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Anti-queer rhetoric is not an opinion, it’s violence

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Peak Web
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A group of people wearing masks and protesting, holding up a sign that says protect trans youth and pride flags.
PHOTO: Nikolas Gannon / Unsplash

By: C Icart, Humour Editor

Content warning: mentions of gender-based violence and queerphobia.

Whenever I see anyone ranting about “gender ideology,” “wokeism,” or using miscellaneous words in parentheses to mock pronouns, all I hear is, “I hate you. I hate you. I hate you.” The first two phrases are right-wing buzzwords that are used to silence or invalidate marginalized communities, whereas the last sentiment actively mocks queer folks and contributes to the harassment they continue to face. 

When it’s online, I can swipe to another page or hit block, but I know the hostility still exists when I can’t see it. When it’s at work, in the street, or in class, I change the topic, de-escalate, or walk away, knowing what could happen if I get into it with the wrong person at the wrong time. Sometimes, I worry I’m overly cautious — paranoid, even. Then, I see another news story, another anti-Pride protest, or another hate crime. We need to pay attention to this. 

Warnings about the rise in anti-2SLGBTQIA+ violence are not exaggerated. “In Canada, there was a 64% increase in hate-motivated violence targeting 2SLGBTQ+ people between 2020 and 2021,” according to Xtra Magazine. For me, Pride Month ended with so much devastating news. First, I read about a hate-motivated attack in my city, Ottawa. Then, one at the University of Waterloo. What happened at Waterloo was a gender-based hate crime. The hateful and misogynistic attack on a professor and two students in a gender studies course happened on the 54th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising — a horrific reminder of why Pride continues to be a protest today. My heart goes out to all the victims and survivors and their families. 

Later, I learned the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruled “universities cannot explicitly consider race in granting admission. This effectively ends diversity-based considerations in workplaces and universities, also known as affirmative action. While this is not explicitly connected to 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, it speaks to how conservative the SCOTUS has become and will affect diversity on US university campuses. Additionally, they ruled a Christian web designer’s First Amendment rights allowed her to refuse to design websites for same-sex couples. This decision will prevent US governments from enforcing anti-discrimination laws in a number of contexts. The acts of violence are not isolated incidents and the rulings are not only an American issue. This is a direct result of widespread anti-trans and anti-queer rhetoric. Time for action in so-called Canada is long overdue and we’re not immune to right-wing ideology.

As I see more and more people feeling emboldened to say hateful things and spread harmful lies about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as a whole — and more specifically, trans and gender-nonconforming individuals — I am terrified of what is to come. Community organizers have been talking about this for years. We don’t need empty statements after horrific things have already happened. We need action from our politicians and leaders today to prevent further violence and hold perpetrators accountable. 

This alarming rise in violence needs to be addressed now, and that is precisely what the #Act4QueerSafety campaign is looking to do. The campaign calls for “decisive action” from the federal government to combat the rise in anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate. It includes six specific demands, including calling on the Government of Canada to provide funding to address “misinformation targeting queer and trans communities” and appoint a representative tasked with “addressing and preventing anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate.” #Act4QueerSafety is an initiative from Momentum, an advocacy group for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Their president, Fae Johnstone, was the target of online harassment after being featured on limited-edition Hershey’s bars for International Women’s Day. 

Even though I acknowledge statements are insufficient to ensure the safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, Pierre Poilievre’s silence on the issue is particularly loud. As leader of the Official Opposition, he is running to be Prime Minister of Canada. Considering his emphasis on “freedom,” I ask, is it freedom to be afraid to leave your home, go to school, or wear what you want? Is it freedom to require parental consent for someone to be addressed the way they would like? If it is, that’s not the freedom I want — minors are individuals too and deserve respect. This is why we need to be wary of messaging that insinuates the “freedom” to have “opinions” about others lives and identities is just as important as the safety and lives of marginalized people. The well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals should always be a priority. 

Despite the intimidation tactics and violence, 2SLGBTQIA+ organizers and activists are not backing down. We are here; we will always be here. Education about 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and issues is crucial in schools, including post-secondary, to foster inclusive environments for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and teach people of all ages about acceptance. At SFU, Out On Campus offers multiple services for 2SLGBTQIA+ people and their allies and is definitely worth checking out if you would like to learn more about this topic. Please shut down misinformation and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ rhetoric when you see it happening around you if you feel safe enough to do so. Pouring water on the flames of hate instead of fanning them saves lives. Regardless of how many online trolls say caring about the safety and well-being of queer and trans folks makes you a “snowflake,” queer and trans lives matter.

Will U-Pass Your Summer Course?

By
Peak Web
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A photo of someone looking prim in an office chair with a thick book in their hands.
PHOTO: Pexels

By: Hana Hoffman, Peak Associate and C Icart, Humour Editor

Dear Peakie, 

I was at the movies watching The Little Mermaid because, duh, and the fire alarm went off, and we had to evacuate! So obviously, I complain to the manager about making us wait outside for no reason. There’s no way there was a fire; we were all under the sea! Sure, I got a refund, but I’m also considering legal action. What do you think? 

Swimmingly, 
Siren Song Enthusiast 

Dear Siren Song Enthusiast,

I feel sorry for you and all the attendees who sacrificed their time and money to watch The Little Mermaid. But serious events do happen behind the scenes sometimes. From my experience, my landlord’s cat often pulls the fire alarm when hungry. He needs that food to survive! I’ve also seen a student at my old school pull the alarm because the nearest water fountain was out of service. She needed to hydrate herself with the fire showers ASAP to prevent dehydration. So at the end of the day, someone probably needed that fire alarm during your movie. Let’s be grateful that these alarms exist and cherish their ability to call for help even if there’s no fire, because you never know when you might need it.

From the bottom of my flaming heart,
Peakie

Dear Peakie, 

The sun’s out, and so are all the white people who say, “I’m almost as dark as you now!” after precisely one hour of tanning. I’ve been training all winter, so I’m in peak shape to run away from them, but do you have any other advice?

Sincerely, 
Sunburn Red is NOT the new Black

Dear Sunburn Red is NOT the new Black,

I first want to acknowledge your effort in training to become a better runner. Keep it up! That’s something I need to do myself, and it’s not easy. Well, I think the best way to make those slightly tanned/sunburned people realize they’re wrong is to hand them a mirror the next time they say that. Then they can look at themselves and see that they’re only a teeny tiny bit darker or redder than they were originally. No matter how hard they try, their tanning methods will never make them the new Black!

Don’t sweat it,
Peakie

Dear Peakie, 

I enrolled in classes this summer to get a U-Pass (#LifeHack), and now my professor actually expects me to submit assignments. Bro, can’t you just be a G and pass me? I don’t have time to write essays and discussion posts while zooming through zones one, two, and three in a multi-million dollar skytrain car. How do I tell this man to chill? 

Sincerely, 
Millennium Line Voyager

Dear Millennium Line Voyager,

My fellow skytrainer, I feel you. Professors don’t understand the significance of owning a U-Pass because they drive their little slow cars on the ground and think that’s the fastest method of transportation. Like . . . have they ever looked up at the sky? Look at this fun, futuristic, intersection-less air travel! Giving your professor his first compass card will change his life. As a result, he will be so amazed and distracted by Translink’s sky limos that he’ll procrastinate on marking assignments and tests. In the end, he’ll just give everyone an automatic pass so that he can spend more time riding the Millenium line like a millionaire.

Warm regards while singing the chorus of #thatPOWER by Justin Bieber and will.i.am,
Peakie

Shoebox is an ode to queerness and cultural identity

By
Peak Web
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An album cover featuring a clay-molded forest in a yellow box, and a wide, hollow tree stump in the middle, inside which Kimmortal sits holding their legs and looking out playfully. They’re wearing royal blue overalls and have black hair with straight-cut bangs.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Kimmortal

By: Olivia Visser, Copy Editor

Content warning: mention of intergenerational trauma.

It’s been a while since I’ve listened to an album in one sitting, but Kimmortal’s new release, Shoebox, had me doing so with ease. Kimmortal is an established and well-loved “queer non-binary Filipinx rapper” based in so-called Vancouver, BC. They’ve received widespread acclaim for their creative soundscapes, visual art, and music. Released on July 7, Shoebox brings together an innovative blend of rap, hip-hop, pop, and electronica in a feel-good yet emotive collection of songs. Themes of diaspora, settler-colonialism, and queerness permeate their lyrics and make for a meaningful listening experience. According to their website bio, “Kimmortal strives to build worlds that make queer and diasporic weird kids feel like they belong.” This album does just that. 

I was mesmerized by the powerful bassy backtracks that accompany most songs on the album, but even more drawn towards Kimmortal’s intricate lyrics. For example, “Run” focuses on intergenerational trauma, with the opening lyrics being: “My mom buried her mom’s shit / Who buried her mom’s shit / Who buried her mom’s shit / Who buried her mom’s shit / Deep in the soil of another country / So why talk about it?” I was particularly struck by the raw passion in Kimmortal’s voice, which pairs well with the atmospheric instrumental.

Kimmortal is particularly talented at speaking to challenging feelings, but they also weave in tracks that radiate pure joy. In their press release, Kimmortal describes Shoebox as “a nostalgic collection of memories, reflections on lessons learned, and queer joy.” They draw from childlike influences like the documentary, “How We Got To Sesame Street,” and write that “the album is dedicated to [their] inner child.” Appropriately, “Tabi Tabi Po” is a short yet breezy track with nostalgic allusions to Kimmortal’s Filipinx roots. Tabi tabi po means “excuse me” or “may I pass” in Tagalog, and is generally addressed to spirits as a means of avoiding bad luck. The song’s muted yet bubbly guitar backing made me feel warm inside. 

Likewise, “I like what I like” is an upbeat queer anthem that’ll stick in your head for days. Melodic ukulele meets a bouncy bassline and celebratory lyrics like, “I love being queer, Brown, and non-binary.” Kimmortal also directly references their eccentric album cover in this song, saying, “I use clay to make a weird tree forest / And then I photoshop myself into it.” The following track, “Don’t Be Afraid,” boasts a deep raunchy riff that’ll make you dance wherever you are. “Fill up that white space with colour,” echoes throughout the song as a reclamation of Black and Brown visibility in white colonized spaces. 

One of my favourite tracks off the album, “K I’m Mortal,” is bound to be a hit. Its catchy pulsating beat accompanies lyrics about colonialism, neurodivergence, and queerness. It was refreshing to hear words like, “ADHD what the doctor wrote / I found it buried inside my notes / Too many femmes not diagnosed / Cleaning up after bros.” 

I wish I had the space to expand on each song, because they’re all so individually captivating. For those interested, Kimmortal is hosting a Shoebox listening party on July 24 at The Cobalt. Tickets are $20 on Eventbrite. Don’t miss out!

Check out Kimmortal on their website, https://kimmortalportal.com, and Instagram @kimmortaltheartist.

Beedie wins condo approval in Chinatown at 105 Keefer

By
Peak Web
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This is a photo of the rally held at the Vancouver Art Gallery. There are people on the steps of the gallery holding signs and speaking to a large crowd
PHOTO: Olivia Sherman / The Peak

By: Olivia Sherman, News Writer

On June 26, Beedie Holding Ltd’s controversial condo was approved for development in central Chinatown. This was the sixth and final time Beedie attempted to get the condo approved, with five other attempts spanning over half a decade. Chinatown’s residents, many of whom are Chinese Canadians, low-income, and seniors, are largely opposed to the development, citing concerns over rampant gentrification.

The Peak corresponded with Jade Ho, a member of the Vancouver Tenant’s Union (VTU), SFU scholar, and activist. She discussed the impacts of gentrification and what this development means for the community. “This decision shows that the city government is there to serve elite developer interests and to prioritize profit over people,” she said. Ho noted Chinatown will become “increasingly unlivable for low-income seniors and residents.”

Ho is concerned with the rising gentrification of Chinatown. “By definition, gentrification is to replace working class culture with a wealthy one.” She added, “landlords will raise rent for more profit and thus displace people from their home. We see low-income renters being renovicted or demovicted out of their homes [ . . . ] This is what happens when we look at housing as a commodity and not a fundamental human right.” 

During rallies on May 26 and June 12, dozens of speakers voiced their opposition to the development. While a rally was held outside Vancouver City Hall on June 12, speakers and activists were in the hearing room inside, giving testimonies and voicing opposition to the development. However, Ho isn’t convinced these voices were properly heard, and has speculated as to why the announcement was postponed almost two weeks. 

“In my experience, they delay as much as they can so it discourages organizing. On the 12, there was a much bigger crowd than the 26. This is, of course, our speculation from experience.”

The Peak attempted to contact Beedie for comment, and received a media statement from Rob Fiorvento, the managing partner for Beedie Living. Fiorvento said the ruling is “an important and positive step forward [ . . . ] to revitalize Chinatown,” that Beedie will be working to “further represent the character and culturally historic neighbourhood,” and they “look forward to collaborating with community partners as we move forward with the project.” 

Ho replied to this statement, saying “when they mention working with community partners, they meant these self-elected elites of Chinatown. They do not mean actual low-income residents there.” 

She also said the “predisposition of the current government is pro-developer and profit-making,” and the opposition is from those “who actually live and depend on this neighbourhood, from people who would be impacted the most.” However, the “developer can still spend millions of dollars in legal processes to push forward their proposal.” 

Ho quotes Chinatown’s Business Improvement Area president Jordan Eng, who said he would like to see more “foot traffic” in the community, and claimed Chinatown doesn’t have a residential base.

“What he meant is there are no middle-class or wealthy residents, completely neglecting all of the low-income residents and seniors who they are supposed to serve [ . . . ] they are working on an anti-working class agenda,” Ho said.

While the condo has been approved, Ho and her fellow activists continue to fight. “We will continue to organize and have a strong collective base. We are calling the attention of the provincial government.

“We will not rest until 105 Keefer is taken back and built as a permanent home for the people. We will continue to fight for the rights of our seniors to age in place, and we will continue to fight until every unhoused tenant has a home and no one is scared that their home will be taken away from them.” 

A petition with the VTU is available in favour of social housing. For more information, Ho encourages contacting the VTU. Visit their website at https://www.vancouvertenantsunion.ca/ 

Meaningful participation is more important than attendance

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Opinions
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A row of empty desks

By: Saije Rusimovici, Staff Writer 

Have you ever woken up physically or mentally incapable of going to class that day? Mental illness, physical disability, and chronic illness may make it difficult for students to attend classes regularly. Even students with other responsibilities, like work or taking care of family, can struggle with attendance. Forcing students to show up for an arbitrary attendance grade disproportionately affects those who have disabilities and illnesses. It brings down their grade when it’s not necessarily an accurate assessment of whether or not they understand and keep up with the material. 

No student’s academic journey is the same, nor are the challenges they face — which makes it so much more important that the education system supports students’ needs rather than hinders them. First, grading attendance itself should be scrapped entirely. Factoring attendance into “participation,” also shouldn’t largely weigh on a students’ grade. While there may be circumstances where attendance is mandatory, like exams or quizzes, in-person participation should account for meaningful participation that isn’t just based on whether or not students attend class every week. 

Instead, participation marks should focus on the quality of students’ comments as opposed to quantity. Writing activities or online discussion boards can be alternatives to simply showing up. It could also be beneficial for students to participate by spending time working on their academic projects with their teaching assistants or instructors. From my experience, I find it significantly more helpful when tutorials are centred around the assignments we’d be graded on. Not only do I find that this improves my overall grade, but it also betters my understanding of the course materials. This shifts the need to just show up to class every week onto genuine engagement, which can give more flexibility around attendance. The education system is evolving and with it should also be the assessment of students’ knowledge. Simply attending every class shouldn’t make or break a grade. 

Further, support for students who may have difficulties in regularly attending class must be offered. This can include participation in activities that can be completed outside of the classroom that are relative to one’s learning. 

The University of Connecticut (UConn) offers a comprehensive guide for instructors collecting grades without taking attendance. However, many of these include brief in-class quizzes, polls, and assessments — solutions that still require a student to be in class. In my experience, these sorts of quizzes count for such a small portion of one’s grade that they aren’t necessarily helpful and put a lot of stress on an individual to come to class even when they aren’t feeling well. This is bad for sick students and can delay healing, while risking the transmission of illnesses to others.

UConn urges instructors to be mindful of participation grades, as many students may not be comfortable speaking during class. This can include reasons like anxiety around participation and language or not wanting to discuss triggering topics in class. This is another reason why it’s so important to provide students with options beyond showing up to class if participation is going to be graded. 

Ultimately, there are a wide range of alternatives to offer students that don’t punish them for missing some classes or tutorials. A student’s ability to attend every class is not reflective of their knowledge. Engagement with course materials and meaningful contributions to the course can be demonstrated in other ways, and it’s time universities integrate them. 

Meet the Pets of The Peak. Part 2

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Features
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A photo of a cat lining into a dog, both look very young.

by: The Peak staff

The music lover duo: Buddy and Scooby. Petra, Arts and Culture Editor

Our first bird feature! Buddy (blue), who was already named upon adoption, and Scooby (yellow), named after the famous Scooby-Doo, are Petra’s two budgies. While their exact ages are uncertain since they’re rescues, Petra has had Buddy since December 2022, and Scooby joined the family a few weeks later. Their daily routine includes waking up at the crack of dawn and chirping their lungs out, flying around the living room, and a 3 p.m. nap. They are quite the music fans, and enjoy listening and singing to songs, but will let Petra know their discontent by shrieking really loud until she changes the track. Despite having fun with Petra, both of them are still wary of humans due to their past, something Petra is slowly working on with them.

Buddy is full of energy, constantly climbing, hanging upside down, and bobbing his head. On the other hand, Scooby is more timid and exhibits a fondness for classical music, although he also has his hyper moments. Despite their somewhat opposing natures, one thing they have in common is their absolute fear of the vacuum.

For anyone interested in getting birds, Petra emphasizes the importance of commitment and thorough research. Budgies are highly intelligent and social creatures that deserve a spacious and stimulating environment. They require sufficient time outside their cage to fly and interact, and their unique personalities and mood swings should be understood and respected. Building trust and bonding with budgies may not be easy, but the effort is incredibly rewarding. Petra recommends considering adoption as a responsible choice, as there are many budgies in need of care and a loving home.

Best attempt at being a guard dog: Stella! Eden, News Writer

Stella’s name was inspired by her father’s favorite beer, Stella Artois, but don’t get confused — the name was chosen by a 9-year-old Eden, not by her father! Stella joined the family at the age of four months back in 2010, and she recently celebrated her 13th birthday on May 11. Despite her age, Stella continues to exude the energy and liveliness of a puppy. Her daily routine starts with the important task of seeking attention and indulging in breakfast. Afterwards, Stella takes a quick snooze, only to wake up and resume her quest for more attention and treats. She adds a touch of athleticism to her routine by playing soccer in the yard, followed by another nap to recharge.

Eden’s family jokes that Stella is the “guard dog” of the house, despite her calm nature, her fear of the vacuum cleaner, and her pickiness with meals. If someone were to break in, Stella would likely attempt to make friends with the intruder rather than protect the premises.This would also be the main theme of her social media presence: livestreams of her napping and enjoying the sunny spots. A true guard dog indeed. She’s not only friendly, but Eden admits that Stella likes to flirt with men, showing them extra attention and enjoying their company — so yes, definitely the best guard dog ever.

They will steal your hearts and probably your food, too: the rat duo of Monty and Lucy. Olive, Copy Editor

Monty and Lucy, approximately three years and seven months old respectively, came into Olive’s care beginning two years ago. They were adopted through the SCPA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). While Olive didn’t chose their names, Lucy is short for Lucifer, due to his red eyes. Since they’re nocturnal animals, they are more active at night, which is when Olive spends time with them, but they like spending their days cuddling, eating, and pissing each other off — they have the habit of stealing food from each other. If they were to have a TikTok account, the theme would likely be food, even more likely — food they stole from each other.

Like many pets, Monty and Lucy share a common fear of the vacuum cleaner — an especially valid fear for rats. As Monty has grown older, his once mischievous and energetic demeanor has mellowed, transforming him into a calm and cuddly companion. In contrast, Lucy is full of youthful energy, constantly on the move and unable to stay in one place for too long. There’s only one thing Olive would change about the duo, and that would be for them to live longer.

The ever heartwarming Jack the kitten. Olivia, News Writer

Jack has been a part of Olivia’s life since this January when he was just a month old. Poor little Jack was the runt of the litter and the last to find a home. Despite being the smallest one of the litter, Jack has a mischievous side: he enjoys hiding under the sofa and playfully grabbing people’s feet as they pass by. As expected from a kitten his age, Jack can be a bit of a biter, something Olivia would like to change as her Band-Aid expenses have gone through the roof.

Jack has a fear of doorbells, and other loud noises tend to unsettle him, but that will never take away from his playful and feisty nature — he’s always in the mood to play or fight, there’s no in-between for Jack.

She’s a sassy and independent cat: Musa. Summayyah, Assistant Production Editor

Musa is the 10-month-old feline companion who has been a part of Summayyah’s life since October 2022, joining the family at only 2 months old. Musa wakes up at 6 a.m. to enjoy her breakfast, then settles down for a nap at 9 a.m. when everyone leaves for school or work. Throughout the day, she attempts to escape the house multiple times, which, along with her 1 a.m. zoomies, would be the main theme of her TikTok account. Musa also likes to sit on the kitchen window and indulge in her owner’s plants. It’s a behavior that showcases her curiosity and mischievous nature.

 

 

 

Big woof Dexter. Karissa News Editor

Despite sharing a name with the popular crime TV show, Dexter’s name holds no relation nor does he share the same point of view as the show’s protagonist. This year marks a decade since he became Karissa’s companion. Dexter’s daily routine is mostly comprised of indulging in his laziness, big stretches, breakfast, walks around the neighborhood, diligently inspecting familiar plants, and taking in the surroundings. His favorite activity seems to be napping — he enjoys several snooze sessions throughout the day.

Whether he wants a blanket, water, or a snuggle, he will woof for it. Another funny quirk of Dexter’s is that he will howl whenever someone in the house is playing the piano. While Dexter may initially display some anxiety, he quickly opens up and reveals his true personality — a funny, outgoing, and happy companion that will bring his favourite bright pink elephant for a game of catch, and make you play with him for hours.

He’s a ten but he will bark until you give him ham: Morgan Parks. Daniel, Features Editor

A photo of a white dog standing on grassMorgan Parks’ name originates from Thomas Hunt Morgan, an evolutionary biologist, and since he’s Mexican he needed a second name to follow the classic stereotype of having long names. He’s turning five this September and has been Daniel’s companion ever since he was only a month old. He currently lives in Mexico with Daniel’s parents and his routine consists of chasing the sun and barking non-stop at 6:30 p.m. on the dot, doing so until Daniel’s dad gives him a piece of ham. Daniel’s mom says he’s extremely smart as he understands everything she says, which makes her get angrier whenever he does any mischief.

While Daniel loves him just as he is, he wishes Morgan were a little bit less anxious. As many dogs do, he has separation anxiety, making it hard to leave him alone. When he was a puppy, he was terrified of other humans to the point where he would pee out of fear. Now, he only barks with all his might until he can determine they are actually friends. If he were to have a TikTok account, it would probably be a mix of inspirational phrases with aesthetic backgrounds, and videos of him annoying Daniel’s parents on purpose.

The benefits of joining your neighbourhood Buy Nothing

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Peak Web
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A photo of a small cardboard box wrapped in twine, which is woven into a bow at the top. It holds into place a small note with white text on black paper that writes “thank you.” An orange casserole dish is blurred in the background.
PHOTO: Monstera / Unsplash

By: Petra Chase, Art & Culture Editor

What does the jar of candied ginger on my shelf have in common with the framed painting of lilacs hanging on my wall, or my thriving potted monstera plant? They were all gifted to me by generous neighbours, members of my local Buy Nothing (BN) group on Facebook.

If you’re not a part of a BN group, you might be missing out. The groups consist of residents within a geographical boundary (and relatively walkable distance), where members offer items and services to give away, or make requests — all for free. There’s a laundry list of BN groups in BC. If your neighbourhood doesn’t have one, consider starting one. You can locate yours on the BNProject website or search for your area on Facebook. The BNProject is a global movement based on facilitating gift economies globally. Gift economies involve the exchange of commodities for free without the expectation of anything in return. 

I joined when I first started living on my own and it was tremendously helpful to get things here and there, from practical items to more unexpected gifts. I’ve also had some spontaneous requests, like asking for knobs to fix a busted drawer, and someone happened to have gorgeous ceramic ones lying around.

Safety and accessibility

Members are encouraged to mention if their homes are smoke-free or pet-free to prevent harm. Most members leave items out for porch pickup, or you can deliver them to someone’s porch yourself to maintain a contactless exchange. In case you feel nervous about sharing your home address, you can choose to meet someone at a public spot. 

Community connections

Agnes Mendoza, an active member of my group whom I connected with after she gifted me Christmas tree decorations, was happy to chat with me about her experiences in the group. She’s lived in my neighbourhood for 20 years and joined at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I think everyone needed connection because we were so disconnected from everybody,” she said. “It was a good way to be part of the community [ . . . ] I’ve met so many neighbours whom I didn’t know, who even lived two doors from me.”

The group is monitored by members of the community, and is a great resource for welcoming newcomers to the neighbourhood in settling into a new household or environment. I’ve witnessed how people come together in comment sections to help provide things like clothes, food, household goods, and furniture to those in need.

Cultivating gratitude

BN helps you see that there is kindness in your community. “I get coats from [another member] because for some reason we’re the same style, same size,” Mendoza said. “When I remember who I got it from and I’m enjoying it, I send a picture to say ‘I’m really enjoying this’ and show my appreciation.”

Mendoza regularly exchanges craft and garden items. “It’s such a nice feeling to be giving and receiving,” she said. “You’re sharing your blessings.”

Repurposing materials

Decluttering can be difficult if you have a lot of things that don’t seem to have a purpose. But cupboards full of random materials that thrift stores won’t sell don’t necessarily need to be dumped in a landfill. BN can help connect your items to the people who might transform them into something new, or find a completely unexpected use for it. For instance, it might be the missing puzzle piece for a craft or Halloween costume. This might replace a plastic dollar store purchase.

I’m not suggesting that individuals feel responsible for the impacts of overconsumption on the climate, as systemic change is necessary. However, don’t dismiss the small eco-conscious decisions you make if they make you feel good — you’re casting a vote towards the world you want to live in. Enacting your values is important and encourages others in your community to do the same.

Envisioning possible futures

BN groups are strict on maintaining the values of buying or bartering nothing. Giving with any expectation of getting something back is strictly prohibited. You also can’t exchange anything with monetary value, which means if you want to give a gift card, you’ll be directed to a different group. This might seem extreme at first, but it makes sense for the sake of principle.

Gift economies have existed in different cultures throughout history. However, western society encourages the commodification of almost everything, which can feel disconnecting and contributes to overconsumption. Living in a society where wealth accumulation is prioritised over communal redistribution, BN is proof that other alternatives are possible. BN is an act of resistance.

A book’s journey from draft to award-winning design

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Peak Web
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a display underneath a glass case of open books. One in sandy brown featuring a map and another has a hot pink page with a title that reads “arrival” next to a page with a photo of greenery.
PHOTO: Amirul Anirban / The Peak

By: Izzy Cheung, Staff Writer

Have you ever wondered how chicken scratch drafts turn into colourful, award-winning hardcovers? Until August 31, you can find out at W.A.C. Bennett Library on SFU’s Burnaby Campus. Two free exhibits, the 2022 Alcuin Society Excellence in Book Design Award Exhibit and From Draft to Book: A Journey Through the Publishing Process, highlight the steps involved in publishing a book.

Upon arriving at the library, the first exhibit you’ll come across is From Draft to Book, which is located directly in front of the library’s main entrance on the third floor. It features works from writers including Eden Robinson, Michael McClure, and Daphne Marlatt, plus insights on the business side of publishing from New Star Books, Talonbooks, and Douglas and McIntyre. The books, drafts, and manuscripts can all be found behind two glass cases like artifacts in a museum. You’ll want to start with the case furthest from the library entrance, as this is where the exhibit starts chronologically. 

Each step in the publishing process is accompanied by an associated item and a write-up. The first step, “acquisition,” showcases a book proposal for The Silent Messengers, by Norman Hallendy, which was eventually published under the name Inuksuit: Silent Messengers of the Arctic (also on display). This is followed by steps detailing the editing process, demonstrated by a manuscript of The Antagonist, by Lynn Coady. In the second case, you can follow along with technical processes like design and production, marketing and sales, and the making of proofs and advanced reader copies. 

While the exhibit put forward a lot of information I hadn’t known before, it would benefit from a live-interaction portion. It would have been interesting and informative to flip through the drafts, but I know this would be difficult to manage. Because of all the rough manuscripts and drafts, this exhibit lacked dramatic pops of colour, which is understandable. However, the second exhibit completely makes up for this.

The Alcuin Society exhibit was a little more daunting to visit, but stood out for just that reason. It’s located on the seventh floor, at the entrance to the library’s Special Collections. As is tradition with W.A.C. Bennett Library, the higher up you go, the quieter the library gets — and the seventh floor is the highest in the building. 

The Alcuin Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to book art and libraries, held its 40th national book design competition on March 18, and some of the winning books are featured in this display. Each book is paired with a small write-up with information like printer and typeface. Categories included children’s, comics, limited editions, and pictorial poetry. The book covers are neat to check out, some fashioned with bright pops of pink and orange, and fun depictions of long-stemmed mushrooms and sunglasses. My favourite part was the comics, as they were propped up in a way that allowed me to see some of the black-and-white drawings on the inside (these books were covered by a glass case as well). Other than this portion, everything else was stippled with bold colours, making them stand out against the dark, wooden walls of the seventh floor.  

In total, both exhibits only took around 15–20 minutes to check out, but it could be more or less depending on the type of exhibit-viewing person you are. Seeing as both are in the library, it makes sense to see both of them if you’re already planning on catching one. If you’re interested in publishing, English, or anything book-related, I highly recommend checking these out!

Bright-er Side: RCB Hall

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Peak Web
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RCB Hall
PHOTO: Afsaneh Keivanshekouh / The Peak

By: Alex Ileto, SFU Student

Famous for topping the list of best spots on campus to have a mental breakdown, I firmly believe Robert C. Brown (RCB) Hall receives an undeserved reputation. Many students claim the halls are haunted, deserted, and cold, but I beg to differ. 

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the AQ or the large friend groups in the SUB (usually consisting of people from high school who you don’t want to see), consider heading over to RCB. The lack of foot traffic makes it an optimal study spot with limited distractions. 

While you study, feel free to relax and take in the pleasant view of the courtyard pond outside. Sure, there are no koi fish like our other pond, but that just means there are no birds violently swooping into the water for a midday snack. Venture further into RCB and you’ll discover a plethora of washrooms that are always clean, vacant, and awaiting your arrival. Don’t care about a good study session or a good poop? Go for the aesthetic. The sunken seats and tables give RCB strong ‘70s vibes, making it the funkiest spot on campus. 

If you’re still unconvinced, embrace RCB’s quirks instead. Strike up a conversation with a ghost. Get lost in the labyrinth while playing hide-and-seek with your friends. Take advantage of the echo and belt a Mariah Carey banger before your 8:30 a.m. lecture. The possibilities (and RCB Hall itself) are truly endless.

Council readopts agenda to discuss funding of SOCA Black wellness retreat

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Peak Web
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This photo is of the SFU stadium at the Burnaby Campus. The stadium is empty but it is a sunny day.
PHOTO: Krystal Chan / The Peak

By: Eden Chipperfield, News Writer

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on July 20, 2023, to correct that SOCA’s budget is not $100,000 but rather they receive $65,000 per year from the SFSS.

On June 21, The Peak attended the bi-weekly Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) council meeting. Business discussed during the meeting included updates on funding for the proposed Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA) wellness retreat, a presentation from SFU Advancement and Alumni Engagement, and approving the 2023-2024 SFSS budget. 

SOCA wellness retreat grant proposal rejected

At the Council meeting on May 24, SOCA presented a proposal for holding a wellness retreat in Chilliwack that focuses on Black healing, including mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. SOCA requested a $10,000 grant for the retreat, which was met with concern from Thomas Leuth, vice president of the university and academic affairs. Leuth incorrectly stated that SOCA receives a budget of $100,000 per year, so he felt the additional cost request was significant. However, in a statement from SOCA to The Peak, they confirmed they receive $65,000 per year from the SFSS. The meeting ended with president Liam Feng proposing to postpone the matter to the next meeting, which was voted on with unanimous consent.

In the June 21 meeting, the discussion regarding the SOCA retreat was re-adopted into the agenda. SOCA had adjusted its budget, and its new grant request is now $5,875, which was amended from its original $10,000 ask. Leuth inquired why $10,000 was initially requested but later adjusted to $5,875. Emmanuel Adegboyega, vice president of SOCA, explained the $10,000 initially requested was not necessary as there were other funds pulled elsewhere. President Feng inquired where the original numbers for the breakdown originally came from when the budget was initially proposed at the last council meeting. 

Vice president SOCA, Adegboyega, elaborated that the original ask of $10,000 was an approximate estimate of how much is needed for the retreat’s success. After a continuous back and forth within Council, president Feng took a vote. The final count was three in favour, 17 against, and 13 abstentions, meaning the motion failed.  

Presentation from SFU Advancement and Alumni Relations

Erin Morantz and Selina Yano, from SFU Advancement and Alumni Relations, gave a presentation on planning a comprehensive campaign for SFU’s new strategic plan and increased philanthropic support. The purpose of the campaign is to advance the academic mission of SFU, enhance SFU’s ability to attract and retain student teaching talent and researchers, strengthen the SFU brand and reputation, and to boost student, alumni, and community engagement. 

The  goal of bringing the presentation to the SFSS meeting was to ask questions regarding students’ needs, gaps in student funding, and who from SFSS should be invited to sit on the campaign steering committee. Vice president of equity and sustainability, Priyanka Kaur Dhesa, suggested “a focus on low barrier scholarships and awards for students, specifically towards marginalized student groups on campus.” 

Out on Campus Collective constituency group representative, Adriana Cumming-Teicher, suggested reaching out to the director of the Centre of Accessible Learning and the associate director of Equity and Inclusion in student services to give insight on the need for student services and provide more resources. The presentation concluded with Council president Feng stating to both Morantz and Yano, “You support us; we support you.”

Amendment adopted for budget approval

A piece of new business addressed at the meeting was the approval of the 2023/2024 budget submitted by vice president of finance and services, Jadvinder Bolina. Molecular biology and biochemistry student union councillor Sam Killawee proposed an amendment of the motion, suggesting the finance committee prepare a report for the August 2 council meeting to address cost-saving measures to address SFSS’s current deficit. The amendment was adopted with unanimous consent. 

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Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

Contact us: [email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society 1965-2024

Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

Contact us:
[email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society 1965-2024