With Black History month behind us, March is devoted to Women's History and is accompanied by the United Nations' International Women's Day on March 8. While these established commemorations are important in acknowledging overlooked, yet integral, parts of world society, their implementation in itself is unfortunate. The inability to incorporate the stories of once-marginalized groups into everyday education should be corrected, as opposed to substituting this permanent solution with occasional allotted times set aside for recognition. As we head toward a day celebrating women across the world, remember that no official occasion is required for you to appreciate the people in your life.

                Thanks for reading,
                                   Hannah Renglich
                                   Editor-in-Chief

When History Becomes Controversial (by Karmel Wong)
With the power to reach a young audience, the textbook is the ideal medium for the propagation of national sentiment. In this examination of China's approach to the Nanking Rape, Karmel Wong explains the indoctrination powers of the education system, with a questioning of the harsh presentation of wars. Read more...
 
From Blasphemy to Hope (by Rustam J. Dow)
Upon the publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad, Islam rallied in protest, taking such measures as burning Scandinavian embassies in Damascus and Beirut. In addition, non-violent protests have included relabelling the pastry known as a "danish" as a "Rose of the Prophet Muhammad", as well as rallying in large numbers in the major cities of the world. Read more...
 
The US-Australia Free Trade Agreement: Dollars versus
              'Sense' (by Sebastian De Brennan)

In this probing look at the inauguration of the Joint Committee, meeting this March to oversee the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, Sebastian De Brennan offers personal insights into the effects of this cooperation. With an eye to the immense power and control held by the United States, this article explores the effects such an agreement will have on Australia and its reputation for morality. Read more...
 
Comment: The Yes Men (by Kristina Hunter)
Under the guise of WTO representatives, Mike Bonanno and Andy Bichlbaum have collectively exploited the passivity of the general public through shocking pronouncements promoting human rights abuses. Their work has been an eye-opener for many, with the primary aim of giving the WTO a well-needed kick in the rear. Read more...
 
Comment: War and Development, Video Game Style
              (by Wojciech Gryc)

The World Food Programme, in a thoughtful move to promote social and political consciousness, has recently launched a video game that sums up its initiatives and struggles. Transmitting its agenda through a medium well-loved by today's youth, the WFP is not alone in its technology-focused strategy, yet remains less controversial in its work than organizations with parallel educational games, such as the US Department of Defense. Read more...
 

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