Children’s Hospital Book Market remains on hold due to COVID-19

October 14, 2021

For Immediate Release

For more information 

sshyiak@hsc.mb.ca 

Children’s Hospital Book Market remains on hold due to COVID-19 

Volunteers not able to collect book donations 

Winnipeg, MB – The Children’s Hospital Book Market remains on hold due to COVID-19. The health and safety of volunteers and the public is the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba’s top priority. No books are being collected and the public is reminded NOT to drop off donations at firehalls or Dufresne Furniture and Appliances stores, as they will not be accepted. 

As COVID-19 continues to challenge the healthcare system, Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba is grateful for supporters who #ContinueCaringForKids by donating online at goodbear.ca. 

The Book Market has been on hold since spring, 2020 due to the pandemic. The sale typically raises over $300,000 of the $500,000 needed to fund important programs that comfort children in hospital. These include: 

- Children’s Hospital TV (CHTV), the in-house TV station that provides free programming for all patients and broadcasts a live, daily show to engage and entertain kids in hospital 

- Music Therapy 

- The Book Corner and Family Information Library 

- Therapeutic clowning 

- The playroom, that has not only toys but a mini hospital environment where kids can learn about procedures they will experience in hospital (Child Life specialists also bring the playroom experience to kids who can’t leave their rooms, which has been very important with COVID-19 restrictions) 

If you would like to support kids in hospital with the gift of play, please consider making a donation similar to the amount you would have spent on a book at goodbear.ca. 

WINNING Shot Contest Deadline Extension

WINNING Shot Contest Deadline Extension

By Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of The Quill

Photo Credits: Brandonu.ca

Before the fall semester started, Brandon University announced a "Winning Shot" contest to encourage students, staff, and faculty to vaccinate against COVID-19. In order to enter, students, staff, and faculty had to be double vaccinated by September 10, 2021. Since then, the University has implemented a vaccine policy in which students, faculty, and staff will be required to show proof of complete vaccination against covid-19 or apply for an exemption. If individuals fail to showcase proof of full vaccination, they will not be allowed on campus. 

           All doors to the Brandon University campus will be closed as of October 31, 2021, and everyone who needs to come in will need to swipe their Brandon University ID. In order to claim your access to Brandon University campus after October 31, students, staff, and faculty will need to upload vaccine verification to: https://vaccination.brandonu.ca/ Furthermore, door access will be granted to those who have approved exemptions as well as those who are partially vaccinated and are expected to be fully vaccinated by November 15, 2021. 

           Brandon University felt that in order for students, faculty, and staff to meet the vaccine policy requirements, it would be best to extend the deadline for ht Winning Shot contest. You must enter by October 31, 2021, to qualify for the draw, and you must be fully vaccinated to enter. Let's all get vaccinated!

The full list of prizes includes (taken from Brandonu.ca):

Student Prizes:

GRAND PRIZE — $5,000 value

One lucky vaccinated student will win a credit of up to $5,000 towards your tuition and fees. You can also apply this credit to BU parking passes, purchases at the BU Bookstore, or to any BU Residence or Meal Plan.

5x SECOND PRIZES — $400 value

Five vaccinated students will each win a credit of up to $400 towards your choice of a BU parking pass, purchases at the BU Bookstore, or any BU Residence or Meal Plan.

10x THIRD PRIZES — $50 value

Ten vaccinated students will each win a $50 gift card for your choice of the BU Bookstore or Harvest Hall.

Staff/Faculty prizes

5x FIRST PRIZES — approx. $400 value

Five vaccinated BU employees will win your choice of a one-year BU parking pass or a one-year HLC membership.

5x SECOND PRIZES — approx. $100 value

Five vaccinated BU employees will each win an individual Bobcats season tickets package.

10x THIRD PRIZES — $50 value

Ten vaccinated BU employees will each win a $50 gift card for your choice of the BU Bookstore, Harvest Hall, or the Healthy Living Centre.

**For more information please go to: https://www.brandonu.ca/winning-shot/prizes/

Truth and Reconciliation: A Day, or Week, Its Not Enough But Its a Start

Truth and Reconciliation: 

A Day, or Week, Its Not Enough But Its a Start

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

(Image Credit: Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples' Council Facebook Page)

From September 27th until October 1st had a number of events at Brandon University and the Riverbank Discovery Centre related to the Truth and Reconciliation towards Indigenous peoples.In the early morning hours of Monday, September 27, Knowledge Keeper Frank Tacan marked the beginning of Truth and Reconciliation Week with a sunrise ceremony, offering gratitude and prayers of blessing for the land and the events that have taken place there over the course of the week. Tim Bone lit the ceremonial fire and Firekeepers tended to the fire throughout the week until October 1st. Shortly after the sunrise ceremony at 9 a.m., Mayor Rick Chrest officiated over the raising of an orange flag on the guest pole at city hall. The flag was held up until Monday, October 4, when the annual Sisters in Spirit vigil and walk will take place. September 30th was also the first National Day of Truth and Reconciliation recognized by the Federal government. Prior to that, the 30th of September was known as Orange Shirt Day to honour those affected by Residential Schools. On the 30th of September all flags were lowered to half-mast as a symbol of mourning for the thousands of children whose lives were stolen by Canada’s residential school system, their families, and to honour survivors.

BUAPC and the organizing committee for Truth and Reconciliation Week (The organizing committee, along with BUAPC, is made up of the Brandon Friendship Centre, Assiniboine Community College, Brandon University and the Manitoba Métis Federation Southwestern Region) expressed their  gratitude to all the sponsors who have committed to ensuring that the week had been a meaningful experience for all, which included Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in and around Brandon: City of Brandon, Westoba Credit Union, Compass Credit Union, Sunrise Credit Union, and Natural Elements Wellness Centre. The organizing committee also gratefully acknowledged the Riverbank Discovery Centre (Brandon Riverbank Inc.) for hosting Truth and Reconciliation Week at its site on the Assiniboine River.

The week had been educational and helped to provide some healing to those affected by these recent parts of our history. It is being acknowledged and that is a very important step. However, a single day that allows banks and schools to close seem to go against the entire idea of educating people about these atrocities that have happened. To have a time set aside to honour them is good, but so is educating those who don’t know or don’t understand what the idea behind Truth and Reconciliation really means. Extending the education to a full week also helps, but it will take far longer for healing, if the wounds can even be healed a small amount. 

It is important to lean and educate yourself about what the day means to Indigenous people. It will take more than a day but it is a start. 

Truth and Reconciliation: A National Day of Remembrance

Truth and Reconciliation: A National Day of Remembrance

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

September 30th, 2021 marks the first national day for Truth and Reconciliation.The day honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The creation of this federal statutory holiday was through legislative amendments made by Parliament. On June 3, 2021, Bill C-5, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) received Royal Assent. As a result of this, Brandon University and all schools within the Brandon School Division will be closed to bring recognition to this day. 

The day was initially commemorated by wearing Orange shirts. It honours the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and remembers those who did not. This day relates to the experience of Phyllis Webstad, a Northern Secwpemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation, on her first day of school, where she arrived dressed in a new orange shirt, which was taken from her. It is now a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations. On September 30, it is encouraged that Canadians to wear orange to raise awareness of the very tragic legacy of residential schools, and to honour the thousands of Survivors.

Survivors and relatives of survivors have advocated for truth and reconciliation for decades.The Truth and Reconciliation Commission ran from 2008 to 2015 and provided those directly or indirectly affected by the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools policy with an opportunity to share their stories and experiences. There were 140 federally run Indian Residential Schools which operated in Canada between 1831 and 1998. The last school closed only 23 years ago. Survivors advocated for recognition and reparations and demanded accountability for the lasting legacy of harms caused.  The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation has become the permanent archive for the statements, documents and other materials the Commission gathered, and its library and collections are the foundation for ongoing learning and research.The Commission released its final report detailing 94 calls to action. 

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a direct response to Call to Action 80, which called for a federal statutory day of commemoration. The efforts of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee resulted in: 

• the Indian residential schools settlement agreement

• Apologies by the government

• the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

• the creation of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

Now there is the creation of a National Day, it does seem inappropriate to call it a holiday but it is now a day that is marked on Calendars and closes down schools in order to educate the country about the atrocities the Indigenous people have encountered in Canada and in the United States. 

It will take more than a single day to repair the damage  of the past. It will take more than a single day to educate others. It will take more than one day to understand it. It will take more than a single day but a single day is a way to start healing. 

Wear an orange shirt to commemorate the day. Remember that every child matters. Remember that the trauma has affected each person differently. The main thing to do is listen and learn. 

Building Fire Displaces Numerous BU Students

Building Fire Displaces Numerous BU Students

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

(Photo Credit: Brandon Sun/Winnipeg Free Press)

On Tuesday, September 21 2021, a fire broke out at 1400 Pacific avenue at a 48 unit condominium. Everyone got out, and there were no injuries reported but the building is heavily damaged. A number of those living in that building are Brandon University students as well as staff and faculty. More than 100 people were left affected from the fire and had to leave with little more than the clothes on their backs. 

The building itself was only 10 years old and the fire resulted in at least 11 million dollars worth of damage.The Office of the Fire Commissioner has concluded that the cause of the fire that tore through Valley View Condominiums at 1400 Pacific Avenue on Tuesday, was accidental and caused by careless disposal of smoking materials. While many pets were reunited with their owners, at least one cat died as a result of the fire. 

Some of the units of the building were completely destroyed by fire. Others were destroyed by heavy water damage from the firefighters intense efforts to control and extinguish the fire. There is also heavy smoke damage throughout the building. The residents have lost nearly everything. 

There are numerous businesses across Brandon and the surrounding area that have found ways to help support those who were affected by this fire. Brandon University is included in that. BUSU sent out a letter to student emails. They are accepting donations of food, clothes, household items, school supplies and cash. Other donations are also accepted. These donations can be brought to the BUSU office Monday-to-Friday during office hours. 

There is also a way to reach out if you need help and are affected by this drastic event. An advocate can be reached at advocate@busu,ca or (204) 571 7843. If you need access to the student food bank outside of its regular hours, contact Maggie at (204) 727 977 or by email at foodbank@busu.ca.

There is help too give, and help to be received.

Manitoba Collaboration Pulls Together and Launches Regionally-Specific Indigenization Foundational Guide

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Manitoba Collaboration Pulls Together and Launches

Regionally-Specific Indigenization Foundational Guide

BRANDON, Man. (September 15, 2021)— Elders, Knowledge Keepers, community members, and

Indigenous organizations across Manitoba have ‘pulled together’ to work alongside Assiniboine

Community College (ACC), Brandon University (BU), and Campus Manitoba (CMB) to adapt the Pulling

Together Foundations Guide for Manitoba.

Originally created in British Columbia as part of a larger Indigenization project, the Pulling Together:

Manitoba Foundations Guide (Brandon Edition) will provide a starting point for those who want to learn

more about Indigenous Peoples in the Prairie region of Canada and those who wish to begin their journey

of understanding Canada’s colonial legacy.

In 2019, the stars aligned for this unprecedented community collaboration when Assiniboine’s Vice

President Academic, Dr. Deanna Rexe, brought the original B.C. resource to the attention of the

Assiniboine community for consideration of adopting for the college’s cultural diversity training

objectives. Not long thereafter, Assiniboine was approached by BU and CMB, who were looking at

adapting the foundation guide for Manitoba.

“We all need to pull the load together. The time has come to recognize differences, acknowledge them

and accept that we are stronger together. We are a blend. We have heard it so many ways. Think of the

blades of sweetgrass braided together and how strong it becomes. We want to share our stories and get

everyone thinking about how we live, how we interact and how we could strengthen our communities if

we are all pulling the load. We can do better,” said Leah LaPlante, Vice President at Manitoba Metis

Federation.

One recurring theme throughout is that this guide is not a definitive resource, as First Nations, Metis, and

Inuit perspectives, stories, and approaches are diverse across Turtle Island. This is meant to be a starting

place where people can continue their learning off the page and into the communities in Manitoba and

beyond.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to work with community partners, Brandon University, and Campus

Manitoba in adapting this resource,” said Kris Desjarlais, Director of Indigenous Education at Assiniboine.

“The guidance we received from Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Indigenous organizations authenticated

the process. We look forward to sharing the resource with staff, students and the broader community.”

The Pulling Together: Manitoba Foundations Guide (Brandon edition) is an open educational resource.

The resource can be found at pressbooks.openedmb.ca/pullingtogethermanitoba. For more information

about open education in Manitoba, visit openedmb.ca.

-30-

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 55

years and offers certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including

culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and

trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades

disciplines.

With more than 3,600 full-time students and campuses in Brandon, Dauphin and Winnipeg, Assiniboine

provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with

many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training.

Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and

Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe

peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who

seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Kris Desjarlais

Director, Indigenous Education

Assiniboine Community College

desjarlaisk4@assiniboine.net

204.725.8700, ext. 6045

BU Women’s Soccer Coach placed on leave

BU Women’s Soccer Coach placed on leave

By: Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of the Quill

Photo: BU Website

Last week Students at BU found out from the Winnipeg Free Press and the Brandon Sun that the women’s soccer head coach, Jesse Roziere, had been placed on leave due to sexual misconduct allegations. However, students were shocked to find out he remained on the for months despite a school investigation concluding he acted inappropriately with the student-athletes. BU students learned that last fall, a female student approached BU’s athletic director with allegations concerning Roziere’s sexual advances on players, sending out suggestive messages through Snapchat and asking them to be his designated driver when he was out drinking. 

           Last month, the complainant requested a new probe to consider BU’s sexualized violence policy; however, as reported by Brandon Sun, they were declined by human resources. Last Tuesday, given the media attention, Brandon University gave a statement saying that Roziere had been asked to step away from his coaching duties. At the same time, a new investigation is underway due to the latest information that has come to light. The university did not disclose what further information had come to light but said that a third party would conduct the information. 

           Three students have come forward and given interviews to the Winnipeg Free Press describing moments where they witnessed or experienced Roziere’s misconduct behaviour. The students identify moments of blackmail in the form of running laps or benching if they told anyone about his behaviour. The students said that this ultimately led them to leave the team. In their separate interviews with the Winnipeg Free Press, one of the students said she witnessed Roziere acting inappropriately toward her peers at parties through messaging and in the soccer environment. She also claimed that the coach’s perverted behaviour is a pattern of grooming and manipulation of players. Over the weekend, one of the affected students said on her social media that they were saddened and disgusted to see that the Women’s soccer team played and, in support of Jesse Roziere, wore his initials on their socks. One of BU’s collectives that were quick to respond and support those affected was the Gender Empowerment Collective. They came out in support of all those affected by this news and offered their support and resources. On a Facebook and Instagram post, they announced they announced that they “will advocate on behalf of all students to show BU that they demand justice for all affected.”

Please note The Quill will continue to report on this matter as new information comes to light and offers their support and resources to those affected. 

The complete Winnipeg Free Press and Brandon Sun articles can be found here: 

https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/brandon-university-coach-on-leave-after-sexually-suggestive-behaviour-alleged-575316302.html 

https://www.brandonsun.com/local/brandon-university-coach-on-leave-after-sexually-suggestive-behaviour-alleged-575316302.html

A Journey For the Children of Residential Schools

A Journey For the Children of Residential Schools

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

The discovery of unmarked graves at various sites across Canada that once belonged to the residential schools was a saddening discovery. Many children who were forced to go these schools and never came home and those who did come home were never the same. Some chose to remember and honor these children by lowering the Canadian flag to half-mast but it wasn’t enough. That action made it look as though it was only a passing thought in Canadians minds rather that a large part of Canadian history. Something else needed to be done in order to bring attention to these forgotten children. Something to honor the children and remember them. 

A woman named Jasmine Lavallee became inspired to walk for the children of these residential schools. She is the niece of our own Brandon University Professor, Dr. Lorraine Mayer of the Native Studies department. Jasmine’s journey started with the 215 graves discovered in Kamloops, BC.  Many of those graves belonged to children as young as three years old and many were unidentified and unmarked. A number of other unmarked gravesites were discovered across Canada, including a gravesite of more than 500 children was discovered in Saskatchewan. These discoveries upset and angered many, especially those of Indigenous descent. Jasmine was just as affected by it and decided that she wanted to do something. She writes, “It hit me hard, like so many others, I can’t shake this one off, it angered me, I hurt for these children. Then I was told to put my anger and frustration where it can count, where it can help, where it can make a difference.”

Jasmine started her journey in Winnipeg, at the Assiniboia Residential School on September 1, 2021. She hopes to gather 215 children’s moccasins to carry with her through the journey to Kamloops. The first pair pf moccasins gifted to her was a pair donated by the son of a survivor from Kamloops. She and her group of protectors have journeys from Winnipeg, to portage la Prairie, and to Brandon before they moved on. She has a group following her with a car to help make sure she stays safe on her journey. 

In Brandon, they stopped at the Brandon Residential School site. The grounds of the former residential school were full of children’s toys, children’s shoes, orange ribbons, orange hearts, messages and prayers for the lost and for the survivors. Jasmine Levallee and her group, River, Deej and Virgil, with others joining at various points make it a point to stop at the residential schools, whether the building still stands or not. A few people joined them in Brandon at the site where prayers were offered and smudging of sage and drumming songs were performed to honor these lost children. One survivor of the Brandon Residential School came and told Jasmine and her group that she had attended and that one of her friends was one of the graves here in Brandon. Jasmine has encountered a few survivors and it is always emotional. She said that while many have questions, and many cry, there has been no negative reactions to her actions in honoring the lost children. 

It is a sad reality that the residential schools are part of Canadian and American history, but it happened. Now the children who never came home are being rediscovered once again where they died. These children were once forgotten by many and now they are being found again. They should not be forgotten. Jasmine walks for these children because at a young age when was told she would not be able to walk herself. She overcame that difficult part of her life and walked. Now she walks for the children who never came home. She is undertaking a long and difficult journey but one she feels strongly connected to. 

Jasmine also states that “If you want to help but can’t walk, I'm advised to ask for donation of any kind that can lighten the burden. Children's moccasins, cash donations, advice, and any help that you can offer. Anything really helps! Any and all money donations will be left to help with burials of deceased loved ones and or children of today, but I have to trust and know that all proceeds go towards children and not in the pocket of anyone out to only benefit themselves!”

Jasmine Levallee and her group have a Facebook group called 215+ children I Wanna Come Home. She posts with any new developments on her journey such as where they have stopped and performed ceremonies, to thank those who have donated time, money and food, and to thank those who journey with her, and to remind everyone that this is a journey for the children who never came home. 

The 2021 Fall Semester: What to expect

The 2021 Fall Semester: What to expect

By: Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of The Quill

Photo Credits: Brandon University Website

  As the fall term begins, many students are wondering what the semester will bring. As previously announced, Brandon University will hold some classes in person and others online. If your courses have less than 25 people, you will be attending in person. If you are unsure whether you will be attending online or in person, check your timetable as they have been updated to show whether or not you will be in class. 

             Another change students can expect during this year is that they will be required to wear a mask upon entering any building within the university. Furthermore, the university is encouraging all students to obtain their two vaccines. The university has even sponsored a contest to encourage students and staff to vaccinate. Other aspects that will change during this upcoming year will entail opening a variety of services previously closed due to the pandemic. The library, Healthy Living Center, and the cafeteria will all be open to students as well as certain student services. While the Healthy Living Center is only opened to vaccinated individuals, the library and other services are available to all. 

             This year will bring a series of unknown situations that will be experienced for the first time by all Brandon University students. It is important to remember the basics in order to ensure our return is as safe as possible; social distance, stay home when sick, wear a mask in all indoor public places, wash your hands regularly, and most importantly, get vaccinated against Covid-19.

Brandon University mourns recent passing of Dr. Cindy Clarke

Brandon University mourns recent passing of Dr. Cindy Clarke

(News From Brandon University Website - August 31, 2021)

(Dr. Cindy Clarke)

All of Brandon University, and especially the Faculty of Education, are deeply saddened by the death of Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Clarke.

Dr. Clarke joined BU in 2017 as an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education, with PENT and as a member of the Curriculum and Pedagogy Department. Her husband Brian shares that “She enjoyed her short time at Brandon, that after many years working at a variety of jobs she finally found where she belonged. It was a perfect fit.”

Dr. Clarke graduated with a Ph.D. in Curriculum Studies from the University of Saskatchewan. Prior to joining BU, Cindy was a special education teacher and consultant with the Prairie Spirit School Division (SK) and served as president of the Prairie Spirit Teachers’ Association for seven years.

In addition to many academic publications, Cindy’s poetry has been published in several journals including The Antigonish Review, FreeFall, and The Nashwaak Review.  Many of the poems from Dr. Clarke’s book, The Blue Dress, first appeared in her doctoral dissertation, Beyond the Muskeg, which won the University of Saskatchewan Outstanding Dissertation Award in Social Sciences in 2017.  Cindy also received an “Outstanding Author Contribution Award” from Emerald Publishing’s 2020 Literati Awards in recognition of  her chapter in Volume 33 of Advances in Research on Teaching, which explored the use of poetry and narrative inquiry as a tool of research.

“Cindy was a remarkable, talented, kind, and creative woman,” says BU Dean of Education Dr. Heather Duncan. “We will mourn her passing deeply but we will also celebrate the life and accomplishments of an amazing woman.”

The BU flag has been lowered to half-mast in her honour.

Farewell

Farewell

By: Maria Garcia Manzano

Photo Credits: Maria Garcia Manzano 

What a year it has been. We have experienced post-secondary education during a global pandemic. A year ago, we were unsure of what the fall term would look like, and as the news that an online format would be used, students wondered how their post-secondary education would come to be. Many international students went back home, and domestic students went back to live with their families. Once the semester began, we had to adjust our expectations and navigate school through an online setting. I must admit the change was difficult as it is far easier to get distracted at home. Well, one year later and I can safely say that online schooling has been difficult. In my case, I found it hard to keep up with everything, and there were many times when I felt unmotivated to continue. Now, as final exams approach, I patiently wait for summer to begin. 

             Many had hopes that 2021 would be normal and that convocations would be held in person. However, convocation this year will again be held online because although vaccination has begun, we are still nowhere close to calling this pandemic over. We have still not received the news about how this upcoming fall term will take place, but I am hopeful we will be going back to class, even if only for small classes. I think it is safe to say we are all wishing to go back and gain some normalcy while being as safe as possible. Furthermore, I think we are tired of staring at our screens and paying attention to class. 

             Here at the Quill, we have tried to keep the students updated as much as possible while still finding the time to submit articles that would lift your spirits. I would like to think that we were successful, and if we go back to school during the fall, you can expect to see us go back to a printed issue. Please remember to be safe this summer. Now is not the chance to disregard public health guidelines. If we have hope to return to in-person classes, then we must obey and continue to limit the spread of the virus. Enjoy your summer but do so safely, do not go to big social gatherings that could potentially put you or your loved ones in danger. 

Farewell, enjoy your break, and I hope to see most of you back in school in the fall.

New BU Education program fills need for vocational teachers and rural schools

New BU Education program fills need for vocational teachers and rural schools

BU NEWS — March 29, 2021

BRANDON – A new Education program at Brandon University (BU) will create opportunities for vocational teachers and add new flexibility that will help fill gaps at rural Manitoba schools.

The Technical/Vocational Bachelor of Education program will begin in September 2021 and will be open to Manitoba teachers who have completed the Technical Vocational Teacher Education diploma at Red River College (RRC). Through the new BU program, they will gain the qualifications that they need to attain a Bachelor of Education degree and be fully certified to teach in the Kindergarten-to-Grade-12 system by the Province of Manitoba.

“I am very excited at the prospect of returning to school,” said Crocus Plains automotive technology teacher Trent Sloane, who completed the vocational teacher education program at Red River College a decade ago. 

He said that although he wanted to further his education and finish his B.Ed., it wasn’t possible for him to travel to Winnipeg several times a week to attend evening classes. 

“I’m not alone in this,” Sloane said, “there are other vocational teachers in southwestern Manitoba who want to continue their education. The new B.Ed. program for vocational teachers at BU makes this possible and I’m thankful BU invested the time to get this program off the ground.”

The technical education provided by the vocational programs are vital to schools and students, creating opportunities for students to develop skills that are in demand, enrich their high-school experience, and prepare for future careers or education.

“This new program will expand the number of teachers available in high-demand subject areas like math and science in a shortened length of time,” said Wayne Ewasko, Manitoba’s Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration. “By providing technical vocational instructors with the tools and additional training to 

become certified teachers we are ensuring that regional demands and needs are met, further supporting student successes.”

“This is an exciting announcement for the future of education in Manitoba,” said Cliff Cullen, Manitoba’s Minister of Education. “Rural Manitobans can take comfort knowing their local needs are being taken care of and their children will receive a quality education for their future success.”

Many vocational teachers have backgrounds in trades and become certified to teach in K-12 schools through RRC’s Technical Vocational Teacher Education program. Because the teachers are only certified in their specific vocational area, school administrators are unable to fill their schedules with other subjects. The teachers may be forced to work a fragmented, part-time schedule, particularly in rural settings with smaller vocational programs. The new program at BU will allow these educators to develop a second teachable area based on their school division’s greatest need, in many cases mathematics and science.

“Vocational teachers and administrators tell us that there is a strong demand for an accessible route in western Manitoba to obtain a Bachelor of Education degree,” said Dr. Heather Duncan, Dean of Education at BU. “We designed our Technical/Vocational B.Ed. program to be flexible and to be taken on a part-time basis. This will allow the teachers to continue to work at their current positions while gaining new skills that will advance their careers and bring versatility and efficiency to their school divisions.”

In addition to their previous training, participants in the Technical/Vocational B.Ed. program will complete 60 credit hours at BU — the equivalent of two years of full-time study. Half of their courses at BU will be in Arts or Science disciplines, with the other half being Education courses and field experience.

Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca

CONTACT US:

Grant Hamilton

Director, Marketing and Communications 

204.571.8542
HamiltonG@BrandonU.ca

Dr. Heather Duncan

Dean, Education

204.727.9656
DuncanH@BrandonU.ca

To receive any BU publication in an alternate format: Communications@BrandonU.ca

In-person Fall 2021 classes to resume for U of M students

In-person Fall 2021 classes to resume for U of M students

By: Maria Garcia Manzano 

Photo credits: Winnipeg Free press

Last Wednesday, the University of Manitoba announced that U of M would welcome back students to campus this upcoming fall. With the exception of large classes. Large classes will continue to be provided through remote learning, but courses of up to twenty students will attend in-person courses. The university also said that depending on which is smaller; labs will have a limit of 25 people or the “COVID room-capacity limit.”

           With the expectations on the vaccine rollout and in light of the current public health advice, the university feels confident in reopening the university to resume more in-person instruction cautiously and in a safe manner. The university also said that if everything goes according to plan, they hope to announce a total return to campus for the winter term of 2022. 

           U of W is currently watching the vaccine rollout, and while it is optimistic about the fall term, no decisions have been made. If you check your BU email address, you will have seen that BU is currently planning for the fall 2021 term and have delayed registration as a result. They are considering all options, but the plans are being led by public health science. Brandon University would like to announce a course of action that does not require any backtracking. These are optimistic and exciting news as I am sure many students are eager to go back to school and obtain a sense of long-forgotten normalcy.

Meghan Markle and Harry Tell All

Meghan Markle and Harry Tell All 

By: Mallory Johnson

Photo Credits: People Magazine

On Sunday, March 7th, former Duke and Duchess Meghan Markle and Harry sat down for an interview with Oprah Winfrey that aired on CBS. They emphasized that the interview was happening safely, with all COVID-19 precautions taken very seriously. No topic was off the table, and Meghan and Harry did not know the questions that Oprah was going to ask. Oprah asked why Meghan and Harry left the Royal Family, and Meghan described racism, mental health issues, and lack of protection that she experienced. 

The interview started with just Meghan and Oprah, with Harry joining later. Oprah and Meghan talked about the stunning Royal Wedding, and Meghan revealed that she got married to Harry three days before the world watched her get married. Meghan also told Oprah that before marrying Harry, she did not research the Royal Family and their customs/rules, so she had to learn how to curtsey before meeting the Queen. 

Meghan and Oprah then discussed how she and Harry had rescued a dog named Guy from a kill shelter and rescued some chickens from a factory farm. They have a chicken coop called Archie’s Chick Inn, after their son’s name Archie. When Oprah asked Meghan what she is most excited about in her new life, Meghan said, “I think just being able to live authentically.”

Oprah and Meghan then addressed some of the tabloids that spun stories about Meghan around the time of the wedding, some of which Meghan had and had not heard. They discussed in detail the rumor that Meghan had made Kate Middleton cry. Meghan said that the reverse had happened and that Kate had made Meghan cry about something regarding flower girl dresses. She said, “Kate made me cry days before the wedding, but I got blamed...that was hard” and described it as a turning point. She also emphasized that she was not saying that to make anyone look bad and that Kate apologized, and Meghan forgave her. The rumor came out six or seven months after it happened. Meghan said (regarding Kate), “If you love me, you don’t have to hate her. And if you love her, you don’t have to hate me.” Oprah talked about the tabloid headlines for Kate compared to the ones for Meghan. Oprah said, “Kate was praised for cradling her baby bump, and the headline about you doing the same thing said, ‘Meghan can’t keep her hands off her baby bump for pride or vanity.” Oprah also mentioned another example about Kate being praised while eating avocados. Meghan was eating avocados, and the headline was: “Wolfing down a fruit linked to water shortages, illegal deforestation, and environmental devastation.” 

Oprah and Meghan next discussed how Meghan was “the first mixed-race person to marry into the family.” Meghan said that she was only worried about fitting in because she was made to think about that. Meghan talked about how she has always worked, valued independence, and been outspoken. She said, “I mean, that’s the sad irony of the last four years...I've advocated for so long for women to use their voice, and then I was silent.” Oprah asked: “Were you silent? Or were you silenced?” and Meghan answered: “The latter.” Meghan said, “Everyone in my world was given a very clear directive, from the moment the world knew Harry and I were dating, to always say, “No comment.” Meghan discussed how she thought she had complete protection from the institution (the Royal Family). Still, she had the exact opposite, to the extent the institution would lie to protect others while throwing her, Harry, and Archie under the bus. Meghan shared how warm, welcoming, and loving the Queen was to her while she was not being protected at all by the rest of the family. 

Meghan discussed how everyone was obsessed with how she (and the Institution) looked in the press and media, that they did not take a minute to check up on how Meghan was doing. She said, “I know there’s an obsession with how things look but have anyone talked about how it feels? Because right now, I could not feel lonelier.” She emphasized that she was not lonely with Harry. Meghan and Oprah continued to talk about Meghan’s mental health, and Meghan revealed that she was feeling depressed and suicidal, to the point where she was too scared to be alone because she felt like she was going to hurt herself. She had a conversation with Harry and said that she “didn’t want to be alive anymore.” Meghan told Oprah that she asked the Royal Family for help with her mental health, and they refused to help her. She was pregnant at the time with her first child Archie. Meghan said that she reached out to a friend of the late Princess Diana for help. She also discussed her lack of freedom, saying that she had to give her keys, passport, and driver’s license away when she arrived at the Palace. 

Meghan mentioned that her baby Archie would not receive a title (Prince or Princess) or security and that there were discussions and concern over his skin color. Meghan said, “The most important title I will ever have is Mom. I know that.” She also revealed that Meghan and Harry were not asked to take a traditional baby picture. 

Meghan said, “And I grieve a lot. I mean, I have lost my father. I lost a baby. I nearly lost my name. I mean, there is the loss of identity. But I am still standing, and my hope for people in the takeaway from this is to know that there’s another side.” She also said that life is worth living. 

Harry joined the interview, and the couple revealed that they are expecting a baby girl this summer. Harry said, “To have a child, any one or two, would have been amazing. But to have a boy and then a girl, you know, what more can you ask for?” The couple also revealed that they are only planning to have two kids. 

Oprah revealed in a voiceover that when the couple first left the Royal Family, they initially chose Canada and then moved to California. In California, they moved in with Tyler Perry, who had offered them a place to stay. He also provided them with security. They lived there for a few months before moving to their own home in California. The couple revealed that they created their own “foundation and content company called Archewell.” Meghan and Harry announced that they did not “blindside the Queen” or “orchestrate Megxit.” Harry said that his biggest concern was “history repeating itself.” By history, he was talking about his mother, Princess Diana. He said, “I asked for calm from the British tabloids - once as a boyfriend, once as a husband, and once as a father.” When Oprah asked why they left, Harry said, “Lack of support and lack of understanding” he also mentioned that he no longer talks to his dad and was cut off financially. 

Meghan said that she was watching The Little Mermaid with Archie, and thought “Oh, my god! She falls in love with the prince, and because of that, she loses her voice. But by the end, she gets her voice back.” 

Harry and Meghan discussed how there are secret ways to get the tabloids on your side and that the Palace hosts holiday parties for the tabloids. The couple revealed that they had watched some of the Netflix show, The Crown. Meghan said that she begged the institution to keep Harry safe through letters, but the Institution refused. Harry said that he felt like he was trapped in the system and the rest of the family. Regarding their Netflix deal, Harry said, “We didn’t have a plan. That was suggested by somebody else by the point where my family cut me off financially, and I had to afford security for us.” Harry revealed that he would not have left the family if it were not for Meghan. Harry said that he has the money that Princess Diana left him and thinks that Diana saw this coming. Meghan and Harry are no longer working members of the Royal Family, and Harry’s military titles were returned to the Queen. 

The couple talked about a few of their baby Archies’ favorite words: hydrate and drive safe. Harry said that he has no regrets, while Meghan said that her only regret is believing that she was being protected. But she said that her story with the Prince has a happy ending: “Greater than any fairytale you’ve ever read.” 

Brandon Hydro Strike

Brandon Hydro Strike

By: Maria Garcia Manzano 

Photo credits: Brandon Sun

This past week if you drove down Victoria East, perhaps you saw several individuals waving signs outside the Manitoba Hydro Service Center and generating station. They are part of an ongoing Manitoba-wide strike started by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2034 after rejecting Manitoba Hydro's latest contract offer. The IBEW Local 2034 has been working without a contract since 2018 and they represent 2,300 workers, including employees in generation transmission and distribution. 

               Last Tuesday, the strike began after the union started planning rotating strikes with customer service staff in Winnipeg staging the first walkout. Soon, similar scenes began to follow across the province. The Brandon strike started Wednesday, and the majority of strikers have staged their strike on Victoria East. In contrast, only a handful of strikers have protested outside of the Manitoba Hydro's offices on 10th Street. To minimize the disruption for their customers, Brandon's strikers only picketed from Wednesday and concluded on Friday. Mike Espenell, IBEW Local 2034 business manager, explained to Brandon Sun that this strike is the culmination of 28 months of negotiations with Manitoba Hydro. The corporation offered the IBEW members zero percent wage increases for 2019 and 2020. Furthermore, they were only offering them a 0.75 cent wage boost for 2021.

               One of the main reasons IBEW members chose to reject this offer was because, in their opinion, the offered rates are below the cost of living, making it an unacceptable proposal. Espenell further explained that they only seek not to fall behind. And that other underlying elements that contributed to this strike were the increasing number of layoffs that have, as a result, impacted their response time. Espenell also said that the union is more than willing to begin renegotiating but believes the best way forward would be through arbitration.

Reading Week 2021

Reading Week 2021

By: Maria Garcia Manzano

Having accomplished the first week back to school after the break, I figured it would be an excellent opportunity to look back and see what students did throughout this reading week. I talked to several BU students and asked them what they had done throughout this week, and many responded with the same answer "Nothing." When I asked them to verify, they all said that minimal to no schoolwork had been done and that they could not find the motivation to accomplish anything. I believe this reflects how worn down we are all with the pandemic. Given the province's current restrictions (only two visitors allowed outside of the household for indoor gatherings and max five people for outdoor gatherings), it makes sense why students are currently feeling unmotivated. 

The first student I contacted is a 3rd-year Physics Major who said their reading week had been brutal. All of their midterm exams were scheduled to be after reading week, but they refused to study because they could not bring themselves to do it. However, they said that they had used their week off to work as much as they could as they had not been working their full hours due to COVID. They also said that they had tried to meet up with a couple of friends, but their schedules had not allowed them to do so. This student reflects what many other students are enduring during this time. When we have time off, we are forced to weigh our options and choose which priority to focus on. Social life is meaningful, especially during this time where so many of us went months without seeing each other. However, when given a choice to earn their paycheck or socialize, this student understandably chose their paycheck.

The second student, a 4th-year Biology major, said that all of their midterms had been held before reading week and only had to work on the presentation due after the week was done. They said they tried to work on their presentation and managed to get started but quickly got distracted and said they would leave the weekend to work. They said they spent most of their time sleeping and going on Starbucks runs and did not visit any friends as they did not want to leave their house for social visits. They also said that this reading week had felt short as it came to an end before realizing it. This student displays what I think many students thought about this week and how it felt short and as though we could have used a couple of more days to replenish our strength. 

The third student, a 4th-year computer science student, said that even though they had several midterms exams coming up after reading week, they could not bring themselves to study and instead used a couple of days to visit their significant other had not seen in over two months. They said that while they would be stressed throughout the following week and would need to cram and do an all-nighter, taking a break was necessary as they replenished themselves and the break had been much needed and earned. This student showcases the difficulties couples are facing right now with the pandemic. This individual, in particular, should be applauded as they followed the guidelines and only visited their significant other when the province allowed it. They also display behavior that can help to replenish students' motivation. Taking a well-deserved break after sessions that require an increased amount of focus can be beneficial to the individuals' well-being. 

Overall, the 2021 reading week was different from previous years. With the pandemic's burden and the need to follow the health guidelines to ensure case numbers went down, many students felt trapped and unmotivated. Being an unmotivated university student can have severe consequences on our grades, and I encourage everyone to use the counseling services available at BU if an unmotivated state persists.

A year with online learning

A year with online learning

By Okorie Mary

Sometime last year was the last time students got together in classrooms, saw their professors in person and made meaningful connections and friends. Now a year has gone by and most of our learning experiences has been online. Both professors and students were forced into online education because of the pandemic. Professors who were not totally technically inclined had to learn to navigate teaching online with different sites and apps. Also, to try and curb cheating as much as possible, they had to look for alternatives such as watching students through videos as they wrote their exams. Students also were forced to learn to navigate the online environment for having classes, they were faced with technical glitches and difficulties because at some point, technological devices would always have some issues. Some students were afraid of writing exams because the exams could log them out or they would not even be able to login in the first place and some professors had a hard time keeping up with different technological complaints from students. There were also restrictions like not going back on an exam even when it was timed which would not have been the case if classes were in-person. A lot has really changed with most of learning now delivered with online mode, it has not been the easiest. Nevertheless, we are all learning to cope with it while hoping for a better future when things can go back to the way they were before the pandemic.

Anti-Lockdown protest outside Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Anti-Lockdown protest outside Canadian Museum for Human Rights

By: Maria Garcia

Photo credits: Zachary Kitchen, CTV news

Over the weekend in Winnipeg, a group called “Manitoba Movements for Change” held a rally protest in order to “raise awareness to mental health” Organized through Facebook. This event was meant to raise awareness against the strict Covid-19 restrictions the province has put in place. The regulations have been up for almost two weeks. They enable people to have indoor gatherings that include two people outside of your household and an outdoor gathering for five people outside of your family. Furthermore, the ‘only essential services and goods’ ban has been removed. People can now enjoy going for a haircut or to the gym.

However, this does not seem to be enough freedom for some people like those at the protest on Saturday who showed up without masks and signs saying, “our youth are suffering” and “isolation kills.” In their opinion, the restrictions are detrimental to mental health, and they are demanding they be put to an end. While the frustration is understandable, four UK Covid variant cases have been detected in the province. Now is not the time to be demanding ease of restrictions. For over a year, Covid-19 has impacted the lives of the entire world. Millions of deaths have resulted from this pandemic, and many more will continue to die unless we can hold on a bit longer. We must also remember why the code red restrictions came into place and how our carelessness got us to the point of three-digit deaths. I also urge the protesters to remember that we are ultimately trying to limit the spread in order to keep kids in school. Stay safe, stay home, stay healthy. We can do it!

Anti-Lockdown protest outside Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Anti-Lockdown protest outside Canadian Museum for Human Rights

By: Maria Garcia 

Photo credits: Zachary Kitchen, CTV news

Over the weekend in Winnipeg, a group called “Manitoba Movements for Change” held a rally protest in order to “raise awareness to mental health” Organized through Facebook. This event was meant to raise awareness against the strict Covid-19 restrictions the province has put in place. The regulations have been up for almost two weeks. They enable people to have indoor gatherings that include two people outside of your household and an outdoor gathering for five people outside of your family. Furthermore, the ‘only essential services and goods’ ban has been removed. People can now enjoy going for a haircut or to the gym.

However, this does not seem to be enough freedom for some people like those at the protest on Saturday who showed up without masks and signs saying, “our youth are suffering” and “isolation kills.” In their opinion, the restrictions are detrimental to mental health, and they are demanding they be put to an end. While the frustration is understandable, four UK Covid variant cases have been detected in the province. Now is not the time to be demanding ease of restrictions. For over a year, Covid-19 has impacted the lives of the entire world. Millions of deaths have resulted from this pandemic, and many more will continue to die unless we can hold on a bit longer. We must also remember why the code red restrictions came into place and how our carelessness got us to the point of three-digit deaths. I also urge the protesters to remember that we are ultimately trying to limit the spread in order to keep kids in school. Stay safe, stay home, stay healthy. We can do it!

Biden Announces Changes in US Foreign Policy

Biden Announces Changes in US Foreign Policy

The Joe Biden administration has announced to the US State Department its foreign policy goals. On Thursday, February 4th Biden initiated his speech with the words “America is back, diplomacy is back.” The new administration announced its views towards the war between Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Biden said that “the US will end its support for the Saudi offensive in Yemen.” However, he made clear that the US will continue to support Saudi Arabia. Biden’s foreign policy speech reflected America’s intentions to reinforce alliances and cooperation affected by the previous Trump administration. The Biden administration prioritizes the importance of projecting American values to the world at large. Throughout the speech, he frequently expressed values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law as primary vehicles to guide foreign policy. 

Regarding the political crisis in Burma, Biden urged the Burmese military “to relinquish the power they have seized. Release the advocates and activists and officials they have detained, lift the restrictions in telecommunications and refrain from violence”. He urged nations to stand together and counter back against the forces of “authoritarianism.” “We can’t do it alone.. we must start with diplomacy rooted in America’s most cherished democratic values”. Contrary to Trump, which crafted a foreign policy of “America first,” prioritizing America in world affairs and cultivated nationalism values at home. 

He as well spoke about US-Russia relations. Biden aims at extending “the NEW START TREATY with Russia” to preserve the US-Russia agreement over nuclear weapons. On the other hand, he denounced the Russian government for the “jailing of opposition activists Alexei Navalny. “He should be released immediately and without condition,” Biden expressed. Regarding US-Chinese relations, Biden expressed that “we will also confront China’s economic abuses.” Still, he made clear that his administration is also “ready to work with Beijing where it is in America’s interests.” And contrary to Trump’s hostility towards immigrants and refugees. Biden touched the topic of refuges saying that for decades it has been a “bipartisan consensus” within US politics. However, he expressed that refugees and the LGBT community are part of the foreign policy agenda goals that the administration is committed to promoting American moral values.

By: Eder Leonel Torres