Food is an often overlooked element in conversations of national identity. Food is tangible, it is known by most members of a nation regardless of socio-economic background, and it is “experienced everyday”. Food is incredibly important for both parties in this two-sided conflict, as it plays a strong role in the creation of identity for each group.
Thus far, the global response of most developed countries has been to funnel money into the international refugee support system, which provides humanitarian aid relief through the establishment of refugee camps. As these camps are short-term solutions, in most host countries, refugees lack the right to work or move freely. This might not have been a problem if the duration of their stay were short, however the conflicts from which refugees flee usually last indefinitely.
When it comes to a collective crisis like this, behaviour tends to be related to notions of collectivism and individualism. One may say that the Canadian protests display greater support for individualism over collectivism. However, in reality, the difference stems from how people from different parts of the world view the idea of collectivism. For Chinese, fulfilling social obligation arises out of moral responsibility.
While many lockdown restrictions were later lifted on May 31st, the reopening of educational institutions was delayed to September. During this time, the country opted to adopt remote learning. However, Bangladesh didn’t have the digital infrastructure to move their complete education system to an online platform as planned.
Last year I published my first article about the Lebanese protests in October 2019. It seemed like Lebanon was on the brink of something marvelous, on the road to overthrowing a government system that had caused them more woes than wins. [...] Unfortunately, the situation got bleaker before it got better.
In this interview, I take you to Japan: an economic powerhouse, stable democracy, and a country known for its increasing reliance on migrant workers. Meanwhile, the Japanese government’s immigration laws and detainment practices also oppress and deprive the rights of many migrant workers, immigrants, illegal migrants and refugees – topics which are not commonly discussed in Japanese society for fear of governmental retaliation.
Wrapped in banners and posters with messages directed towards the state, the military and the world, the building looks like a box bursting at the seams with the dissenting voice of the country demanding to be heard. Paintings, professional and amateur, have turned every free space into a declaration of defiance.
On November 9th, the McGill University chapter of Global China Connection, held a discussion panel titled “What is behind China’s 70th anniversary?”. As a McGill student association, it aims to promote cultural and business exchanges between students through various … Continue reading
“Language is not just a social phenomenon but also a materialized tool that is used to legitimize one’s socioeconomic class, political status, racial and ethnic identities, and gender.” – Jina E. Kim
The artistic element of the protest is particularly fascinating, as photographers, sketch artists, and graphic designers alike have created a massive collection of works related to the protest. Mostly shared via social media, the aesthetics of this art are moving and powerful, and are a reflection of the demands and grievances of protesters, as well as a vision of a new Lebanon that those who take to the street wish to see.
