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Hamilton

Saturday March 22, 2025

March 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Rising trade tensions and controversial figures spark vandalism against Tesla in Canada, reflecting deep-rooted socio-political unrest.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 22, 2025

The Tesla Turmoil in Canada

The convergence of Elon Musk’s influence over U.S. elections, Donald Trump’s authoritarian ambitions, and Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical agenda feels eerily like the unfolding of a real-life James Bond thriller, with democracy and global security hanging in the balance.

October 26, 2024

In recent years, the relationship between the United States and Canada has been strained, largely due to the actions and policies of former President Donald Trump. His approach of using “economic force” has led to unintended and destructive consequences, sparking unrest and acts reminiscent of guerilla warfare.

News: Canadians Turn on Tesla, and It Becomes Physical

The tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imposed by the Trump administration marked a significant shift away from the cooperative spirit of the USMCA free trade agreement. Hamilton, Ontario, a key player in Canada’s steel industry, has been hit hard by these measures. By ignoring the principles of trust and goodwill in the USMCA, Trump has not only damaged diplomatic ties but also ignited resentment and resistance among Canadians.

The final report on foreign interference in Canada reveals serious threats from various nations, yet it's the economic pressures from Trump's policies that unexpectedly drive Canada's political focus.

January 28, 2025

Adding to the tension, Trump’s comments about Canada becoming the 51st state have stirred unease. Such remarks, whether serious or not, undermine the sovereignty and pride of Canada, a long-standing ally. Coupled with Elon Musk’s alleged statement that “Canada is not a real country,” these actions suggest a troubling disregard for Canada’s independence.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and an advisor to Trump, has become a divisive figure in this narrative. Known for his controversial behaviour, Musk has been given the task of drastically reducing the U.S. federal workforce. His influence extends beyond business, as he uses his social media platform to spread information that some believe interferes with democratic processes. Musk’s rhetoric against Canada, including the alleged remark that “Canada is not a real country,” has only intensified the animosity. For many Canadians, Musk represents a direct threat to their sovereignty and democracy.

The inauguration of Donald Trump in the Capitol Rotunda, a site of past chaos, highlights the deepening divides and fears surrounding his administration while Biden's preemptive pardons attempt to shield his adversaries from potential retribution against a backdrop of oligarchic influence.

January 21, 2025

The backlash against Musk in Canada has been swift and intense. In Hamilton, more than 80 Teslas were vandalized, seen by many as a protest against what they perceive as an attack on their livelihoods. While vandalism is undoubtedly destructive, it reflects a deeper sense of frustration and desperation. When faced with economic force from a hardline president, these acts of defiance become a form of protest for those who feel marginalized and powerless.

News: Tesla under fire: Vanadalism, protests in Hamilton signal tense U.S.-Canada relations

August 28, 2018

The Trump administration’s decision to label these acts as “domestic terrorism” seems inconsistent, especially when compared to the pardons granted to those involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Describing violent rioters as “patriots” while condemning Canadian protestors as terrorists highlights a troubling inconsistency in the application of justice.

The events unfolding in Canada serve as a warning about the unintended consequences of using economic force without considering diplomatic integrity and international cooperation. As tensions rise and acts of defiance continue, it is crucial for leaders to reflect on the impact of their policies and rhetoric. True leadership requires not only strength but also empathy and respect for the sovereignty and dignity of all nations.


Resisting Tesla

Some thoughts on the recent spate of vandalism against Teslas, especially since 80 of them were targeted in my own community, grabbing international attention. This is happening amidst some broader political and economic issues. Now, don’t get me wrong—I think the Tesla trucks are quite the eyesore, but generally, I’m a fan of electric cars. Elon’s are called “Cybertrucks,” am I right? The problem is, owning one is just too costly for many of us. So, when I see a Tesla on the road, I can’t help but think its driver is flaunting wealth, much like those who used to drive around in those obnoxious Hummers.

I’m not one to condone vandalism against personal property, but in this case, I find myself understanding the resistance. Here’s why:

Donald Trump launched an economic war against Canada, disregarding the good faith established by the USMCA. By imposing harsh tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, he’s directly targeting Hamilton, the heart of our steel industry.

His comments about wanting Canada to become the 51st state are unsettling, to say the least.

Trump enlisted Elon Musk—yeah, the world’s richest guy, who’s been leaning far right and has a bizarre knack for making Nazi-style salutes—to slash the U.S. federal civil service with mass firings.

The idea that “Canada is not a real country” aligns with Trump’s annexation ambitions.

Musk’s influence, especially through his social media platform, is a genuine threat to Canadian sovereignty. His spread of misinformation and interference in elections is alarming.

The backlash against Musk is rooted in his ties with Trump and the assault on livelihoods, especially in Hamilton. While I can’t support the vandalism itself, I see it as a reaction to Musk’s provocations.

Labeling this as “domestic terrorism” by Trump’s administration is laughable, especially considering the pardons given to those he called “patriots” after the January 6th Capitol attack.

In essence, when a hardline president imposes “economic force,” it’s almost inevitable that guerrilla warfare-like resistance will follow. That’s precisely what’s unfolding now.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-06, annexation, Canada, diplomacy, Domestic Terrorist, Donald Trump, Economy, Elon Musk, Hamilton, protest, QAnon Shamon, resistance, sovereignty, steel, Substack, tariffs, tesla, Trade, USMCA, vandalism

Sunday November 3, 2024

November 3, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Rediscovering Ivan Glassco: The Unearthed Legacy of a Canadian Cartoonist

This was also posted as an entry experiment to the platform Substack

Editorial cartoonists are society’s ‘canaries in the coal mine’ – The Hamilton Spectator, Saturday November 2, 2024

When I embarked on my deep dive into the work of Ivan Russell Glassco, the legendary editorial cartoonist for The Hamilton Spectator, I knew I was in for a journey rich with discovery. What I didn’t anticipate was how this project would redefine not just my appreciation of Glassco’s art but my understanding of historical journalism itself. This exploration was made possible by the recent, game-changing digitization of The Hamilton Spectator archives. No longer confined to the labourious task of threading scratchy microfilm through bulky readers, researchers like myself now have the luxury of scrolling through pages from nearly a century ago with the swipe of a finger, courtesy of newspapers.com.

Ivan Glassco

Before this digitization effort, accessing anything prior to the early 2000s meant dusting off reels of microfilm, a process that was daunting at best. The flicker and hum of the machine, whether the repetitive hand-crank, or faulty electric spinners, and the inevitable eye strain were the hallmarks of archival research. But today, the stories and illustrations that once required hours to locate can be called up almost instantly, and for Glassco’s admirers, this is a treasure trove offers potential for research.

Self-Defence

I’ve spent months meticulously scouring these digital archives, capturing screenshots of every Ivan Glassco editorial cartoon. Each one, often marred by the imperfections of its original medium—blotches, scratches, and the texture of aged newsprint—needed careful tending. Using a combination of image-editing tools, I cleaned up each scan, breathing new life into Glassco’s bold, striking lines and ensuring his sharp wit and evocative symbolism stood as vividly as they once did on the printed page.

To make this collection functional for future studies, I’ve also added comprehensive metadata to each image: the date of publication, the context surrounding the cartoon, and thematic tags. This meticulous cataloging not only enriches my own research but opens up new possibilities for those who want to delve into Glassco’s era and impact without starting from scratch.

Race Hatred

The 1930s were a decade of seismic change, punctuated by economic upheaval and the brewing shadows of global conflict. Glassco’s work chronicled this uneasy time with unmatched incisiveness. Each cartoon wasn’t just an illustration—it was a commentary that captured the heartbeat of a society grappling with uncertainty. His portrayal of political figures, economic woes, and public sentiment was laced with humour, empathy, and a clarity that resonated beyond the news cycle. These pieces, sometimes funny and at other times searingly somber, form a rich tableau of Canadian and world history as seen through Glassco’s eyes.

Adolf Hitler & Josef Stalin

What isn’t always clear from the articles written about him is the versatility he brought to his work. His cartoons balanced the fine line between critique and entertainment; he managed to provoke thought without alienating his audience. There’s a palpable sincerity in his lines—whether sketching Roosevelt navigating the treacherous waters of the Great Depression or caricaturing local political disputes—that highlights a deep understanding of the human condition.

“War Monger”

These digital restorations could form the basis of an exhibition, pairing each cartoon with the stories that surrounded them, or become part of an interactive online archive where educators and historians can draw connections between Glassco’s work and modern political cartoons. Perhaps a thematic compendium, highlighting how certain motifs evolved over his career, or even a classroom resource for illustrating the art of political commentary.

But for now, the work remains personal. It’s an act of homage to an artist who, despite gaining acclaim in his day, didn’t live long enough to see the full extent of his influence. Each restored image is a reminder of Glassco’s ability to cut to the heart of an issue with only pen and paper. And each, too, underscores what was lost with his untimely death—a voice that, had history allowed, would have continued to shape public thought and dialogue through the fraught years of World War II and beyond.

My study of Ivan Glassco’s oeuvre, conducted one frame at a time, is a testament not just to his talent but to the importance of preserving and revisiting the voices of the past. His cartoons may have been born of the 1930s, but their resonance is timeless, calling out to be re-seen, re-understood, and celebrated anew.

The Hamilton Spectator – 26 January, 1950

Posted in: Cartooning, Substack Post Tagged: 2024-20, Editorial Cartoon, editorial cartoonist, Hamilton, Ivan Glassco

Saturday November 18, 2023

November 18, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

As November's gloomy weather and distressing news dominate headlines, the arrival of the Canadian Football League's Grey Cup in Hamilton becomes a much-needed and joyous diversion, offering a week-long celebration filled with free events, music, sports, and community engagement.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday November 18, 2023

Grey Cup Fever: A Welcome Escape from November’s Gloom”

September 8, 2020

As the chill of November settles in, bringing with it the gloom of dreary weather and the weight of troubling news, Canadians find solace and excitement in the arrival of the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) Grey Cup. The coveted trophy has made its way to Hamilton, setting the stage for the championship clash between Winnipeg and Montreal on Sunday, Nov. 19.

In a time when headlines are dominated by war, inflation, conflict, and a cost of living crisis, the Grey Cup festivities offer a much-needed diversion. The city of Hamilton is gearing up for a week-long celebration, with events scattered across town, promising entertainment and joy for everyone.

While the Hamilton Tiger-Cats won’t be vying for the 110th Grey Cup after being eliminated by Montreal, the game on Sunday is just one part of the spectacle. The CFL has orchestrated a series of events, many of which are free, ensuring that the entire community can join in on the excitement.

Analysis: Negativity drives online news consumption  

June 17, 2023

The festivities kick off with the Grey Cup’s grand entrance on His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Harry DeWolf. Although the ship’s arrival is exclusive to the media, the official Grey Cup arrival ceremony, set against the backdrop of the Arctic-defending vessel, is open to all onlookers at HMCS Star Naval Reserve Division.

One of the week’s highlights is the CFL Fan Central, reminiscent of the popular Supercrawl, taking over James Street N. from Thursday at 11 a.m. This event promises a vibrant atmosphere with a beer garden, food trucks, inflatables, a Christmas market, giveaways, games, and more.

For those seeking a taste of Calgary Stampede without leaving Hamilton, the Calgary Grey Cup Committee is hosting a free breakfast on James Street on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meanwhile, a community race involving 2,000 students will see them sprint from Gage Park to Tim Hortons Field, adding a touch of youthful enthusiasm to the festivities.

Music enthusiasts are in for a treat with the kickoff to the music festival on Thursday, featuring local talent like The Dirty Nil and Montreal’s NOBRO. The music festival, running from Friday to Saturday, promises a diverse lineup of performances, offering a respite from the anxieties of the outside world.

News: ‘It’s a big party’: Grey Cup Festival kicks off as game day nears  

November 1, 2022

Beyond the game itself, fans have the opportunity to interact with CFL players, get autographs, and capture memorable moments with the Grey Cup at the Canadian Football League Players’ Association headquarters.

Even the annual Hamilton Santa Claus Parade is getting a Grey Cup twist, as CFL cheer teams and the trophy itself become part of the spectacle. As the parade weaves through the streets of downtown Hamilton, festival-themed giveaways will add an extra layer of cheer to the event.

Sports enthusiasts can head to the John Weir Foote Armoury on James Street N. to witness the Hamilton Flag Football Classic—a three-day tournament featuring teams from across southern Ontario and the chance to meet CFL alumni.

The week concludes with the CFL’s 2023 awards ceremony at the Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls, providing a glamorous setting for recognizing outstanding achievements in Canadian football.

In a world filled with uncertainties, the Grey Cup festivities serve as a welcome distraction, offering a chance for the community to come together, celebrate, and momentarily escape the weight of November’s gloom. So, as the Grey Cup takes center stage, let us embrace the joy it brings and revel in the shared experience of a much-needed diversion. (AI)

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2023-20, Canada, doom and gloom, four horsemen of the apocalypse, Grey Cup, Grim reaper, Hamilton, negative news, news

Thursday September 28, 2023

September 28, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday September 28, 2023

Municipal Budget Woes: The Balancing Act Amid Rising Costs

March 24, 2007

In Ontario, municipalities are currently navigating treacherous financial waters, trying to maintain essential services while grappling with budget shortfalls. The pressures to raise property taxes loom large, but it’s a precarious path to tread, especially at a time when citizens are already stretched thin by rising inflation, borrowing costs, and a cost of living crisis. The recent budget discussions in Hamilton serve as a stark reminder of the anxieties that homeowners face.

News: City says 14.2 per cent tax increase looming for Hamilton next year  

August 22, 2012

Coun. Tom Jackson’s recent question in Hamilton hit a nerve: with skyrocketing property values since the last assessment in 2016, many homeowners feared their taxes would double or worse. The reality, as explained by Carmelo Lipsi, the vice-president and COO of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC), is far less dire. Reassessment doesn’t automatically double your taxes; it just redistributes the tax burden.

The reassessment process is based on a complex set of factors, including real estate activity, property size, location, and construction quality. When the reassessment occurs, it compares the change in your property’s assessed value to the average change for similar properties in your municipality. If your property’s increase exceeds the average, you may expect to pay more taxes; if it’s below, you might see a reduction.

August 14, 2014

In areas with rapidly rising property values, homeowners may face tax increases, while those in more stable areas could see a reduction. Additionally, area rating in Hamilton, where different parts of town pay varying amounts for different services, further complicates the tax calculation.

It’s crucial to note that reassessment isn’t the only factor affecting taxes. Council-approved tax increases also contribute to changes in property tax bills. However, the idea that reassessment alone could double or triple taxes is a misconception.

The situation isn’t unique to Hamilton. Brockville is also facing budgetary challenges, with inflation, rising costs, and unforeseen expenses impacting the 2023 budget. A reliance on fiscal policy reserves and the need to find sustainable revenue sources loom large.

Analysis: As Ontario rolls in tax dollars, why are its cities so cash-strapped?

July 21, 2023

Oshawa, on the other hand, is exercising Strong Mayor powers to expedite budget decisions as part of a broader commitment to building 1.5 million homes by 2031. While these powers grant mayors greater control over budgets, the impact on housing remains uncertain.

In Toronto, Mayor Olivia Chow’s proposal for a city sales tax was met with mixed reactions. The city faces a substantial budget shortfall, and while the sales tax idea seems off the table for now, it highlights the challenging choices municipalities must make to bridge budget gaps.

Ultimately, municipalities in Ontario are navigating a complex financial landscape, and their perennial default is often to seek support from other levels of government. Raising property taxes, while often necessary to fund essential services, must be done judiciously, considering the economic pressures on residents. The reassessment process may not be the doomsday scenario some fear, but it’s a reminder of the delicate balance that local governments must strike when managing budgets in trying times. The key is transparency, communication, and a commitment to ensuring the burden of taxation remains fair for all residents. (AI)

 

Posted in: Hamilton, Ontario Tagged: 2023-17, Budget, cost of living, dominoes, federalism, Hamilton, inflation, Municipality, Ontario, property tax, tax

Graeme Gallery 2022 – Hamilton

December 27, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Tuesday December 27, 2022. This is a special digital version of Graeme Galleries, Hamilton edition, as a preview to the full page print extravaganza in days to come that will unfold on the Comment Pages of the Hamilton Spectator and several other Metroland newspapers. Click on any of the cartoons to link back to the original dates they were posted:

March 30, 2022
March 30, 2022
April 7, 2022
April 7, 2022
June 11, 2022
June 11, 2022
June 22, 2022
June 22, 2022
July 27, 2022
July 27, 2022
August 17, 2022
August 17, 2022
September 17, 2022
September 17, 2022
October 1, 2022
October 1, 2022
October 15, 2022
October 15, 2022
October 19, 2022
October 19, 2022
October 26, 2022
October 26, 2022
November 23, 2022
November 23, 2022
Mayor Fred Cartoon Gallery
Mayor Fred Cartoon Gallery

Hamilton Galleries

2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014

Posted in: Cartooning, Hamilton Tagged: 2022, Graeme Gallery, GraemeGalleries2022, Hamilton, review, Year in review
1 2 … 95 Next »

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This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

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