Category: The Conversation – Canada

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Lisa Hiwasaki, Assistant Professor, Management of International Cooperation and Humanitarian Action, Université Laval

Weeks after Cyclone Senyar made landfall in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, the province of Aceh continues to struggle. The cyclone passed through the Strait of Malacca in late November, bringing heavy rains and causing widespread flooding in parts of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. More than 500 people were killed and 250,000 people displaced in Aceh alone.

The cyclone’s unusually high death toll and catastrophic impacts have been attributed to a range of factors, including warming ocean temperatures due to climate change, deforestation and other environmental changes, Aceh’s unique geographical and topographical setting and how rarely cyclones occur near the equator.

What’s missing from the discussion is the root cause of why Aceh was ill-prepared for the hazard. Like many other regions in the Global South, Aceh’s vulnerability can be traced back to colonialism, which created an inequitable distribution of power, wealth and resources. Post-colonial development continues to reinforce it.

The impact of Cyclone Senyar has drawn parallels to the 2004 Aceh tsunami that devastated the province and surrounding areas. Since then, disaster preparedness in Aceh has come a long way. Yet the aftermath of Senyar suggests that disaster preparedness efforts have not tackled Aceh’s underlying vulnerabilities.

Indonesia’s national meteorological agency gave multiple warnings of the hazard well in advance. But neither the national agency responsible for disaster management, the National Agency for Disaster Countermeasure, nor the Aceh Provincial Disaster Management Agency were able to translate warnings into effective action or effectively lead emergency response efforts. Such institutional failures are among the challenges that contribute to vulnerability in Aceh.

In our ongoing research among coastal communities in Aceh, we explore how their livelihoods have been impacted by external shocks, as well as the diverse ways they have adapted to navigate these stresses.

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Read more:
Death and devastation: why a rare equatorial cyclone and other storms have hit southern Asia so hard

---

The colonial roots of Aceh’s vulnerability

Starting in the late 16th century, the Dutch colonial government established infrastructure and policies to facilitate resource extraction in Indonesia. The focus of European colonizers was on the eastern part of the archipelago to control the spice trade in the Maluku region. However, it was in Aceh that the Dutch spent the most resources to conquer.

The Dutch East India company opened the port of Kuala Langsa in 1907, in the same area where Cyclone Senyar made landfall. That was followed by large-scale investment in rubber and palm oil plantations. Colonialists supported top-down governance and implemented policies that gave lasting economic and political advantages to those who aligned themselves with the Dutch.

An example is the Ethische politiek (Ethical Policy); among other things, it provided educational opportunities to local elites with the aim of helping the Dutch lead the colony. Local elites were also given land that had previously been communal, to expand agriculture and exploit natural resources, creating divisions within the Acehnese.

Colonial rule also had a lasting impact on the natural environment: highly biodiverse forests were converted to monocrop plantations, ports were expanded to accommodate larger ships and both land and seas were exploited for resources.

Post-independence pressures

Post-independence governments have maintained the top-down institutions put in place by the Dutch. They have also emphasized a continued economic focus on extractive industries, such as pepper, copra and petroleum to fuel Indonesia’s rapid economic growth. These coupled together continue to have devastating impacts on the environment and on the livelihoods of the communities.

In the 1970s, communities in Kuala Langsa, a village in the city of Langsa along Aceh’s east coast, shifted their livelihoods to intensive tiger prawn aquaculture as part of the push to develop marine fisheries under then-president Suharto’s “New Order” political economy regime.

However, a viral disease outbreak led to the collapse of the tiger prawn industry in the early 1990s. Intensive prawn aquaculture significantly degraded the coastal mangrove forests and reduced water quality. That, in turn, undermined the viability of small-scale fisheries that local communities had traditionally relied on.

The conflict between the government and separatists in Aceh from 1976 to 2005 led to an influx of migrants to Kuala Langsa from other parts of the province, putting additional pressures on the environment.

The 2004 tsunami destroyed many mangrove forests along Langsa’s coastline, further negatively affecting the livelihoods of communities that depended on shrimp, crab and fish living in the mangroves.

Policy decisions increase vulnerability

The hazard that struck Langsa and other parts of Aceh did not turn into such a devastating disaster due to climatic and geophysical factors alone. Hazards turn into disasters due to decisions made by those in power that make people vulnerable.

Between 1990 and 2024, almost 160,000 hectares of land was deforested to make way for palm oil monoculture plantations under permits issued by the Ministry of Forestry. Land converted into monoculture plantations loses its capacity to absorb rainwater, turning torrential rain into runoff that can create landslides. The forest on which communities depended for fruits such as durian, mangoes, rambutan and medicinal plants were impacted, affecting local incomes and sources of food, as well as their local knowledge associated with them.

Aceh’s vulnerability stems from environmental degradation from rampant resource extraction, instability and displacement due to armed conflict, top-down, centralized decision-making by the government and weak institutions stemming from poor governance and corruption.

Measures to strengthen disaster preparedness in Aceh have not tackled the region’s underlying vulnerabilities. Oftentimes, projects meant to promote resilience and development do not address the factors and processes that decrease the vulnerability of the most marginalized.

Disaster contingency plans continue to focus on geological hazards instead of taking a multi-hazard approach. These plans have not been successful in strengthening preparedness of institutions responsible for reducing disaster risk.

As the fourth-most flood-prone region in Indonesia, local and provincial authorities in Aceh need to prepare for extreme weather events so future events like Cyclone Senyar do not wreak such havoc.

As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of storms, it is imperative that disaster risk reduction efforts centre on reducing vulnerability and social justice. Equitable distribution of wealth, power and resources can only be realized when local and Indigenous knowledge is acknowledged to help build sustainable communities.

Lisa Hiwasaki has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Haekal A. Haridhi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Cyclone Senyar: Why hazards continue to turn into disasters in Indonesia – https://theconversation.com/cyclone-senyar-why-hazards-continue-to-turn-into-disasters-in-indonesia-272242

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Oral Robinson, Lecturer & Chair, Honours Program, Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia

College students in the humanities and social sciences are constantly learning about the world’s biggest problems — from inequality, wars, forced displacement, hunger and famine, discrimination and climate change to unjust policies and laws.

While this knowledge helps them see the world in new ways, it can also be overwhelming.

Many students end up feeling discouraged, emotionally burdened or even silenced by the weight of these issues. Educators working in transformative learning — teaching that trains learners to take action — note that students want to help, but they often feel powerless, stuck and unsure of what to do next.

So how can teachers show students how to use what they learn to create real change? How can we turn students into change-makers without making them feel defeated?

When learning feels social and personal, students stop feeling overwhelmed and start believing they can truly make a difference. This finding emerged from a study I conducted with Rohil Sharma, an undergraduate researcher and co-ordinator of the Student as Partners Program at the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the University of British Columbia.

Effective teaching practices

To practise effective teaching practices for transformative learning, I implemented 14 instructional strategies in a second-year university sociology course.

The course analyzes contemporary family issues like gender inequality, globalization, cultural shifts, legal changes and colonialism. Students reflected on how these forces shape their personal lives and explored actionable ways to improve their circumstances.

We surveyed students to find out which teaching methods made them feel confident enough to address these issues and why.

When we asked students about effective teaching practices, the results were enlightening. Students did not want to simply sit and listen. They felt most empowered by four strategies: interactive lectures, small-group conversations, whole-class discussions and personal reflections.

Interactive lectures

Students cited interactive lectures, which invited students to question instructors, respond to prompts and participate in activities, as among the most effective strategies for building confidence to address social problems. Lectures that included reflective questions, short writing exercises and real-world scenarios encouraged deeper and more creative thinking.

Likewise, when role-playing and case studies were built into lectures, our students reported that they were better able to see how decisions and policies affect different people in different ways. These activities made it clear that social systems are shaped by human choices, and that choices can be questioned and changed. One student reflected:

“When the professor shares experiences and lets us reflect and respond, the issues stop being scary textbook facts and start feeling like problems I actually have the power to help fix.”

Rather than asking students to sit back and listen, we encourage educators to actively invite student participation.

Small conversations

Students also favoured small-group discussions because they created space for students to speak honestly without the pressure of addressing the entire class or being closely monitored by the instructor.

In these settings, students were more comfortable expressing confusion, asking questions and listening to one another. Our findings suggest that these conversations helped students connect social issues to real life.

Students also realized that their classmates were grappling with similar questions, which helped turn uncertainty into connection and shared purpose. As one student explained:

“Sharing our connections to the course content allowed me to see how our experiences and feelings were similar … we could then have shared solutions, which was empowering.”

Whole-class discussions

Whole-class discussions added another important layer to students’ understanding of how they can challenge social problems. Hearing a wide range of perspectives helped students understand that social issues are complex and connected to power and privilege.

With guidance, students learn to practise listening respectfully, disagreeing thoughtfully and explaining their ideas clearly. These discussions helped students link personal experiences to larger social patterns, showing that individual stories are part of broader social patterns.

For many students, this realization sparked a desire to act rather than remain passive. As one participant noted:

“Discussions in class are the best way to get a general view of social problems … hearing diverse experiences … provides a realistic context and solution.”

Personal reflection

Connecting all the favoured strategies is personal reflection. When students had time to consider how social issues affected their own lives or communities, learning was reported to feel more meaningful.

Reflection helped students process emotions, clarify what they care about and recognize inequality around them. It also showed them that change does not have to begin with something dramatic.

One student shared:

“By pinpointing how issues had permeated my own life, I was able to recognize how much control I actually had over the situation and felt like I could spearhead change in my life and the lives of those around me.”

This confirmed our observation that even small changes in the classroom can help students see themselves as people who can make a difference.

Everyday activities can be life-changing

Overall, our research adds to the body of work on transformative learning, showing that students crave more than passive listening and are eager to translate knowledge into actionable solutions.

Furthermore, we find that empowering students to address social issues does not require a complete classroom overhaul. Simple, everyday activities can be life-changing when integrated into traditional teaching.

The key is shifting from one-way lectures toward open dialogue, peer collaboration and personal reflection. These changes foster the trust and inspiration students need to ask better questions, listen deeply and see themselves as capable of creating real-world change.

This story was co-authored by Rohil Sharma, co-ordinator of the Student as Partners Program at the Centre for Teaching and Learning at UBC.

Oral Robinson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. 4 ways to empower students to spark social change – https://theconversation.com/4-ways-to-empower-students-to-spark-social-change-272013

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Lisa Hiwasaki, Assistant Professor, Management of International Cooperation and Humanitarian Action, Université Laval

Weeks after Cyclone Senyar made landfall in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, the province of Aceh continues to struggle. The cyclone passed through the Strait of Malacca in late November, bringing heavy rains and causing widespread flooding in parts of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. More than 500 people were killed and 250,000 people displaced in Aceh alone.

The cyclone’s unusually high death toll and catastrophic impacts have been attributed to a range of factors, including warming ocean temperatures due to climate change, deforestation and other environmental changes, Aceh’s unique geographical and topographical setting and how rarely cyclones occur near the equator.

What’s missing from the discussion is the root cause of why Aceh was ill-prepared for the hazard. Like many other regions in the Global South, Aceh’s vulnerability can be traced back to colonialism, which created an inequitable distribution of power, wealth and resources. Post-colonial development continues to reinforce it.

The impact of Cyclone Senyar has drawn parallels to the 2004 Aceh tsunami that devastated the province and surrounding areas. Since then, disaster preparedness in Aceh has come a long way. Yet the aftermath of Senyar suggests that disaster preparedness efforts have not tackled Aceh’s underlying vulnerabilities.

Indonesia’s national meteorological agency gave multiple warnings of the hazard well in advance. But neither the national agency responsible for disaster management, the National Agency for Disaster Countermeasure, nor the Aceh Provincial Disaster Management Agency were able to translate warnings into effective action or effectively lead emergency response efforts. Such institutional failures are among the challenges that contribute to vulnerability in Aceh.

In our ongoing research among coastal communities in Aceh, we explore how their livelihoods have been impacted by external shocks, as well as the diverse ways they have adapted to navigate these stresses.

---

Read more:
Death and devastation: why a rare equatorial cyclone and other storms have hit southern Asia so hard

---

The colonial roots of Aceh’s vulnerability

Starting in the late 16th century, the Dutch colonial government established infrastructure and policies to facilitate resource extraction in Indonesia. The focus of European colonizers was on the eastern part of the archipelago to control the spice trade in the Maluku region. However, it was in Aceh that the Dutch spent the most resources to conquer.

The Dutch East India company opened the port of Kuala Langsa in 1907, in the same area where Cyclone Senyar made landfall. That was followed by large-scale investment in rubber and palm oil plantations. Colonialists supported top-down governance and implemented policies that gave lasting economic and political advantages to those who aligned themselves with the Dutch.

An example is the Ethische politiek (Ethical Policy); among other things, it provided educational opportunities to local elites with the aim of helping the Dutch lead the colony. Local elites were also given land that had previously been communal, to expand agriculture and exploit natural resources, creating divisions within the Acehnese.

Colonial rule also had a lasting impact on the natural environment: highly biodiverse forests were converted to monocrop plantations, ports were expanded to accommodate larger ships and both land and seas were exploited for resources.

Post-independence pressures

Post-independence governments have maintained the top-down institutions put in place by the Dutch. They have also emphasized a continued economic focus on extractive industries, such as pepper, copra and petroleum to fuel Indonesia’s rapid economic growth. These coupled together continue to have devastating impacts on the environment and on the livelihoods of the communities.

In the 1970s, communities in Kuala Langsa, a village in the city of Langsa along Aceh’s east coast, shifted their livelihoods to intensive tiger prawn aquaculture as part of the push to develop marine fisheries under then-president Suharto’s “New Order” political economy regime.

However, a viral disease outbreak led to the collapse of the tiger prawn industry in the early 1990s. Intensive prawn aquaculture significantly degraded the coastal mangrove forests and reduced water quality. That, in turn, undermined the viability of small-scale fisheries that local communities had traditionally relied on.

The conflict between the government and separatists in Aceh from 1976 to 2005 led to an influx of migrants to Kuala Langsa from other parts of the province, putting additional pressures on the environment.

The 2004 tsunami destroyed many mangrove forests along Langsa’s coastline, further negatively affecting the livelihoods of communities that depended on shrimp, crab and fish living in the mangroves.

Policy decisions increase vulnerability

The hazard that struck Langsa and other parts of Aceh did not turn into such a devastating disaster due to climatic and geophysical factors alone. Hazards turn into disasters due to decisions made by those in power that make people vulnerable.

Between 1990 and 2024, almost 160,000 hectares of land was deforested to make way for palm oil monoculture plantations under permits issued by the Ministry of Forestry. Land converted into monoculture plantations loses its capacity to absorb rainwater, turning torrential rain into runoff that can create landslides. The forest on which communities depended for fruits such as durian, mangoes, rambutan and medicinal plants were impacted, affecting local incomes and sources of food, as well as their local knowledge associated with them.

Aceh’s vulnerability stems from environmental degradation from rampant resource extraction, instability and displacement due to armed conflict, top-down, centralized decision-making by the government and weak institutions stemming from poor governance and corruption.

Measures to strengthen disaster preparedness in Aceh have not tackled the region’s underlying vulnerabilities. Oftentimes, projects meant to promote resilience and development do not address the factors and processes that decrease the vulnerability of the most marginalized.

Disaster contingency plans continue to focus on geological hazards instead of taking a multi-hazard approach. These plans have not been successful in strengthening preparedness of institutions responsible for reducing disaster risk.

As the fourth-most flood-prone region in Indonesia, local and provincial authorities in Aceh need to prepare for extreme weather events so future events like Cyclone Senyar do not wreak such havoc.

As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of storms, it is imperative that disaster risk reduction efforts centre on reducing vulnerability and social justice. Equitable distribution of wealth, power and resources can only be realized when local and Indigenous knowledge is acknowledged to help build sustainable communities.

Lisa Hiwasaki has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Haekal A. Haridhi does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Cyclone Senyar: Why hazards continue to turn into disasters in Aceh – https://theconversation.com/cyclone-senyar-why-hazards-continue-to-turn-into-disasters-in-aceh-272242

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By JJ Wright, Assistant Professor, Sociology and Gender Studies, MacEwan University

The reason people are so captivated by Heated Rivalry, the new Crave romance adapted from Rachel Reid’s popular novel, isn’t just because the storyline is unprecedented, but because the two main characters find queer joy in impossible circumstances. In doing so, the series creates new possibilities for imagining relationships, masculinity and society.

The show centres on a romance between two professional hockey players, Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) and Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams), who are rivals in a fictitious professional hockey league.

Queer joy in Heated Rivalry unsettles hockey’s hypermasculine order and makes new ways of relating seem possible. As my research on queer joy articulates, this form of joy holds transformative, collective power for reimagining the world beyond oppressive norms.

It’s no wonder that far from being limited to the show’s large queer fan base, straight women are also hooked. Men who are emotionally attuned, show vulnerability and express care are rare in a world increasingly dominated by the manosphere and its violent misogyny.

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No one’s 20s and 30s look the same. You might be saving for a mortgage or just struggling to pay rent. You could be swiping dating apps, or trying to understand childcare. No matter your current challenges, our Quarter Life series has articles to share in the group chat, or just to remind you that you’re not alone.

Read more from Quarter Life:

• Five tips for becoming a cinephile in the age of streaming algorithms

• Love is Blind returns – but is there truth to the show’s ‘social experiment’? Here’s what the research says

• How ‘relationship anarchy’ is changing the nature of connection for millennials and Gen Z

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Hockey culture and masculinity

In the fantasy world of Heated Rivalry, Ilya and Shane are constantly confronted with the harsh realities of hockey culture and its expectations for men. Those expectations are not exaggerated, and closely mirror real-life professional hockey.

As veteran player Scott Hunter (François Arnaud) says to the media after publicly coming out as gay: “I didn’t want to be that thing that hockey players throw around as an insult.” His statement captures how masculinity in hockey is built around proving that you’re not weak, not soft, not gay.

Within this culture, emotional stoicism, physical dominance and the routine objectification and dehumanization of women function as ways of asserting power over others.

This context helps explain why there’s currently no out gay player in the entire National Hockey League (NHL).

Emotional repression

Anger is the only emotion that is permissible for men to express in hockey. Rage-fuelled fights and punishing physical play are rewarded with cheers and highlight reels. That emotional narrowing produces consequences beyond the rink.

It helps normalize a culture where misogyny, racism, homophobia, transphobia and ableism are routinely dismissed as “locker-room talk.”

A 2022 report by Hockey Canada found that of the 512 penalties called for on-ice harassment, 61 per cent involved sexual orientation or gender identity, followed by race (18 per cent) and disability (11 per cent).

This isn’t an environment where gay players, especially racialized or disabled ones, can feel safe, let alone joyful, in their queerness.

Yet Heated Rivalry insists on joy, and that is precisely what makes the series electric. It’s exhilarating to watch Ilya and Shane find deep, passionate connection in a sport designed to keep men emotionally severed. Queer joy emerges despite hockey culture’s cruelty, forging itself inside conditions that were never meant to hold it.

Visibility and resistance

Heated Rivalry has sparked an “online frenzy,” leading to public watch parties, group chats and conversations online about what kinds of men — and sex — we’re allowed to imagine. This shared excitement is a reflection of the pleasure of watching something long considered forbidden become visible and celebrated.

Much queer representation remains dominated by pain and suffering, but Heated Rivalry refuses a tragic queer script and centres joy, unsettling the social order that has historically sought to deny queer people access to pleasure and fulfillment.

That disruption is especially powerful when set against the realities of contemporary hockey. In 2024, the NHL briefly banned Pride Tape, seemingly confirming that hockey is not “for everyone.”

Around the same time, some players refused to wear Pride jerseys during themed games, largely citing Christian Biblical commitments or anti-gay Kremlin laws, and the NHL responded by banning these jerseys altogether.

The Pride Tape ban was reversed after public outcry, yet the ban on specialty jerseys remains. These realities help explain why gay players continue to hide, and why the storyline of a Russian player forced into secrecy resonates so deeply. So, too, does the casting of Hudson Williams, who is half-Korean, as Shane Hollander in a sport still dominated by whiteness.

Consent and intimacy

Hockey’s hypermasculinity has real consequences. In 2022, it came to light that Hockey Canada had paid $8.9 million since 1989 in sexual abuse settlements, exposing a culture of entitlement, silence and impunity.

Queer joy in Heated Rivalry is transformative because of its ethical eroticism. In my research, I’ve argued that queer sexual joy has the capacity to shift sexual cultures away from rape culture, opening space for reciprocity, greater authenticity and embodied pleasure.

That’s why moments where Ilya pauses to ask for consent while having sex with Shane are so important. They dismantle the idea that men are entitled to other people’s bodies and that consent processes ruin the moment.

What makes Heated Rivalry’s sex scenes feel different is that they don’t rely on the familiar trope of gay men roughhousing during sex as they work through internalized homophobia. What we see instead is tenderness, erotic curiosity and emotional commitment.

Even popular “hockey bros” podcasts Empty Netters and What Chaos have discussed the show seriously, commenting openly on both its emotional impact and eroticism. Such conversations begin to loosen rigid norms around masculinity, desire and permissible pleasure.

Once queer joy is made visible, it becomes harder to accept a sporting culture — and a society — that insists it remain impossible.

JJ Wright receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada and Public Safety Canada.

– ref. ‘Heated Rivalry’ shows how queer joy can disrupt hockey’s culture of masculinity – https://theconversation.com/heated-rivalry-shows-how-queer-joy-can-disrupt-hockeys-culture-of-masculinity-272790

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Eric Andrew Collins, Assistant Professor in the School of Health Studies, Western University

Many Canadians start the new year with attempts to abstain from alcohol and cannabis for the month of January. However, this all-or-nothing approach to a healthier lifestyle may be unsustainable for many due to complex biological and psychosocial drivers that trigger substance use in the first place. Fear not, abstinence isn’t the only option.

Moderation-management techniques such as alternating alcoholic drinks with mocktails and harm-reduction strategies, such as opting for light beers, light seltzers and cannabis strains with a higher CBD-to-THC ratio, are evidence-based options.

Please note, this article is intended for individuals who use substances regularly or heavily on special occasions and not for individuals who meet the criteria for a substance use disorder.

As a health and rehabilitation scientist and assistant professor, I have spent 15 years researching the complexities of substance use and recovery. But my insights aren’t just academic. I have lived this reality for over two decades.

My career and auto-ethnographic research, including Cocaine Confessions, have taught me that transforming one’s relationship with substances is not a matter of character, morality or willpower. It requires a precise, deep understanding of the biological, psychosocial and environmental factors that influence this behaviour.

Chronic substance use and the brain

According to a recent report, more than half of Canadians exceed Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines of no more than two standard drinks per week. Another government report revealed that six per cent of Canadians exceed Canada’s Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines, which recommend occasional use of no more than one to two puffs of 10 per cent THC or lower.

For many Canadians who exceed low-risk use guidelines, New Year’s Day marks an opportunity for self-improvement through initiatives like “Dry January” or embarking on a cannabis tolerance break or “T-break.” Though well-intentioned, abstinence-based resolutions often lead to higher rates of relapse because these approaches reduce complex human behaviour to an on-off switch that can presumably be controlled with the power of choice, discipline or selecting a safe environment.

Heavy or chronic substance use disrupts the prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain responsible for exercising willpower and impulse control. Think of this part of the brain as the brakes of a car; if someone consumes substances in a way that exceeds Canada’s guidelines, these brakes begin to wear out. At the same time, this type of use hyperactivates the brain’s reward system, which is like keeping the gas pedal pressed to the floor.

As a result, attempting abstinence is essentially asking the driver to stop their speeding car with worn-out brakes. In other words, quitting substances “cold turkey,” even for a month, requires a compromised brain to work perfectly, which is an enormous task.

Transforming the relationship with alcohol or cannabis

The sociocultural environment is responsible for shaping social norms and individual behaviour. It affects behaviour change by strongly influencing an individual’s values, beliefs, attitudes and access to resources. While Dry January and T-breaks normalize abstinence, they create a pass-fail binary for those struggling to quit “cold turkey.”

Alcohol and cannabis are deeply woven into the fabric of Canadian culture, frequently appearing at social gatherings such as first dates, sporting events, concerts and birthdays. The presence and consumption of these substances in these settings can create social pressure and triggers for those attempting to abstain. Abstinence-based initiatives can inadvertently stigmatize individuals who “relapse” or “slip up,” fostering feelings of shame and failure for these people.

Consequently, these individuals may resort to social isolation, a response that often unintentionally reinforces the desire to consume substances. While abstinence is a worthy long-term goal for many, starting with evidence-based moderation-management techniques and harm-reduction strategies offers practical and sustainable approaches for individuals to begin transforming their relationship with alcohol or cannabis.

Effective behaviour change

Effective and sustainable behaviour change strategies are backed by rigorous scientific research, which means they have a proven track record of producing lasting, positive results in real-world settings. Moderation-management techniques focus on when you use and how much you use. For both alcohol and cannabis, some of these strategies include limiting frequency of use to occasional consumption (for example, weekends only) and logging the time, place and amount of substance consumed.

Harm-reduction strategies focus on how you use to minimize damage. For both alcohol and cannabis, some of these strategies include avoiding mixing substances and consuming smaller quantities of lower potency products (for example, beer and lemonade cocktail, and cannabis strains with a CBD:THC ratio of 20:1, 10:1 or 5:1).

Initiatives like Dry January and T-breaks have good intentions, but these all-or-nothing approaches are oversimplified and can inadvertently result in overconsuming at the end of the month or triggering a cycle of shame if someone “relapses” or “slips up.” Instead, making incremental changes and practical shifts in when and how you consume alcohol or cannabis offers a sustainable alternative and can help you create a healthier relationship with these substances.

Eric Andrew Collins does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Dry January, T-breaks and the myth of willpower: An alternative reset in the New Year – https://theconversation.com/dry-january-t-breaks-and-the-myth-of-willpower-an-alternative-reset-in-the-new-year-272612

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joanna Pozzulo, Chancellor’s Professor, Psychology, Carleton University

In 2005, psychologist Cliff Arnall coined the term “Blue Monday” as part of a marketing campaign for a British travel agency to encourage people to book a holiday during the winter. Using a pseudo-scientific formula, the third Monday in January was determined to be the “bluest” day of the year, marked by sadness, low energy and withdrawal from social interaction.

Although Blue Monday has been debunked, the feelings associated with a colder, darker season are real.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recognized form of depression connected to seasonal variation, with symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, appetite changes, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and feelings of hopelessness. According to the Canadian Psychological Association, approximately 15 per cent of Canadians report at least some symptoms of SAD.

It’s believed that the disorder may be connected to decreased exposure to sunlight, which in turn disrupts people’s circadian rhythms — the internal clock that co-ordinates our biological processes such as sleep and hormone production.

We can’t dictate when the sun shines, but there are several evidence-based strategies to support “wintering well.” For example, creating a cozy reading nook equipped with a warm blanket, hot chocolate and a good book provides a dedicated space for self-care that promotes relaxation. It also helps with mindfulness, which involves focusing your attention on the present and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Why mindset and expectations matter

According to Kari Leibowitz, psychologist and author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark Days, the key to better wintering is reframing — changing one’s perspective to find a more positive, constructive or empowering interpretation of the situation.

Cultures that thrive in winter anticipate it, considering it meaningful. Reframing the season as something to look forward to can raise morale.

Try replacing negative language about winter as something to be dreaded or endured with more appreciative language. For example, winter can provide an opportunity to rest and recharge. By adopting a positive mindset, overall well-being may improve.

The benefits of winter outdoor activity

Spending time outdoors can lift the spirit and boost energy. And although winter has fewer hours of daylight, it is important to take advantage of them. Spend some time outside in the late morning and early afternoon, when natural light tends to peak.

Winter weather, however, can make outdoor activity unappealing. Cold and icy conditions can even be hazardous to health. Cold weather can increase the risk of cardiovascular events by constricting blood vessels and raising blood pressure.

To spend time outdoors safely, invest in appropriate clothing suited to the temperature. On colder days, engage in light activity such as walking and keep outdoor stints short (about 15 minutes).

What hygge can teach about slowing down

Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word dating back to the 1800s used to denote the concept of enjoying a slower-paced life while connecting with people you care about.

Hygge is often associated with creating a pleasant environment, such as lighting candles or staying warm by a fire, to foster positiveness.

When indoors, sit near windows to work or read. Consider increasing indoor lighting brightness. Use light bulbs rated as “daylight,” and think about adding lamps to supplement overhead lighting. This can increase serotonin to improve mood and help regulate circadian rhythms that in turn can support improved sleep quality, energy and focus.

Hygge-type activities, like knitting, colouring and playing board games, can support overall well-being. Enjoying simple meals with others or spending quiet time alone in nature are also ways to embrace the season.

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Read more:
4 research-backed ways to beat the winter blues in the colder months

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Listening to seasonal changes and self-care

Winter is a natural time to slow down, rest and restore, as evidenced by bears hibernating and bumblebees going underground to survive. Use this time to prepare for a more active upcoming season.

To take advantage of the slower pace of the season, reduce over-scheduling when possible. Adjust sleep routines to suit individual needs. Enjoy quieter evenings and earlier bedtimes. Accept that lower energy levels are normal in winter and that the season offers an opportunity to do less without guilt.

Spending more time indoors during the winter provides an opportunity to reconnect with hobbies and activities that have brought you joy in the past. For example, doing puzzles can provide a break from screens, which can decrease stress. Reading a good book can also provide a mental escape, allowing people to disconnect from worries. Creative activities such as baking can encourage a sense of purpose.

Choosing activities that are enjoyable and meaningful offers the greatest benefits for overall well-being. For more evidence-based strategies and book recommendations, join my Reading for Well-Being Community Book Club.

Joanna Pozzulo receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

– ref. Blue Monday is a myth but the winter blues are real — how to cope in the cold months – https://theconversation.com/blue-monday-is-a-myth-but-the-winter-blues-are-real-how-to-cope-in-the-cold-months-272882

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Daniela Gatti, PhD Student, Centre of Industrial Relations and Human Resources, University of Toronto

Canada is facing a significant demographic challenge. Between 2019 and 2028, approximately 700,000 skilled trades workers are expected to retire, leaving a major gap in the future workforce.

Governments have responded with more investments to increase interest in the skilled trades and support training, including a recent announcement by the Ontario government to invest $2.6 million in Skills Ontario.

Canada needs more people in the skilled trades, especially women. Yet despite many recruitment efforts, women remain significantly underrepresented in the skilled trades. Only 7.9 per cent of skilled trades workers are women in Canada.

Our recent research shows that the problem is not only whether women are interested in entering the skilled trades, but if they’re able to remain once they do.

A double stigma on the job

Women who enter the trades face a double stigma. Trades work is often socially devalued. At the same time, women must work as minorities in workplaces shaped by masculine norms.

While the skilled trades offer financial independence and meaningful work, the reality is that many environments are hostile to women. The double stigma appears in daily interactions that question a woman’s competence and professional identity. To survive this double burden, women are building vital support in an unexpected place: online communities.

In our interviews with women across Canada working in electrical, carpentry and plumbing trades, participants described feeling very isolated. Many were the only woman on their job site.

This isolation often led to exclusion, scrutiny and harassment. One licensed electrician described keeping a running list of who she was mistaken for on-site, including “the carpenter’s wife,” “the painter,” and “the cleaning lady,” rather than being recognized as a professional.

Lack of support beyond the job site

Our research found this isolation often extended beyond the workplace. Family and friends, who should be a key source of career support, were often unsupportive. Participants described that personal networks questioned the legitimacy of their career choices or treated their work as temporary.

Several participants shared that family members viewed their career choice as a “waste” of potential. Parents expressed disappointment that they had not pursued university degrees or traditional office-based careers.

One participant noted that her parents’ disappointment was rooted in a mentality that viewed office work as the only measure of success. Others intentionally delayed telling their parents of their new jobs as trades apprentices because they assumed their families would be disappointed.

Even within the industry, potential role models sometimes reinforced these beliefs. One apprentice described meeting a female instructor who advised her: “Don’t wear pink…just keep your mouth shut.” Another participant was discouraged by her instructor from attending a women-in-trades conference, implying it would be a poor career move and would draw unwanted attention.

Turning to digital communities

When in-person support systems failed, many women turned to the digital world. Our research found that private online groups, particularly on Facebook and LinkedIn, have become essential spaces for building the support needed to remain in the trades.

These online communities offer something job sites often cannot: anonymity and psychological safety. In these spaces, women can ask technical questions, seek advice about workplace dynamics and share experiences without fear of being labelled incompetent or unprofessional. This safety allows them to access knowledge that would otherwise remain closed to them.

Crucially, these platforms provide validation. When women experience harassment or toxic behaviour, online communities help them distinguish between normal industry hardships and unacceptable abuse.

One participant described posting in a group about a supervisor’s behaviour. The group confirmed the situation was toxic and immediately shared job postings to help her exit that specific workplace while remaining in the industry in her city. This intervention directly aided her in her decision to remain in the industry.

Despite persistent stigma, participants found meaning in their work. Many described satisfaction in producing tangible results and valued the physical nature of their labour. For some, the trades offered an escape from unfulfilling desk jobs and a pathway to financial stability that justified enduring difficult environments.

However, staying requires resilience. Women often succeed by learning how to endure repeated barriers. Online groups provide the emotional fuel for this resilience. They gave women space to recharge in a safe environment before returning to the job site.

Why retention matters

If Canada hopes to replace the 700,000 tradespeople expected to retire this decade, focusing on recruitment is not enough. While attracting new workers is essential, retention is equally critical, particularly for women, who continue to face unique barriers that push them out of the trades prematurely.

Employers and policymakers need to recognize that the informal networks that have long supported men in the trades often exclude women, particularly those without generational ties to the industry. Without these networks, women can struggle to access critical knowledge, guidance and opportunities for professional growth.

In the absence of these networks, digital communities have emerged as a low-cost, high-impact solution. By acknowledging the value of these networks and integrating them into training, mentorship and support programs, the skilled trades can begin to address the double stigma women face, and create conditions that will help women to stay in the field.

Daniela Gatti receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

Mark Julien does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. How online communities are helping women stay in the skilled trades – https://theconversation.com/how-online-communities-are-helping-women-stay-in-the-skilled-trades-272554

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joanna Pozzulo, Chancellor’s Professor, Psychology, Carleton University

In 2005, psychologist Cliff Arnall coined the term “Blue Monday” as part of a marketing campaign for a British travel agency to encourage people to book a holiday during the winter. Using a pseudo-scientific formula, the third Monday in January was determined to be the “bluest” day of the year, marked by sadness, low energy and withdrawal from social interaction.

Although Blue Monday has been debunked, the feelings associated with a colder, darker season are real.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recognized form of depression connected to seasonal variation, with symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, appetite changes, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and feelings of hopelessness. According to the Canadian Psychological Association, approximately 15 per cent of Canadians report at least some symptoms of SAD.

It’s believed that the disorder may be connected to decreased exposure to sunlight, which in turn disrupts people’s circadian rhythms — the internal clock that co-ordinates our biological processes such as sleep and hormone production.

We can’t dictate when the sun shines, but there are several evidence-based strategies to support “wintering well.” For example, creating a cozy reading nook equipped with a warm blanket, hot chocolate and a good book provides a dedicated space for self-care that promotes relaxation. It also helps with mindfulness, which involves focusing your attention on the present and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Why mindset and expectations matter

According to Kari Leibowitz, psychologist and author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark Days, the key to better wintering is reframing — changing one’s perspective to find a more positive, constructive or empowering interpretation of the situation.

Cultures that thrive in winter anticipate it, considering it meaningful. Reframing the season as something to look forward to can raise morale.

Try replacing negative language about winter as something to be dreaded or endured with more appreciative language. For example, winter can provide an opportunity to rest and recharge. By adopting a positive mindset, overall well-being may improve.

The benefits of winter outdoor activity

Spending time outdoors can lift the spirit and boost energy. And although winter has fewer hours of daylight, it is important to take advantage of them. Spend some time outside in the late morning and early afternoon, when natural light tends to peak.

Winter weather, however, can make outdoor activity unappealing. Cold and icy conditions can even be hazardous to health. Cold weather can increase the risk of cardiovascular events by constricting blood vessels and raising blood pressure.

To spend time outdoors safely, invest in appropriate clothing suited to the temperature. On colder days, engage in light activity such as walking and keep outdoor stints short (about 15 minutes).

What hygge can teach about slowing down

Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word dating back to the 1800s used to denote the concept of enjoying a slower-paced life while connecting with people you care about.

Hygge is often associated with creating a pleasant environment, such as lighting candles or staying warm by a fire, to foster positiveness.

When indoors, sit near windows to work or read. Consider increasing indoor lighting brightness. Use light bulbs rated as “daylight,” and think about adding lamps to supplement overhead lighting. This can increase serotonin to improve mood and help regulate circadian rhythms that in turn can support improved sleep quality, energy and focus.

Hygge-type activities, like knitting, colouring and playing board games, can support overall well-being. Enjoying simple meals with others or spending quiet time alone in nature are also ways to embrace the season.

---

Read more:
4 research-backed ways to beat the winter blues in the colder months

---

Listening to seasonal changes and self-care

Winter is a natural time to slow down, rest and restore, as evidenced by bears hibernating and bumblebees going underground to survive. Use this time to prepare for a more active upcoming season.

To take advantage of the slower pace of the season, reduce over-scheduling when possible. Adjust sleep routines to suit individual needs. Enjoy quieter evenings and earlier bedtimes. Accept that lower energy levels are normal in winter and that the season offers an opportunity to do less without guilt.

Spending more time indoors during the winter provides an opportunity to reconnect with hobbies and activities that have brought you joy in the past. For example, doing puzzles can provide a break from screens, which can decrease stress. Reading a good book can also provide a mental escape, allowing people to disconnect from worries. Creative activities such as baking can encourage a sense of purpose.

Choosing activities that are enjoyable and meaningful offers the greatest benefits for overall well-being. For more evidence-based strategies and book recommendations, join my Reading for Well-Being Community Book Club.

Joanna Pozzulo receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

– ref. Blue Monday is a myth but winter blues are real — how to cope in the cold months – https://theconversation.com/blue-monday-is-a-myth-but-winter-blues-are-real-how-to-cope-in-the-cold-months-272882

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Joanna Pozzulo, Chancellor’s Professor, Psychology, Carleton University

In 2005, psychologist Cliff Arnall coined the term “Blue Monday” as part of a marketing campaign for a British travel agency to encourage people to book a holiday during the winter. Using a pseudo-scientific formula, the third Monday in January was determined to be the “bluest” day of the year, marked by sadness, low energy and withdrawal from social interaction.

Although Blue Monday has been debunked, the feelings associated with a colder, darker season are real.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recognized form of depression connected to seasonal variation, with symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, appetite changes, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and feelings of hopelessness. According to the Canadian Psychological Association, approximately 15 per cent of Canadians report at least some symptoms of SAD.

It’s believed that the disorder may be connected to decreased exposure to sunlight, which in turn disrupts people’s circadian rhythms — the internal clock that co-ordinates our biological processes such as sleep and hormone production.

We can’t dictate when the sun shines, but there are several evidence-based strategies to support “wintering well.” For example, creating a cozy reading nook equipped with a warm blanket, hot chocolate and a good book provides a dedicated space for self-care that promotes relaxation. It also helps with mindfulness, which involves focusing your attention on the present and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Why mindset and expectations matter

According to Kari Leibowitz, psychologist and author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark Days, the key to better wintering is reframing — changing one’s perspective to find a more positive, constructive or empowering interpretation of the situation.

Cultures that thrive in winter anticipate it, considering it meaningful. Reframing the season as something to look forward to can raise morale.

Try replacing negative language about winter as something to be dreaded or endured with more appreciative language. For example, winter can provide an opportunity to rest and recharge. By adopting a positive mindset, overall well-being may improve.

The benefits of winter outdoor activity

Spending time outdoors can lift the spirit and boost energy. And although winter has fewer hours of daylight, it is important to take advantage of them. Spend some time outside in the late morning and early afternoon, when natural light tends to peak.

Winter weather, however, can make outdoor activity unappealing. Cold and icy conditions can even be hazardous to health. Cold weather can increase the risk of cardiovascular events by constricting blood vessels and raising blood pressure.

To spend time outdoors safely, invest in appropriate clothing suited to the temperature. On colder days, engage in light activity such as walking and keep outdoor stints short (about 15 minutes).

What hygge can teach about slowing down

Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word dating back to the 1800s used to denote the concept of enjoying a slower-paced life while connecting with people you care about.

Hygge is often associated with creating a pleasant environment, such as lighting candles or staying warm by a fire, to foster positiveness.

When indoors, sit near windows to work or read. Consider increasing indoor lighting brightness. Use light bulbs rated as “daylight,” and think about adding lamps to supplement overhead lighting. This can increase serotonin to improve mood and help regulate circadian rhythms that in turn can support improved sleep quality, energy and focus.

Hygge-type activities, like knitting, colouring and playing board games, can support overall well-being. Enjoying simple meals with others or spending quiet time alone in nature are also ways to embrace the season.

---

Read more:
4 research-backed ways to beat the winter blues in the colder months

---

Listening to seasonal changes and self-care

Winter is a natural time to slow down, rest and restore, as evidenced by bears hibernating and bumblebees going underground to survive. Use this time to prepare for a more active upcoming season.

To take advantage of the slower pace of the season, reduce over-scheduling when possible. Adjust sleep routines to suit individual needs. Enjoy quieter evenings and earlier bedtimes. Accept that lower energy levels are normal in winter and that the season offers an opportunity to do less without guilt.

Spending more time indoors during the winter provides an opportunity to reconnect with hobbies and activities that have brought you joy in the past. For example, doing puzzles can provide a break from screens, which can decrease stress. Reading a good book can also provide a mental escape, allowing people to disconnect from worries. Creative activities such as baking can encourage a sense of purpose.

Choosing activities that are enjoyable and meaningful offers the greatest benefits for overall well-being. For more evidence-based strategies and book recommendations, join my Reading for Well-Being Community Book Club.

Joanna Pozzulo receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

– ref. Blue Monday is a myth but winter blues are real — how to cope in the cold months and ‘winter well’ – https://theconversation.com/blue-monday-is-a-myth-but-winter-blues-are-real-how-to-cope-in-the-cold-months-and-winter-well-272882

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Lindsay Amundsen-Meyer, Assistant Professor in Archaeology, University of Calgary

Canadian cultural resource management archeologists — professional consultants involved in environmental assessment and compliance processes — are increasingly finding themselves in the public eye when their work intersects with the development or disaster response related infrastructure projects.

Public or media discussions often arise when delays in construction result from archeological assessments or Indigenous opposition. Yet, many more developments proceed without issue.

Today, these concerns are part of a variety of challenges including labour shortages, meaningful Indigenous engagement and recent legislative changes that guide how development occurs.

These challenges must be addressed to ensure timely assessment and approval of development projects through legally binding processes, without comprising the assessment and preservation of archeological sites — the overwhelming majority of which are Indigenous ancestral sites.

Demand for archeological professionals in Canada is quickly outpacing the number of students graduating with archeology or anthropology degrees. A similar deficit of archeologists has been demonstrated in the United States.

Post-secondary institutions can play a key role in addressing this deficit by altering and improving degree programs to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge needed to succeed in cultural resource management.

The politics of archeology

Cultural resource management (CRM) involves identifying, preserving and maintaining valuable cultural heritage like ancestral artifacts and built heritage. In Canada, this kind of archeological work is required ahead of most infrastructure development through provincial and federal legislation.

Recent political developments in Canada, including federal bill C-5 and similar legislation in Ontario and British Columbia, have the potential to impact the scope of environmental assessment work, including associated archeology work.

In order to speed economic development, these laws allow governments to exempt some infrastructure projects from archeological assessment prior to construction and bypass requirements for Indigenous consultation. This moves decision-making on archeological preservation away from Indigenous communities and trained professionals and into the political sphere.

Such exemptions risk violating the treaty rights of First Nations and causing irreparable harm to Indigenous ancestral sites without consideration or assessment, deepening conflicts between development proponents and Indigenous communities. These conflicts may themselves delay construction of infrastructure.

Where are all the archaeologists?

Our recent study indicates there are between 419 and 713 archeologists employed in cultural resource management in Canada. These are almost certainly underestimates. However, our study further suggests that labour market demand is outpacing supply.

Fifty-five responding employers across the country reported unfilled positions, including for jobs at all levels of experience. Overall, the CRM labour market has not kept pace with rapid industry growth.

Post-secondary institutions have an important role to play in meeting CRM labour market demand by creating robust degree programs which demonstrate that there are viable career pathways in archaeology outside of academia. But universities are simultaneously experiencing a significant decline in funding, and program opportunities are disappearing.

In part due to these challenges, students graduating from archeology and anthropology programs do not complete their degrees with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in CRM. As a result, the burden of on-the-job training becomes high for employers.

There are some exceptions, such as CRM-specific undergraduate and graduate courses and programs at the Universities of Lethbridge and Calgary. However, the general lack of CRM-oriented programs at post-secondary institutions is particularly problematic given that the majority of graduates who stay in archeology will enter the CRM industry, and the overwhelming majority of archeology in Canada today is undertaken within a CRM context.

A path forward

Post-secondary curricula must extend beyond traditional academic programming to better prepare students for the workforce. To be clear, we are not arguing for creation of a CRM trade school for archeologists. Rather, we believe that small changes to curricula and programs can enhance student experience and career successes without compromising academic objectives and rigour.

Post-secondary institutions need to create degree programs that are aligned with the skills and knowledge used in industry and introduce CRM to students early in their undergraduate programs. Doing so will create more robust degree programs that attract students to a relevant education where they see a viable career path in archeology, meeting a market need.

This market need must be met to ensure timely assessment and regulatory approval of development projects, as the CRM workforce is needed to complete “nation-building” infrastructure projects. Archeology risks being seen as a barrier to development and may lose political and public backing if CRM processes are seen to slow or stall economic development.

If the CRM sector does not have the capacity to complete infrastructure assessments, current trends suggest that development will push ahead without archeological assessment or engagement. Archeological sites will almost certainly be destroyed in the process.

Critics will argue that it’s essential to cut red tape and speed up regulatory approval of economically important projects, making CRM a lesser part of the approvals process. We counter that CRM assessment is essential to development approvals, which are increasingly reliant on meaningful Indigenous engagement and Indigenous consent to proceed.

Wanton destruction of Indigenous archeological sites will only lead to further conflict and loss of heritage. Canada must protect that heritage and has a lot to gain from doing so. By protecting heritage, archeologists can help ensure better outcomes for all.

Lindsay Amundsen-Meyer receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Heritage Preservation Partnership Program (Arts, Culture and Status of Women).

Kenneth Roy Holyoke receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research.

Matthew Munro works for Stantec Consulting Ltd.

– ref. Canada has too few professional archeologists, and that has economic consequences – https://theconversation.com/canada-has-too-few-professional-archeologists-and-that-has-economic-consequences-272422