Denis Dutton: A Darwinian theory of beauty | Video on TED.com

Denis Dutton: A Darwinian theory of beauty Video on TED.com

Denis Dutton, Founder of 'Arts & Letters Daily,' Dies - The Ticker - The Chronicle of Higher Education

One of (if not) the best sites on the internet. Cheers to Prof. Dutton.

Denis Dutton, Founder of 'Arts & Letters Daily,' Dies - The Ticker - The Chronicle of Higher Education

APPLE V GOOGLE | More Intelligent Life

Those who know me know I'm not exactly Apple's biggest fan. There is a really creepy cult-ness that Apple enjoys, well, cultivating (sorry). Google, though equally pervasive if not more so, has decided on a model of, "of the people". Much less creepy.

APPLE V GOOGLE More Intelligent Life

Men's clothing: Suitably dressed | The Economist

Barney would be proud...

Men's clothing: Suitably dressed The Economist

Escape route - The Boston Globe

Interesting.

Escape route - The Boston Globe

Obama Is Suffering Because of His Achievements, Not Despite Them | VF Daily | Vanity Fair

Well now this is an interesting take...

Obama Is Suffering Because of His Achievements, Not Despite Them VF Daily Vanity Fair

Senate votes to repeal ban on gays openly serving in military - CNN.com

Great news. Lets hope Sikhs will be able to serve without having to apply for special leave as well soon.

Senate votes to repeal ban on gays openly serving in military - CNN.com

TheStar Niqab debate: What should Canada do?

"So let's ban the burqa, niqab, and while we're at it, the hijab." Seriously? Are you kidding me? What a poorly written article -- especially considering the author's profession. The only reason any garment should be banned is for public policy reasons. NOT because you personally find it offensive. The author presents two sides of the story, and then arbitarily tells you one is better, with not even an attempt at justifying why. What a joke.

TheStar Niqab debate: What should Canada do?

TheStar Exams cancelled, residence evacuated after York U fire

I had two chances to go to York. Once for undergrad (when they had the crippling strike), and once for law school (when exams were cancelled because of a fire). Am I ever glad I decided against, both times....

TheStar Exams cancelled, residence evacuated after York U fire

UK mosque denounced Stockholm bomber for militancy | Reuters

UK mosque denounced Stockholm bomber for militancy Reuters

Why did I back Julian Assange? It's about justice and fairness | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

Super interesting take...

Why did I back Julian Assange? It's about justice and fairness Comment is free guardian.co.uk

Boston Review — Pamela S. Karlan: Acting Out

"Politicians have constitutional responsibilities, too. And if they showed more restraint, judges would not have to intervene so often." Interesting take...

Boston Review — Pamela S. Karlan: Acting Out

Ontario never should have enacted G20 summit security law, Ombudsman’s report says - The Globe and Mail

As wasteful as public inquiries are, I'm starting to think that we should have one for the G20...

Ontario never should have enacted G20 summit security law, Ombudsman’s report says - The Globe and Mail

Toronto police chief says five officers identified in alleged G20 beating case

Took bloody long enough. Shame on Bill Blair for trying to hide police brutality, and for blaming innocent victims. Shame on idiots like the black bloc for giving all protestors a bad name, stealing the media attention, and providing the Police with an excuse to act with aggression.

Toronto police chief says five officers identified in alleged G20 beating case

TheStar Air India inquiry head baffled by Ottawa’s response

Justice John Major is a smart guy. He certainly isn't anti government, yet has nothing against the Conservatives. Clearly then, he knows what hes talking about, and Harper needs to step up to the plate and protect Canada. No more BS.

TheStar Air India inquiry head baffled by Ottawa’s response

Review to focus on cellblock, arrest and strip search procedures: police chief

Okay so this had to go up. It seems Toronto Police is not the only police force that is being accused of (an in fact proven to have used) brutality. Ottawa Police officers strip searched and jailed a woman half naked (Stacey Bonds), and apparently went around kicking individuals in their jail cells (Terry Arthur Delay). Check out this video...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFq66qIWajo

Review to focus on cellblock, arrest and strip search procedures: police chief

Review to focus on cellblock, arrest, and strip search procedures: police chief

Okay so this had to go up. It seems Toronto Police is not the only police force that is being accused of (an in fact proven to have used) brutality. Ottawa Police officers strip searched and jailed a woman half naked (Stacey Bonds), and apparently went around kicking individuals in their jail cells (Terry Arthur Delay). Check out these videos...
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Review+focus+cellblock+arrest+strip+search+procedures+police+chief/3917013/story.html

Review to focus on cellblock, arrest and strip search procedures: police chief

Tony Keller: Finding the white students on campus is easy. Where’s the pub?

"Americans and Europeans dream of such problems. In Europe, the fear is that racial minorities are falling behind educationally and economically, being excluded and excluding themselves. France worries about North African kids from the banlieues mugging Jean-Sebastien and Marie-Claire, not outperforming them on a university admissions exam." HAHAHA

Tony Keller: Finding the white students on campus is easy. Where’s the pub?

School suspends teen who criticized athletics program - Parentcentral.ca

What a joke...

School suspends teen who criticized athletics program - Parentcentral.ca

WikiLeaks just made the world more repressive

I couldn't agree more. Seriously...I'm all about transparency, but to say that this is good for the world, is to deny the reality that is governance, ALL AROUND THE WORLD. We may not like it or get it, but secrecy is a key element to a lot of government functions.

WikiLeaks just made the world more repressive

Canada enlists in America’s permanent war for peace

Haha..this is rather interesting...

Canada enlists in America’s permanent war for peace

TheStar Massive failure rates follow new, tougher Canadian citizenship tests

Hilarious! They raised the passing grade for the citizenship test, and failure rates jumped 30 %. So now, to avoid backlogs, they've made the test easier!
Way to go, this definately makes sure citizens are MORE Canadian...

TheStar Massive failure rates follow new, tougher Canadian citizenship tests

CBC News - Canada - Danny Williams: Fighter, millionaire, townie

I liked Danny Williams. I hope he somehow gets involved in federal politics.

CBC News - Canada - Danny Williams: Fighter, millionaire, townie

Top court says police may seize electricity-use records

There go your privacy rights! I dunno. I mean, I feel like there is an argument to be made here for both sides, but I can't help but feel that I don't like this decision. Privacy is important to innocent, upstanding citizens, not just criminals. Yet we seem to have less and less of it every day...

Top court says police may seize electricity-use records

100th POST!!!

Just wanted to say this is the 100th post here on inter alia. Awesome.

NY Times: The Great Cyberheist

This is a ridiculously awesome article. You should read it. Seriously. Unless you have an assignment due tomorrow. Then don't read it.

NY Times: The Great Cyberheist

Antichrist: Friedrich Nietzsche

Rather interesting sort of "Intro to Nietzsche". The comments supplement the article rather interestingly as well.

Antichrist: Friedrich Nietzsche

Questioning Germany's Economic Model for Europe

Germany.....Germany, Germany, Germany. The KEY to the European Economic Union.

Questioning Germany's Economic Model for Europe

Unelected Tory senators kill climate bill passed by House

Oh the irony...

Unelected Tory senators kill climate bill passed by House

What we can learn from procrastination: newyorker.com

I should be studying legal ethics....I really should..

What we can learn from procrastination: newyorker.com

Montana court wants info before deciding whether Canadian should be executed - Winnipeg Free Press

I am not at all surprised that Harper would much rather enforce his own (party's) worldview on Canadians outside Canada, as opposed to what is decided in Canada already.

Montana court wants info before deciding whether Canadian should be executed - Winnipeg Free Press

1984 riots: Witness alleges Delhi police helped rioters

Amazing that this is considered news. The Indian judiciary, and Police comissioner have been saying this for over 20 YEARS.

1984 riots: Witness alleges Delhi police helped rioters

Defying Trend, Canada Lures More Migrants

What a wonderfully stereotypical article by the New York Times.

Defying Trend, Canada Lures More Migrants

Chris, this is why fans don't like you now

Harsh but true, I think.

Chris, this is why fans don't like you now

Harper won't seek Parliament’s okay to extend Afghan mission

THIS is why the Canadian Prime Minister is actually more powerful than the President of the United States. The "Kings Court" principle. There is no need for ratification.

Harper won't seek Parliament’s okay to extend Afghan mission

Democrats need their own Tea Party

I could not agree more. But they should call it something else, thats equally patriotic...Suggestions?

Democrats need their own Tea Party

Canadian wins millions at poker championship

This guy is the same age as me. And is now 8.9 million dollars richer.
Evidently, I'm in the wrong industry. Also, congratulations to him for kicking ass.

GO CANADA!

Canadian wins millions at poker championship

Understanding the Sikh Genocide

Understanding the Sikh Genocide

By Jagtaran Singh

“In Delhi alone more than 3000 Sikhs were burnt alive in the most gruesome manner. With the Delhi Police playing a most shameful passive role.”

-- Ved Marwah, former Delhi Police Commissioner, Director General of the National Security Guard, and Governor of Manipur, Mizoram, and Jharkhand.

On October 31, 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated. It was announced to the world that her Sikh bodyguards were the perpetrators of the crime; soon after, the killings, rapes, and looting began, not ending until three days later. On November 9, Rajiv Gandhi, then Prime Minister of India, addressed a rally at the Boat Club, famously commenting on the violence, death, and rape in the Indian capital with the casual remark, “When a big tree falls, the earth shakes.”

Interestingly enough, when Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by a Maharashtrian Hindu, the earth didn’t tremble for all Maharashtrian Hindus. In fact, when Rajiv Gandhi himself was killed, there were no riots breaking out against Hindu Tamils either.

In Delhi, for nearly three days following the assassination, organized and systematic killings of Sikhs took place. Numerous government initiated commissions have noted the role of Congress (ruling party) politicians, and the police in passively allowing the killings and rapes to take place and even actively encouraging them. Those who led the mobs often had lists of ration card holders, enabling them to seek out Sikh households to subject to terror.

In spite of appeals made to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, the army was not called in to stop the pogroms for three days, at which point the Home Minister, Narsimha Rao, famously noted: “Now it is enough.” BBC Reporters Mark Tully and Satish Jacob note that, while Rao and Gandhi allowed for three days of killing, burning, raping, and looting Sikhs to pass before calling in the army, they made sure to call the army into Punjab. This was, of course, out of concern that Sikhs may react violently against Hindus in retaliation for the killing of Sikhs by Hindu mobs in Delhi. As it turned out, nothing of the sort took place in Punjab.

O.P. Dwivedi, a Delhi Additional District and Session Judge wrote in judgement of one of the few convictions of the pogroms, “This genocide would not have been possible but for the inaction and connivance of the police.... Police did not try to prevent arson or murders, nor were they willing to take any action against the guilty.”

Article 2 of the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, defines genocide as any act committed with the intent to destroy in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group by, inter alia, killing or causing serious bodily or mental harm to the members of the group.

During the pogroms, mobs were found to have been supplied with voters lists, indicating where Sikhs lived, along with tires, kerosene, and weapons used to burn, beat, maim and kill Sikhs. Politicians were seen encouraging the violence if not participating in it themselves. Manoj Mitta, senior editor of the times of India, and author of the book “When a Tree Shook Delhi,” notes that the police actually stopped Sikhs from defending themselves, confiscated their weapons, and returned them to the mobs. Some Sikhs were even charged with assault as they defended their families from arsonists.

Rahul Bedi, journalist for the Indian Express, writes in the book “The Assassination & After,” “The engineered Holocaust needed at least a day to get organised. And there is enough evidence available to indicate complicity in the overall plot, complicity of the Congress – I, complicity of the police, and complicity of the local administrators.”

Interestingly enough, despite all this evidence, there are many who balk at the idea of admitting that the violence of November 1984 constitutes genocide. The Indian judiciary, noted journalists and academics, and many others (non Sikhs) readily admit to this. It seems that those who refuse to, are those who are afraid of letting the world see India for what it really is – an egregious offender of human rights. Sikhs are not alone in their plight. Christians, Muslims, and many others have suffered and continue to suffer from human rights abuses in India. In 2002, near identical pogroms took place against Muslims in the Indian state of Gujarat, with all the telltale signs of genocide. Though the number of casualties was lower in number, it remains a stark reminder of India’s record on human rights.

Let me be clear: as a proud Canadian, I realize that economic growth is an important part of our country’s future – of which India is and should be an integral part. I am in no way suggesting that Canada rethink its plans to conduct business with India. But as Canadians, we should also remember that we have a proud history of standing up for human rights – even when it may not be particularly palatable to our business partners.

Anything less would simply be, well, un-Canadian.

Jagtaran Singh is currently a law student at McGill University, and serves on the board of directors of the Darfur Sudan Peace Network.

Omar Khadr pleads guilty to all terrorism charges

I really hope he gets time served. Shame on Obama and Harper, both.

Omar Khadr pleads guilty to all terrorism charges

Toronto: Mayoral candidate profiles

I don't care who you vote for (actually thats a lie), but VOTE!

And make at least somewhat of an informed decision...see below.

Toronto: Mayoral candidate profiles

Obama cancels trip because Americans can’t tell Sikhs from Muslims

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Oh man.

Obama cancels trip because Americans can’t tell Sikhs from Muslims

Pranav Mistry: The thrilling potential of SixthSense technology | Video on TED.com

This is pretty damn amazing. TED Rocks.

Pranav Mistry: The thrilling potential of SixthSense technology Video on TED.com

Feminization of education: One of five reasons why boys are failing

Well now this is certainly interesting...

Feminization of education: One of five reasons why boys are failing

No right to counsel during interrogation: top court

Wow. I don't think I've ever disagreed with the SCC more than now. I really hope this gets reversed soon.

No right to counsel during interrogation: top court

U.S. acknowledges it infected Guatemalans with syphilis in 1940s

Wowwww. The fact that this happened doesn't surprise me, its that it actually is being admitted to.

U.S. acknowledges it infected Guatemalans with syphilis in 1940s

Delhi gripped by fear on eve of Games

"The sense of fear is as thick as the chemicals being sprayed on to all teh nearby pools of stagnant water, to rid the ara of Dengue fever-carrying mosquitoes."

HAHAHAHAHAHA

Delhi gripped by fear on eve of Games

Judge decriminalizes prostitution in Ontario, but Ottawa mulls appeal

While many may consider this to be morally off-putting, I think this is, realistically, a rather progressive move.

Judge decriminalizes prostitution in Ontario, but Ottawa mulls appeal

Naked fast-food customer challenges Canada's nudity laws as unconstitutional - Winnipeg Free Press

"His lawyer, Clayton Ruby, said outside court they believe the laws violate the charter because they limit a nudist's right to freedom of expression."

Somehow I don't see that argument disrobing current laws if you will...

Naked fast-food customer challenges Canada's nudity laws as unconstitutional - Winnipeg Free Press

Take marathons off city streets — Ford

This is the brilliant mind you want to govern your city, Toronto? REALLY?

Hire this guy as your mayor, and you will cease to be a world class city in any way, shape or form.

Take marathons off city streets — Ford

New BlackBerry Tablet May Debut Next Week

I really should be paying attention in criminal law class right now...

New BlackBerry Tablet May Debut Next Week

On 1984 Sikh Riots, Lawsuits Proceed in India and the U.S.

On the Wall Street Journal blog

On 1984 Sikh Riots, Lawsuits Proceed in India and the U.S.

Swedish voters say no to immigration

A few years ago, Osama Bin Laden apparently said that the States should be like Sweden, as they are exemplary in the manner in which they treat their immigrants.

While Bin Laden's extremism would discredit him from making any cogent or credible argument at all, it would be interesting to see what he meant (as his thought process is an extreme version of a general feeling or thought process held by large non extremist communities in Asia for starters), and then to understand what this news now means in terms of world/european views on immigration and immigrants -- as well as general xenophobia.

Swedish voters say no to immigration

THE LIMITS OF SCIENCE

A very interesting article from the Economist...

THE LIMITS OF SCIENCE

France bristles at comparison of Roma roundups to Nazi tactics - CSMonitor.com

Very interesting. France seems to be on the forefront of generally questionable immigration policies in Europe...

France bristles at comparison of Roma roundups to Nazi tactics - CSMonitor.com

Anti-Sikh riots: SC reserves verdict on Sajjan’s appeal

Anyone know what it means to reserve a verdict? Is it what it sounds like?

Anti-Sikh riots: SC reserves verdict on Sajjan’s appeal

Immigration is Killing Germany

Joachim reviews Thilo Sarrazin's book on Germany's slow death by immigration, which has ignited a debate of almost unprecedented ferocity.

Very interesting.

Joachim Güntner: Finance senator to fire starter (09/09/2010) - signandsight

Terry Jones, Burn the Koran Pastor, Wrecks Free Speech Debate

Burn a Koran Day is despicable. There is no doubt about that. The harsh criticsim of this ridiculous event, gives me hope that America is still strong. But serious questions can be raised about free speech here. If you are allowed to burn an American flag, should you be allowed to burn a Koran? A Bible? Torah? Guru Granth Sahib?

Having said that, the argument could be made that this is sort of a global version of "shouting fire in a crowded theatre." General Patraeus has already said that this is something that seriously puts the lives of American soldiers overseas, at even greater risk. How? By actively cultivating a global atmosphere of fear and anger, largely directed at Americans.

Despite the free speech argument, public policy may suggest that this sort of thing is not something a government should allow to happen.

Terry Jones, Burn the Koran Pastor, Wrecks Free Speech Debate

MATT DAMON: Sarah Palin, Nuke Codes & Dinosaurs

I know this is old, but I think it goes with the other article I just posted...I don't think it was too critical. I think it was legitimately outraged that we are giving this woman a chance.

Sarah Palin the Sound and the Fury Politics: vanityfair.com

Wow. Is Sarah Palin growing on you? It doesn't matter...just read this.

Sarah Palin the Sound and the Fury Politics: vanityfair.com

What are the Republicans trying to hide behind the Ground Zero Mosque?

What an fantastically refreshing article. Cheers to The Independent. Its NOT a GROUND ZERO MOSQUE. Its a COMMUNITY CENTRE. The GOP needs to grow up. Seriously.

Everyone should read this article.

What are the Republicans trying to hide behind the Ground Zero Mosque?

Siddiqui: Let’s not forget the scandal on the census - thestar.com

Agreed. Check it out.

Siddiqui: Let’s not forget the scandal on the census - thestar.com

B.C. lawyer awarded $6 million after night club incident - thestar.com

ATTENTION FELLOW LAW STUDENTS! YOU NOW HAVE AN OFFICIAL REASON TO GO PARTY. (Although finishing law school is a requisite too.)

Not bad though...get drunk, party, fall on a night club floor, and get PAID!

Question: So the club is being sued for what, having hard floors? I need to find me this ruling...

B.C. lawyer awarded $6 million after night club incident - thestar.com

Tony Clement versus the coalition of the communists

Haha.

Tony Clement versus the coalition of the communists

The Postradical Legal Generation

An interesting article on how law schools and the academics and legal minds they produce are becoming more and more conservative. I'm inclined to agree.

The Postradical Legal Generation

Palin Criticizes 'Ground Zero Mosque,' Coins New Word

My refudiation: This makes no difference whatsoever. Palin may be growing in confidence, which in turn will most likely help her in polls, but it seems to me that this particular stance of hers is just a drop "in-Pail" (get it? okay, okay, I'm sorry). Shes just said so many ridiculous things at this point I wonder whether it makes a difference.

Generally though, its interesting to see the political right in America (by that I mean Tea Party-ers) associate a mosque with hurt from 9/11. With that logic, the likes of Palin should actively oppose any form of European/Christian settlement anywhere in North America, South America, Africa, Asia...I could keep going....

Credit for finding this article goes to Nick Kennedy.

Palin Criticizes 'Ground Zero Mosque,' Coins New Word

Disputing Sikh extremism

This is an interesting piece. While I'll agree that Sikh Militancy is no where to be found -- something that Ujjal Dosanjh, Manmohan Singh, and others want to pin on Sikhs, there are certainly extremist elements. There is no doubt about that, and we as a community need to admit and work on it.

Other then that -- good article.

Disputing Sikh extremism

Police add water cannon to G20 arsenal - thestar.com

Seriously? SERIOUSLY? What exactly are the police expecting to happen here? It honestly seems to me at times that they are using this event to add new "toys" to fulfill some anti protest weapon fetish.

And whats with all these fences? This security? What the heck kind of public life are these world leaders living, if they aren't even going to be seen by the public?

This is a joke. Stephen Harper -- you are a joke.

Also, whats with everyone acting as if protesting the G20 is a bad thing? Since when was it people's use of freedom of political expression lamentable?

Police add water cannon to G20 arsenal - thestar.com

'Ragheads' and Republicans: Is Sikhism a sickness?

I'd been hearing a lot about Nikki Randawa-Hailey running to be governor. There seemed to be a big issue with the fact that she came from Indian and in particular Sikh roots. I think the article below says what needs to be said, in the perfect way. Check it out.

'Ragheads' and Republicans: Is Sikhism a sickness?

Documents expose Harper's obsession with control - thestar.com

Surprise, surprise. Harper is a dictator.

Documents expose Harper's obsession with control - thestar.com

Drunk passenger sues driver - thestar.com

SO...A woman is suing the driver (who happens to be her common law partner), for not stopping her from jumping out of a moving car.

Discuss.

Drunk passenger sues driver - thestar.com

Sikh group backs Alta. student's right to wear kilt

Agreed. Can't we get past this ridiculous idea that women and men have designated clothes? Talk about heteronormative AND ethnocentric.

Weak.

Sikh group backs Alta. student's right to wear kilt

The New Google Doodle Is a FREAKING GAME OF PAC-MAN

AWESOME!

The New Google Doodle Is a FREAKING GAME OF PAC-MAN

Sajjan incited mob to target Sikhs in ’84 riots: CBI to court

This is why what happened to Sikhs in 1984 must not be called riots. They were not riots, they were government planned attacks, with the intention of genocide.

Finally the CBI is getting real with Sajjan Kumar.

Sajjan incited mob to target Sikhs in ’84 riots: CBI to court

We are entering destiny territory

I just love the title of this article...haha. Agreed.

We are entering destiny territory

Speaker Peter Milliken extends deadline for Afghan document disclosure - thestar.com

So its figure it out, Harper, or be held in contempt of Parliament. I like it.

Speaker Peter Milliken extends deadline for Afghan document disclosure - thestar.com

Is NHL plotting a return flight to Winnipeg?

How awesome would this be?

Is NHL plotting a return flight to Winnipeg?

The insurgents will be back

A great article by a former professor of mine: John Duncan. His point, if I'm not terribly off, is that with the amount of resources that are being put into this mission, it can't come across as anything but an occupation. There just isn't enough. As that is the case, we have no reason to be in that country, if we aren't there for real change.

The insurgents will be back

Court limits media

Basically the SC ruled that there is some protection for confidential informants but its not absolute...interesting stuff

Court limits media

CBC News - Technology & Science - 'Anti-consumer' copyright bill on way: expert

Corporate Industry: 1 Consumer: 0 . This was actually averted once before when a whole bunch of Canadians protested on Facebook. Here's hoping we won't have to do that again!

CBC News - Technology & Science - 'Anti-consumer' copyright bill on way: expert

Aid groups advised to ‘shut the f--- up’ on abortion - thestar.com

Exams took up my time for the past few days, but I'm back. The Harper Regime is regressive, power hungry, and doesn't give a damn. Don't believe me? Read this article and we'll talk. Talk about emblematic.

Aid groups advised to ‘shut the f--- up’ on abortion - thestar.com

Hébert: Torture paper ruling a victory for Parliament - thestar.com

Now it should be interesting to see how this plays out.

Hébert: Torture paper ruling a victory for Parliament - thestar.com

Canadiens sink Capitals to force Game 7 - thestar.com

Word. GO HABS!

Canadiens sink Capitals to force Game 7 - thestar.com

Why did nobody help, asks mugged man, 79 - thestar.com

This sort of stuff just makes me angry. I've ridden the TTC plenty of times and have delt with this sort of stuff on occasion, and I can tell you...not a single person would join me in telling some guys to back off when they were causing problems. Its shameful.

Why did nobody help, asks mugged man, 79 - thestar.com

Siddiqui: The new war over multiculturalism - thestar.com

This is hardly a NEW war. People like Dosanjh have used multiculturalism when it was useful for them and decried it when it was not. I get the feeling it will always be that sort of thing -- a shining beacon of hope as well as a confusing unhelpful idea. All at the same time. But in the end it will stay and so will the praise and criticism associated with it.

Siddiqui: The new war over multiculturalism - thestar.com

Shad

Now thats rap. Canada REPRESENT!

CBC News - Ottawa - Armenian Canadians rally to remember killings

In solidarity with the Armenian community.

CBC News - Ottawa - Armenian Canadians rally to remember killings

Selling Hydro bad for environment, Smitherman says - thestar.com

Well now that is interesting.

Selling Hydro bad for environment, Smitherman says - thestar.com

Dwayne De Rosario scores way into TFC record book - thestar.com

Awesome.

Dwayne De Rosario scores way into TFC record book - thestar.com

The courage of the 'blood traitor'

This man is indeed courageous. Hes saying what needs to be said. We need to weed out the extremists who are the real ones disrespecting out faith and community. Shame on them.

I may not agree with everything Dosanjh says but I stand by him today. Another great article by Jon Kay.

The courage of the 'blood traitor'

White & guilty: ‘Whiteness’ workshop helps expose your inner racist

HAHAHA...I really like Jon Kay. I don't agree with everything he says, but he definitely knows how to write and...and make you think.

The general idea here though, is sound in my opinion.

White & guilty: ‘Whiteness’ workshop helps expose your inner racist

Regarding recent events in the Sikh community

Sikhs have been in the news a lot lately, but sadly, it has been for all the wrong reasons; fist- fights at places of worship, thinly veiled threats, and some rather serious political gaffes. Now I regularly talk about Sikhism with my friends – whether it’s in the context of social justice, spirituality or just philosophy in general. Being in law school, the political elements of the faith also come up – whether it’s due to certain political ideologies or because of requirements of the faith (like the kirpan or turban).

Sikhism is a relatively young religion. It’s only 500 years old and it’s still experiencing some growing pains. Lucky for us, we’re in a society and a time when violence is something that is fiercely opposed, making it less likely that these growing pains will translate into problems as grand and unfortunate as many other faiths have. Yes we have some internal squabbles, and yes we have arguments and even fights about religious dogma. As much as I wish it weren’t so, it is. We’re working on it, of that I can assure you. But know this: no one is more angered and offended by the recent violence and problems than the Sikh community itself. We’re used to being thought of as “those hard working people with turbans, beards, and big orange parades”, even sometimes as “those people with all those Charter challenges”, but we certainly don’t like being thought of as “those people with all those fights”.

As a friend pointed out, these unfortunate events put me in the rather unenviable position of being my community’s apologist. Here’s the thing though – I’m not going to apologize. You see, we live in a country known for its tolerance of minorities, and indeed even its acceptance of those from different cultures. While it’s not hard to find latent racism (keep your community problems in your own country!), for the most part even hard right-leaning groups will have something positive to say about the Sikh community. The thing is, this is our country, whether some folks like it or not. And when you accept Sikhs into your country, you accept any internal community issues that may come along with them. The same goes for any group that immigrates to Canada. People who think otherwise need to brush up on the Orangeman’s day parade in Toronto, or the Israel and Palestine issue that flairs up not too infrequently.

And yet, I think it’s a good thing these community problems are in the news (though its not particularly hard for Sikhs, as they really tend to put the “visible” in visible minority). And hopefully the media can report the news and try not to sensationalize the stories in an unhelpful way. The way that some of the reporting has gone on, one can’t help but wonder sometimes. With all that in mind, we as a community need to be transparent about these issues we are facing – and knowing that we are being watched serves as good reason to take care when dealing with our community problems. It’s important to remember, though, that we not only have the watchful Canadian eye to be thankful for, but also the Canadian community’s support. Today I read an op-ed piece in The StarPhoenix, a Saskatchewan newspaper which talked about the recent series of unhappy events taking place in the Sikh community. The piece ended on a great sentiment that really brought out my pride in being a Canadian Sikh.

“Sikhs have a long and positive history of contributing to Canada's society and cultural mosaic. Those who have stood fast against the violence need to know they have the support of all Canadians.”

Though I had no doubts, it certainly felt good to be reassured.

Federal Lawyers Trying To Block Release Of Afghanistan Detainee Documents - CityNews

How I'd like to be challenging these lawyers...what fun/frustration it would be...

Federal Lawyers Trying To Block Release Of Afghanistan Detainee Documents - CityNews

Le projet de loi 94 risque d'enfreindre la liberté de religion

Un pièce d'opinion par Professor Leckey...c'est vraiment intéressant.

Le projet de loi 94 risque d'enfreindre la liberté de religion

Cook-book misprint costs Australian publishers dear

Maia gets the credit for this one. Its hilarious. haha.

Cook-book misprint costs Australian publishers dear

CBC News - British Columbia - B.C. premier demands apology

For the record, to simply translate Punjabi is a mistake. It is a tonal language, and A LOT depends on how things are said.

Despite that, this is just shameful, and these guys need to apologize. These folks need to understand that no matter how much they disagree with someone, violence or a threat of violence is simply unacceptable. Thats that.

CBC News - British Columbia - B.C. premier demands apology

Rob Ford would be a disaster as Toronto mayor - thestar.com

I couldn't agree more. The number times Ford has been in the news for being a hard nosed, uncompromising, offensive individual is ridiculous. Why people are considering voting for him is beyond me.

Rob Ford would be a disaster as Toronto mayor - thestar.com

Canadiens shock Capitals in OT

Whoohoo! Go Montréal!!!

BTW: I've always been a Habs fan. But when you come to Montréal and hear constant Toronto bashing...well, it just brings the t-dot outta you.

Canadiens shock Capitals in OT

Toronto FC wins home opener - 680News

Woohoo! Go Toronto!

Toronto FC wins home opener - 680News

Sikhism -- The Green Religion

With the arrival of spring and its celebration of nature, I decided to contemplate my faith tradition, Sikhism, and what it says about the natural environment.

Saffron has always been an essential Sikh colour, evident in the colour of the Nishan Sahib, the Sikh flag that flies at the entrance or atop every Gurdwara (the Sikh place of worship), as well as the traditional Sikh dress called Baana, where saffron is often mixed with royal blue. Though Sikhs are asked to consider all colours equal, much like all people, all religions, all occasions, etc…. it would be futile to deny the potency of these two colours in arousing spirit and sentiment in those who have any connection to Sikhism and Sikh culture

I would like to add another colour to my Sikh faith and the Sikh way of life, and that colour is green. It might be coincidental that saffron and blue mixed together make green. Then again, it might not. Green is the colour of all that is young, growing and vibrant, the colour of the trees and land, and the word most used to metaphorically describe environmental activism and stewardship concerning the environment (Greenpeace, Green Party, Greening Sacred Spaces…).

It’s official then – green is in. Today more than ever, people are coming to realize the importance of ‘being green’. We are coming to realize that instead of simply an optional act of good will it is in fact the duty of the worlds’ citizens to take care of the Earth; the very Earth that has sustained humans, and that humans repaid by plundering and violating.

So how can Sikhs make a place for a green ethic in our way of life? What does the environment have to do with spirituality? What do the Sikh Gurus teach about these matters? These were questions I asked myself time and time again. And like almost everything else, I found answers waiting to be understood in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh scriptures. The Guru Granth Sahib is the complied writings of saints, fakirs, and enlightened individuals of all walks of life, including weavers, cobblers and farmers, from all different castes religions and genders. After having established the Sikh way, the tenth and final human Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh (1666 -1708) named this sacred text to be the final and eternal Guru of the Sikhs. With its interfaith based writings, the teachings it contains are not only spiritual to Sikhs, but universal and inspiring for all. But as with all great texts, you have to read it to benefit from its timeless wisdom. It is not to be worshiped blindly, as was the custom of many in India at the time. (A translation of the Guru Granth Sahib can be found online at www.searchgurbani.com)

Once I started reading, not only was I forced to accept the undeniable relationship between spirituality and the environment, I was also amazed at the science and ecology presented to us by our Guru.

On the subject of pollution, Guru Ji (Ji is a term of respect) says on pg. 8:10 of the Guru Granth Sahib, "Air is the Guru, Water is the Father, and Earth is the Great Mother of all." If we can learn any primary values in Gurbani, the writings contained in the Guru Granth Sahib, some of the first would be to learn of the importance of respecting the Guru as well as one’s mother and father, who are in reality, a child's first Gurus. Guru Nanak the first Guru, and founder of Sikhism (1469-1539) tells us that air is our Guru, water our father and the earth is our mother. Would anyone dare disrespect their guru (teacher) and their parents the way that we do the air, water and earth? All of these elements are sacred to us - or at least should be.

Further on, the Guru reveals how scientifically forward thinking and understanding Gurbani is when Guru Ji says, "From the True Lord came the air, and from the air came water" 19:18. Today, every seventh-grade child likely knows the hydrological cycle, and yet we adults wantonly waste and pollute this sacred element. On page 472:14, the Guru tells us "First, there is life in the water, by which everything else is made green."
Having spoken of air and water the Guru goes on to say of the earth
“…in the midst of these, He established the earth as a home for Dharma” 7:12.

While many may take Dharma to mean religion, the more literal meaning is “duty”. Duty and service, to God, to one’s family and community, are central ideas to the Sikh faith. Would we throw garbage left, right and centre in a gurdwara, temple, mosque or church? Would we pollute the air inside these sacred spaces so that worshippers could barely breath? What about poisoning the water in langar (the free kitchen, which is in all gurdwaras), or communion? Of course we wouldn’t. Then why do we do it to planet Earth, which, as the Guru tells us, was established by God as a home for Dharma?

Of the trees, plants and nature in general, Guru Ji states, "The Lord is among the trees and the plants, within the household and outside as well" 223:16. Yet we endlessly consume and waste paper. Deforestation is someone else's problem. It's so far away, and has so little to do with me, we tell ourselves.

But our Guru tells us that God resides within these natural creations. Caring little or not at all about the welfare of the future of creation is caring little or not at all for God. I do not think that the path of the truly spiritual individual lies apart from the path of the environmentalist. Indeed they seem to be very much aligned, if not one and the same.

We are shown repeatedly in the Guru Granth Sahib that God pervades the air, water, earth and plants, and informed of our close familial ties with these elements, as they are Guru, father and mother. So when we disrespect our environment we are disrespecting God and our family.

"The devotees are in harmony with their God; He is in the water, the land, and the sky" 748: 3.

"The Lord is totally pervading the water, the land, and all space. He is contained in the forests as well" 133:13,

"O Nanak, He is pervading and permeating all places, the forests and the meadows, the three worlds, and every hair" 966:9.

"Behold God in all the earth and sky, in the water, on the land, in the forests and mountains, and in the nether regions of the underworld" 299:16.

"If someone is going to teach me something, let it be that the Lord is pervading the forests and fields"92:12.

All of these quotes, and many more like them, are from the Guru Granth Sahib, which we accept as the absolute and infinite Guru.

I don't think the main issue is how many activist groups we join or whether we advocate for environmental laws. I think the issue is rather that we as Sikhs, indeed all people, learning that the environment is central to our religion, our way of life, must come together as a community to become more environmentally conscious and active in our daily life.

One final point comes to mind. We so often hear the Guru refer to God with the word “Har”…
“Obtaining the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, they are satisfied; joining the Sangat, the Blessed Congregation, their virtues shine forth” 10:5.

The similarity between God’s name and the Punjabi word for green (hara) seems to me uncanny. It looks like the colour Green is already taken – by none other than God.

Court to decide web posters’ ability to remain anonymous

Now this should be very interesting. One one side we have the right to remain anonymous online and on the other side we have libel and defamation. Whats worth protecting more?

Court to decide web posters’ ability to remain anonymous

Let us open on holidays, stores say - thestar.com

Isn't this case analogous to Big M Mart? The Supreme Court of Canada already ruled on governments forcing stores to close on religious holidays -- specifically they said it was unconstitutional. It infringed on a right to freedom of religion. I suppose its cheaper to lobby municipal council, but I'm rather certain that the law would be thrown out in first instance court.

Let us open on holidays, stores say - thestar.com

Delays leave access to information rights 'totally obliterated'

How terribly unsurprising. The Conservative government is a disgrace to democracy.

Weak.

Delays leave access to information rights 'totally obliterated'

What is a Khalsa?

Paulo Coelho may not have known it, but he was describing the Khalsa, here.

Credit for this goes to Kulvir.

Choosing in Peace
By Paulo Coelho

The warrior of the light meditates. He sits down in a quite corner of his tent and delivers himself to the divine light.

On doing so, he tries not to think of anything, detaches himself from the pursuit of pleasures, challenges and revelations, and lets his gifts and powers reveal themselves.

Even though he does not notice it at the time, these gifts and powers are taking control of his life and will affect his daily life.

As he meditates, the warrior is not himself but rather a spark of the Soul of the World. These are the moments that allow him to understand his responsibility and act accordingly. A warrior of the light knows: in the silence of his heart exists a higher order that is to show him the steps of his personal choice.

In search of a moderate Republican

This is a great line: "...Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and a possible presidential contender in 2012, called Barack Obama the most radical president in US history and assailed his administration as a “secular, socialist machine”. Something is seriously amiss with an opposition that regards this as a proper line of attack."

In search of a moderate Republican

Le vrai voile

Mots sage...

Le vrai voile

Quebec Muslim woman ordered to unveil or leave French course

Mon Dieu...hônnetment, c'est quoi le problème?

Quebec Muslim woman ordered to unveil or leave French course

Chorus of emails saved our national anthem - thestar.com

I'm rather surprised to read about this. I mean, what would be so terrible about making the national anthem gender neutral? I fail to understand how this would crumble the very foundations of our nation, as these people seem to think it would. How -- honestly -- how could it actually affect anyone in an adverse manner? It could only have the positive effect of making people feel included...God forbid that ever happen. Lets not hide behind our warped sense of "tradition" to avoid being racist or discriminatory.

I love Canada, and me thinking that our anthem could be more inclusive does not make me any less of a Canadian.

And whats with the ludicrous title of the article? Weak.

Chorus of emails saved our national anthem - thestar.com

Is there such a thing as courtesy in journalism?

I'd certainly argue that there is. Unfortunately sensationalism seems to have long since, taken over any sense of decorum and courtesy that media outlets would have otherwise considered fundamental to journalistic integrity. Then again, I wonder if journalistic integrity means anything these days.

The Toronto Star published an article about some academic and fairly important issues that Sikhism must understand and deal with today. The article wasn't bad, but title was unbelievably inflammatory and sensationalistic. It was quite simply hurtful to the Sikh community.

I'd posit that even sensational and inflammatory journalism could be acceptable and even necessary at times. But this certainly was not one of them. The Star has been reporting on Sikhs for so many years, and has helped the community recognize and work to alleviate some growing pains. For that they should be thanked. But that certainly does not justify taking liberties with titles so as to make false, and disrespectful links that would hurt the sentiments of any community (let alone the Sikh community). The absolute worst part is that such a title just wasn't necessary. I would ask for any apology from the Star, but its pretty clear they don't give a damn. They could have had so very many different titles for the article that its just incriminates their sense of need for sensational and inflammatory journalism all the more.

Alas. Back to studying torts. (Yes, I realize the irony...)

You can read the article I'm referring to here.

How to deal with Gilles Duceppe

How eloquently and succinctly put. My thoughts exactly.

How to deal with Gilles Duceppe

Playoff clinching game? Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs

Aaaaaaaaaahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahhahahahahahhaha. That was my evil laugh.
Playoff clinching game? Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs

CBC News - Politics - B.C. solicitor general quits amid RCMP probe

Whats going on here? We've got Canadian politicians dropping like flies! AND getting probed by the RCMP. Interesting stuff.

CBC News - Politics - B.C. solicitor general quits amid RCMP probe

Hobbled Raptors ready to soar with the Hawks in Atlanta - thestar.com

The Raptors are awesome. Say what you will.

Just thought I'd share that.

Hobbled Raptors ready to soar with the Hawks in Atlanta - thestar.com

CBC News - North - Nunavut irked by Arctic sovereignty talk

This is why the conservative government scares me. They see everything as an asset, everything as a cost, and everything in terms of whether it is useful to them or not. The foreign affairs minister actually this with regards to the Arctic: Use it or Lose it.

Are you serious? This is our minister of foreign affairs?

CBC News - North - Nunavut irked by Arctic sovereignty talk

Guergis resigns, faces RCMP probe - thestar.com

Oh my. I suppose it was really a matter of time wasn't it? First her husband, then her, then her secretary, then her husband then her house.

She's just been making all the right mistakes hasn't she?

Guergis resigns, faces RCMP probe - thestar.com

Pharmacists slam Ontario drug reforms - thestar.com

And the Fight Is On. I think the government is being quite reasonable here. They'll keep paying the pharmacists, but just not as much for dispensing drugs. Instead, its for them to spend time with clients, and in particular seniors. This may be hard for the Ontario government now, but its going to pay for a long time to come. Nice.

Pharmacists slam Ontario drug reforms - thestar.com

Duceppe gets cool reception in Toronto

Well this was certainly nice to hear. I feel like the east coast is just wayyyyy too nice. Everybody whos not from Toronto, hates Toronto for a reason -- because its too arrogant to give a damn about someone as destructive as Duceppe.

And I applaud said arrogance.

Duceppe gets cool reception in Toronto

Former MP Rahim Jaffer connected to conman - thestar.com

This might as well be a soap opera. Wow. Talk about investigative journalism. Thre are some pretty hefty claims made here...and I'm guessing the journalist can back them up. Otherwise there may possibly be several cases of libel!

Former MP Rahim Jaffer connected to conman - thestar.com

Narwhal numbers good news for Arctic watchers

These whales are awesome. They're like underwater unicorns.

And their numbers are going up, not down! Its not every day you hear good environmental/wildlife news like that.

Narwhal numbers good news for Arctic watchers

Ontario takes green lead with record $8-billion energy investment

Can't wait to hear what the critics have to say about this one. Really -- I'd like to know whether this investment is actually valuable, or whether its just blind investment in something "green" to make the public happy.

I'm inclined to think its quite a good thing...we finally have some leadership in this area in Canada, and I'm glad Ontario is in the front. It may not be the only one, but at least its there.

Ontario takes green lead with record $8-billion energy investment

Protesters demand action on Grassy Narrows - thestar.com

Really? This is getting more than ridiculous. If its not contaminated water, its poor housing. Now mercury poisoning? Are you kidding me? I still have the hardest time understanding why within Canada -- a fully developed, first world country -- we have third world poverty. Its unconsciounable how we treat First Nations people...lets hope we can get to a point where they don't have to protest to get our attention every time they have major health issues running rampant in their communities.

Unconscionable.

Protesters demand action on Grassy Narrows - thestar.com

Restricting kirpans would inflict wound on tolerance - The Globe and Mail

Finally, a voice of reason.

Restricting kirpans would inflict wound on tolerance - The Globe and Mail

CBC News - Edmonton - Tuition hikes coming for some at U of A, U of C

I guess the hikes are all across the board then. I'm not totally opposed to the hikes, so long as appropriate governmental bursary/tax schemes are put into place.

CBC News - Edmonton - Tuition hikes coming for some at U of A, U of C

New location...

I'll be posting my articles from this site now...

www.inter-alia.ca .