers complaining We're interested in how packaging Jewellery CD's Chocolates naires. All calls are confidential .^s.=^=.ass. 2nd Floor, may affect how consistently and - 2174 W. Parkway and free of charge. STUDENT DISCIPLINE (University Village) s^l^i—? Vancouver, EC Flowers Massage Oils Candles ADVOCATE
FEBRUARY 7, 1997 • volume 78 issue 32 Editorial Board
Coordinating Editor Scott Hayward News Ian Gunn and Sarah O'Donnell Culture Peter T. Chattaway Sports Wolf Depner National/Features Federico Araya Barahona Photo Richard Lam Production Joe Clark The Ubyssey is the official student newspa per of the University of British Columbia. It is published every Tuesday and Friday by the Ubyssey Publications Society. We are an autonomous, democratically run student organisation, and all students are encouraged to participate. Editorials are chosen and written by the Ubyssey staff. They are the expressed opin ion of the staff, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Ubyssey Publications Society or the University of British Columbia. The Ubyssey is a founding member of Canadian University Press (CUP) and firmly adheres to CUP's guiding principles. All editorial content appearing in The Ubyssey is the property of The Ubyssey Publications Society. Stories, opinions, pho tographs and artwork contained herein cannot be reproduced without the expressed, written permission of The Ubyssey Publications Society. Letters to the editor must be under 300 words. Please include your phone number, student number and signature (not for publication) as well as your year and faculty with all submissions. ID will be checked when submissions are dropped off at the editorial office of The Ubyssey, oth erwise verification will be done by phone. "Perspectives" are opinion pieces over 300 words but under 750 words and are run according to space. "Freestyles" are opinion pieces writ ten by Ubyssey staff members. Priority will be given to letters and perspec tives over freestyles unless the latter is time senstitive. Opinion pieces will not be run until the identity of the writer has been verified. Editorial Office Room 241K, Student Union Building, 6138 Student Union Boulevard, Vancouver, BC. V6T 1Z1 accused anyone of rigging the debate, but people should proba should one describe his actual tel: (604) 822-2301 fax:822-9279 Minimising elections. We do not believe there bly know what isn't true. Petty features? Any omission could was a conspiracy. I am sorry you AMS politics is one ofthe things I threaten the safely of students. I Business Office measles spread subscribe to your own conspiracy was hoping to reduce if I got appreciate the sensitivity of the Room 245, Student Union Building As of now there have been 50 theories. elected, but I guess it ain't gonna subject but propose that we advertising: (604) 822-1654 happen (and I'm sorry for not should look at this as a descrip business office: (604) 822-6681 cases of measles at SFU, but none I lost by one thousand votes, • confirmed at UBC. have shaken hands with the win being bitter about it). tion of an INDIVIDUAL accused Business Manager In order to minimize the ning candidate, and conceded of a crime, not that of a whole Fernie Pereira spread of measles, all public her strong victory. I am disap Shiraz Dindar racial group. This seems to me to Advertising Manager events and meetings scheduled pointed to have lost, but not sour. Action Nowl candidate be a case of political correctness James Rowan at SFU have been cancelled until As The Ubyssey coverage has gone to far. further notice. This includes shown, the elections were No subliminal Fiona Scott sporting events. wrought with inconsistencies UBC staff, faculty and students and need to be examined. I am racism Religious bands should not visit or receive visi sorry you cannot see that. I am writing this in response to a In a storm's lee, the Wolf tors from SFU campus until fur Action Now! candidate Vivian letter in Friday's (January 31) not obsessed Depner fleet nears Peter T. ther notice unless the involved Hoffmann won her position by a issue of Page Friday. I consider Earlier this week I was excited to Chattaway Bay unnoticed. There persons are not at risk of acquir slim margin, stands only to lose myself to be aware of "sublimi- see a short column dedicated to private Chris Nuttall-Smith reads ing measles — i.e. those age 40 or her position, and yet is one of DC Talk and Christian music in unusual activity on his radar, but nally racist and stereotypical MCs O'Donnell and Gunn are older or having had two doses of those people hoping for a re-vote. imagery" and I am one of the general. It is good to see that unconcerned. It's Neal Razzell Day; measles containing vaccinations. I am sorry that you have miscon first to denounce it when I see it, some people are finally waking no one works. In their bunks, Scott There will be a mass cam strued her motivations, as well but I must say that, unlike Dr. up to the fact that even though a Hayward, Sarah Galashan and Chris Allison nurse hangovers, and paign to provide a second dose of the rest of ours. Ojo, I found no evidence of such band has accepted Jesus as their Richard Lam "meditates." Faith measles vaccine for all post-sec There has been no "allegation imagery in your article. He stat saviour that they can still be good Armitage prunes palm branches ondary institution students, staff that certain candidates or slates ed some concerns about your musicians. Unfortunately, Peter blocking her bedroom window, T. Chattaway, the columnist, felt revealing the first of the Richelle and faculty. The date and loca have benefitted exclusively from description of the suspect in the Raes bearing down on the tion of this clinic at UBC will be alleged voting irregularities." SUB washroom peeping inci intimidated by the content of Battleship Barahona. It is lost. The announced soon. Clearly, voting irregularities dent. When it comes to campus some of these groups. Just Clark, Mak and Chaing soon follow. safety nothing is more important because a band put their person Only the quick-thinking Sandra Dr. Rob Uoyd-Smith, Director, affect all candidates. The Action Cheung saves the Jenna Newman by Dr.JimSalzman, Now! slate met and decided that than being informed. The al beliefs into their music, does running her aground. Desperate, Public Health Physician, our margins of loss would likely description of the suspect was this make them "self-conscious David Ball and Peggy Lee search for Debbie Aikens, increase in the event of a re-vote not invented nor do I think it and a little shallow"? Or if a band shells as the Larry Downie keels and decides to change their sound, slowly submurges. Three thousand EN, Staff Nurse, (due to decreased voting num was intended to suggest any spe miles to the east, Chidi A. Olhoye Student Health Service UBC bers and a possible backlash), cific racial group. It was the does this make them "obsessfed] and David George look up 'infamy' Arts 2 but that it was desirable for the REAL description of the suspect with appearance," and insincere? and Charlie Cho dials the President. sake of student democracy. I am who had been apprehended. It is If so, then I must apologise and I'm sorry I'm sorry that you have your facts important for students on cam feel bad for listening to and wrong. pus to know what he looked like enjoying the music of groups like not bitter Most of all, I am sorry that The in order to protect themselves Enigma, Harry Connick Jr., and and it just happened that he was others who do not rigidly stick to Canadian With regards to (February- 4), Ubyssey has to be a forum for Uhiverclty Jason Murray, here's your public internal AMS bickering. I don't "5'7", about 130 lbs, with a dark one style of music. Rsss apology: really enjoy bothering the stu complexion, short brown hair Kevin Haddrell No one in Action Now! has dent body with pseudo-political and an unshaven face." How else Science 3 supplement
Equilibrium
by David-George between fathers and sons
These photos showcase the work of a black father exploring the process of creating balance within his family. The work counters the stereotype of the absent black father, highlighting qualities such as trust, love and dependability. The quality found in the characters depicted in these works attempts to parallel that of physical and emotional presence, two essential ingredients in a healthy relationship between father and child.
SoledadI Brother , George Jackson-The Bluest Eye, Tom Morrison-Women, Race Sc Class, Angela Davis-The Souls of Black Folk, WEB DuBois-Killing Rage, bell hooks Afrocentrism in Europe IIIC iviiy IIIUIVII IW IIWVVIICIC
Our Sister Killjoy or Reflections from a Black-eyed Squint [publisher] Although blacks make up 11 percent A novel by Ama Ata Aidoo of the US population, they make up 40 percent by Peggy Lee of the population on death row. This over-representation suggests that it may be And death row is a long, winding "In the past century, the total number 'We are victims of our History and our Present. march to nowhere, where an entire gen of white Americans executed for either Are blacks safe They place too many obstacles in the Way of Love. impossible to discuss the validity of eration of young black men is being dis the murder of a black person, or the rape And we cannot even enjoy our Differences in peace.' posed of, one by one, little by little. of a black woman, is fewer than five," -Aidoo capital punishment on moral grounds. While African Americans make up a writes Marable in "Justice for Mumia in Vancouver? Issues of power and power imbalances mere 11 percent ofthe US population, they Abu-Jamal" (from In Defense of Mumia, Our Sister Killjoy is an empowering tale of a young make up roughly 40 percent ofthe popula Writers and Readers Publishing, 1997). African woman's journey through Europe and progress lie at the heart of the debate. tion on death row. In fact, as of 1994, out But could the disparity be due to towards self-discovery. Shifting eloquently between of 2,716 death row inmates, 1,566 were blacks committing more crime than poetry and prose, it tells the story of Sissie and her •Vancouver skinheads attack Seattle quest to make sense of herself, her people and her white, and 1,109 black, according to the whites? A recent study summarised in visitors and get more than they Bureau of Justice statistics. The New York Times reported that nation in a history of colonial oppression and enslave bargained for (p.2, Afro News, ment. "More often than not, capital punish although blacks represent 13 percent of January 1995). Amandla fearless all monthly drug users, they make up 35 Sissie is 'our sister Killjoy'. She is young, educated by Federico Araya Barahona ment in America carries a black, brown, in Seattle. or red face," writes author Mumia Abu-Jamal who has been on percent of those arrested on drug pos •Woman brutally assaulted at and idealistic. Her first time out of Africa proves to be a death row since 1982. session charges, 55 percent of those con Melrolown skytrain stn. (p.2, highly personal exploration into her own identity as an Susan Sarandon answers the question, ducking the real issue. This is nothing new, though. victed, and 74 percent of those serving Afro News, March 1995). African woman. She goes for the moral argument—whatta bleeding heart. In 1987 in McCleskey v. Kemp, capital punishment was sentences for possession. The study sug Amandla sister Coralee Welsh! It is this journey that turns Sissie into a 'Black-eyed Capital punishment is wrong, Sarandon says, it reduces us to challenged by research which showed blacks were being exe gests that even though blacks may not be •Black inmates at Matsqui claim Squint'. Sissie travels through the land of her colonial the level of the criminal, or something like that. The movie cuted in Georgia in disproportionate numbers. In a majority committing more crimes than whites, discrimination (p. 1, Afro News, forefathers scrutinising everything with a passionate they are being convicted at much higher rates. Afrocentric eye. Africa is the only centre she knows, she's selling, Dead Man Walking, takes a similar stand. vote, the Supreme Court acknowledged the "gross racial dis by Larry Downie June 1995). Amandla sibling in The woman watching TV with me is not convinced. "Say parity," but rejected the implications of the study: Ahh, Canadians will say, that's America; we're different, suffering! despite growing up in the shadow of post-colonial insti tutions. what you will," she says, flipping channels. "But it's an eye for "McCleskey's claim, taken to its logical conclusion, throws capital punishment in Canada would be a different story alto In the local hospital waiting room, •Two black men roughly ousted an eye, kill or be killed. I'd pull the plug, stick the needle if I into serious question the principles that underlie our entire gether. Polls, in fact, show that Canadians are just as gung-ho from club, one injured (p. 18, Afro "Sissie is just a Killjoy. People love to forget, people where the health of a friend or rela love not to worry, people want to take everything as a could, you know." criminal system." over capital punishment as Americans. Over the last ten tive is concerned, no news is good News, December 1995). Amandla Either you agree with Sarandon's morals, or you don't. If Why? years, Canadians have consistently supported the return of brother Thomas Abraha and com test. And the Sissies of this world just aren't satisfied." news. In the local mainstream Driven by a desire to change the world, Sissie yearns the capital punishment debate is reduced to a simple moral The Supreme Court could not find capital punishment the death penalty, according to Gallup Canada. Support ran as newsroom, where the health of an pany! issue, as it is in Dead Man Walking, who's right or wrong? unconstitutional because similar racial disparities could be high as 80 percent, during the Paul Bernardo trial and as low •Young man assaulted by store to understand the history of her peoples oppression assaulted African is concerned, no and their contemporary struggles of development. What would you do if it was you, if your mother was the one found in non-capital cases. Which meant the entire judicial as 55 percent, during the execution of Ricky Ray Rector, who news coverage is old news. security (p. 7, Afro News, March being raped and sliced open by some monster? As more and was mentally retarded, in the US. What is it that allowed her people to succumb to the system would have to be ruled unconstitutional, something Over the last 24 hours, more 1996). Amandla brother Michael more states sign on to bring back the chair, capital punish abuses of colonisation and slavery? What scars do they the court was not prepared to do. Who would bear the brunt in Canada? than 12 blacks have been assault Ellis! ment offers desperate Americans a solution. Criticising the majority vote. Associate Supreme Court Statistics suggest it would be Native people. While •Rough treatment at the skytrain have left to heal? And what can Africa and its people do ed by non-blacks in the Greater now to further their own development? Let's assume for a moment that "an eye for an eye" is the Justice William Brenham, a long-time opponent of the death Aboriginals make up roughly two percent of Canada's popula Vancouver Regional District station (p. 16, Afro News, April right argument here. Let's assume that politicians who want penally, noted the court had a "fear of too much justice." tion, they represent twelve percent of its federal prison popu (GVRD). The racially motivated, 1996). Amandla brother Thien to get "tough on crime" have it right. Let's say that Newt But the McCleskey v. Kemp study goes through the heart of lation. (They make up twenty percent of BC's provincial jail and therefore newsworthy crimes Josefsson! From all around the Third World, Gingrich was right when he called for an extension of capital the death penally. That is, it has little to do with justice and a population.) •Black man humiliated at punishment in his Contract With America. Let's assume lol lo do with revenge, with teaching "niggers" a lesson. The Marcel Swain, a lawyer with Vancouver Aboriginal Law Vancouver Airport (p. 1, Afro You hear the same story; there's Good and Evil, Us versus Them. study found that defendants charged with killing whites were Centre, laughs at the numbers. "You could spend a day in the Our bad news To refuse News, May 1996). Amandla Rulers And forget about whether it actually deters crime or not; 4.3 times as likely to be sentenced to death as defendants courlhouse to find how many Aboriginal people are going brother Joseph Ohiobo! look at it as an insurance North Americans need to reclaim charged with killing blacks; six of every eleven defendants before the courts," he says. "The numbers are far greater—I And our views To diffuse •Another incident at the air Asleep to all things at their society—take it back from the criminals, the murderers convicted of killing a white would not have received the death can tell you that." port reported (p. 10, Afro All times- and the drug dealers of the world, the scum of the earth. penalty had they killed a black; and finally, cases involving North America's judicial system is based on legitimising Are not news The issues News, June 1996). Amandla Conscious only of But even then, in our black-and-white world, we could not black perpetrators and white victims were more likely to turn colonialism, be iL slavery, the theft of tribal lands or the brother Michael Ologhola! escape capital punishment's biggest weakness. a death sentence than any oilier combination. In fact, destruction of Native culture. Death is forever, though. And When they choose That make news •The African Canadian Asso Riches, which gather in a Injustice is inherently a part of North American justice. If although half of all homicide victims are black, 85 percent of capital punishment is about solidifying injustice. Thus, to Elsewhere! ciation denounces police Coma— we're in the middle of a war against crime, statistical evi tlie death penalty convictions occur when tlie victim is white, debale its implementation on moral grounds does nol action against Somali-born Intravenously— dence suggests this war is being waged mainly against blacks. according to a study cited in an article published in Playboy address the real issues in North American society, issues of resident (p. 16, Afro News, "The American criminal justice system is, in part, an institu magazine in June 1995. power and power imbalances. were brought to the attention of July 1996). Amandla brother tion that perpetuates black oppression," writes Columbia Therefore, An awkward vestige of slavery, capital punishment has a The argument, then, it's not whether kill or be killed is mainslream print media courtesy Mohammed Asad! University scholar Manning Marable in In Defence of Mumia lot to do with white supremacy, a reminder to the slave not to right or wrong, but, more importantly, who kills who. Who of The Afro News. Why haven't •'Unprovoked attacked' at Guildford Nothing gets done in (Writers and Readers). turn against the master. bears the brunt. Who benefits. Who marches where. these mainstream publications Mall, says victim (p. 5, Afro News, Villages or towns, returned the courtesy, by using Noveber 1996). Amandla brother their loud voices to inform the gen Colin Orie! If eral public. After calculating the One can make a ripple with just There are no volunteers, appalling average (one black beat one pebble, ie. a racist crime: one en bi-monthly), I'm ready to black person assaulted by a white Local and half-hearted. scream at the general public person. But each of the aforemen There are other kinds: THE MEDIA IN BLACK AND WHITE (Transaction Publishers] never assume that it has anything to More than black and white myself. tioned incidents, on the black list, Everette E. Dennis and Edward C. Pease, editors. do with,a change in social values. Lisa resemble a stone rather than a Imported, In Ottawa, the assault of a black Penaloza lauds the increase of Latinos pebble, due to their severity, ie. person (ie. Ralph Kirkland) by an Eager, by Charlie Cho which news stories are constructed is a set of six pre Rowan says, "To a black man who needs ajob, it does in specialty Spanish-language publica racist crime. Black client assaulted acrophobe is a newsworthy ripple in Sweet foreign aid vailing values: ethnocentrism, altruistic democracy, n't matter what they call him, just so long as they call tions, citing "advertising representations are an by uniformed white authority, ie. the mainstream press ( ital3 The I'm tired of talking about race. I can say this with responsible capitalism, small-town pastoralism, indi him." important social legitimation." Melita Marie Garza racist crime. Black civilian assault Eventually to take a Ottawa Citizen). In Los Angeles, the impunity because I'm not white, but it'd be true vidual moderatism." Gans claims that these values So much for political correctness. Despite its good hits closer to the mark when she notes that "persons ed by white peace officer, ie. racist assault of a black person (ie. Rodney Thousand regardless. If you're a racist, no combination of 500 reflect a "public, business and professional, upper intentions, the sanctimonious connotations of the of Mexican descent" are targeted because they con crime. One black woman assault King) by an afrophobe, is a news For every horse-power put in. words, let alone 500,000 words, is likely to change middle-class, middle-aged white male" perspective. word "correctness" tended to simply force racism tain "the most financially secure segment of the pop ed by two white men, ie. racist worthy ripple in the mainstream your views. into seething silence. As Ellis Cose observed in the ulation, the one most likely to be buying luxury cars." crime. While none of the other 20 journalists and acade press (The Ottawa Citizen and mics who contributed to this collection of 18 essays National Association of Black Journalists' 1993 Perhaps this book seems less relevent because it Written with clarity and spontaneity, Aidoo's novel The key issue—as I see it—is culture, or ethnicity. beyond). But in the GVRD it is Along the mainstream media, on race were foolish enough to attempt to define Muted Voices study, 73 percent of the NABJ mem was initially published two and a half years ago as the confronts head-on the horror, the joy and the grief of It's a matter of identity and it's open to debate. In the HARD to find a resident who can even in the '90s, some stones just "whiteness," few anguished over the phrase "white" bers polled "thought that blacks were less likely than summer 1994 issue of the Media Studies Journal. this profound exploration. Her mix of poetry and prose news media, the emphasis is on the new, the previ name even one of the dozen plus skip the surface until they sink out as much as the phrase "people of colour." other journalists to advance." As expected, only two Perhaps it's because I'm tired ofthe sweeping gener gives us the freedom to explore the broad personal and ously unknown. As it should be. reported victims of local afrophobic of sight... like Emmett Till, in the percent of white managers expressed that opinion. alisations about race that seem to be an intrinsic global contexts of Sissie's journey. The emphasis on "visible" minorities is mis Everette E. Dennis, in his essay "Racial Naming," violence. Tallahatchie River. placed. While Adam Clayton Powell III sees Bernard clearly shows that despite the struggles for the "cor Open discussion about race takes courage but— nature of image-based media. The news media is, by Personal identity politics, the question of post-colo Emmett was a black youth from Shaw and Connie Chung as evidence of increased rect name" for ethnic groups, there has never been when done honestly—it's ultimately rewarding. its nature, an outside observer. It attributes descrip Both Ralph Kirkland and Rodney nial development and the whole history of colonialism Mississipi. His alleged adolescent opportunities for minorities in the media, Andrew (and never will be) a consensus. Historian Henry When the New Orleans Times-Picayune and the tive labels to others; it can't always ask how subjects King have the same initials... harm is a lot to pack in one short text. But Aidoo manages— admiration for female beauty cost Hacker is doubtful. Mainstream blacks are still Louis Gates Jr. preferred the term "coloured people" Akron Beacon-Journal embarked on lengthy projects would describe themselves racially and ethnically. less coincidence. Both Ralph while raising some important questions along the way. him his life in the '50s. He whistled. telling telling stories for whites. because "when I hear the word, I hear in it my moth focussing on race, staff and readers alike were forced, Kirkland and Rodney King have the How does Sissie's Afrocentrism compare with our I'm still tired of talking about race. We need new They heard. They conquered. er's voice and the sepia tones of my childhood." to come to terms wilh their frank views on race same colour... harmful coincidence. Eurocentric vision? What is the role of women in our But what exactly does it mean to be "white"? Is ways of talking about our differences. Racial prob Are blacks safe? R the RKs OK? While "Oriental" is deemed racist by some newspa issues. R. Kelly, block your belly! contemporary world? Who is responsible for history— there such a thing as "white values"? Mercedes Lynn lems exist, but no amount of "white guilt" or "multi Are .blacks safe in greater per style guides, the Hong Kong-based' Oriental Daily Note harmful coincidence the people or the state? How is Africa to progress if its de Uriarte believes that there is. She reports media When mainstream publishers and advertisers do cultural mosaic" will' serve as a .cure-all for all the Vancouver? Not as safe as one News apparently doesn't mind. Or as columnist Carl above. Note harmful incidents elite intellectuals keep leaving? There are no answers, sociologist Herbert Gans' findings. "The core around , start paying attention to an ethnic demographic. complex issues that need frank and reasoned discus might think. sion. below. Note headline quotes below. only more questions.
The LeRoi Jones/Amiri Baraka Reader, William J. Harris • The Alchemy of Race Relations, Patricia Williams • Have you seen liberation, Jesus Papole Melendez • Wounded in the House of a Friend, Soma Sanchez• Notes of a Native Son, James Baldwin • The Black Holocaust for BeginnersrSam Anderson• Assata: An Autobiography, Assta Shakur • Roots, Alex Haley.. black A young black man describes the GRANPA LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING ABOUT MY HERO. IT'S NOT MY FATHER ALTHOUGH I LOOK essence of blackness as he up to him as well. Each day I try to embrace my grandfather. But we can't protect sees it, in basic terms. him from eveiything. I know that it hurts him when he steps onto an elevator and the other passengers back away from him, fearful of being mugged by an eighty year old man. Or when they pass him in the street and say, "Hey, brother," through a strained smile. by Dave Ball I know they are behaving as they would if they were confronted by a hungry wolf in the wilderness; they'd approach slowly, offer it some food, pretend to be its The Lance friend, all the while praying that it doesn't bite their hand off.
WINDSOR (CUP)-I LOVE WORDS THAT CARRY DOUBLE MEANINGS. MAD AND BASIC HISTORY black are among my favourites. Originally, basic black had only one definition, but when I started high school I learned another. As I flipped through the course I DON'T LIKE TO ADMIT THIS, BUT I KNOW NOTHING OF MY FAMILY'S PAST. I DON'T KNOW descriptions trying to find a suitable schedule, I was surprised by the recurrence of when or how we came to this country. I know very little of my people's accom one word. Basic chemistry was an introduction to the subject for those who did not plishments and failures. want to pursue the science full time. Basic mathe In grade school history we never discussed matics was a course for those who wanted to develop it. Everything was European. Their dark ages, general math skills, rather than specialise in one their renaissance, their theories and religion, area. their discovery of the new world. I don't know Basic black is a short program intended to explain a whole lot about it, but I know my family did some of the many characteristics of a middle class not come from Europe. black man in southern Canada. It attempts to I have heard that integration is to blame. describe his feelings through (very) short stories By being granted equality, we sacrificed our about people and events that have been significant to individuality. The people of the civil rights him. movement fought so that we could be treated just like everyone else. I guess it's really true, JASMINE you should be careful what you ask for, and how you ask for it. JASMINE IS A BEAUTIFUL EIGHT YEAR OLD GIRL, SHE IS A few years ago, a member of my family energetic, polite, curious, clever, confident, and very had our name researched and our family crest friendly. printed on a t-shirt. It was a beautiful shield But she doesn't like brown people. adorned with the famous fleur-de-lis. I decid "Why," I ask, after hearing her confession. ed then it was time to change my name. "Because they're bad," she answers. My family has been here for more than five "Who told you that?" generations. I still do not feel like a Canadian. "Nobody," she replies. "I just know." In government records, I am officially known I couldn't be too angry at her, even though my as a visible minority. I wish there wasn't the skin is brown; even though I am her father. The truth need. is, I know how she feels. When I was eight years old I was ashamed of my race. My parents told me every EMPLOYMENT EQUITY day that I was special.
But I heard a different message whenever I MANY PEOPLE ,WOULD DESCRIBE AFFIRMATIVE stepped outside, and this message was much louder. action as that uneven playing field where I heard it on television, in the school yard, even in minorities are given a distinct advantage over my comic books. I was only a child but I was old others. enough to understand there was something wrong But that is not entirely true. The fact is, we with being black. have always been playing on an uneven field. I began avoiding my favourite foods, fried chick The moment I walk into an office for a job en and watermelon. I was afraid of resembling any interview, my chances are reduced. It doesn't of the stereotypes. I refused to play basketball, or matter if the employer likes me or not. There dance to Motown records. I listened to Neil Diamond are more important issues to consider: Will and Barry Manilow on the radio. Among my black the other employees want to work with him? friends, however, I had a problem. I honestly liked Will they be willing to take instructions from a Neil Diamond. "HERITAGE" Acrylic on canvas. BY CHIDI A. OLHOYE (1997). black man? Will they have to walk on eggshells COURTESY OF THE ARTIST. because of the chip on his shoulder? THE GREY MAN Everyone agrees that mobility-disadvan- taged people have rights to the same conveniences as walking individuals. No one I ADOPTED A PHILOSOPHY WHICH ENABLED ME TO SHED MY SKIN. I WAS NOT BLACK OR disputes the need for more elevators and access ramps in our schools and office white, African or Canadian. I was the Grey Man. buildings. Employment equity is an access ramp for minorities. Without it, many "When I grow up and become an astronaut," I'd tell my friends, "I'll be repre of us cannot even get into the building. It takes years of dedication and hard work senting the human race. When I make contact with the aliens, they aren't going to to achieve status in a company, and none of us hope to bypass those necessary sac ask me what part of Canada I come from." rifices. All we want is the chance to demonstrate our abilities. For the next ten years this attitude seemed to work, but I was still a child. When I turned eighteen, I became a man and things began to change. PROGRESS I still remember it as the year I discovered I was black. Suddenly people were treating me differently, and they made no effort to disguise their reasons. I was no AT LEAST THINGS AREN'T AS BAD AS THEY WERE THIRTY YEARS AGO, WHEN RACISM WAS longer the black kid who hung around the neighbourhood, I was the black man who in style. At least my children don't have to fear for their lives every time they ride was involved with their daughter. the bus to school. We were both marrying age; this could be serious. As a child, I was little more Sometimes I think it would be easier if people were more open with their prej than a curiosity. "My father isn't racist," my girlfirend explained, "he's just old-fash udices. Then I wouldn't have to wonder about the real reason I didn't get that job. ioned." I could face the opposition and fight on an equal level, instead of suffering quietly I began to notice tilings that had gone unrecognised in the past. When friends the emotional scars no one else can comprehend. were describing me to others they would mention my colour first. Before they I have a friend whose parents were born in Italy. described how we'd met, or what I did for a living, or what my name was, there was "So you're Italian," I ask. my colour. "No, my parents are Italian," he snaps. "I'm Canadian." At work and at school, I was overwhelmed by racist jokes. Of course, they were I don't have the heart to tell him that it just doesn't work that way. Remember all in good fun. "You know we're just kidding, right?" Of course; I didn't want any during World War II when all Japanese Canadians were placed in detention camps? one to think that I couldn't take a joke. I began to analyse everything that people I suppose he'll learn the truth eventually. said around me. I got upset when store clerks asked me if I needed assistance. For Jasmine is a proud little eight year old girl. She is no longer ashamed to tell peo a while, I was purchasing items I didn't even want to simply prove that I had not ple about her father. When she describes me to her friends, the first thing she men come into the store to shoplift. tions is the colour of my skin.
The Wretched of the Earth* Frantz Fanon • Revolutionary Suicide, Huey Newton •Philadelphia Fire, John E. Wideman«The Autobiography of Malcom X. THE UBYSSEY, FEBRUARY 7, 1997 7
unique, irreplaceable, resourceful, an asset igm&Knpus. culture it LJOU nominate her for the Ub ijsseu, s woman of th e u,ear Coming up doggies think us u. in 50 words OP less. SUEDE-Coming Up [Sony] snes... Suede is obviously trying to sound like David Bowie in his Ziggy Stardust oubmitt entries to Km 241k. Deadline reb.24 97 days, but on Coming Up they clearly fail. The band's problem is an awk ward one: they do not suit the music they write. The album's Bowiesque opener 'Trash' is so good it's hard to forget- but it deserves to be performed by the far superior Spacehog. Tori aAmos could make a hit out of the beautiful 'By the Sea,' while Peter Gabriel could revive bis career with a cover of 'Picnic by the Motorway' Singer Brett Anderson and guitarist Richard Oakes would have a sure success formula if their performance skills matched their song- writing abilities. Little innovation is demonstrated by any ofthe group's musicians, and Anderson could use some vocal training for his annoy ing whine. Poor sound quality tops all of this off. Producer Ed Buller sadly wast ed this album's potential. Suede should have opted for a crisp, clear, amplified sound rather than the distant, washed out type better suited to '80s alternative groups such as the Smiths. —Janet Winters
SNOOP DOGGY DOGG-HM Doggfather [Death Row] Snoop Doggy Dogg has always been his own man. Now he's a new man. .After some trying times in the judicial system, one of the most popular and influential rappers is ready for good times. His fresh lyrics reassert his standing in the hip hop game. Moreover, the hardcore gangsta cuts and the sexually explicit funk remain from bis debut album Doggystyle. His CD is dedicated to the loving memory of Tupac Shakur. For Snoop, the violence and despair of gangsta rap has always been just a part of ghetto life, not the whole story. The Doggfatther picks it up, with You didn't work relationships, love, even hope. Now a father himself (thus adding meaning to the album's title), Snoop has accepted responsibility—from helping to arrange a gang four years truce in 1994 to financing the building of community centres. 'Snoops Upside Yu Head' smacks together falling piano notes and a set of stut tering drums to frame Snoop's picturesque tale of a lamented gunner. just to get He remains a poignant figure with a panoramic view of the real and metaphorical ghetto. This is a growth album for Snoop Doggy Dogg, but more than that a scroll it is an album that involves the listener. Snoop is definitely moving up. Rather than just writing for the streets, he now writes for everyone. and ribbon. —Deanna Francisa
CHEVROLET TUIFJ) T15STE1) & TKIJE SUBJECT TO CLASSIFICATION D GRADUATE FRIDAY ppnr^PAM AT THEATRES EVERYWHERE 8 THE UBYSSEY, FF3RUARY 7, 1997 Public Health Notice culture As of February 5th there have been 50 cases of measles at SFU, but none confirmed at UBC. In order to minimize the The Jackson four taking over spread of measles, all public events and meetings sched uled at SFU have been cancelled until further notice. This New York City's Lucious Jackson and then capturing the vibe—he has little tricks he includes sporting events. uses to make you feel less self-conscious when you're took their inspiration from early recording, like dimming the lights and lighting can Public Health officials have strongly advised that UBC staff, do-it-yourself punk bands. The new dles and incense. He really gets involved in the mak faculty, students and residents should avoid visiting or ing of the music and will play percussion or tam Jackson four prepare to take over bourine along with you, so you feel like he's really receiving visitors from the SFU campus until further notice enthusiastic, and that helps." unless the involved persons are not at risk of acquiring Vancouver. Are you ready? The final product is a sound that is slightly sub measles — ie. those age 40 or older or having had two tler and more pared-down than Natural Ingredients, doses of measles-containing vaccinations. by Marilee Breitkreutz the in-your-face force of their earlier style having given way to a more meditative method. The mood There will be a mass campaign to provide a second dose of Luscious Jackson is also decidedly more thoughtful and introspective, measles vaccine for all post-secondary institution students, Feb 7 at the Rage a quality which Schellenbach claims has as much to staff and faculty in the risk group. do with a change in songwriting as with the produc What do four young women growing up in New York tion. The dates and locations of the clinics at UBC will be City with an interest in music—and talent to boot—do In the past, guitarists and vocalists Jill Cunniff and announced soon. to fulfill their artistic selves? Why, start a band, of Gabby Glaser would collaborate on the writing. course. "When they would write together, they would tackle a - Dr. Rob Uoyd-Smfth, Director, Student Health Service Inspired by do-it- ^^^^^^^^^^^^— subject, like in 'Energy Dr. Wayne Greene, Director, Health Safety and Environment yourself punk bands of Sucker,' and that became the early '80s and moti "Our audiences are still more of a personal state vated by the cool appeal ment because when you bf funk and hip-hop, the very knowledgeable about write together it becomes Summer Camp Jobs members of Luscious less personal. For the new in the U.S.A. Treated Jackson formed their our music and they're album, Jill wrote a lot of group in 1992. By early songs by herself, on guiter, Visas Arranged 1996, they were touring not just there to hear alone in her room—real Lakeside Residential Girls with with R.E.M. and playing the singles" basic songwriting, which is Camp in Maine for an arena audience of a very personal expres Service workers. Office, thousands every night. sion. Lyrically she's deal During the four years in maintenance, kitchen (including Q'O -KATE SCHELLENBACH ing with a lot of themes assistant chef), driving. Visas between, they had of introspection, but for service jobs restricted to toured North America ••••^••••••B ^••••^^•^••M although there's some students enrolled in university with Lollapalooza, played throughout Europe with melancholy in the tone, the message is upbeat." for fall of '97. the Beastie Boys and headlined their own sold-out In fact, the future looks positive for Luscious Counselors. Combined child Written and Directed shows all over the world. Jackson. With tons of touring experience and a sec care/teaching. Swim, sail, canoe, by Valerie Methot "Starting out playing music as a teenager was my ond LP under their belts, they could be poised for a equestrian, field sports, tennis, way of connecting with my social group," drummer success explosion. archery, gymnastics, dance, arts, f{( mail iii til' Kate Schellenbach told The Ubyssey during a phone music, theater, wilderness trips. Reflecting on their achievements thus far, IKII Visas for counselor jobs available l\ rfon lets interview from her home in New York. "That was Schellenbach says, "It's been good, and it still feels to all qualified applicants what we did after school. Eventually it became some under our control—you don't hear our song every two thing I thought I could do as a career." minutes on Top 40 radio. Our audiences are still very Non-smokers. June 21 to Aug A long-standing friendship with the Beastie Boys knowledgeable about our music—about every song 26. Send resume (C.V.): Kippewa, Box 307, Westwood, landed Luscious Jackson a deal with Grand Royal on the record too—and they're not just there to hear Massachusetts 02090-0307 USA; Records in 1992, but it was the [email protected]; voice (617) DOROTHY strength of their first LP, Natural 762-8291; fax (617) 255-7167. SOMERSET Ingredients, in 1994 that propelled UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA .the band into the realm of multi- gold record sales and coveted tour engagements. Natural Ingredients was formed out of an appealing blend of strong, catchy melodies layered over funk beats, loops and for a free double pass to the jazzy samples. The mood was cool, Wednesday, February 12 preview of the beat was steady, and the atti tude was unwaveringly bold. Now, with their latest release, Fever In, Fever Out, Luscious Jackson proves they have more tenacity than the mere physical endurance it takes to survive months of constant touring. On this album, the band marks out brilliant new musical territory, revealing the artistic development they underwent while on the road. As Schellenbach explains, "For this record we were looking to get outside the usual set-up—to try and challenge ourselves a little bit—and we were interested in exploring the live side of the band. We had been touring for a year and a half and were really interested in recording live instead of relying mostly on samples." To assist in capturing this new sound in the studio, the band decid ed to hire an outside producer— their first—and, after much consid eration, called in Daniel Lanois, Bridget Fonda • Skeet Ulrich uber-producer of U2 and Peter Gabriel fame. Christopher Walken • Tom Arnold "We were looking for someone Gina Gershon • Lolita Davidovich who could get really great sounds from the band and the single. We've toured a lot in the last five years, also had an understanding of different styles of we've built up an audience, and they've stayed with Paul Mazursky • Janeane Garofalo music, preferably someone who is a musician who us. Hopefully that will continue because touring is music by David Grohl would help in arranging and that type of sniff, so he hard work, and the best thing about it is playing the was the perfect man,' says Schellenbach. actual shows. We feed off of the audience, so it helps based on the book by Elmore Leonard "He's very knowledgeable about recording, but he when they are into all ofthe different songs and danc written & directed by Paul Schrader also helped us psychologically. He's really good at ing and excited about it. That's what makes it all encouraging the band to give a good performance worthwhile." • OPENS FEBRUARY 14 AT THEATRES EVERYWHERE