University

Wednesday November 1, 2023

Student unions marching for Palestine may focus on raising awareness about Palestinian suffering, but it's important to have respectful dialogue considering diverse perspectives and experiences in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 1, 2023

Recognizing the Horrors Faced by Israelis and the Importance of Free Speech

April 12, 2012

In the aftermath of the tragic killings in Israel, McMaster University’s academic leaders conveyed their commitment to free speech while condemning any form of hate on campus. However, recent events have raised questions about how this commitment translates into action.

At McMaster University, posters displaying images of Jews who were kidnapped by Hamas were torn down before a Solidarity For Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) protest. Similar incidents occurred on other campuses, leaving the Jewish community feeling hurt and scared. As anti-Semitic comments and actions continue to rise globally, Jewish students are seeking strong condemnation of anti-Semitism from their universities.

Opinion: The virtueless, empty minds behind the vandalism of hostage posters  

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and NDP legislator Sarah Jama have become embroiled in a political dispute over their respective stances on the Middle East conflict, with Ford condemning Hamas and Jama issuing a cease-and-desist letter, highlighting concerns of politicians straying into international conflicts.

October 21, 2023

While advocating for Palestinian human rights is essential, tearing down images of innocent victims and disregarding the horrors faced by Israelis is destructive and dehumanizing. It demonstrates a disrespectful attitude towards the victims of violence and intimidates those who feel vulnerable.

Furthermore, the union representing teaching and research assistants at McMaster University posted a statement on social media expressing support for Palestine on the day of the attack. These actions, combined with the tearing down of posters, have left many Jewish individuals feeling unwelcome on campus.

It is crucial to acknowledge that freedom of speech includes the right to express radical, outrageous, offensive, and even despicable opinions. However, it is equally important for student unions and university administrations to strike a balance between upholding free speech and preventing the spread of hate and discrimination.

York University’s response to the student unions’ statement provides an example of the potential pitfalls in handling such situations. While it is essential to denounce and refute offensive views, punishing or restricting speech sets a dangerous precedent. The true essence of free speech lies in defending the right to express opinions, even if they are vehemently opposed.

Post-secondary student unions play a crucial role in representing the diverse voices of the student body. However, they should also be mindful of the responsibility they bear in promoting an inclusive and respectful environment. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion means recognizing the suffering of all parties involved in conflicts and fostering dialogue that encourages understanding and empathy.

News: US officials to meet Jewish leaders as anti-Semitism surges on campuses 

The relentless conflict in Gaza places both Palestinian and Israeli civilians in a dire predicament. As Hamas, responsible for numerous deadly acts against Israel and hostage-taking, triggers a planned offensive by Israel's IDF in northern Gaza City, it is inevitable that innocent civilians will suffer the repercussions.

October 14, 2023

The recent events at McMaster University and York University highlight the need for universities to take a strong stand against all forms of hatred and discrimination, including anti-Semitism. It is incumbent upon these institutions to ensure that all members of their communities feel safe, respected, and supported.

Freedom of speech should encompass the right to express offensive opinions, but it should not be used as a shield to perpetuate hate or disregard the suffering of any group. Post-secondary student unions must navigate this delicate balance, recognizing the horrors faced by Israelis while advocating for Palestinian rights. By fostering an environment that promotes dialogue, inclusivity, and empathy, universities can fulfill their mission of creating spaces where diverse perspectives are respected and celebrated.

 

Wednesday August 30, 2023

August 30, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday August 30, 2023

Neglecting International Students: A Tale of High Tuition, Apartment Woes, and Job Struggles

June 7, 2023

In the increasingly globalized world of higher education, international students are often seen as a boon to both the economy and cultural diversity of host countries. However, the reality for many of these students can be a far cry from the idealized image. In Canada, a country that has seen a significant rise in international student enrollment in recent years, the failure of both the government and higher learning institutions to adequately accommodate these students is a glaring example of systemic negligence. The ongoing housing affordability crisis, coupled with the frustrating job search for international students, highlights the disheartening lack of support they receive despite paying exorbitant tuition fees.

Canada’s housing affordability crisis is no secret. Skyrocketing property prices and rents in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have made finding suitable accommodation a nightmare for locals, let alone international students. The government’s suggestion to cap the number of international students as a solution to the housing crunch demonstrates a baffling disconnect from the root causes of the problem. Blaming international students for a crisis largely fueled by inadequate housing supply and speculative practices only serves to deflect attention from the government’s failure to address these issues effectively.

 September 30, 2017

Adding insult to injury, the struggles of international students extend beyond housing. Many of these students come to Canada with dreams of not only gaining a world-class education but also contributing to the local economy through part-time jobs. However, the reality is often a disheartening tale of job search frustration. Limited job opportunities, coupled with the need to navigate a complex web of work permits and regulations, make the process overwhelming. International students find themselves in a Catch-22 situation: they need work experience to build a future but are denied the chance to gain it due to systemic barriers.

It’s worth highlighting that international students are not just temporary residents; they are crucial contributors to Canada’s economy and culture. They pay significantly higher tuition fees than domestic students, essentially subsidizing the education system. Yet, this investment is met with insufficient support when it comes to essential needs like housing and job opportunities. Universities, which benefit financially from international students, must take a more proactive role in advocating for their well-being rather than merely opposing efforts to address the housing crisis.

November 20, 2019

While international students might be seen as an easy scapegoat for the housing crisis, the real culprits are the failure of the government and higher learning institutions to prioritize the well-being of these individuals who are contributing so much to the nation’s prosperity. The solution to this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses increasing housing supply, addressing affordability, and providing better job opportunities for all residents, regardless of their origin.

Canada’s aspiration to welcome immigrants and international students is commendable, but it must be accompanied by genuine efforts to ensure their successful integration. The proposal to cap international student enrollment is a shortsighted and misguided response to a multifaceted problem. Instead, the government and universities must work collaboratively to develop comprehensive policies that prioritize accessible housing and equitable job opportunities. Only then can Canada truly stand as a model of inclusive education and a welcoming environment for all, regardless of their background. (AI) | Editorial cartoon published in the Hamilton Spectator.

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:

 

Wednesday August 31, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday August 31, 2022

Western University mandating COVID-19 booster shots, masking ahead of fall term

Western University is implementing vaccine and masking requirements this September for students, faculty, staff and some visitors. 

October 21, 2020

The London, Ont., university is requiring those returning to campus to be vaccinated for COVID-19 twice with an additional booster. There is also a mask mandate in place in classrooms and seminar rooms for the first five weeks of class followed by a reassessment. 

 “Considering that the general population is at 50 per cent in terms of their booster shot, we think it’s not too much of an effort to get where we want to get,” said Florentine Strzelczyk, provost and vice-president (academic). 

The policy takes effect as of Monday, however the campus community has until October 1 to submit current proof of vaccination to the university.

Friday September 8, 2018

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday September 8, 2018

Worries, praise follow Ontario government’s new free speech directive

Universities and colleges in Ottawa say they’ll work with the Ontario government to meet next year’s deadline for crafting free speech policies, as campus groups both laud and worry about the new directive.

August 24, 2018

The province announced last week that schools have until Jan. 1, 2019 to develop, implement and comply with policies that meet a minimum standard the government sets — or risk losing funding.

That standard is based on the University of Chicago Statement of Principles of Free Expression, which doesn’t allow for hate speech but precludes shielding students from ideas they might disagree with or find offensive.

There are fears, however, that the Progressive Conservative government’s new directive could blur the line between free speech and hate speech.

“There’s a limit as to where healthy debate becomes a little bit of an issue. Because as we’ve seen in the past, some of these things have led to students feeling unsafe, students feeling like they were targeted or hated,” said David Oladejo, president of Carleton University Students’ Association.

Oladejo said he welcomes clarification on university free speech policies, as long as they’re not vaguely worded and students don’t feel unsafe on campus.

He said he doesn’t believe there have been any incidents in recent years in which Carleton students have felt threatened by either groups or guest lecturers. (Source: CBC)

 

Saturday September 30, 2017

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 30, 2017

McMaster going tobacco, smoke-free

McMaster University will become the province’s first tobacco and smoke-free campus next year.

As of Jan. 1, 2018, using tobacco and all oral smoking devices will be prohibited on McMaster campuses.

This includes the Hamilton campus, inside and on the grounds of the Ron Joyce Centre in Burlington, as well as at all McMaster-owned properties.

The university said it is working to help students, faculty and staff adapt to the new policy and educate the community before it comes into effect.

“McMaster University recognizes the unique relationship that many Indigenous cultures have with traditional and sacred medicines,” says a post on Mac’s Daily News website. “As such, exemptions to this policy will be granted, upon request, to members of the McMaster University community.”

There will be phased-in enforcement of the designation starting in January.

For the first months, anyone found in contravention of the policy will be asked to stop or referred to supports and resources. (Source: Hamilton Spectator)