editorial cartooning

Monday November 4, 2024

Subscribe to me on Substack!

Over the years, I’ve frequently deviated from simply illustrating news with ink doodles to crafting actual sentences that capture the events of the day for anyone interested.

I’ve embraced the inner news nerd in me that I’ve always possessed, to make my livelihood being a full on boastful consumer with full on regurgitation of political news commentary.

The launch of my first Substack, March 13, 1984

This practice has been ongoing with me for decades, with journals dating back to Orwell’s year, 1984, as proof in my erratic teenaged cursive.

Only a few of the treasures during my teen- aged years. My wife threatened to take them to the dump in order to clear room for her own junk in the basement. All sold to buyers on eBay.

At 15 years old, as kids my age were listening to DEVO or Def Leppard, doing dope or doing each other, I was spending my Friday nights writing letters to politicians requesting campaign buttons. Sending letters to Parliament didn’t cost a penny, it was free, but as my mother scolded me for using up all her stationary, I’d remind her that my odd behaviour was an investment in my future.

End of the Reagan era – January 4, 1989. A burgeoning interest in editorial cartooning was developing. Clips outs of works by Edd Uluschak and Kevin Kallaugher

I’m not entirely sure what has driven me to write news stuff in the past for an audience of one—perhaps it’s the need to organize my thoughts or the hope that one day, someone will want to know just how crazy things were through my personal lens of history. (Sure, how crazy it must’ve been back then compared to the period of sanity we’re all witnessing today, kid.)  This desire seems to echo the trend of folks sharing their stories on platforms like SubStack; clearly, I’m not alone in this endeavour.

You wanna talk sub-par scrawling in the form or stacks? Look no further than what I’ve personally amassed. I’m no wordsmith, I’m an editorial cartoonist, first and foremost.

The end of Thatcherism, November 22, 1990

In the digital age I’d often continue chronicling this big deal days in human history:

Jan 19, 2009: The day Barack Obama became the first black President of the United States

Jan 20, 2017: Donald Trump was inaugurated President in 2017

Nov 1, 2020: Thoughts of the eve of the 2020 U.S. Election

As of today November 3, 2024, I’m diving into this new platform, where I’ll share insights, commentary, and reflections on the news and the world of editorial cartooning. Substack offers a new means to go deeper into the thoughts behind my daily drawings, and offering a space for engagement and chitchat that goes beyond the confines of a newspaper page.

Several of my editorial cartoonist buddies have leapt on board and have encouraged me to do the same. Some of them have expressed a desire to move away from drawing and go completely to writing… which I think is nuts.

The reality is that the newspaper industry has faced significant challenges over the years, with many of my peers experiencing the consequences of a sector that has seen its fair share of bankruptcies and layoffs and now are fashioning themselves as elder men of letters. While I remain hopeful that the Hamilton Spectator will continue to provide me with a platform for years to come, I am also realistic about the trends affecting print media. This is why I’ve decided to launch this SubStack: to create a safety net for myself, where I can share my thoughts and engage with you directly, but above all, live out my remaining years as an editorial cartoonist, and encouraging younger people to take up editorial cartooning as an essential necessity for any democracy.

I envision SubStack as a means to deliver a weekly newsletter for free for as long as I have my current gig with a mainstream daily newspaper. Those wishing for deeper dives can always rely on my trusty website where my cartoons and context have been meticulously archived for decades and for free. So please subscribe to keep me in your loop should we suddenly wake up and find another tragic loss of a legacy news outlet.

So, gather ’round, kids! If you think the past 40 years of my writing have been anything short of crazy, you’re in for a treat. What is shaping up in this day and age maybe the craziest period we’ve ever experienced.

Thanks for reading! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Wednesday May 15, 2024

Addressing the alarming rise in threats and harassment against elected officials, embracing RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme's call for new legislation is crucial to safeguarding democracy and protecting those who serve the public.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 15, 2024

Protecting Democracy: Why We Must Take Threats Against Elected Officials Seriously

June 28, 2021

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a disturbing trend that strikes at the very heart of democracy: the escalating threats and harassment directed at elected officials. From death threats to misogynistic attacks, the vitriol aimed at those who serve in public office has reached alarming levels. It’s time for us to confront this issue head-on and take decisive action to safeguard our democratic principles.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme’s call for new legislation to address threats against politicians is a crucial step in the right direction. Duheme rightly points out the inadequacy of existing laws in dealing with the evolving nature of threats, particularly in the digital realm. By advocating for additional tools to combat this scourge, Duheme is demonstrating a commitment to protecting the safety and security of those who dedicate themselves to public service.

News: RCMP boss expresses desire for new law to deal with threats against politicians

September 17, 2015

Some may argue that politicians should toughen up and accept threats and harassment as part of the job. This viewpoint is not only callous but fundamentally undermines the integrity of our democratic institutions. Elected officials are representatives of the people, chosen to serve their communities and uphold the values of democracy. Threats against them are not just attacks on individuals but assaults on the very foundation of our democracy.

The recent decision by Liberal MP Pam Damoff to not seek re-election due to threats and misogyny should serve as a wake-up call to us all. When elected officials feel unsafe and fearful in carrying out their duties, it’s a sign that something is deeply wrong with our society. We cannot allow intimidation and harassment to drive good people out of public service.

The recent incident in Vancouver, where Pro-Palestinian protesters surrounded Prime Minister Trudeau at a restaurant, along with previous instances of incivility, underscores a concerning trend of disrespect and aggression in Canadian politics that threatens the principles of civil discourse and democratic engagement.

November 17, 2023

Addressing threats against elected officials is not about granting them special privileges; it’s about upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rights of all citizens to participate in the political process without fear of reprisal. Just as there are laws to protect individuals from threats and violence, so too should there be laws to protect those who represent us in government.

Of course, tackling this issue will require more than just legislative action. We must also address the root causes of the toxic political environment that breeds hatred and extremism. Political leaders must set an example of civil discourse and actively condemn any form of harassment or intimidation. Social media platforms must do their part in enforcing policies against hate speech and harassment.

Opinion: Hate politicians all you want but we’ll lose all the good ones if their lives are hell

In the end, the fight against threats and harassment targeting elected officials is a fight for the soul of our democracy. We cannot afford to sit idly by while our elected representatives are subjected to abuse and violence. It’s time for us to stand up and demand action to protect the integrity of our democratic institutions and ensure that all voices are heard in the public square. (AI)

August 30, 2022

And… since it’s a little awkward being part of the peanut gallery, as an editorial cartoonist, I occupy a unique position at the intersection of art, commentary, and public discourse. My work has the power to provoke thought, spark conversation, and hold those in power accountable. While it may feel awkward at times to defend politicians, it’s important to remember that my role is not to blindly support or attack individuals, but rather to scrutinize the actions and decisions of those in positions of authority.

Satire, as I rightly note, can walk a fine line between social commentary and harassment. I have a responsibility to use my platform responsibly and ethically. While satire often involves humour and exaggeration, it should not cross the line into personal attacks or defamation. Instead, it should aim to shed light on important issues, challenge the status quo, and promote critical thinking.

Defending politicians does not necessarily mean endorsing their actions or beliefs. It means recognizing their right to fair treatment and respectful discourse, even when critiquing their policies or behaviour. By maintaining a balance between satire and responsible commentary, I can contribute to a healthy and robust public debate while upholding the principles of democratic free speech.

 

Friday April 5, 2024

The rise of authoritarianism, paralleled with the recurring cosmic event of a solar eclipse, underscores the cyclicality of power dynamics and the perpetual struggle to uphold democracy amidst societal divisions in North America.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 5, 2024

The Eclipsing of Democracy: A Celestial and Political Paradox

Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator

In 1936, Ivan Glassco’s editorial cartoon for the Hamilton Spectator captured a moment of political symbolism: Adolf Hitler, emerging as a dominant force on the world stage, eclipsed Benito Mussolini, representing the ascendancy of authoritarianism over the fading embers of democracy. This visual metaphor, though born in a specific era, carries timeless resonance, echoing the recurrent pattern of strongmen casting their shadow over democratic institutions throughout history.

As we anticipate the forthcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, Glassco’s imagery takes on a renewed poignancy. Just as the moon intermittently obscures the brilliance of the sun, so too have authoritarian rulers intermittently obstructed the light of democracy. The cosmic phenomenon of an eclipse serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of power dynamics and the transient nature of political dominance.

Poll: Democracy in North America: Significant segments in Canada, U.S. open to authoritarian leadership  

In the aftermath of Super Tuesday, with Trump's resurgence and Biden facing concerns about his age, the upcoming U.S. election requires the campaign teams to dispel perceptions – one addressing Trump's potential authoritarianism and strategic choices, and the other countering worries about Biden's fitness for the presidency.

March 7, 2024

Consider the accounts of Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, who chronicled the extraordinary events of 585 BC when a solar eclipse intervened to halt the relentless conflict between the Medes and the Lydians. In the face of the celestial spectacle, warring factions laid down their arms, seized by a shared sense of awe and reverence. Though separated by millennia, the psychological impact of witnessing such cosmic phenomena remains a unifying force, evoking humility and fostering a sense of interconnectedness among humanity.

Recent studies corroborate this notion, suggesting that the experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse can evoke a profound sense of awe, prompting individuals to feel more deeply connected to their communities and to each other. This transient moment of collective wonder stands in stark contrast to the divisive forces that often fracture societies along political lines.

Yet, as we marvel at the celestial ballet unfolding above us, we cannot afford to overlook the troubling parallels evident in our political landscape. The rise of authoritarianism, not only in distant lands but also within the heartlands of North America, poses a grave threat to the principles of democracy. In both Canada and the United States, significant segments of the population express openness to authoritarian leadership, viewing strongman rule as a viable alternative to democratic governance.

Opinion: The Uniquely American Future of US Authoritarianism

July 20, 2021

In the United States, particularly, the Republican Party has veered toward authoritarianism in recent years, embracing extremist rhetoric and undermining democratic norms. From attempts to overturn election results to attacks on the judiciary and the media, the GOP’s flirtation with authoritarianism has cast a shadow over the future of American democracy.

The events of January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a brazen attempt to overturn a free and fair election, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of authoritarian encroachment. The parallels between the celestial and the political are not merely coincidental. Just as a solar eclipse reminds us of the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it, so too do the rise and fall of authoritarian regimes remind us of the fragility of democracy and the constant struggle to preserve it.

BBC: How the solar eclipse may affect the brain and bring people together

As we gaze up at the darkened sun on April 8, reflect not only on the wonders of the universe but also on the challenges facing our own societies. Draw inspiration from the awe-inspiring spectacle above us to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, to reject the siren call of authoritarianism, and to stand together in defence of freedom and justice for all. As the eclipse passes, so too shall the shadow of tyranny be dispelled by the light of liberty…we can only wish. (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:

 

Sunday March 10, 2024

Pierre Poilievre's confrontational stance towards the media, epitomized by viewing everyone as either a friend or foe, is critiqued in the context of growing selective media engagement among politicians, emphasizing the indispensable role of editorial cartoons in fostering democratic discourse and scrutinizing leaders.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Sunday March 10, 2024

Pierre Poilievre and the Crucial Role of Editorial Cartoons in Democratic Discourse

December 6, 2022

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party with a pretty good chance becoming Canada’s next Prime Minister, has consistently voiced his disdain for mainstream media. His call to defund the CBC, Canada’s public broadcaster, has ignited a contentious debate. In a recent article, CBC journalist Anton Wherry courageously confronted Poilievre’s confrontational approach towards the media. One particularly striking observation in Wherry’s piece elicited a verbal “BINGO” from me as I read it: “Poilievre’s criticisms of and attacks on the media also can be viewed as an extension of a political style that sees everyone as either a friend or an enemy: for Poilievre, if you’re not with him, you must be against him.” Haven’t we seen this play out elsewhere on the North American continent?

Anton Wherry: What, if anything, should voters make of Pierre Poilievre’s attitude toward journalists? – No politician in recent memory has mocked and criticized reporters more than the Conservative leader  

The Online News Act in Canada, a groundbreaking legislative framework securing fair compensation for news outlets from tech giants like Google and Meta, contrasts with the hot air of opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who remains skeptical and resistant, raising concerns about fair terms, media sustainability, and the effectiveness of government agreements in shaping the news ecosystem.

December 1, 2023

This astute observation resonated deeply, emphasizing the need for Poilievre to “suck it up, buttercup” and recognize the indispensable role of media scrutiny in a thriving democracy. Quit the whining and face the music! Wherry’s article raises concerns about the potential dismissal of critical coverage, turned into an art form by Donald Trump, and a trend not limited to him nor Poilievre but increasingly prevalent among politicians like Ontario Premier Doug Ford. On the federal level, Prime Minister Trudeau, while appearing to answer questions, is a master of dodging any direct answers to many of them, but at least shows a modicum of courtesy to journalists without snarling like his main opponent does. This selective media engagement prompts the question: do voters prefer leaders who control their messaging through sympathetic outlets, potentially fostering lazy leadership? How is this helpful?

As an editorial cartoonist advocating for the importance of visual commentary in a healthy democracy, I stress the vital role of editorial cartoons, especially during election seasons. They transcend partisan boundaries, demanding clear answers from politicians of all affiliations. The power of editorial cartoons lies in their ability to raise crucial questions and priorities, making them an indispensable part of democratic discourse.

“Journalism bought to you by Trudope’s red star party” – Oh, really?

Wherry’s article also touches on concerns about government-controlled journalism through subsidies and grants. While acknowledging the compromises to media independence, I strive to point out my autonomy as a cartoonist in critiquing politicians from all parties without influence from corporate overlords. If you don’t like how I treated your hero leader in today’s editorial cartoon, chances are you’re going to love my cartoon in days to follow when I go after the opponent of your beloved prince or princess.

Wherry’s piece further addresses the bias in mainstream media, which leans towards democratic values. As I have said, newspapers without editorial cartoons are likened to burgers without patties—incomplete. Editorial cartoons serve as essential commentary, evoking laughter, tears, or even discomfort. Satire should also be interpreted as free advice politicians and their handlers, adoring apologists, and sycophants should gladly accept for their own benefit. It serves to validate internal conflicts that partisan suck-ups may possess secretly in the deep recesses of the brain – in other words, did my hero just royally screw up? The satire that follows will confirm it before lengthy opinion pieces do!

A growing concern is the tribalism exacerbated by social media, where partisans perpetuate narrow-minded thinking as keyboard warriors and trolls. Social media has transformed political discourse into a chaotic frontier, with reasonable arguments drowned out by partisan cheerleading and buzzwords. Mainstream media, once a regulator of information, now contends with the power of likes and shares and membership sales that are earned registering their support through scrolling on smart phones, and influencing the rise of leaders like Poilievre, Ford, and let’s not leave out, Justin Trudeau, and his social media pile-on brigade.

October 20, 2022

In the face of Poilievre’s criticism of the media, it is crucial to uphold the role of journalists and editorial cartoonists who challenge the status quo and speak truth to power. As politicians increasingly shun legacy media for outlets aligning with their messaging, it is imperative to question whether this trend aligns with the desires of the average voter. Commentary, opinion pieces, and editorial cartoons, with their nuanced perspectives, remain pillars of democratic discourse. It’s high time politicians, including Poilievre, and their apologists recognize their role and embrace the scrutiny that comes with public office.

Pierre Poilievre, content with his disdain for a local reporter seems pretty proud of himself after this performance in this YouTube clip that it’s shared in its full glory on his fan channel. Here he is mawing on an apple while A&Qing in an Q&A interview. How charming. The tribal bubble of his fan base is on full display in the comments. But like all politicians in the modern age, they’ll all eventually be eating their words of devotion and revelry for him should he ever control the levers of power and falls out of favour. It happens to all of them, yet the useful idiots go on to endorse the next messianic snake-oil salesman.  

 

Sunday December 31, 2023

Graeme Gallery 2023 – Ontario
Graeme Gallery 2023 – Canada
Graeme Gallery 2023 – World

2023 Graeme Galleries

Click on the above images to visit 

I’ve been incredibly fortunate at the Hamilton Spectator this week with multiple pages dedicated to recapping the events of 2023 for three consecutive days. It’s truly an honuor and a testament to the commitment of certain print media outlets, like the Spec, that continue to embrace satire, local reporting, and staff photography in both print and digital journalism.

Traditionally, newspapers worldwide use the final week of the year to showcase editorial cartoons that skillfully capture the essence of the past 12 months through the lens of satire. Fortunately, there’s still a group of talented cartoonists keeping this tradition alive. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that editorial cartooning positions have been steadily declining as newspapers grapple with shrinking circulation and advertising revenues. This has led to the unfortunate practice of cutting or retiring artists and replacing local insights with generic, syndicated humour or uninspiring wire photos.

Graeme’s Gallery 2003

The impact has been particularly challenging for our newspaper. Our new office on Pritchard Street was closed, making remote work a permanent arrangement for those of us working behind the scenes to bring you the ink on your pages. A corporate bankruptcy from the mothership resulted in the permanent closure of many legacy weekly newspapers, leaving several daily newspapers in Ontario on the brink of extinction.

As we reflect on these challenges, I urge you to support your local newspapers. Remind editors that satire is a fundamental aspect of a healthy democracy. The likes, shares, and encouraging comments mean a lot to us, and we appreciate your continued support. Here’s to hoping for a brighter year ahead in 2024. Happy New Year!