addiction – mackaycartoons

Thursday September 26, 2024

September 26, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday September 26, 2024

‘Get off your a-s-s,’ Doug Ford—Lead, Don’t Blame

September 7, 2024

Premier Doug Ford’s recent comments telling homeless individuals to “get off your ass and start working” have sparked widespread outrage, and rightly so. While the Premier’s tough rhetoric might resonate with some who see homelessness as a matter of personal failure, his words ignore the complex reality facing those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and poverty in Ontario.

Yes, there may be a small minority of people who could work their way out of homelessness if given the chance. But reducing the entire crisis to individual responsibility is not only an oversimplification, it’s a failure of leadership. Ford was elected to lead—to solve problems, not to scold those who have been left behind. His comments aren’t just misplaced, they’re a distraction from the real issues at hand.

Homelessness is not a simple problem. Many people living on the streets struggle with mental illness, addiction, or trauma. Others are trapped in a cycle of poverty where even low-wage jobs don’t provide enough to cover rent in a province where housing costs have skyrocketed. Simply telling people to “get off their asses” and work ignores these deeply embedded social issues.

News: ‘Get off your a-s-s:’ Doug Ford scolded for telling homeless people to get jobs

August 9, 2018

If the Premier wants to be the champion of “the little guy,” as he so often claims, he needs to take responsibility for addressing the structural issues that contribute to homelessness and poverty. The tools to create meaningful change are at his disposal, and his failure to use them constructively is leaving far too many people behind.

First and foremost, Ford needs to acknowledge that Ontario is in the midst of a housing crisis. It’s becoming impossible for even middle-income earners to afford a home, let alone those who are living paycheque to paycheque or without stable employment. Housing affordability is a key issue, and yet, instead of proposing meaningful solutions, Ford resorts to victim-blaming.

Rather than telling people to find a job, Ford should focus on building affordable housing and reforming rent controls to ensure that housing is within reach for everyone. Housing is not a luxury, it’s a basic human need. Instead of dismissing this fact, Ford could champion policies that make it possible for low-income Ontarians to live with dignity. Expanding affordable housing isn’t just a policy choice—it’s a moral imperative.

January 12, 2019

The Premier’s comments also fail to account for the complex relationship between homelessness, mental illness, and addiction. Many people living in encampments struggle with these issues, making it nearly impossible for them to secure and maintain employment without proper support. Telling them to “get a job” is not just callous, it’s ignorant of the realities they face every day.

Instead of deriding “safe supply” programs or framing addiction as a personal failure, Ford could expand mental health and addiction services across the province. Comprehensive treatment centres, integrated with housing and job support services, could make a real difference. Ford has made some moves toward creating treatment hubs, but these efforts need serious funding and expansion to have a lasting impact. Homelessness, mental health, and addiction are intertwined issues that require holistic solutions, not finger-pointing.

Ford’s claim that people just need to apply for jobs and everything will get better also misses the mark. It ignores the systemic barriers that many homeless people face when trying to enter the workforce. Without a stable address, reliable transportation, or access to hygiene facilities, even the most qualified individuals can struggle to find and maintain employment. For those battling addiction or mental illness, the challenges are even greater.

May 21, 2022

Ford could introduce job training programs specifically tailored to help homeless individuals reintegrate into the workforce. Providing support in the form of resume-building workshops, interview preparation, and access to basic necessities would be a far more constructive approach. Telling people to “work harder” doesn’t solve the problem—it just shifts the blame onto those who are already struggling.

Even for those lucky enough to have a job, work doesn’t always provide a path out of poverty anymore. Wages in Ontario have not kept up with the cost of living, and many low-income workers are one emergency away from losing their homes. Ford could focus on strengthening labour protections, ensuring a living wage, and advocating for job security measures that allow workers to plan for the future.

It’s also essential to acknowledge that economic insecurity is a growing problem, especially for young people entering the job market. A commenter responding to Ford’s remarks raised the issue of youth unemployment, noting that many are struggling to find stable work, even as they compete for low-wage jobs. Ford could use his platform to address this, instead of simply blaming individuals for not working hard enough.

May 12, 2023

Doug Ford was elected to lead Ontario, to be the voice of “the little guy,” and to address the issues that matter most to everyday people. But leadership is about more than just rhetoric—it’s about action. Telling people to “get off their asses” doesn’t fix the housing crisis, it doesn’t solve addiction, and it doesn’t create jobs. It’s a distraction from the hard work that needs to be done.

If Ford wants to be remembered as a leader who truly stood up for Ontarians, he needs to stop blaming the victims of these complex crises and start offering real solutions. That means investing in affordable housing, expanding mental health and addiction services, and providing meaningful job supports. Ford has the tools to create lasting change—it’s time for him to use them.

Ultimately, if anyone needs to get off their ass right now, it’s Doug Ford. His comments show a troubling disconnect from the realities faced by Ontario’s most vulnerable citizens. But instead of offering solutions, he resorts to the politics of blame and division.

Ford has the mandate to make a difference. Instead of scolding those who are struggling, he should be using his position to help lift them up. Leadership is about empathy, understanding, and action—not shaming those who are already down. It’s time for Doug Ford to get off his ass and start leading.

Friday August 30, 2024

August 30, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, Published in The Hamilton Spectator and The Toronto Star, Friday August 30, 2024

The Urgency of Tackling Smartphone Addiction Beyond the Classroom

May 1, 2024

In today’s world, smartphones have become an omnipresent force, reshaping how we communicate, learn, and engage with the world around us. However, the increasing dependency on these devices has led to a troubling societal shift, where distraction and disconnection are becoming the norm. This issue is particularly pronounced among young people, whose formative years are now dominated by screen time rather than face-to-face interaction. While Ontario’s recent move to ban cellphones in classrooms is a step in the right direction, it only addresses a fraction of a much larger problem that extends far beyond the school day.

The Ontario government’s decision, as outlined by Education Minister Jill Dunlop, is based on the premise that reducing distractions in the classroom will enhance learning outcomes. The logic is sound—students can hardly be expected to focus on their studies when their attention is constantly diverted by notifications, social media, and the allure of the digital world. By enforcing a ban during school hours, the government aims to create an environment more conducive to learning, free from the incessant pull of smartphones.

News: Doug Ford’s new education minister tells the Star why next week’s school cellphone ban is so important

November 2, 2017

However, while the ban may succeed in reducing distractions during school hours, it does little to address the root of the problem: society’s pervasive addiction to smartphones. School occupies only a fraction of a student’s waking hours, leaving the rest of the day unregulated and largely at the mercy of personal habits and parental oversight. The reality is that without broader societal change, the benefits of the classroom ban may be short-lived, with students reverting to their phones the moment the bell rings.

This issue is not confined to young people. Adults, too, are increasingly tethered to their devices, often at the expense of meaningful, face-to-face interactions. Minister Dunlop herself acknowledged this, noting how even in professional settings like boardrooms, people are often more engaged with their phones than with the discussion at hand. This is a telling sign that smartphone addiction is not just a youth problem, but a societal one.

The addictive nature of smartphones is well-documented, with research showing that excessive use can have detrimental effects on mental health, social skills, and overall well-being. The constant bombardment of information, notifications, and social media updates creates a state of perpetual distraction, making it difficult for individuals to focus on tasks or engage in meaningful conversations. This is particularly concerning for young people, whose brains are still developing and are therefore more susceptible to the negative effects of constant screen time.

Analysis: Why Schools Are Racing to Ban Student Phones

October 10, 2018

The global trend of cellphone bans in schools reflects growing concerns about this issue. Countries like France, for instance, implemented a nationwide ban on smartphones in schools back in 2018, covering students up to age 15. The French government emphasized that the ban was necessary to curb distractions, reduce cyberbullying, and encourage students to engage more with their surroundings and peers. Similarly, Australia has seen several states, including Victoria and New South Wales, enforce school-wide bans on mobile phones, with similar motivations of improving focus and reducing screen time among students.

Even in the United States, where educational policies are often more decentralized, there is a growing movement towards restricting cellphone use in schools. For example, California’s legislature passed a bill in 2019 allowing schools to limit or prohibit the use of smartphones, citing concerns over their impact on student well-being and academic performance. The UK has also seen discussions around banning smartphones in schools, with former Education Secretary Gavin Williamson advocating for such measures as part of efforts to improve classroom behaviour and academic outcomes.

Addressing this issue requires more than just a classroom ban—it demands a cultural shift in how we view and use smartphones. Parents, guardians, and society at large must play a role in setting boundaries and encouraging healthier habits. This could include designated screen-free times or zones at home, promoting outdoor activities and face-to-face interactions, and educating young people about the importance of balance and moderation. Schools can also extend their efforts beyond the classroom by involving parents in the conversation and providing resources to help families manage smartphone use at home.

Analysis: There are cellphone bans in schools around the world. Do any of them work?

September 3, 2013

Moreover, there needs to be a broader societal recognition of the problem and a collective effort to change our relationship with technology. This could involve public awareness campaigns, similar to those used to combat smoking or promote healthy eating, which emphasize the importance of disconnecting and being present in the moment. Workplaces could also adopt policies that encourage employees to unplug during meetings and breaks, helping to set a precedent for responsible smartphone use.

The Ontario government’s classroom cellphone ban is a commendable first step, but it is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. To truly combat the issue of smartphone addiction, we must take a holistic approach that involves all facets of society—schools, families, workplaces, and communities. Only by working together can we create an environment where smartphones enhance our lives rather than detract from them. The challenge is significant, but the potential benefits—greater focus, improved mental health, and stronger social connections—are well worth the effort. (AI)

Wednesday May 1, 2024

May 1, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 1, 2024

Beyond the Classroom: Addressing the Broader Problem of Smartphone Addiction

September 3, 2013

The recent decision by the Ontario government to ban cell phones in classrooms has reignited the debate over the role of smartphones in education. While this move has sparked discussions about distractions and academic performance, it also brings to light a broader issue: smartphone addiction among adults.

Smartphones have become ubiquitous in our society, seamlessly integrated into every aspect of our daily lives. From morning alarms to late-night scrolling sessions, these devices are constant companions, offering a gateway to endless information and entertainment. However, the convenience and connectivity they provide come at a cost.

The addictive nature of smartphones is undeniable. Research has shown that excessive smartphone use can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including decreased productivity, impaired social interactions, and heightened levels of stress and anxiety. Despite these consequences, many adults find themselves unable to break free from the grip of their devices.

Editorial: “Out of sight, out of mind.” There are many good reasons to curb cellphones in class

September 17, 2010

The Ontario government’s decision to ban cell phones in classrooms is a step in the right direction, but it only scratches the surface of a much larger problem. Smartphone addiction extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, affecting individuals in all aspects of their lives – from the workplace to social settings and even in the privacy of their own homes.

In the workplace, smartphones blur the boundaries between professional and personal life, leading to a constant state of connectivity and an expectation of immediate responsiveness. This can result in burnout and decreased job satisfaction, as individuals struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

November 2, 2017

In social settings, smartphones have replaced face-to-face interactions, leading to a decline in meaningful connections and a rise in feelings of loneliness and isolation. Instead of engaging with those around us, we often find ourselves glued to our screens, missing out on the richness of human connection.

Even in our downtime, smartphones continue to hold sway over our lives. The temptation to check email, scroll through social media, or binge-watch videos can be irresistible, leaving us feeling drained and unfulfilled.

Addressing smartphone addiction requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond classroom bans. It requires a cultural shift in how we view and interact with technology, as well as policies and interventions aimed at promoting digital well-being.

May 20, 2017

Tech companies must take responsibility for their role in perpetuating addictive behaviours, by designing products and services that prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics. Governments can play a role by implementing regulations that curb the most harmful aspects of smartphone use, such as excessive screen time and targeted advertising.

But ultimately, the onus is on us as individuals to take control of our technology use and establish healthier habits. This means setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support when needed.

The Ontario government’s ban on cell phones in classrooms is a wake-up call, highlighting the need for a broader conversation about smartphone addiction in our society. It’s time to recognize the true extent of the problem and take meaningful steps to address it, both in the classroom and beyond. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Tuesday December 3, 2019

December 10, 2019 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 3, 2019

Ottawa must lead on e-cigarette regulation reform

It’s time for the federal government to get over its timidity around regulating the vaping industry.

It is no longer acceptable to take a cautious approach. That evidence is now in, and it shows that vaping can lead to serious lung disorders, and more frequent users are at greater risk.

October 5, 2018

That would be bad enough if the risk was largely to the original vaping audience — adults using e-cigarettes to reduce or stop consuming combustible tobacco products. The risk for reforming smokers is real, but vaping remains preferable to continuing to smoke tobacco and inhaling the related toxins.

But the growth isn’t among adult smokers. Vaping rates among that group are stable. It’s among kids, most of whom start vaping not to quit tobacco but because it’s considered cool. One health survey of 75,000 Canadian students in Grades 9 to 12 asked about reasons for vaping. Only 4 per cent of e-cigarette users said they used them to quit smoking, another 4 per cent said they used vaping to reduce cigarette consumption — and 73 per cent said they used out of “curiosity” or “to try something new.”

This is not what Canadian health authorities had in mind, although it’s good news for vaping companies, many of which are affiliated with or outrighted owned by Big Tobacco companies. Vaping defenders argue companies are not “targeting” young consumers, but we’ve heard that line, before it was illegal for Big Tobacco to market its products to vulnerable kids.

In any case, whether Big Vape is intentionally targeting kids or not doesn’t matter as much as the reality — more and more kids are starting on e-cigarettes and getting addicted to nicotine. Modern vape devices are sophisticated and efficient tools with which to deliver nicotine to the body.

Health Canada is now officially warning about the health risks involved with vaping. Some provinces are taking action. Ontario recently moved to ban e-cigarette advertising in convenience stores. It’s a half measure at best, but it’s something.

But the federal government, for some reason, continues to drag its feet. Now, with the new minority government settling in and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thinking about the mandate letters (marching orders, if you prefer) he will be handing over to his ministers, is an ideal time to get very serious about regulation.

An example: Legal marijuana products have to carry ingredient information. Vape products don’t. That makes no sense. Also, the piecemeal approach now in place around marketing needs to evolve into a national strategy. No exceptions, no loopholes: E-cigarettes and affiliated products must never be marketed to minors, and if they are, penalties need to be stiff, public and consistent. The government should also consider lowering nicotine limits in vape products. In Britain, where e-cigarettes have a track record in reducing adult smoking, nicotine limits are lower than for North American markets.

Some argue an outright ban is justifiable under the circumstances. We disagree. A ban has a certain appeal, but it’s a safe bet any attempted ban would lead to a black market for vaping products. That would lead to even less control and more risk for vulnerable consumers.

E-cigarettes remain a viable option for those who smoke traditional tobacco products. There’s no need to overregulate that part of the market. But when it comes to nicotine addiction among young consumers, we’re losing the battle. The federal government will have no trouble finding allies to pass thoughtful and forceful new regulatory measures — the NDP and Greens, at minimum, would be supportive.

Time to get moving before this problem escalates further. (Hamilton Spectator)

Friday October 5, 2018

October 4, 2018 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday October 5, 2018

Teenagers who use e-cigarettes more likely to start smoking, study finds

Teens who use electronic cigarettes are more likely to start smoking regular cigarettes – and they are likely to use both products more often over time, a new study found.

February 18, 2012

The Rand Corporation study looked at more than 2,000 youths in California, starting when they were teenagers and continuing until they were young adults.

The researchers found that youth who reported vaping were more likely to also report smoking cigarettes.

When they were surveyed around age 17, more of the teens said they used e-cigarettes in the last month – 8% – than regular cigarettes, at 6%. By around age 19, 9% of the young adults surveyed were using e-cigarettes, but cigarette smoking had jumped to 12%.

“Not only are adolescents who start vaping more likely to start smoking in the future, but they’re also likely to go on and use e-cigarettes and cigarettes more frequently,” said Michael Dunbar, the study’s lead author and a behavioral scientist at Rand.

“Our work provides more evidence that young people who use e-cigarettes progress to smoking cigarettes in the future,” he said. “This study also suggests that teens don’t substitute vaping products for cigarettes. Instead, they go on to use both products more frequently as they get older.”

It’s the latest research to suggest a link for young people between electronic cigarettes and smoking the more dangerous, traditional tobacco-based variety.

For adults who already smoke, e-cigarettes have been promoted as a safer to help them quit. (Continued: The Guardian)