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Month: September 2016

A response to “The Burkini: What’s behind it?”

When I first saw last week’s piece, ‘The Burkini: What’s behind it?’ I was intrigued. I have heard many conceivable viewpoints on the matter since France decided on their ban. But this article was by someone within our university community, which captivated me. It made me almost excited to see what one of my peers thought on the matter—until I read it.

The article is neither offensive nor aggressive. Rather, it seems relatively informed and in tune with what we’ve seen in the media. The discourse addresses the issues we are seeing globally in the integration of people from different cultures and religions within Western societies. It cites Donald Trump’s capitalisation of insecurities about race and religion, and includes a well-deserved pointed finger at Britain, for Brexit. It acknowledges the marginalisation and discrimination against certain ethnic groups and minorities.

Yet, there was something distinctly biased about this piece. I took personal issue with the suggested proposition that, with regards to the burkini, allowing it is allegedly a slam against democracy. Though I applaud the writer for taking this brave step in broaching a subject so sensitive, this point only looks at the matter with a one dimensional lens—that of a completely Westernised perspective. An article based entirely around Muslim women’s clothing fails to express the voice of the Muslim women wearing this clothing.

The spirit of the burkini, if anything, seems to embrace so-called ‘Western’ values: To allow women to do and wear what makes them feel comfortable. It is a piece of swimwear. That a piece of swimwear created for Muslim women, an already globally discriminated demographic, has been comically paraded and desecrated for public criticism says more about Western society than it does about women and Islam.

The Western world’s perception of a woman wearing a Burkini or any form of conservative clothing as an assumption that she is an extremist or oppressed by extremism simply echoes what humankind has always done: Made assumptions about women based on what they wear. Assuming a woman is up for a nightcap because of the length of her skirt is the same as assuming a woman is an Islamic extremist, again, based on the length of her skirt. You can change the length, but the intrinsic behaviour is the same—we don’t bother to ask because we’ve already made the assumption.

To associate the burkini with anything further—whether it be oppression, religion, liberties, or values, be it Western or Islamic—is ridiculous and dangerous. That the burkini (a glorified wetsuit, if anything) can be used to force a woman to decide that she must choose between her nationality and her religion is as great an oppression of her as what France and other Western countries have accused Islamic countries of exacting upon women.

That the article appears to justify this frame of thought is irresponsible and betrays the Western world’s lack of interest in attempting the integration they claim is necessary—all while they turn around and say the minorities are being uncooperative.

France was ridiculed, rightfully so, for engaging hypocritically in the same behaviour that Western countries accuse Muslims of, by forcing a woman to clothe in a way she may not want to. You may wonder at my anti-Western rhetoric but let me make it clear that this is not a Islam-versus-West battle I’m pitching. This is a critique of how both societies are able to create such international outrage over women’s clothing.

As the circumstances are, Muslims cannot wash themselves entirely clean of the atrocities being committed by those with whom they allegedly share a religion. Unfortunately, it is criminalisation by association that we must face. Neither can we deny that the treatment of women as a whole in Islamic countries ranges from average at best to deplorable and inhumane at worst. The Muslim community globally, has many steps to take before it can even begin to progress, especially when it comes to women.

But the Western world is not blameless, and though they cry out that Islam is a misogynistic religion that oppresses its women, they are equally culpable in turning around and continuing to oppress these very same women. You can see it in the curses and threats thrown at women who cover their heads, in the stabbings that took place in New York, in the everyday racism hurled at women in hijabs and burkas. All the while, the Western world screams over how women in Islam are treated.

The burkini should not be the focus or target of any government. To attribute such striking, life-threatening global affairs to a piece of women’s clothing is implying, quite simply, that woman’s clothing can apparently make or break the world. One can try to be profound and search for a deeper meaning on this matter but sometimes a shallow pool really is just shallow.

The only truly profound lesson we’ve seen from France’s ban of the burkini is that the Western world has far more in common with the Islamic countries they demonise: both love to dictate what a woman should wear.

The British education system needs fundamental change

Perhaps Britain’s Dickensian education system may have worked in a time when children were seen as vermin, and ‘learning disabilities’ were probably seen as the work of the devil, but the success of Finland’s education system should make us strongly consider that it is Britain’s turn to adapt to the times.

First of all, and possibly most importantly, education in Great Britain is vastly elitist and discriminatory. With a system that is entirely state-funded, such as Finland’s, you eradicate the system of private and state schools. Presently, this can be both divisive and restrictive, and adds to the social inequalities that this country suffers from. Those lucky enough to have been educated in a private school are put at a substantial advantage over other young people who are usually less fortunate, and may be just as, if not more, capable.

The UK’s education system is characterised by standardised exams and a fiercely competitive nature. Each year, GCSE and A-level students complete their exams, and each year they are rewarded harder exams and higher grade boundaries—not to mention £40,000-plus worth of debt awaiting them in the not-so-distant future should they choose to attend university. God help you if you have learning difficulties, because 25 per cent extra time might help with the exam itself, but it does not make up for the years of lost information in class, and snide comments from tired, scathing teachers.

One in ten young people aged between five and 16 suffer from a diagnosable mental health disorder, and many thousands of children and young people suffer from severe depression. Depression in young people, particularly teenagers, is a serious problem here in the United Kingdom, with many young people attributing their struggles to a sense of inadequacy.

By no means is the education system entirely to blame for this—a significant part of the problem is hormonal. However, why is it that school becomes considerably more intense and difficult for students during adolescence, at a time in which young people are experiencing a hormonal rollercoaster?

Furthermore, it is shocking that children as young as five are prone to severe depression, and it is not particularly outrageous to suggest that perhaps children are in need of a few more years playing in the sandpits and on the monkey bars, enjoying their fleeting childhood. In the Finnish education system, by contrast, children do not begin school until they are seven years old, and are not formally examined in a standardised test until they are aged 16.

Children are also given longer breaks during the day, and are hardly ever given homework. The concept of homework is a strange one. I’m sure every British young person has been in the situation in which the teacher has no valid homework to assign, so instead instructs the children to do some ‘extra reading’, or sends them on their way with a fruitless colouring sheet.

How strange a notion, that teachers are so restricted and controlled in their own field or work that they feel compelled to assign extra work that is of no obvious benefit to the child’s learning, instead of simply giving them the night off. This indicates another one of the main issues with our education system: How teachers become teachers, and how they are allowed, or not allowed, to teach.

We have all been taught by that English teacher who wanted to work for the BBC, that Drama teacher who wanted to be the next Marlon Brando, or that Maths teacher who peaked as the school bully, and simply returns to education to continue doing what they are good at.

To make matters worse, teachers are forced to stick to a tight, repetitive curriculum. Even the most fresh-faced, passionate teachers, who adore their subject and are determined to introduce the next generation to it, will wither in their ambitions under their harsh, repetitive timetable of marking the same essay questions they have been marking for years. On top of this, the country’s lack of respect for the arts filters through to the education system, and many humanities teachers will be forced to teach subjects they are not qualified in. This system is reasonable neither for the children, nor the teachers.

In Finland, teachers are chosen from the top ten per cent of graduates, and are encouraged to experiment in the way in which they teach. The curriculum is a flexible guideline, helping to keep teachers engaged and in love with their ‘topics’—as they are called. This system works, too. Almost every high school student graduates, and a significant proportion of them attend university.

It is probably not realistic to exactly replicate the Finnish education system here in the United Kingdom. We are separate countries with different values and cultures. However, I do not believe it to be preposterous to say that the main problems with the British education system could be resolved by introducing elements of Finland’s system. Right now, Theresa May’s bid to bring back grammar schools is a perfect metaphor for the education system as a whole: Outdated, backward-thinking, and soon-to-be obsolete.

Why we love terrorism

Another attack. What were your first thoughts? Perhaps when you found out, the act had not yet been classified as an act of ‘terror’. In the words of Bill de Blasio, New York Mayor, with reference to last weekend’s attack: “To understand any specific motivation, political motivations, any connection to an organisation, that’s what we don’t know.” At this point there are unspoken assumptions. Given the recent line of attacks in Europe, the two syllables of IS might be humming around people’s mouths.

The line between ‘standard’ mass murder and the ‘terrorist’ type is a confusing one. If somebody killed several people just because they wanted to, they would rightly be considered mentally ill. Yet, when an apparent ‘motive’ is discovered—politics, religion, or race, for example—the act of violence is somehow understandable. “They blew themselves up because they hated the West” is an example of a simplistic justification of a terrorist attack.

Suddenly, that seems to ring true. But plenty hold adverse opinions towards Western imperialist and neo-imperialist actions. Not all resort to extreme means—terrorism or otherwise. It is circumstance that influence the methods of ‘expressing’ that opinion. Any individual who or organization that succeeds or intends to commit mass murder, for whatever reason, has surely crossed the line of sanity (or sanity as we may define it in our relatively stable societies). Whatever the motive, they have failed in their method.

One reason for loving terrorism is the drama. For this reason, 9/11 was close to perfect terrorist attack: It was in a global city, and it struck down two of the tallest buildings in the world, involved complex operations, and caused mass casualties. The event played on both the strong Manhattan/New York local identity—their resolve and unity in the wake of the attack—and the world’s perception of the city. Many films, documentaries, books, and more have covered those attacks.

Perhaps part of the appeal of terrorism is that that we can play the victim. In our advanced societies, most days for most people are free from things such as poverty or violence. Yet, sometimes when an issue of discontent is raised, it may be put down: “Be grateful, children in Africa would beg for your leftovers,” or, “oh that’s such a first world problem,” or other slurs. So when a bomb goes off or a shooting occurs, we are free, at last, from the pleasantries of life in the developed world. The actual victims and those who know the victims truly suffer. But most only have the attachments of nationality, or the subtle group of cultures that comprises the ‘West’.

The prominence of terrorism in the media, over other causes of death, suggests that lives are unequal at their passing. To inject a comparison, the leading causes of deaths (worldwide) are heart disease, stroke, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The primary cause of most heart disease is a build-up of plaque. The same is true of strokes. Smoking is the cause of most COPD. Therefore, it can be said that the three diseases collectively responsible for 30.7 per cent or 17.2 million of the world’s deaths per year (2012 statistics) have their roots in unhealthy diets, low levels of exercise, and smoking. Global terrorism (though we have already established the flimsiness of this word) killed a little over 28,000 in 2015.

Our lifestyles are killing us, but it is not newsworthy. These major causes of deaths are diffuse. There are too many interpretations of the issues. Multinationals; individual decisions; habits; exploitation; poverty; addiction; social pressure; advertisement—and on and on. Terrorism is complex, too. But here’s the catch: the deaths of a terrorist attack are treated with added holiness. Thus, the range of ‘acceptable’ opinion is narrowed. Little, other than muttered condolences, can be said. We love terrorism because, for many of us, there is not much thinking to be done in the wake of an attack. Terrorism seems simple.

An attack provides the perfect opportunity for some to claim that it is an act of government conspiracy. An attack allows an indulgence in the thought that our governments and/or elites are orchestrating everything. This rids all concept of structural failure, individual mistakes, and the malleability of human nature. We love terrorism and its ‘conspiracy theories’ because they allow a sense of security in certainties—whether it is accusations of elite planning or Islamophobic slurs.

One reason why we definitely do not love terrorism is the fear of future terrorism. In 2006, the US was spending upwards of $550 per capita on security infrastructure. This was mostly due to the establishment of the Homeland Security department after 9/11. The figure continued to rise. Further, the initial (public) justification for the invasion of Afghanistan was the 9/11 attacks.

Furthermore, our anxieties have turned us into so-called ‘citizen-journalists’ or ‘a citizen-police force’. Some academics have noted a change in the role of the citizen towards monitoring ‘suspicious activity’. Our camera-fitted phones assist in this process. And governments promote this—you may have seen the sign on the London Underground asking for swift reporting of ‘suspicious activity’.

Yes, other types of deaths are up there with the attention that terrorism receives: Cancer or HIV/AIDS, for example. And it may be argued that a violent death is worth collective mourning. Despite this, acts of ‘terrorism’ wind perfectly into simplistic and dramatic stories of our victimhood. The justifications of these acts make life on earth, and the mad things that insane people do, a little easier to understand.

Rethinking pathos in the Calais Camp

This summer I visited the Calais refugee camp. There I assisted the charity Help Refugees, who run a project that aims to protect and care for the camp’s 9106 residents who have fled war and unrest in their native countries. Reflecting upon my experience my emotions are hugely mixed. When I look back at the fantastic volunteers I met and the incredible feats of human compassion, ingenuity and industry I experienced, I can’t help but feel hugely positive, almost elated.

Then, in stark contrast, instances of dismay when I think of over 9,000 desperate people arriving at our doorsteps unwelcome and unacknowledged by the government institutions that represent us. How such juxtaposition within human nature can exist is intriguing, and why, if these two sides are attempting to even each other out, is there such a disparity in the media coverage of the two?

I was based primarily in the warehouse, which is a short drive away from the camp itself. Here, on an ex-industrial site, can be found the nerve centre for the Help Refugees charity. From here, the rapidly growing camp is supplied in its entirety, from food to tents and bikes to toothbrushes; it can all be found under this roof. A hot meal for 2,000 is prepared every day; vats of curry the size of small bathtubs strenuously stirred, the chefs having to use their entire body weight in order to complete a single rotation of the paddle.

Daunted, I watched on, waiting to receive these beasts of utensils armed with nothing but a sponge and a bottle of Fairy liquid. Elsewhere in the warehouse dry food, clothes, tents, bikes and sleeping bags are sorted, tested, repaired and loaded into vans in order to be distributed in the camp.

A site run entirely by volunteers, that produces everything a group of thousands of people needs, is incredibly unique. I struggled to think of somewhere else, outside other refugee camps, where something like this had been achieved. Such a vast variety of services takes a huge amount of organising, especially when most volunteers, such as myself, only stay for a short amount of time.

All of this incentivised purely by compassion; it was massively exciting and addictive to be in the presence of such a project. Yet when a task or fellow volunteer didn’t hold my attention, my mind began to wander beyond my immediate surroundings; the reality and gravity of the situation scraping at the surface of my contentedness.

About a ten-minute drive from here, you can find evidence left from an indescribably different illustration of human nature. A small yet sizable example of the horrors inside the Calais refugee camp can be demonstrated by the situation for children there. At the last count, there were 865 children inside the Calais camp; 674 of these unaccompanied. The Dubs Amendment, which permits 3,000 unaccompanied refugee children entry into the UK from Europe, was passed over four months ago. Since then not one unaccompanied refugee child has been resettled in the UK under this law.

These children’s lives are in constant danger from trafficking for child labour or sexual exploitation, as well as the risk of attempting to board lorries and trains to gain illegal access into the UK. An estimated 10,000 unaccompanied child refugees have gone missing since entering Europe, a truly horrifying figure. I find our continents neglect of these children very difficult to comprehend, made even more so when paralleled to the astounding compassion of volunteers in Calais.

For every tremendous act of benevolence poured into work being done by Help Refugees there is a seemingly equal and opposite void created by others’ cruelty and apathy. These responses show human nature paradoxically, in a clash against itself, compassion battling directly to clean up the leftovers of human indifference.

I struggle to find a satisfying conclusion to ensure our compassionate side triumphs in a war it is ostensibly losing. However, what can be observed is the lack of coverage projects such as the ones in Calais receive from the media. I myself uphold an almost dogmatic belief that human emotion is shared through our interactions with each other. Perhaps when people hear about the admirable work of volunteers that saves thousands of lives every day, they may be compelled to act compassionately themselves.

With this in mind, by taking some—but by no means all—of the focus away from the repeated coverage of awful events within the refugee crisis, and towards some of the fantastic work that is being done to prevent the worsening of these disasters, maybe we can do more to alleviate them in the future.

Our media’s love affair with the shocking and the controversial may be what normalises our own failure of refugees across Europe. What volunteers do across Europe to help refugees is given little coverage; a more rounded and sophisticated approach to media coverage that highlights not only the shocking disasters but the ways in which charities and individuals have stepped in to assist the situation, is needed. This is what this article has aimed to do, and it hopefully honestly represents my experience in Calais, which it must be said, overall, was a positive one.

Preview: Notes on a Thesis by Tiphaine Rivière

Tiphaine Rivière’s graphic novel Notes on a Thesis is due to be released, translated by Francesca Barrie from the original French, on the 6th October. Often funny, troubling and close to the bone for anyone with a life in academia, the novel transfers effortlessly into English and leaps off the page.

Rivière’s novel is based on a blog she started when struggling with her own PhD; and her brutal honesty of her own experience is what truly brings Notes on a Thesis to life. Jeanne embarks on her own Literature PhD with the hopes of finishing a fantastic thesis on Kafka’s The Trial and the symbolism of the labyrinth in three perfectly timed years. Suffice to say things do not go as planned and as Jeanne becomes more and more disheartened and more and more distanced from the real world, so too Rivière’s illustrations become fantastically surreal and brutally amusing.

In fact the motif of the labyrinth, which Jeanne so desperately tries to make sense of, seems to make an almost satire of itself and her research, and indeed Rivière’s graphic narrative; as both become labyrinths of themselves that neither Jeanne nor Rivière can escape with much confidence or catharsis.

In fact the ending of the novel, while perhaps realistic, certainly offers up little resolution despite Jeanne’s original goal coming to fruition. It is a complex work that challenges what it truly means to be an academic particularly in the realm of the arts and humanities.

While the language of Notes on a Thesis certainly does not fall short it is the artwork that truly stands out; Rivière is a master of humour and heart-breaking honesty. A standout section entailed Jeanne talking to another researcher, so obsessed with talking about herself that Rivière creates her speech bubbles containing the researcher’s face that take up more and more space and finally squash into Jeanne’s own space; this surreal illustration really highlights the nature of this character without even showcasing a word she is saying.

Other beautiful moments involve the graphics that transcend language; the imagery of Jeanne’s research plan emerging architecturally, as a castle-like masterpiece. The use of colour and imagery are what creates the emotive nature of this piece and what allows Notes on a Thesis to be translated so successfully.

However, the language and dialogue of the text seem cruelly, brilliantly, based in truth. In this way, it is poignant and heart-breaking. I found this to be particularly true of the passages in which Jeanne’s relationship with her boyfriend breaks apart. I felt equally frustrated with and empathetic towards Jeanne, her refusal to accept what was happening around her felt truthful towards the experiences of many students, and I therefore felt like I was alongside her as she struggled to keep her head above the water.

I would truly recommend this Notes on a Thesis for any student, particularly those embarking on post-graduate study, if you are looking for an honest, funny account of the world you are all now immersed in; and hopefully it won’t put you off.

What the future holds

Greetings chumrades, I have returned! Much to the dismay and disappointment of many people at this university, I return to bring you wise counsel and sage advice in the hope that I will be able to help you better navigate the year ahead. Whether you be a doughy-eyed fresher with great hopes and dreams or a sullen and down cast third year trying to scrape through your dissertation without having to suffer life-threatening sleep deprivation, I have the answers for you. I have been able to see what the year ahead will hold, broadly speaking. I have consulted with Rah, Zeus, and Odin and they have conferred unto me what we can expect to see at our university over the coming year.

But before we commence, I am obligated to include a trigger warning about this article. It contains dangerous levels of free speech and thought and is not suitable for closed off little minds. So sit back, grab your fair trade soya chai latte and gaze in wonderment as I adopt the role of mystic Meg.

My first prediction for this year at The University of Manchester will be that someone, or indeed many people, will be no-platformed by the Stalinist institution that is the Students’ Union. Last year we saw the banning of two speakers Julie Bindel and Milo Yinanoupolous due to their beliefs not conforming to the SU’s narrow and warped world view. Some swivel eyed loon even tried to ban David Cameron in April. We will get some minor press attention and be made a laughing stock all over again for having a Students’ Union that is less committed to free speech than North Korea. Who knows who it might be this year? At this rate, it could even be me. I am as bemused as you are that our exalted Gen Sec hasn’t ordered me to be dragged away in Stasi-like fashion for my disloyalty.

My second prediction is that there will be more student occupations of university buildings in protest against the government’s policy towards something or other. Or in protest against a decision taken by the University itself that is inevitably blown so far out of proportion that by the end of it no one really remembers what it was all about and we all retire to the Union bar where you will be tired, confused and incensed that a pint of Doom Bar costs such an extortionate amount. The protest will be led by one of the Judean Peoples Front socialist societies and the result will inevitably be one of no change except for the fact that one more nail has been put in the coffin of the respectability of the student body. I would say if they are going to hold some kind of protest, at least make it a bit more exciting and follow suit from the students of Rugby in 1797 who took members of staff prisoner at sword point and had to be brought under control by a force of soldiers and special constables. Now that’s what I call an occupation!

Now I have a few other more minor predictions for the coming year. One likely event of the year will be that a strange, niche or possibly quirky society will be set up and upon hearing about it, people will be both fascinated and think to themselves “I am surprised we didn’t have one already”. I speak of course of societies like the quidditch society, pirate society or the Lib Dem society. You will hear of people taking part, but it is highly unlikely you will know someone personally involved. We can also expect to see some sort of drug-related altercation outside of Antwerp that will get in the local paper and further the stereotype that there are presently parts of Mogadishu that boast a lower crime rate.

And then we come to that wonderful time of year when the campus will be adorned with banners boasting terrible wordplay as people begin their campaigns to get elected to the SU. There will, of course, be the cringe-worthy attempts at referencing popular culture. There will be wild and unachievable promises made by some candidates, like the promise of free education, freedom for Palestine or an end to austerity. Will they be able to achieve any of these promises? Of course not. But who cares right? I mean it’s not as if these people are actually going to be paid £16,500 a year for their position to make us a national laughing stock. Oh wait, yes they are! And, of course, we will see some of the same faces run again. I wonder if that has anything to do with the salary?

But alas, I fear I must sign off. I don’t know how long I have until the SU drag me off and interrogate me for my treason. Word has it that President Erdoğan has been taking lessons from them in censorship. But in all seriousness my fellow students, I wish you all the best of luck with this year. University is all about three things after all; clubbing, making great friends and finding the perfect hangover recovery method. Learning is but an afterthought.

Top 5: Most Anticipated Films of the Academic Year

1) La La Land (January 2017) Dir. Damien Chazelle

Whiplash creator Damien Chazelle’s latest directorial effort sees Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone teaming up for one of the most hotly-anticipated feature films of the 2017 Academy Awards season. La La Land is a musical love story, detailing the dreams and aspirations of a jazz pianist and amateur actress, so is something of a step into new territory for Chazelle, yet looks to retain the same themes of artistic struggle that made Whiplash so compelling.

Photo: The Affleck/Middleton Project

2) Manchester By The Sea (January 2017) Dir. Kenneth Lonergan

If the post-Toronto reception is anything to go by, Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester By The Sea promises to be a masterful portrayal of loss, grief and broken family ties, featuring Casey Affleck as a man recently bereaved of his brother, whose teenage son he must now return home to take care of. Despite its simplistic plot, the complex and nuanced themes which underpin the film make it one to look out for when it comes to this year’s most Oscar-worthy performances.

Photo: Cappa Defina Productions

3) Silence (2016) Dir. Martin Scorsese

Boasting an intriguing premise and star-studded cast, it would be a crime not to include Silence, Martin Scorsese’s upcoming religious epic, in this list. Starring Adam Driver, Liam Neeson and Andrew Garfield, Silence follows two 17th century Jesuit priests and the persecution they face during their journey of Christian propagation in Japan. In true Scorsese style, the film is over three hours in length, so we can undoubtedly look forward to some expertly-crafted slow-burning drama from the Taxi Driver director.

Photo: A24

4) Moonlight (October 2016) Dir. Barry Jenkins

Adding even more to the themes of self-discovery and transformation which are so prevalent in this Top 5 is Barry Jenkins’ widely-discussed Moonlight, which follows the story of a young Miami-born African-American man and his plight to find his place in the world of adulthood he has been thrust into, as well as grappling with questions regarding his own sexuality. The film features Trevante Rhodes in what could easily be his breakout cinematic role.

5) Voyage of Time (October 2016) Dir. Terrence Malick

The final film in this list is something of a wildcard from Tree of Life director Terrence Malick, a film said to have been a work in progress for forty years, and one of Malick’s self-described ‘greatest dreams’ to produce. Released in both a 40 minute IMAX version with narration provided by Brad Pitt, and a 35mm feature-length version, voiced by Cate Blanchett, the film will explore the birth and death of our universe and the myriad life which exists within it.

Preparations underway for nationwide student rent strikes

On the weekend of 16th–18th September a group of students from over 25 different universities met in London to discuss anticipated nationwide student rent strikes.

There were also representatives from the National Union of Students (NUS), who recently joined the rent strikes campaign, including President Malia Bouattia, Cut the Rent, the Radical Housing Network, UCL, and Sisters Uncut among other organisations.

The rent strikes campaign has been gaining momentum ever since students at University College London (UCL) began a long-standing rent strike which led to UCL implementing rent reductions, freezes and bursaries, and UCL Cut The Rent achieving a £1 million concession in July 2016.

A statement from the Rent Strike Weekend said: “Rent from student accommodation is a powerful enabler of the continued marketisation of higher education.” It calls for “mobilisation towards coordinated rent strikes in January, with an initial day of action on Friday, October 19th”, and a rallying cry for “all students looking to find a better world to join us.”

The strikes are therefore expected to fuel backlashes against high living costs, the scrapping of the maintenance grant, and tuition fees.

FROW vs Runway

Ever since the first models waltzed down the catwalk in the finest designer outfits for fashion weeks across the globe, it has been internationally recognised that those who open and close shows are the elite of the modelling world. From Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, to Christy Turlington and Cara Delevingne, the big names are always the ones to watch (need I say) during Fashion Week.

Recently however the tradition has changed. Rather than prancing, pouty faced, down the catwalk, models have been chosen alternatively as the celebs to grace the Front Row. This emphasises the current celebrity status of the model; she has transformed from anonymous coat hanger to public figure with millions of followers on social media. The ‘fashion model’ has morphed into ‘fashionable role model’.

Where does this then leave the future of fashion? Should we be more concerned with who’s watching the catwalk as opposed to the designers’ works to celebrate? Our gaze has shifted with the paparazzi focus and the voyeuristic lens chooses not the original focal object of these bi-annual shows- the designers’ collections- but alternatively those who deigned to stop by.

The A-list celebs present at shows are the epitome of status. A strong ‘FROW’ suggests the status and popularity of the brand. But do we want to see Cara clutching her oversized pup in support of Karl Lagerfeld rather than participating in the show itself? Questions were a-buzz following the Chanel Spring/Summer 2016 Haute Couture show as to why Cara was watching the Hadid’s smouldering sister act rather than participating alongside them.

With the success and celebrity status of models, they do now have the option and financial security to quite happily watch others filling their role. I believe however that this is just the current cycle of modelling and shall last only fleetingly. From the glamorous, curvy models of the fifties, to the grunge, alien-like creatures of the nineties, modelling is now a line up of famous, household names; with Delevingne, Jenner/Kardashian, Hadid or Baldwin tagged onto your name, it is a passport onto the catwalk.

So what’s next? The runway currently lives in the shadow of the FROW, given equal if not more weight in media as opposed to the designers’ hard work. It is for this reason I hope the obsession with beautiful, leggy stars gazing intently at the show through the lens of their iPhones is yet another phase in the fashion world. It is time for the shows themselves to head back into the limelight.

Whilst the hierarchy will undoubtedly continue amongst journalists, photographers, editors and bloggers battling to inch further forward, one can only hope the models will return to the tottering heights of stylish stardom safely on the runway. The next generation, perhaps third or fourth in rank on the catwalk this season, will re-establish the status and success of opening and closing a show. It’s the nature of fashion. We’re not here to celebrate the current flavour of the month; we’re here to celebrate the artistic talents of the century.

Ways to Eat – the Freshers’ guide to nutrition

Many freshers will be embracing their newfound freedom in what they feed themselves in these first few weeks of university. For some, this may mean little apart from Domino’s vouchers and Cadbury’s; for others, it’s an opportunity to try something new. Maybe university is your opportunity to test out a meat-free lifestyle, or try your hand at a low-carb diet. But how do you know which diet would suit best, what supplements might be needed, or whether it’s even considered healthy? The university website is has surprisingly few resources on nutrition, despite it being a critical part of your wellbeing. You’re left to the internet and the advice of your peers, which is not exactly reassuring or straightforward.

Ways to Eat is a nutrition eBook created specifically for Manchester students. The book covers the basic principles of nutrition (is butter a carb?) in addition to providing pros and cons of five diets, including the government dietary guidelines. Covering veganism, paleo, the ketogenic diet, and intermittent fasting, the eBook gives a visual representation of a day’s eats. Additionally, if you’re looking for good food on the go, there are several recommendations for Mancunian eateries that cater to each of these specialised diets.

Eating healthy can be rather confusing. Or at least, that’s the impression given off by mainstream media. Growing up, we were all told that saturated fat was the worst of all food evils. These days, doctors are telling us that it is refined sugar and carbohydrates that are the problem in our diets. In today’s culture of nutritionists, talk-show doctors, and attention-grabbing headlines, it can be tough to decipher the qualified from the quacks. This resource was written directly from scientific literature, and works to convey the reality that nutrition rarely works in absolutes. In short, there is more than one way to eat and be healthy! Seemingly extreme dieting trends such as veganism or the Atkins diet can be valuable when their positives and negatives are fully understood, and that isn’t even considering the benefits for the environment when attempting diets like vegetarianism or veganism. Incorporating aspects of these diets into a more moderate lifestyle may make healthy eating more achievable, especially for busy students who want to try and stay healthy during their degree years.

Photo: Lacey Munroe

As the semester wears on, up to 60% of incoming freshers are likely to experience weight gain—or, as it is more commonly called, the ‘Freshers’ Fifteen’. It’s no wonder given the stereotypical alcohol-heavy, convenience food-laden atmosphere that being at university starts to conjure up. Weight gain in early adulthood can significantly increase risks of metabolic problems later in life. The statistics aren’t great, and they’re only getting worse—1 in 16 people in the UK have Type 2 Diabetes—so it’s definitely worth being cautious of.

Whether you’re enjoying the food freedom responsibly or haven’t seen a vegetable in weeks, the main message that should be taken from the eBook is that being “healthy” doesn’t have to be your full time occupation or identity. It is mindfulness which becomes habit; just choose to eat nutritious foods more often than choosing indulgences. While that sounds simple, carrying it out won’t be — but try and keep in mind all the benefits! The healthiest diet for you at university is one which is nutritious but sustainable. For most, sustainable means the occasional take-away or bar of chocolate—but it also should mean mostly home-cooked meals and plenty of fruit and vegetables on a regular basis.

The eBook can be found at waystoeat.wordpress.com. Follow the author on social media for commentary and discussion on the latest nutrition stories in the media: @SciCommLacey on Twitter, and facebook.com/waystoeat.

United Player Ratings: Watford vs Manchester United

After learning a tough lesson against City last weekend, United did not manage to get many fans back onside midweek with a very poor performance against Feyenoord. The successive defeats have brought the supporters expectations back down to earth. With a trip to Vicarage Road upcoming, Mourinho needed to turn events around to prove that Manchester United were title contenders.

Watford are a very different team under Walter Mazzarri this season. The very Italian 3-4-1-2 formation seems to suit the Premier League, judging from their early performances in the domestic campaign. Despite losses to Arsenal and Chelsea, Watford have impressed thus far and showed their firepower in the previous round of fixtures when they came back from 2-0 down against West Ham to win 4-2 at the Olympic Stadium.

Unfortunately, United failed to turn around their fortunes, losing a third successive game for the first time since last year, and Mourinho’s third successive loss for the first time in 14 years. Yet again, it was the Reds’ midfield which let them down. The Fellaini, Pogba and Rooney combination is not working and Mourinho may want to take inspiration from the way Pereyra, Behrami and Capoue ran the show at Vicarage Road.

United were caught napping in the first half to allow a completely unmarked Capoue to open the scoring. Rashford managed to hit back in the second half when the Reds had upped the tempo, however, the momentum did not last and late goals from Zuniga and Deeney on the break sealed all three points for the Hornets.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Player Ratings

De Gea: 5

As a goalkeeper, you are never going to get a great rating when you concede three goals. Could not be blamed for Zuniga or Deeney’s goals but probably would have had a better chance of saving Capoue’s shot if he had used his hands instead of his feet.

The Spaniard has made a name for himself when it comes to shot stopping with his feet. Against Watford, however, the drawbacks of that style were clear to see with the opener. Made a Bravo-esque howler in the 12th minute when he collided with Smalling and gifted Ighalo an open goal, only for the Nigerian to steer it the wrong side of the post. Did make a fantastic save from Deeney’s header in the 16th minute but all in all the Spaniard is not going to look back on this fixture with fond memories.

Valencia: 6

Along with his fullback partner, one of the most solid performers in red. Managed to keep Holebas reasonably quiet on the left and was often a useful outlet when pushing up the pitch. His crosses, however, almost all hit the first man in a regression to how he played under Moyes and Van Gaal. He was beaten far too easily by Deeney in the first half for the Englishman’s effort on goal but managed to hold his head reasonably high in comparison with his teammates.

Bailly: 5

Had a game way below the par of his performances so far this season. One would have thought that Bailly’s immense speed and physicality would have been a valuable asset against a very tough Watford team, however, the Ivorian was not his domineering self. Only won one out of three attempted tackles and won zero aerial duels which is poor considering that Deeney won five, most of which would have been against the United defender.

Smalling: 5

Terrible communication with De Gea to gift Ighalo a chance in the first half. Did not look up to match speed nor did he command the game from the back like he did during his best spells last season. Did win more aerial duels than anyone else on the pitch (6) but his positioning was not overly impressive in his battles against Deeney. Was caught in no-man’s-land for Capoue’s opener.

Shaw: 6

Made some fantastic tackles in the first half and completely nullified Janmaat’s threat. Would be harsh to blame him for the opener, even though it came from the position he should have been occupying. Amrabat tried to take on Shaw in a foot race in the 55th minute and made a bit of a fool of himself (the Moroccan is no slouch either). Made positive runs forwards but failed to link up with Martial or Rashford effectively.

Fellaini: 4

The Fellaini who Mourinho is trying to market to the fans clearly did not exist against Watford. While his physicality can be useful, he was caught out in the previous Premier League round of fixtures by City’s much more technical players. Here, against Watford, Fellaini was torn apart again. His role as the anchor is to pick up the late midfield runs into the box and cut passing lanes; both Watford’s second and third goals were scored in this fashion. The Belgian also fouled Zuniga in the 93rd minute to give away a penalty and compile the misery of his performance.

Pogba: 5

Had a fantastic effort from range in the first half which came off the bar. Other than that, he seems a different player than the world record signing who made his debut against Southampton. Made zero dribbles (arguably his strongest quality) and only had a pass accuracy of 75%. Pogba is failing to make his presence known in games. Whether Mourinho needs to build the team around Pogba to coax positive performances out is for future analysis.

Rashford: 7

A constant shining light in United’s dire week. Worked tirelessly and his direct running from the wings was the most consistent attacking threat which United posed. Fluffed a good opportunity to equalise at the end of the first half but made up for that with an instinctive finish to bring the scores level. His link up play with Ibrahimović before the goal was especially pleasing and encouraging. A bright star in a very dark night sky.

Rooney: 4

Very wasteful with the ball, which most United fans are not surprised to see now. Mourinho attempted to play the skipper in both a number 10 and number 8 role. Rooney, unfortunately, did not play either role and was lost on the pitch. His positional indiscipline was the reason why Fellaini was so out matched in midfield. Rooney got more involved in the game during the second half, however, his involvement seemed to slow United’s attacking movement and his end product was often wayward.

Martial: 5

The Frenchman looks a shadow of the player he was last season. While he used to glide past fullbacks with ease

@Wikimedia Commons

(in a similar fashion to how Rashford does now) his confidence has taken a battering and there have not been many signs of a renovation. The Frenchman was involved in a clash of heads early on in the game which presumably had an impact on his concentration. Minutes later, Martial dribbled into two Watford players on the edge of his own area which led to the opening goal. While he may have been fouled, the Frenchman was taking unnecessary risks which may have been the consequence of potential concussion.

Ibrahimović: 6

A better game from the forward, however, still far from his scintillating best. Missed a good half-chance in the first half which would have opened the scoring. The big Swede grew in the game as the game grew old, getting much more of the ball in the second half. He forced Gomes into a brilliant save in the 78th minute from a header out of nothing, on another day he would have scored. Still looks somewhat quiet and subdued in comparison to the audacious Ibrahimović at AC Milan and PSG. Perhaps even the biggest personalities need bedding in.

 

Subs

Young: 5

Came on for the injured Martial in the 38th minute and failed to have the manager’s desired impact. Was not penetrative enough when playing on the right wing and did not look very comfortable when he was moved to right back in place of Valencia. Hard to see that 31 year old will be a regular in the team given the competition in his position and his age.

Mata: 6

Looked positive when he came off the bench to replace Valencia. The real problem with United’s attacking play was their lack of creativity, something which the introduction of Mata earlier in the game may have changed. Looked the most likely to carve something out but it was too little too late for the small Spaniard.

Memphis: N/A

Came on for the final few minutes but failed to make any significant impact. Still looks like a player well off his much appreciated potential. More Europa League appearances are likely to be on the cards before the Dutchman makes any serious dent in the first team.

Books on new beginnings

There’s a high chance that the upcoming opportunities and challenges associated with starting a new year at University is a major source of anxiety for most of The Mancunion’s readers. Maybe you’re just beginning your first year, a returning student moving into an unfamiliar locale, or even a new lecturer only now beginning to familiarise themselves with the University. Whichever walk of life you come from, facing a new academic year can be stressful and daunting period.

One way of finding some reassurance, is by checking out some literature that deals with new beginnings. It’s a subject that comes up time and time again—as humans we can find ourselves making mistakes and having to start over, or we may be just entering a new stage of our lives. Here are some books that epitomise this phenomenon and help to remind you that you are not alone in your struggles.

1)      Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery: This perennial classic not only tells a powerful story of building a fulfilling world for oneself from nothing, it is also pure comfort reading in terms of the joyous descriptions of the Canadian Maritimes in the late nineteenth century. Emily of New Moon, a lesser-known title by the same author, is darker but perhaps even more inspiring, and both books are remarkably forward-thinking in terms of gender relations for the time. Anne and Emily both consider careers and Emily makes real progress as a writer and journalist.

 

2)      The Chalet School in Exile by Elinor M. Brent-Dyer: Don not be deceived into thinking that because it has “School” in the title that this series is aimed at a younger audience. It is as much about the staff and families as the pupils, and deals with heavy topics such as serious illness, bereavement and international relations leading up to WWII. In The Chalet School in Exile, the School has to completely uproot itself from its home in Austria due to the Nazi invasion, and re-establish itself in the UK, which it does with incredible strength and humility. The novel was actually written at the time of the events and criticising Hitler was very dangerous; it must have taken real courage on the author’s part. This is a really important book that I feel everybody should read.

 

3)      Don Quixote de la Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes: Don Quixote is a book—or, rather, two books—that many people probably mean to get around to reading but are slightly scared to begin. However, both halves of the story are accessible, fresh and still genuinely funny, four hundred years after they were written. Behind all the drama and pranks and songs and antics there is the solid and poignant tale of an ageing man who wants to do something different and a bit wild before his death, and of the farmer (Sancho) who has a dull life of physical toil ahead of him until he is whisked along on this adventure. Don Quixote is the very definition of timeless.

 

4)      The Point of Rescue by Sophie Hannah: Sophie Hannah’s crime novels are generally gritty and dark but with moments of humour and human warmth. The Point of Rescue is the third book in her Culver Valley series but can easily be read as the first. It is probably the best in terms of a slick mystery with a real “oh, of course!” moment, and in terms of new beginnings, it is important as it shows the main cops, Simon and Charlie, trying to find themselves again and work out their relationship following something unspeakably awful. It makes for a thrilling yet also moving read.

It’s time to stop pretending Blairism was a bad thing

The word ‘Blairite’ has never had such toxic implications as it does at present. A legacy destroyed by the Iraq war and financial crisis, to be labelled a ‘Blairite’ in 2016 is an insult rivalled by little else, comparable to being a branded a Tory and tantamount to a total betrayal of the principles of the labour movement.

The toxicity of the term is so potent within the Labour Party that even moderate, centre-left voices associated with New Labour for the last two decades have been forced to distance themselves from the ‘Blairite’ tag. Those proud of the achievements of the Blair years, and staunchly anti-Corbyn -such as Angela Eagle- have uttered the familiar words of denial: “I am not a Blairite”. With Jeremy Corbyn looking certain to retain the leadership with a comfortable win over Owen Smith in the upcoming election, it seems this narrative within the party is only set to continue.

To assess the success of Blairism and New Labour as a project, however, it is vital to look beyond insults and slurs. A look at the accomplishments of New Labour in education, health, and living standards portrays a very different narrative; one that acknowledges that, despite its notable failures, the venture brought noticeable progress to British society. This article is not a defence of the Iraq war, it is not a defence of Tony Blair as a character, and it is not even a direct attack on Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership. It is, however, fair recognition of the successes that New Labour achieved in British Society, and an attempt to demonstrate that the Blair years were undeniably more than simply ‘Tory Lite’.

A common criticism levelled at Blairism is that it abandoned traditional labour principles to achieve electoral success. For many on the left, moving towards the centre ground in an attempt to win over Conservative voters was an immoral compromise, a watering down of the Socialist principles on which the party was founded. But far from the betrayal commonly depicted, electoral compromise was the central triumph of New Labour; appealing to a wider base of voters on a centrist platform was what paved the way for its successes.

Winning, not the ‘end in itself’ that it is often considered, was a means to be able to implement the programme that New Labour rightly thought would improve the state of Britain. The importance of winning elections is that it allows one to affect change; winning is a means to an end, but change is an end in itself. In a trade off between staying pure to Socialist principles in opposition and offering a compromise in power, New Labour took the correct path.

The argument in favour of New Labour takes further weight when considering the familiar fact that, other than under Blair, Labour has not won a parliamentary majority since 1974. For all his perceived sin in moving away from the traditional Labour principles, Tony Blair is Labour’s most electorally successful leader. Compared with those who remained on the left, and thus tended to remain in opposition, New Labour benefitted the working people of Britain infinitely more. Socialist or not, in order to affect change, one has to win.

Which brings us to the most important aspect of New Labour and Blairism; the progressive change that it created. In health, waiting times in the NHS were halved, and close to 120,000 new staff were introduced. In education, the government facilitated the introduction of 100,000 extra teaching assistants and 30,000 more teachers, also achieving record levels of literacy and numeracy in schools. In employment New Labour created 175,000 new apprenticeships, introduced a minimum wage to protect those who needed it most, all whilst simultaneously cutting long term youth unemployment by 75%. Lifting 600,000 children out of relative poverty and huge spending increases on child tax credits benefitted the most vulnerable young people in Great Britain.

These achievements, amongst countless others, unequivocally changed Britain for the better; improving living standards and transforming the public sector in an extraordinary way. Other than the 2007 financial collapse, an event caused by the collapse of the US sub-prime housing market that was effectively out the hands of the UK government, this change was also implemented whilst, for the most part, sustaining economic growth and low inflation.

Though not the far left set of policies that some expect from Labour governments, the list of achievements were widespread and extraordinary; rivalled by few, if any, other Labour governments. To stylise this venture as the “same old neoliberal nonsense” is worse than just political opinion, it is bad analysis. Condemn New Labour all you want, but as JK Rowling announced on Twitter “call me back when your list of achievements matches [theirs]”.

New Labour made undeniable mistakes, that some may not be able to forgive them for; Iraq, managing the crash, and housing to name the most prominent. But its successes far outweigh these errors, and it is time for those left of the party to acknowledge this. Some call it Tory Lite, some call it betrayal. I call it progress.

The Paul Pogba Case

Name: Paul Pogba.

Status: Missing.

Last Seen: Manchester Airport.

Reward: £93,000,000

The big question regarding Paul Pogba is simply whether Manchester United have signed one of the best players on the planet for a reasonable fee, or overspent on an overrated player who they released a few short years ago. When the 23-year-old re-signed for Manchester United from Juventus for a world record fee of £93 million, there was always going to be tonnes of pressure on him to perform and justify his price tag.

Although we are only a few games in to his second stint at the club, fans and critics alike have both been wondering whether or not Pogba is worth the money. Alarm bells started ringing for some fans during the recent derby defeat to Manchester City, where he failed to make any sort of impact. The problem is when you arrive as a world record signing, you are expected to perform consistently, scoring goals and creating chances. So far, Paul Pogba has failed to do this. He is yet to score, assist, or have a standout game, so people have started to question his true ability.

However, at only 23 years old, he has at least another decade ahead of him so has plenty of time to readjust to the Premier League and become a key player for Manchester United. If we look at his last few years with Juventus, he has become one of the best midfielders in the world. Renowned specifically for his physical power, strength and influence up and down the pitch, he is exactly what United needed. On his day, £93 million is a bargain, especially with so much of his career ahead of him and the amount of potential he still has to offer. Furthermore, as Jose Mourinho pointed out, inflation in the transfer market is a factor for the fee being so high. Ten years ago, the top clubs were spending £20-£25 million on a top player. Now, Championship clubs, not even those in England’s top tier, are spending that. This is partly because of the added TV rights in English football, specifically for the Premier League. It is costing TV companies billions of pounds as supposed to millions, giving clubs a much larger revenue. This is particularly the case with clubs as globally supported and sponsored as Manchester United. Therefore, £93million may seem like a lot now, but in 10 years, it will be a commonplace transfer. For example, when Ronaldo went to Real Madrid for £80 million, that was huge and a world record at the time, now, people say he is worth way more than that (Ronaldo himself claiming near the billion-pound mark). Judging by the way things are going financially in football, it could be quite a good investment for a player of this quality.

At the end of the day, I feel it is how a player performs as to whether or not a club spent well, or overspent on a player. If Paul Pogba fades away, underperforms and sits on the bench whilst Marouane Fellaini runs the show, then he will be a waste of money. However, if he reignites Manchester United, restores them to the summit of English football and wins lots of trophies for the club, then he is a superb purchase. Having such a hefty price tag will always come with its critics and a huge amount of pressure. Fans may have to wait a few games yet before we can decide if Pogba is a flop or a bargain.

Only time will tell.

Pogba by Numbers (from whoscored.com)

PL appearances: 3

Minutes: 270

Goals/Assists: 0/0

Shots per game: 3.7 (higher than last season at Juventus)

Pass success %: 83.7 (higher than last season at Juventus)

Aerials Won: 2.3 (higher than last season at Juventus)

 

The burkini: what’s behind it ?

Islam was once the greatest civilisation on earth. Without their progress in science, mathematics and astronomy, we wouldn’t be so advanced. But today, Islam’s impact on the western world isn’t about science. Rather, it is focused on seemingly trivial social problems such as the burkini. Yet, although outwardly insignificant, such issues play into a wider and deeper social issue.

In our western world, liberal democracy is central; we think that the people should have the power. Thus, only elected institutions are able to create and apply the laws by which we live. But religious institutions claim and feel the same legitimate power, resulting in a conflict in which a nation must choose between allowing religious power at the expense of its own legitimacy, or suppressing such power at the cost of religious freedom and tolerance.

The first option would mean that our ideal of liberal democracy would face a shift to undemocratic liberalism, where rights are respected but the people are no longer able to express their views on social issues. While the second option gives us an illiberal democracy, where democracy prevails over the rights of citizens. If we take the example of the aforementioned burkini, these options become allowing it to be worn, and therefore allowing democracy to suffer, or banning the item of clothing and taking the dangerous path of illiberality.

But why is the burkini considered a problem in the first place? The U.K. and the U.S. have been harsh on the French for opposing it. After all, shouldn’t everyone be able to dress as they wish? Shouldn’t rights prevail?

The reality is a lot more complex than some would like to believe. It is not about how much women are covered, otherwise the pareo, beach tunic and surf suit would be part of the debate also. Rather, it is about what message you send to people you are supposed to form a community with. By wearing a burkini, the message sent to others at the beach is, “I’m from an extremist branch of Islam before I am French,” thus creating a juxtaposition, rather than forming a shared identity revolving around nationhood. While I know this juxtaposition can be lived with, some people cannot accept it, and even if banning the burkini is ridiculous and dangerous, calling it an expression of freedom for those women is an equally ridiculous discourse. But we could wonder why rights aren’t the priority in our free countries.

That’s because we live in a democracy. Thus, if people feel they haven’t had their say in those social issues, which define the very essence of what it is to be from France, they will find a way to get their voices heard. That’s why the U.S is turning toward Donald Trump, and partly why Brexit has passed in the U.K; people are afraid of change in social behaviour, and of extremism, and will find a democratic way to have their voice heard. Unfortunately, the ones who listen aren’t the ones we need. Populists, such as Trump, the UKIP Party, and Le Pen, gain power by playing the national identity card and forming an ‘in’ group and, in the process of doing so, finding another group to oppose to; Mexicans, Muslims, or Polish.

And here you have it, one of the biggest problems facing our post-colonial era under a liberal democracy? How to live together. Do we form numerous distinct groups separated by religion and culture and face the conflict over difference? Or do we create one national identity, allowing in those who agree with it, and asking those who don’t to leave? It is a case of populism vs. extremism, and either one is as dangerous as the other.

I wish Islam was a religion with no extremist movement, intellectually at the level it was from the 8th to the 13th century, so it wouldn’t be problematic to anyone. I also wish tolerance was a value easy to define and to apply in the everyday life, but the reality of our world is a lot more complex, and today’s biggest challenge to liberal democracy is finding the right equilibrium between democracy and rights.

That’s what’s behind the burkini, a symbolic choice for the West. Either sacrifice rights for democracy or democracy for rights. Do we let religion take more and more power into the public sphere but sacrifice democracy because no one has a say in this? Or do we ban it but sacrifice the right to wear it for everyone?

Even if this particular issue can be easily resolved by saying that the burkini is not a religious outfit but rather an outfit used for different reasons, others issues appear all the time, and soon enough a difficult choice will have to be made.

Dorm Sweet Dorm: Decorating to fight homesickness

With Freshers’ week done and dusted, here are some ways to get over that homesickness hurdle through decorating your room.

Homesickness is a completely normal part of life for new students starting university. Some effective ways to deal with homesickness are calling up friends and family, talking with housemates, or contacting the Students’ Union counselling service.

However, your dorm can also be more useful in this department than simply being a place for collapsing on the bed after hugging the toilet goodnight. Your room is your base camp and the things you have on display can have a massive impact on your mental health, combatting homesickness, improving sleep cycles and productivity.

Firstly, and obviously, de-clutter your dorm room.  A clean and (relatively) ordered environment is not only good for your physical health (because that pizza under the bed is more likely to evolve into the next human epidemic than start paying rent) but also your mentality. It’s no surprise that most people would rather wake up in a clean room than a landfill, but even things such as piles of unsorted papers can cause anxiety and restlessness.  Bin those fresher’s leaflets you are never going to use for starters. This will make you feel more at home. You can also de-clutter your brain by having a chalkboard or whiteboard to help plan your thoughts and to-do lists.

Whatever you want to make for your new room, someone will be gloating about theirs on Pinterest. Search for ideas and instructions on how you can craft your own picture frames, washing line style Polaroid timelines… even strapping baking trays on the wall for makeshift magnetic noticeboards. Bring your memories, family, friends and furry pals along for the ride with creative photo displays. Making your own furniture and decorations will give you a sense of pride and save you pots of money.

You may spend a lot of time staring at your walls, so make them perfect for your unique personality. Good ideas are posters from favourite movies, a collage of your fondest memories and keepsakes or even a blown up world map so that you can plan diabolical world domination from the comfort of your room. Cheap decorating alternatives include making paper chains or bunting which can make your room livelier and remind you of past fun fairs and parties. Remember: the accommodation bosses will not appreciate ambitious people drilling or banging nails into walls, so stick to Blu Tack for your adhesive medium.

For a safer alternative to candle mood lighting, which pose a fire risk if left unattended, you can buy battery operated tea lights or make your room a carnival with fairy lights.

Although students in halls of residence cannot paint their walls, posters and decorations containing particular colours can be chosen to boost mental-wellbeing. A study undertaken by Travelodge found that people sleeping in rooms containing calm colours such as silver, orange, green, yellow and especially blue, received the best night’s sleep. Blue was also found to reduce blood pressure and heart rate enabling the best night’s sleep of all the colours. Colours to avoid in your bedroom were highlighted to be brown, purple and grey. Although based on research, the ideas above are just guidelines on colours recommended to include in the decoration of a dorm room. Only you know what colours mean to you and how they make you feel, so fill your room with colours that you find calming and attractive.

Once you have created for yourself a calming, comfy and homely space sit back and relax in your new home – you deserve it.

United Player Ratings: Manchester United vs Leicester City

Manchester United hosted the Premier League Champions on Saturday in uncertain circumstances. Having lost the first three games of the month, United swept aside Northampton Town in the EFL Cup with ease. The win over the League 1 team did not reignite the optimism of United fans however, as the performance was not completely satisfying with a number of players playing below the standards Mourinho sets.

The visit of the potentially deadly Leicester City was not the ideal fixture for United to bounce back as they were trying to pull themselves out of their own slump. Leicester have underperformed so far this campaign, potentially connected to a hangover from their League triumph last season, with losses to Hull, Arsenal and Liverpool. The Foxes were out at Old Trafford to prove that their unbelievable achievement last season was not just a one off. Unfortunately for the travelling fans, United seemed to find their rhythm at just the right moment.

The criticism around Rooney’s performances have ramped up in recent weeks, with the United faithful unhappy with his consistent inclusion when performances have not been up to scratch. Against Northampton, Rooney looked very poor, missing three decent opportunities to score past the League 1 opponents when played as a central striker. Seeing as Mourinho had stated before the match that Rooney’s role was “to get goals”, many predicted that Rooney was to be dropped against Leicester, and they were right.

Smalling was named United captain, as Rooney took a seat on the bench, in the Red’s most impressive display of the season, defeating the Champions 4-1. The fluid and interchangeable attack of Rashford, Ibrahimović, Mata and Lingard was the most threatening United have looked all season. It is important to note that three of United four goals came from corners, something which United have been quite simply rubbish at for the previous three seasons. The only real downside from the game was not keeping a clean sheet, however, that being said, Grey’s unbelievable strike was applauded by United and Leicester fans alike. A step in the right direction by Mourinho and his players as far as the fans are concerned.

Photo:WIkimedia Commons

De Gea: 7

Could do nothing about Demarai Grey’s wonderful strike and pulled off a brilliant save to stop the youngster doubling his tally. Made a few very simple saves and distributed the ball reasonably well. The only reason the Spaniard does not have a higher rating is because he simply was not tested enough, something which falls to the good work of the players in front of him.

Valencia: 7

A very solid game for the Ecuadorian, looking much more at home at right back than he has for the last few weeks. Worked really hard to get up and support attacks as well as keeping Albrighton reasonably quiet on the right hand side. Struggled to deal with Grey’s pace in the second half and did not meander forward as often as the game was already comfortably in United’s hands.

Bailly: 8

Another remarkable display from the newest defender at United. Was tasked with dealing with Vardy and did his job so perfectly that the star striker was removed by Ranieri at half time for not being involved enough in the game. Superious in the air and strong in the tackle, Bailly has all the physical attributes to become a world class central defender. There were moments when Bailly misjudged Leicester moves, but his pace and strength allows him to recover in next to no time.

Smalling: 8

Looked more like the Smalling who very nearly won Manchester United’s Player of the Year award last season. The makeshift skipper battled the physical Slimani and did not lose out once. While not as imperious as Bailly, he looked very comfortable dealing with Leicester’s threat and snuffed out attacks with ease, especially in the second half. The Foxes made it too easy for Smalling to open the scoring, allowing him an uncontested jump from a corner which the English international seized upon with an emphatic header.

Blind: 9

One of United’s star performers. Remember when Blind was rumoured to leave United in the summer because he was not a “Mourinho player”? How silly those rumours look now. Blind has been one of United’s most consistent performers so far this season and had a flawless game against Leicester. Won more tackles than any other United player and kept last year’s PFA Player of the Year so quiet that he, like Vardy, was hauled off at half time for being so anonymous. The Dutchman’s intelligence allows him to excel in so many positions, so while Blind is not a wing back like Luke Shaw, he managed to turn his position into one of the most influential playmaking areas of the pitch, linking up with Pogba, Herrera and Rashford effectively. Put two brilliant deliveries from corners into the box for Smalling and Pogba to nod home and set up Rashford’s goal with a smart low ball into Mata.

Herrera: 9

Photo:Wikimedia Commons

Another brilliant performance from the Spaniard who many predicted would flourish under Mourinho. Played a very similar role to Carrick against Northampton, shielding the defence and restarting attacks, only with much more dynamism than the 35 year old. Herrera’s high-tempo pass-and-move style gives the team a much more urgent impetus in attack. The gap between Leicester’s midfielders and forwards was where the Spaniard sat, intercepting passes and showing impressive distribution from the base of the midfield. Ran tirelessly throughout the match and, with this display, may have displaced Fellaini from the starting eleven for good.

Pogba: 8

While not as audacious a performance as his debut against Southampton, Pogba still managed to run the show with Herrera. Completed more passes than anyone else on the pitch and showed that his distribution is first class, finding passes that the average player would not see. His dink over Leicester’s defence for Zlatan’s chest-and-volley effort was a particular highlight. He played a similarly clever chipped pass to Lingard who, in turn, flicked the ball to Mata for United’s second. After testing the keeper from range with a superb curling effort, it seems only a matter of time until Pogba finds the net with a rocket from outside the box.

Lingard: 7

What the United academy product lacks in technical ability, he makes up for in pure hard graft. Adds real pace to a team which does sorely lack runners when neither Lingard nor Rashford are on the pitch. Showed good awareness to assist Mata’s goal and stopped Fuchs rampaging up the pitch as the Austrian is known to do.

Mata: 8

Added real guile and class to United’s attacking movement. Seems to have a telepathic connection with Herrera, consistently linking up with his Spanish teammate for quick, short passes. Took his goal with a sweet connection which left the keeper helpless and showed great awareness to make himself available to Blind for United’s third goal.

Rashford: 8

The youngster’s pace, direct running and subtle rotation with Ibrahimović and Lingard gave Leicester’s defence a torrid time, constantly pulling them out of shape. I would say that he will never score an easier goal than his finish from United’s well worked corner routine, but his finish against Northampton midweek was similarly only a yard out from an open net.

Ibrahimović: 8

Despite not scoring a goal or getting an assist, this was the big Swede’s most prominent display. While often isolated when playing with Rooney, Zlatan was the centrepiece of almost all of United’s moves, linking up well with Mata and Pogba and constantly playing through balls to the pacey Rashford and Lingard. Would have scored an impressive volley on another day but can be very pleased with his performance.

 

Subs

Carrick: N/A

Came on to shore up United’s midfield in the late stages of the second half. Added calmness to an already solid team performance.

Rooney: N/A

When starting his warm up by jogging past the Stretford End, the United faithful gave the skipper a standing ovation and sung his chants with real heart. While Rooney may not be the same player he was five years ago, which frustrates most, he will always have the respect of the Old Trafford crowd for his years of incredible service. Did not get enough time on the pitch to get involved in the result.

Young: N/A

Was brought on to replace Mata’s tired legs and help sure up the result. No real impact in the five minutes he was on the pitch.

Mature Student Society: What it can do for you

Going to university can be a stressful experience for anyone of any age, but returning to university as a mature student possibly following a large gap in education is bound to be daunting. There can be various causes of stress and anxiety for the mature student, including study skills, time management, jobs, family obligations, and age. It is easy to feel isolated as an older student with different stressors and obligations to the average 18-year-old fresher.

For Sharon Styles, the Chair of the Mature Student Society, her biggest concern in returning to eduction was her age: “[Returning to university] was a decision I made at mid-life stage. I was concerned I’d be the oldest student…this was the catalyst for becoming involved with the Mature Student Society.”

Prior to 2015, there was little support and almost no social events within the university directed towards the needs, anxieties and social wellbeing of mature students. The Mature Student Society was formed to fill this gap, help the mature student in re-adjusting to (or continuing in) education, and to provide social and wellbeing support to older students.

Andrew Boland, the Liberation Secretary for the Mature Student Society said, “When I started there wasn’t a mature student society, now it exists it’s good to know you’re not on your own. There are lots of mature students, it helps to realise that there are plenty of us on campus.”

The Mature Student Society has been extremely active since its inception, winning “Best New Society” at the 2016 Students’ Union (SU) Awards Ceremony, and has plenty of upcoming events in the works. The society organises bespoke social events throughout the year that encourage mature students to socialise and allow them to meet like-minded individuals outside their courses. In addition to social outings, the society provides educational events that focus on adjusting to the university’s online tools, and wellbeing events that aim to battle stress.

Outside of these events, the Mature Student Society has been involved in the launching of a new peer mentoring scheme specifically catering to mature students. This new mentoring scheme will provide one-to-one support for mature students who may need a little extra help in their adjustment to university. Styles has been extremely involved in the inception of this program and commented: “The Mature Student Society has been pivotal in providing the means to network with older students, and the peer mentor scheme is taking this one step further in providing one-to-one support if you need it and signposting services should problems arise.”

If you are interested in joining or being involved in the Mature Student Society, they have various upcoming events including a pub crawl, a meet and greet, afternoon tea and a pub quiz. In addition to this, the society is currently looking for someone to fill the role of social secretary. This position would look great on CVs and while you do have to be involved, it is not a major time commitment.

For additional information on society events and more, join the Mature Student Society Facebook group at UoMMatureStudents. You can also contact the committee at [email protected].

Lastly, for anyone feeling overwhelmed or nervous about the upcoming term, here’s a bit of pertinent advice from Boland: “Have confidence in yourself; the university saw enough potential in you to offer you a place, you have a lot to offer the university.”

Homesickness: Top five tips for beating the blues

Moving to university is a scary experience; for many, it’s the first time that they’ve moved away from home. Homesickness is a natural part of university life, no matter how prepared you might think you are, and it sneaks up on the best of us. There are so many ways of dealing with homesickness, so we’ve made a list of our top tips for beating the blues:
1. Keep in touch with family and friends

This is so important, particularly during the craziness of Freshers’ Week and meeting your new flatmates. Don’t forget that you’re not the only one who’s missing being at home, and your family and friends are likely to be missing you as well. A short phone call every week to catch up on hometown gossip should help to keep your homesickness at bay, and keep your friendships as close to normal as possible. It’s all about keeping a balance between chatting to your old friends, and finding out more about your new friends.

2. Decorate your room

If you’re living in university halls, chances are your room look like a prison cell when you move in; not exactly the most welcoming of environments, especially when you’re missing home. It’s a good idea to start decorating your room as soon as possible – it’s a good way to take your mind off things, and when it’s done it’ll make such a difference to your mood. Check out next week’s issue for our tips on how to decorate your room, but for now we recommend bringing things that are familiar to you, such as pictures of friends or some fairy lights to brighten things up. Posters are also a cheap way of decorating your room as well as a way to really show your personality to your new flatmates.

3. Explore your new home

If you’ve moved away from home to university, odds are you’ll be living in a city that you don’t really know that well. Explore it! For Manchester in particular, there are so many free things to do in the city, from visiting the various museums and art galleries to shopping in the Arndale and the alternative Northern Quarter. One of the worst things you can do if you feel homesick is to lock yourself away in your room; you’ll end up feeling worse, and you’ll miss out on everything that Manchester has to offer! Maybe even take your flatmates along with you to explore; it’s a good way to see the city and make friends at the same time.

4. Get involved in uni life

At the end of the day, you came to uni to socialise (as well as study!) Getting involved in societies is one of the best ways to combat homesickness; they’ll keep you busy with meetings and socials, and you’ll make loads of new friends at the same time. Choose something that you’ve never done before – learn to play a new sport, or pick up a hobby. We can guarantee that it’ll improve your university experience, and it’ll take your mind off what’s stayed at home.

5. Ask for help if you need it

For some, homesickness becomes such a huge part of their lives that they can’t enjoy being at uni, and some even drop out and move back home. Before this happens, make sure to use the support services that are available at university. The Students’ Union offers a free advice service to students who are struggling with being away from home, and can arrange counselling sessions if needs be. Talking to flatmates and other students can also help as well; you are definitely not the only one who is feeling like this. Older students can also help; they all went through the same issues when they first went to university, so they can offer help and advice. The most important thing is to not isolate yourself—spending time with others who are feeling the same will reassure you, and give you a good support network when you need it.

At the end of the day, everyone experiences homesickness in some form. It’s a natural part of university life, and it does get better. The main thing to remember is that everyone around you is probably feeling exactly the same, and that you aren’t alone in feeling this way. Talking to your flatmates or your coursemates is one of the best ways to banish the blues and make sure that you have the best university experience possible.

Oxford Vice-Chancellor expresses Brexit worries

Oxford University’s Vice-Chancellor has come out and said that Britain’s exiting the European Union is putting academic success under threat, following Oxford being named as the world’s best Higher Education institution.

Professor Louise Robinson, speaking on BBC Radio 4 after Oxford was placed at the top of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, expressed concern that the Brexit vote had already led to Oxford’s academics being approached by rival institutions trying to tempt them away.

The uncertainty the referendum caused has created worries around funding for research projects and student numbers, she said.

“Our concern is that our academics who are at Oxford might decide to leave if they are concerned that they may not be able to get their research funded in the future.

“There are many universities in the world who would be thrilled to have them and who are approaching them and are asking them if they would return to their universities instead.

“I’m not in a position to guarantee [matching better offers] to our academics, I wish I were.”

She put Oxford’s success in great part down to the funding the EU offers universities, which she called upon the government to either match or secure a deal “as close to the current [one] as possible.

“The reason we are having this conversation is because of how well we did on the global ranking, which is predominantly determined by the calibre of our research.

“We currently get around £67m a year from the European Research Council, that’s a very significant amount, and we need to ensure we continue to access funding for our research.”

She worried that as-yet undecided fee levels for students coming from the EU risked knocking the number of students from overseas down. “That would undermine the fabric of the institution”.

In the same interview she distanced Oxford from the Prime Minister’s proposals for top universities to set up ‘feeder schools’, though stating her passion for improving social mobility through education. Oxford is a “global institution”, she explained, and a local school would not equate with that.

“What we do best is run a university. It would be a distraction from our core mission”.