Families prepare for Lunar New Year celebrations

Photo by Rakka, Flickr

Although widely used throughout the world, the Gregorian calendar is not the only one around and not the only one with New Year’s celebrations in January. On Jan. 23, many Asian and non-Asian communities are gearing up for Lunar New Year celebrations of their own. [Read more...]

From Prince George to Surrey

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Last February I moved to Surrey immediately after graduating from the University of Victoria in order to start up a new business –Class Act Painters. I had a hell of a time, for two reasons. One, because starting a new business is a lot of work, and two, because living in Surrey is … well, it’s living in Surrey. I find Surrey to be much like a larger version of Prince George, where I grew up, except it’s easier to leave. [Read more...]

Questions abound for the federal Liberals

Bob Rae

Major defeats are often opportunities for serious introspection. What happened? Why? How are similar circumstances avoided in the future? These are questions pondered by pundits and supporters of the Liberal Party of Canada after the bitter defeat they suffered in last May’s general election. [Read more...]

Spencie’s View

spencies view

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Grandmother holds hope and memories of missing granddaughter

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When someone disappears from your life, memories are all you have to fill the void. Angeline Pete disappeared in May 2011. Although many have come to know of Angeline as a missing person, her grandmother remembers her as a girl full of strength and happiness – a girl free to explore. [Read more...]

Potential oil pipeline expansions continue to raise concerns

Opposition to pipelines through B.C. continues

With the United States’ recent rejection of the Keystone XL pipeline, the debate around the construction and expansion of oil pipelines in B.C. has seen renewed vigour. Enbridge’s proposal to build the Northern Gateway project, which would see a twin pipeline running from Bruderheim, Alta. to the coastal city of Kitimat, B.C., would help expand Canada’s current oil exports to a growing Asian market. According to Greenpeace Canada, however, the potential environmental costs would far outweigh any benefits. [Read more...]

Spinning the wheel of conscience Mexican journalist appeals to stay in Canada

Karla Berenice García Ramírez

At this time last year, a memorial was unveiled at Halifax’s Pier 21 to mark the spot where the M.S. St. Louis would have docked in 1939, offering 907 German Jews security on Canadian soil. “Would have” are the key words. Canada turned the ship away, refusing entry to the passengers onboard. Of the 907 Jews returning to an uncertain fate in Europe, 254 did not survive the Holocaust. The memorial, appropriately called The Wheel of Conscience, is meant to shed light on a dark corner of Canadian history. [Read more...]

Conservative crime bill affects new immigrants and marginalizes aboriginals

Activist Chris Preston

If you live in Canada, your chances of being attacked by a beaver are higher than your chances of being an innocent victim of violent crime. According to Statistics Canada, crime of all types has been decreasing steadily over the past few decades. [Read more...]

Perspectives of diversity from Eric Wong

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Eric Wong has dedicated his entire life to diversity and human rights, and in November of 2011 he was recognized for his efforts with a Honourable Mention at the 2011 Cultural Harmony Awards. [Read more...]

PuSh festival celebrates the work of local and international artists

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Since 2003, the PuSh International Performing Arts festival has been showcasing the talent and work of local and international artists. This year is no exception as the festival will feature several performances and shows until Feb. 4. [Read more...]