The benefits of sports go far beyond physical well-being. Improvements in social, mental, and economic outlooks as a result of sports participation have been tracked across all demographic breakdowns, particularly children. Unfortunately, barriers generated by fundamental inequalities continue to impact … Continue reading
Jenna Hicks
Hi I'm Jenna Hicks. I am a third year student studying International Development with a minor in Political Science at McGill University. I have a strong interest in human rights issues as well as feminst related topics and I look forward to being able to share these interests with the Catalyst audience.
Abolishing the British Monarchy: A Step Towards Ending Racism in Canada
More than half of Canadians today believe Canada should end its ties with the British Monarchy according to a recent poll, and these Canadians have good reason for believing so. Following Queen Elizabeth II’s death on September 8 this … Continue reading
Internet Shutdowns Amidst Iranian Protests: So What?
Although the extreme force being used against Iranian citizens by police is in itself horrific, Iranian authorities have exacerbated these effects and further oppressed its population by hindering communications through restricting landlines, mobile usage, internet, and social media platforms.
How the Term ‘Eco-friendly’ can be Deceiving
The marketing and use of the term eco-friendly has created a false reality for many, leading people into thinking they are greatly helping the planet when using certain products or methods. The reality of the situation, rather, is that some of these products, although possibly having the right idea, fail to be truly environmentally friendly and instead may also exacerbate harmful practices.
Canada’s Selective Sympathy for Refugees
The Canadian government has undoubtedly shown much more support through their immigration policies to Ukraine than they have shown to ‘third world’ refugees.
Gender-Based Violence Against African Women and Girls: The Social Impact of Climate Change
Climate change has exacerbated gender-based violence against women and girls across Africa through an increasing scarcity of basic resources such as food and water.
Human Rights Violations in Cuba as Nation Demands Change
This past July, Cubans took to the streets to protest against the current communist dictatorship under Miguel Diaz-Canel. In the months leading up to the protests, Cubans dealt with food shortages, lack of medicine, power outages, inflation, and inadequate … Continue reading
Is a Statutory Holiday Really “Truth and Reconciliation”?
One issue is whether the implementation of a statutory holiday is truly benefitting the right people. Only 5.1% of Canadian public service jobs are held by Indigenous employees. Thus, only a small percentage of the Indigenous population would be guaranteed the day off, as any Indigenous people working for private businesses may be required to work.
The Dangers of Restrictive Abortion Bans
In most G7 countries and other U.S. states, the most restrictive abortion bans have historically been at 12 weeks. Today, with the sudden introduction of 6 weeks, any jurisdictions that have attempted an earlier restriction could look to Texas as a justification for enforcement.