In the history books, 2016 will probably be looked at as the year a resurgent conservatism/isolationism pushed back against openness, diversity and inclusion. With Britain voting to leave the European Union, the U.S. voting into office a candidate who campaigned with divisive rhe- toric and other countries facing rising populist sentiments, it has reached the…

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic medicine are forms of medicine originally from China and India, respectively, with cultural histories dating back between 2000 and 5000 years depending on the particular philosophy or medical practice.  Both TCM and Ayurveda are seen as alternatives to Western medicine that take a more holistic and preventative approach to…

It’s no secret that Vancouver is an ethnically diverse city, attracting nationalities from around the world. Arts and culture has always been a way to explore and address interpersonal relationships. In Vancouver, these conversations have a rich multicultural tone. Every year people find common ground and every year cultures become more integrated in Greater Vancouver’s…

With over 100 authors in 88 events, the Vancouver Writers Fest, occurring from Oct. 17 to 23, has something for every reader. And there is no shortage of local writers. Critically acclaimed B.C. authors Genevieve von Petzinger, Anosh Irani and Fred Wah take readers on intimate journeys to overlooked places, from as far as the…

In many parts of the world, cats and rats are seen as natural enemies: one is the hunter, the other the prey. But at this year’s Vancouver International Film Festival, running from Sept. 29 to Oct. 14, cats and rats will set aside the hostilities and share the cinematic spotlight together.  Kedi and Rat Film,…

As diet and exercise become increasingly prominent in Canadians’ lives, many Vancouverites have turned to yoga to supplement their fitness regimen. It is now the second most popular leisure activity in the country. More than just a physical activity, yoga is also one of the most diverse spiritual traditions in the world, influencing numerous faiths…

Most language learners today are no strangers to phrasebooks, immersion programs, or Rosetta Stone, but how about using First Nations language learning apps, or watching ultrasound imagery to speak Cantonese, or adopting an Arabic conversation partner? In today’s globalized world where the value of multilingualism is increasingly palpable, technology advisor Costa Dedegikas, linguist Heather Bliss…

Eating outdoors has long been a pleasure for many people, with some of the earliest picnics occurring in the Middle Ages and the word coming from the French term “pique-nique,” first used in the 17th century. Today picnics are common, with people all around the world using them as a way to eat and relax outdoors.…

In a society that values extroverts and ambitious go-getters, it is difficult for more reserved immigrants to succeed. In addition to being an immigrant, also being marginalized by being disabled or a part of the LGBTQ+ community can lead to even more obstacles compounded on top of the challenges immigrants already face. Alex Sangha, founder…

Musicians from the four corners of the world are bringing their unique rhythms to various Vancouver music festivals this summer. Three visiting musicians share their personal history. With a diverse range of musical styles, Wil Campa, Faris Amine and Cécile Doo-Kingué will each bring a multitude of stories, connecting with their audience through their love…

Whether it is through producing, improv, television or film, Rick Tae and Veena Sood have found a means of expressing themselves through the arts. For Tae, acting has been a means of finding identity, while producing has helped him to express that identity. As for Veena, inheriting her parents’ exploratory approach to life has guided…