Hello folks, we hope you are all safe and well. There has been a special statement issued by Environment Canada. This report can be found below: Issued on Tuesday at 4:39am EST, June 6th 2023 High levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires. Smoke plumes from local forest fires as well as forest fires in Quebec have resulted in deteriorated air quality. Poor air quality may persist through most of this week. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour. For more details, please consult www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Continue to take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke. People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada It is advised to stay inside if possible today and to turn on any air purification units you may have.

Health and fitness play integral roles in achieving and maintaining overall well-being for both one's physical & mental well-being. Consistent engagement in physical activity, including exercise and adopting an active lifestyle, is paramount for optimizing one's overall health. Incorporating a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises yields notable benefits such as improved cardiovascular health, enhanced muscular strength, and increased flexibility and balance.Having this influx of benefits also helps one's overall mental health. In conjunction with exercise, adhering to a well-balanced and nutritious diet is imperative for supporting optimal health. Emphasizing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats ensures the provision of essential nutrients required for optimal bodily functioning. A proper diet can also help regulate one's energy levels which in turn helps one's overall mental state. Adequate rest and sleep are equally vital for facilitating physical and mental recovery. Sufficient sleep duration promotes cognitive function, bolsters the immune system, and enhances emotional well-being. Practicing healthy habits is paramount while avoiding detrimental behaviors is crucial. Eliminating tobacco use, minimizing alcohol consumption, and refraining from drug abuse are all critical steps in preserving and enhancing one’s health. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals, such as physicians and dentists, are crucial in the early detection and prevention of potential health issues. Additionally, implementing stress-management techniques, mindfulness practices, and seeking appropriate support contributes to effective stress management. Sponsored Advertisement To summarize, making informed lifestyle choices, encompassing regular exercise, keeping a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and avoiding harmful habits fosters a foundation for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Link for Donations Help support non-biased and honest journalists like Anjum. He is dedicated to sharing honest and trustworthy news with you all. Help support his journalistic efforts by donating to the link below: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/SL3BIITD3LBYVXUWXNOE3I2V

As the summer season kicks off, Canada finds itself grappling with an alarming surge in wildfires, casting a shadow of uncertainty over several provinces. From the eastern shores of Nova Scotia to the vast expanse of Ontario and the majestic landscapes of British Columbia, as well as in Quebec. Wildfires have taken hold, posing a formidable challenge to both residents and authorities alike. In Ontario, there have been several air quality warnings issued across the province as wildfires continue to blaze across various regions, stretching resources and testing the resilience of communities. The scale and intensity of these fires have caught many off guard, leaving authorities scrambling to mobilize firefighting efforts. Thick plumes of smoke shroud the once-serene forests, casting an eerie atmosphere over affected areas. Similarly, Nova Scotia finds itself in the grip of an unprecedented wildfire outbreak, sending shockwaves through the Atlantic province. Remote and densely wooded areas have become epicenters of intense fire activity, with flames devouring vast stretches of land. The smoke-filled skies and the haunting crackling of burning trees have become a distressing backdrop to daily life for local residents, who are left wondering when relief will come. Meanwhile, British Columbia, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, is also grappling with its own wildfire crisis. The province's diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to arid grasslands, have also become vulnerable to these indiscriminate infernos. Local authorities are grappling with the magnitude of the situation, deploying significant resources to battle the flames and protect cherished landscapes. However, the relentless march of the wildfires and the immense challenges posed by rugged terrain continue to test their mettle. The causes behind these devastating fires are multifaceted and complex. While natural factors such as dry weather and lightning strikes have played a role, the human element cannot be ignored. Climate change, coupled with human activities, has created a volatile environment primed for wildfire outbreaks. The consequences of these fires extend beyond the immediate destruction of flora and fauna, as they impact air quality, disrupt transportation, and pose risks to public health. Efforts are underway to combat the wildfires, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the spread and protect vulnerable communities. In the face of this ongoing crisis, Canadians are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed about evacuation orders and safety protocols. The impacts of these wildfires are far-reaching, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate conditions that fuel them. As Canada unites in the face of these catastrophic events, the hope remains that the spirit of resilience, community, and stewardship for the natural world will prevail. It is in these times of crisis that Canadians demonstrate their strength and determination to protect their land and those who call it home. For Up-To-Date information on the Air Quality Warnings in your area please visit https://weather.gc.ca/?layers=alert#wb-cont You can also use the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System | Interactive map (nrcan.gc.ca) for updated information on wildfires and their location.

What is Bill C-11 and how will it affect the average Canadian? Long version, the act is “An Act to amend the Broadcasting Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts”. If you want the short title, it's an Online Streaming Act. The first reading for this took place February 2, 2022. On April 27, 2023 the bill was granted royal assent, and received the final step into law. (An Act to Amend the Broadcasting Act and to Make Related and Consequential Amendments to Other Acts, 2023) This bill was put out in order to update the Broadcasting Act that has been sitting untouched since 1991. (Branch, 2023) This is to update the act specifically to get it up to date with the digital age. This means online streaming services will now be under the control of Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commissions (CRTC) regulations. If you haven't heard of the CRTC before, they are in charge of regulations of the content being pushed towards Canadians. While the exact percentages change from radio to television and the nuances of each, essentially the Broadcasting Act was aimed at making sure a certain percentage of each service would be providing Canadian made content. The goals put out to be made by the original creation of the Broadcasting Act was simple, the development of Canadian culture. The regulations were in place to strengthen that culture, and to make sure the content being portrayed aligned to Canadian values, and showcased its talent. In the digital era however, these goals can become more complicated then the straight forward and seemingly wholesome past with the CRTC. The conversation to be had around Bill C-11 contains two key questions. When regulating Canadian content, what is classified as Canadian content. The second question is, how will this regulation affect user generated content. In the bill itself, it has attempted to clarify on the second question with Exclusions (2.1), and (2.2). “Exclusion — carrying on broadcasting undertaking (2.‍1) A person who uses a social media service to upload programs for transmission over the Internet and reception by other users of the service — and who is not the provider of the service or the provider’s affiliate, or the agent or mandatary of either of them — does not, by the fact of that use, carry on a broadcasting undertaking for the purposes of this Act. Exclusion — social media service and programming control (2.‍2) An online undertaking that provides a social media service does not, for the purposes of this Act, exercise programming control over programs uploaded by a user of the service who is not the provider of the service or the provider’s affiliate, or the agent or mandatary of either of them.” While the exclusions added are a clarifier, it is important to note that this bill can be adjusted further in the future. The possibility of the bills adjustments can be taken in a neutral stance, this can only truly be done however after we find more answers on the first question we raised earlier. What is Canadian Content? How can one describe Canadian content, or how does a piece of content qualify? This also brings into play if the CRTC has the ability to claim one piece of content “Canadian” and another as not, can this lead to censorship? These are all questions we are waiting on answer for. In the meantime comment your thoughts below! What do you consider “Canadian Content” and how much overreach do you believe the CRTC should have when it comes to user generated content on streaming services? If you want to read more about this Bill, The Broadcasting Act, or the CRTC you can find the links to each below. Bill C-11 The Broadcasting Act Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) Link for Donations Help support non-biased and honest journalists like Isaiah. He is dedicated to sharing honest and trustworthy news with you all. Help support him and his journalistic efforts by donating to the link below: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/IA2N4QGDLMC7PMUB4YRFFROE Bibliography Branch, L. S. (2023, April 27). Consolidated federal laws of Canada, Broadcasting Act. Laws.justice.gc.ca. https://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/B-9.01/page-1.html#docCont Government of Canada, C. R. and T. C. (CRTC). (2008, December 12). About Us. Crtc.gc.ca. https://crtc.gc.ca/eng/acrtc/org.htm An Act to amend the Broadcasting Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts, no. C-11 (2023). https://www.parl.ca/DocumentViewer/en/44-1/bill/C-11/royal-assent

The Following Article is Sponsored by Bombtastic Events Summer is almost here and what better way to kick off the season than with the Summer Dayz Dog & Vendor Show happening in Madoc at the Arena on June 17th from 9am to 4pm. This event promises to be a fun-filled day for the whole family, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. This event is hosted by Bombtastic Events owned & operated by Trista Shaw. She is your go-to when it comes to planning all sorts of events. The main focus of the event is, of course, dogs! If you're a dog lover, then this is the perfect event for you. There will be a variety of dog-related activities happening throughout the day, including a dog show & competition. Whether you're a dog owner or just love to watch them in action, you'll find something to enjoy at the Summer Dayz Dog & Vendor Show This event also has lots of amazing vendors in store for us "hoomans" too as our animals would say. There will be a wide variety of vendors from specialty foods and baked goods, to retail, crafts & more. It is a great time for everyone in the family & it's a pet-friendly event of course. The Doggy Competition is set to happen at 1pm, participants are asked to email bombtasticeventsbytrista@gmail.com This one is for the kids and their parents, there will also be a coloring contest happening for the little ones. If you are near Madoc on June 17th feel free to swing by this event. There's coloring, dog shows/competitions, some awesome vendors from food to retail and so much more. It's going to be a great day at the Madoc Arena for the whole family. But that's not all! There will be plenty of delicious food vendors on site too, serving up a wide variety of options. Whatever you crave, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds at the Summer Dayz Dog & Vendor Show. Overall, it is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated family-friendly events of the season. With so much to see and do, it's the perfect way to kick off the summer and spend a fun-filled day with your loved ones. So mark your calendars for June 17th and head down to the Madoc Arena for a day of fun, laughter, games & dogs of course!

London, Ontario, a city of approximately 383,000 people, has seen fluctuations in its crime rate over recent years. While the overall crime rate has been decreasing, the impact of inflation and COVID-19 lockdowns on crime rates in London, Ontario has been a topic of discussion. According to Statistics Canada, London, Ontario's overall crime rate decreased by 4% in 2019 compared to the previous year, with a 6% reduction in violent crimes during the same period. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 saw a slight increase in the crime rate, with a 3.8% rise in reported incidents compared to 2019. Inflation, characterized by a general rise in the prices of goods and services, can affect people and their lives, leading some to resort to criminal activities. While London, Ontario has seen a steady rise in inflation rates over the years, crime rates have decreased during this period. Therefore, while inflation may impact crime rates in other ways, it appears to have had a limited effect on crime rates in London, Ontario. The COVID-19 pandemic, with its subsequent lockdowns, has had a considerable impact on crime rates worldwide. In London, Ontario, lockdowns may have contributed to a slight increase in crime rates in 2020. With the closure of businesses and public spaces, opportunities for traditional crimes such as theft and burglary decreased, while mental health-related incidents and domestic violence incidents increased. Sponsored Advertisement In conclusion, while crime rates in London, Ontario have been decreasing overall, the impact of inflation and COVID-19 lockdowns on crime rates remains a topic of discussion. Despite a rise in inflation rates, crime rates in the city have decreased, while lockdowns have contributed to a slight increase in crime rates, with mental health-related incidents and domestic violence incidents increasing. It is crucial to continue to work towards reducing crime and promoting safety in the city, especially during these uncertain times. Link for Donations Help support non-biased and honest journalists like Anjum. He is dedicated to sharing honest and trustworthy news with you all. Help support his journalistic efforts by donating to the link below: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/SL3BIITD3LBYVXUWXNOE3I2V

Got the travel bug? Well look no further, your adventure awaits! Ontario provides every desire a traveler can have. From sandy beaches, luscious forests, bustling cities and breathtaking views. Ontario has got it all and more. Here, I will list some fantastic spots you can visit this summer and get your travel on! Where to visit: Tobermory, this beautiful village is just on the Bruce Peninsula. And home to some of the most incredible places Canada has to offer! Bruce Peninsula National Park, and its incredible trails, camping sites, hiking and stunning views of the deep green forest. The grotto, with its rich history, sunken shipwrecks, island blue waters and crazy rocky structures. Flowerpot island, with boat rides, incredible hiking trails and cave exploring and of course take a dip in Georgian bay. Where to visit: Toronto, get your fix of the city with the bustling atmosphere of people, incredible shops, outstanding views and of course the incredible food. The CN tower, the pride and joy of Toronto, go above the clouds and check out all the incredible attractions it has! The Rogers Centre, sports fans watch out this may just be your new home! With tons of live sports games you would be able to get enough! Riley’s Aquarium of Canada, go under the sea and explore the depths of the ocean and all its wondrous beauty! Sponsored Ad Where to visit: Niagara on the lake, home to ontario's wine region where you can take in the small town feel and explore its gorgeous landscapes and winery’s Niagara Falls, no trip is complete without taking the plunge in the breathtaking view of the falls Botanical gardens, the perfect spot to relax and indulge in the beauty of gardens, and you may even be greeted by a butterfly! Clifton hill, home to the Casio, Niagara SkyWheel and tons of themed restaurants, funhouses and attractions! Just remember, wherever you go this summer, always be safe! And take the time to explore the incredible wonders that Ontario has to offer! Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps keep our journalists out there reporting. Journalists like Samantha. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/QUZTTZ3RY433OOZ7WP22CTLM References Kathy, et al. “The 30 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls in 2023.” The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog, 8 Apr. 2023, https://theplanetd.com/things-to-do-in-niagara-falls/. Law, Michael. “9 Top-Rated Things to Do in Tobermory, On.” PlanetWare.com, 21 Sept. 2021, https://www.planetware.com/canada/top-rated-things-to-do-in-tobermory-on-cdn-1-319.htm. Panda, Shagoon, et al. “35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada.” The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog, 18 Mar. 2023, https://theplanetd.com/places-to-visit-in-ontario-canada/. *All photos are owned by Samantha Falcone*

Over the past few weeks I have been on the hunt for information, personal experiences and opinions on the current addiction and housing crisis that is taking over Prince George. To my surprise, no one got back to me. It is beginning to anger and frighten me, Many of my fellow citizens feel the same. The question for our city council, is when will they take action? There was a meeting on December 5 2022, pertaining to these issues. No action was taken. A common theme that many of us seem to forget is, history often repeats itself. I am seeing the beautiful streets of the town I grew up in, filled with addiction and people who are suffering. It is much like the housing and addiction crisis of East Hasting in Vancouver. Recently they decided to take action, once it was too late. Like many issues we've seen in history. Simon Yu discussed how he would use simple mathematics to help grow our city in his campaign. This statement is bothersome, why not fix the current issues that we are already facing. Why try to grow something that currently is not thriving? There is a gap in the system, which we all know. City Council needs to tackle these issues with more urgency. Mothers, fathers, and children are suffering on our streets. Simply due to the fact that no one is willing to tackle this issue. The world has become a harder place to call home year after year. Our hearts are becoming hardened and numb to the heartbroken souls of downtown Prince George. Many people, when I ask their opinion will say pessimistic things. For Example : " They did it to themselves." " If they wanted a home they would have one" " If they are going to do drugs then we should just let them die." These are the words of fellow citizens. From co-workers. From family. Maybe it is easier to judge and have hate towards someone, than to show compassion and empathy. To realize that each and everyone of them has a personal story. Our nurses are tired, our doctors are overworked. More and more people need help and guidance with addiction and housing. There are not enough counsellors and addiction specialists to keep up with the constant incoming of clients. CIty Council has many things on their agenda. Families are being priced out of their homes. How does one stop a sinking ship, Is it possible? Link for Donations Help support non-biased and honest journalists like Alannah. She is dedicated to sharing honest and trustworthy news with you all. Help support her and her journalistic efforts by donating to the link below: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/JYTSNUSYL7OD5SMGEXM4RCN6

Do you have a passion for animals? Do you want to give back but don't know how? The Guelph Humane Society may be the place for you. The Guelph Humane Society has been an institution for 125 years and is dedicated to helping animals. The organization's primary focus is to ensure every animal gets the love and protection they greatly deserve, giving these animals a second chance at life. Ever wonder what unconditional love feels like? Look into the eyes of your furry friend. They love you with every fiber of their being because, to them, you are their superhero. But, unfortunately, this isn't the case for some. Most of these animals that end up in the humane society have been orphaned, injured, abused and abandoned. But with the help of Guelph's Humane society, they are given the chance to start again. But here is the craziest part, you can help! The organization takes in animals and looks after them until a loving family adopts them. All these animals want is love and a safe place to call home. And in return, you get a loyal companion that loves you unconditionally. So, are you ready to be their hero? However, if adopting isn't something you can do, there are plenty of other ways to help as you don't have to adopt just to make a difference, the possibilities to help are endless, and all it takes is compassion. The organization offers many other opportunities for you to reach out and make a difference. They greatly welcome volunteers, but did you know they also offer job opportunities? If animals are your passion, then this is the place for you. Not only this, but the Guelph Humane Society holds camps, events, clubs, and other programs to help educate kids and adults alike. If more people are aware and educated, our furry friends will be more protected. Lastly, the organization is a non-profit organization, therefore they depend on your donations, and every cent counts. Making a difference for these animals comes in many forms: find which one suits you best and be their second chance, who knows they might even be yours. If you are looking to learn more about their story or how you can help, adopt or donate check out their website @ https://guelphhumane.ca/ or contact them at Guelph Humane Society: 519-824-3091 Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps keep our journalists out there reporting. Journalists like Samantha. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/QUZTTZ3RY433OOZ7WP22CTLM References Sandbox. Guelph Humane Society, 28 Mar. 2023, https://guelphhumane.ca/.

Hello everyone, we hope you are all doing well. It has come to our attention that the carbon tax that was set in place as of 2019 will rise for the third time tonight across the country. Starting tonight at midnight, Canada's carbon tax will increase in an effort to combat climate change. The carbon tax is a fee charged on fossil fuels that produce carbon emissions, such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and coal. The tax is meant to discourage the use of these fuels and encourage the adoption of cleaner energy sources. The government believes that the carbon tax is an important tool in the fight against climate change. By making fossil fuels more expensive, it hopes to encourage individuals and businesses to transition to cleaner energy sources. The revenue generated from the tax is also being used to fund programs that support climate action and to provide rebates to households to offset the increased costs. However, not everyone is happy about the carbon tax increase. Some individuals and businesses argue that it will increase their costs and make them less competitive. Others believe that the tax unfairly targets rural Canadians who rely on their cars to get around. If you have concerns about the carbon tax increase, you can contact your Liberal government representatives to express them. You can find the contact information for your local Member of Parliament (MP) on the Parliament of Canada website. You can also contact the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault, through his website or on social media. When contacting your representatives, be sure to clearly and respectfully articulate your concerns. Explain how the carbon tax increase will impact you or your business, and suggest alternative solutions that you believe would be more effective in combatting climate change. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Oh Canada! Home to...inflation?? Have you felt the impact of inflation? Perhaps the drastic increase in prices of eggs, fruit, and gas. (To name a few) ring a bell? What exactly is inflation? Inflation is the price increase of general goods and services within an economy over a period of time. Unfortunately, inflation is seen often and is only growing in today's society. But why is inflation bad? Inflation means increased prices, thus fewer consumers, which ultimately leads to a decrease in the standard of living for people and their families as they cannot afford the same goods and services as they once could. However, the negative factors of inflation don't just stop there. The economy will then be unpredictable as it makes it difficult to make life decisions, such as buying a home or car, as inflation increases interest rates. The unpredictability causes slower economic growth, and more individuals are left unemployed because there is not enough money to keep things running or have a lot of employees. Just within January 2023, the consumer price index rate was at 5.9, which is an increase of 4.9% compared to January 2021, where the CPI was at 1, and the numbers are only climbing. (1) However, the economy constantly changes, and what goes up always comes back down. Across numerous households within Canada there has been widespread fear over inflation and the consequences it may carry, and many have felt the effect of job loss throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Low income households are already struggling to begin with, add inflation and job loss on top and you are witnessing the beginning of a downfall. The cost of living is soaring through the roof, we have all seen it or felt it in some way. Groceries, furniture, vehicles, you name it and it has seen a price inflation, it is visible in every area of daily life. Even middle income household have felt the effect of inflation, whether it is restricting spending or being tighter with bills there is a fear flowing through the country. This all sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Well that is because it has happened before, and recently. In 2008 the United States experienced a market crash of monumental proportions. The fear Canadians have today is that the 2008 crash is happening again and no one can stop it. While this may be a ways away from this point, it is a looming threat over the heads of every homeowner and loan holder in the country. The critical factor to know now is to be smart with your money. This means learning how to budget appropriately to ensure you are in a comfortable state—taking advantage of coupons and setting up saving accounts to allot a certain amount of money to grow without being touched. And cut unnecessary spending where you can! For instance, making a coffee instead of buying one, making meal prep for the week and not spending it on takeout meals or trying growing a mini herb or veggie garden in your kitchen or backyard! While this all seems meaningless, over time, you save money in the long run and learn better spending habits that will aid you for years and perhaps even a fun hobby. It is easier said than done, that is no secret, but with the support of others it is possible. Bear down with those around you and support each other, help each other, and believe that there is a prosperous way out of this, because there is and it is possible. Don't let inflation consume you; rise above it. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps keep our journalists out there reporting. Journalists like Samantha. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/QUZTTZ3RY433OOZ7WP22CTLM “Inflation: Definitions, Graphs and Data.” Bank of Canada, https://www.bankofcanada.ca/rates/indicators/capacity-and-inflation-pressures/inflation/.

Art, it's easy to think this is something you either know, or something you don't and when you don't, you really don't. In Canada, art within schools have on average been losing funding. To put this into perspective, in 2019, the Toronto District School Board cut $67.8 M from the budget over two years. (TDSB, 2019) The art department, specifically, was cut in half. The loss of funds towards art has created a gap in knowledge on the subject. More importantly, this gap creates a deficit in accessibility to understand how to properly assess artwork on a multitude of levels from personal art, to political art. With each political movement, there has been an era of art to go hand in hand. The art itself, more times than not, will either be in support of a movement, or in opposition. Rarely, in art will you find pieces made significant, for lack of better word, solely for its neutrality on a subject. One significant piece of art you may all know, either love it or hate it, that was in support of a large movement is Johnny Canuck. First created in 1869, and later resurfacing in 1942 during WWII. He was used to represent an easy going, and laid back military super hero. (Johnny Canuck 2023) A portrayal c. 1942 of Johnny Canuck as a World War II hero On the other hand, art in opposition to a movement will be just as plentiful. A widely known anti government movement that surfaced in the previous years has been the anti pipeline with Wet’suwet’en. While this is still an ongoing event for Wet’suwet’en and Gitxsan nations, it is hard to pick an individual piece to represent this entire movement. This movement is however one you will be able to find various examples of art over the next few years. (Shah, 2022) Finally, while it is rare that art is amplified during political events when it is viewed as neutral, it can occur. In the case of Andy Warhol, his art during the height of the AIDS epidemic became a large talking point. This was because of various reasons, but key features of this were because of how the world viewed him in regards to his sexuality and the empire he created as an artist. Andy Warhol was able to commercialize his art in a way that artists before him had not done before. Warhol, while not what many people expected or wanted, remained neutral on the epidemic and continually did not want to get involved in politics. One of the pieces in particular that he created during this time that caused an outrage during this time period is The Last Supper. Warhol wanted to stay out of the realm of politics and disease when the AIDS epidemic was happening, and because of this many viewed his response as a failure. (Beck, 2020) A. Andy Warhol, The Last Supper (detail), 1986 The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh; Founding Collection, contribution The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. 1998.1.355 An important objective to note within the context of political art, is that this is a never ending subject matter. There are always movements, and there will always be art to follow. Whether you agree with the movement, or the art does not matter. You should have access to the knowledge needed to critically analyze all key features of the art in order to understand it. This knowledge of art in regards to a world of politics, allows for the average citizen to be able to form an independent opinion on various fronts. When examining the art it is important to look at four different areas. The first being the piece itself or the content itself. The second and third are who is the artist(s) and who(m) is funding the art. Finally, the location of the piece. The content of an art piece will have a varying level of things to examine. A list of those key points include: colors, textures, type of art (called medium, painting, sculpture, etc.). These will all be the things you see at a first glance. Next examine, what exactly is being thrown at first, and how is the artist using space, or color to bring forward (give more attention to) particular points or features of the art. After examining the content of the art, next look for who the artist(s) behind the piece is. Knowing who the artist(s) behind a piece can open a door to understand what their motives or intentions were behind a piece. The artist(s) may be someone known to be in opposition, or in favor of the content presented, knowing this information allows an incite as to if the artist(s) will have a bias towards the content. Lastly the location of the piece will reveal a few key details as to the intent for the audience. A piece that is held in a private museum or gallery that costs money to enter will hold a difference with a piece that is displayed in a public park. The first would allow only a select few to see the work, while the latter would be forcing the general public to view the work more naturally in their daily life. No matter the take away you receive from art, movements, or what side you decide to stand on, or to remain neutral; your viewpoint on the art matters. Allowing yourself the independent thought and construction of opinion towards art will always allow for a better sense of self; and how that correlates to the world and politics surrounding you. Checklist to examine the art around you: Content -colors -textures -type of art Artist -background -any notable bias(s) Who(m) is funding -is it the artist? -is it an institution -is it the “opposition” Location -is it “legally” placed -is it private or public property -how will inevitably view the piece -is it organically -it is sponsored/pushed art -is it only available to a select group of people Link for Donations Help support non-biased and honest journalists like Isaiah. He is dedicated to sharing honest and trustworthy news with you all. Help support him and his journalistic efforts by donating to the link below: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLMNHE4G0R7FP/checkout/IA2N4QGDLMC7PMUB4YRFFROE References: Beck, J. (2020, May 27). Warhol's confession: Love, faith, and AIDS. The Andy Warhol Museum. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://www.warhol.org/warhols-confession-love-faith-and-aids/ Shah, S. (2022, July 26). Wet'suwet'en explained. The Indigenous Foundation. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://www.theindigenousfoundation.org/articles/wetsuweten-explained Toronto District School Board. (2019, May 13). Proposed Balance 2019-2020 Operating Budget. Toronto. Wikimedia Foundation. (2023, March 5). Johnny Canuck. Wikipedia. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Canuck