The Adventures of a Young Savage

June 22, 2025June 22, 2025

A Vigil for Bilal Abdullah

On Thursday, Juneteenth, the family of arraber Bilal Abdullah held a vigil in West Baltimore.

Bilal, also known as BJ for “Bilal Junior”, was killed by the Baltimore Police on Tuesday. The Baltimore Beat has been extensively covering the story.

I went out and took pictures.

A memorial was set up with photos of Bilal and lots of candles. Hundreds came and signed posterboards in memorial.

Many who were his friends and family came to celebrate him. The mixture of attempts to bring joy in remembering his life and the deep pain of losing him was thick in the air.

Bilal had been well known as an arabber in Baltimore, and had been credited as one of the people who were bringing a resurgence of the practice back to Baltimore. Many of the current arabbers are much older.

A heavy storm had delayed the vigil by several hours, which meant that a lot of the heavy police presence from earlier in the day dissipated. The police helicopter continued to circle the people lighting candles for hours though.

Jeff Abell from Fox News kept trying to get close to Bilal’s mother, who made it very clear she did not want to be photographed, videoed, or interviewed. She had been injured by the police trying to get to her son when he had been shot, and sat in a chair near the memorial. People kept telling Jeff that he was not welcome, and blocked his camera. He finally gave up and left.

Though the breeze was heavy and kept blowing the candles out, a steady rotation of people came back and kept relighting them each and every time.

As it was setting, the sun broke through the storm clouds, casting a golden glow over the entire scene. “That’s Bilal,” his mother said, “He’s come to thank us for being here.”

Aaron Maybin, a community activist and board member of the Civilian Review Board, came with his kids to console Bilal’s mother and provide updates to Baynard Woods, the Baltimore Beat’s journalist. “They keep pushing back the release of the body camera footage,” he said.

Realizing I was there for them, Bilals family began asking me to take photos of them gathered. “It’s sad that this is what brought us all together” one of them said.

Catalina Byrd, Tawanda Jones, and Baynard Woods stayed near Bilal’s mother, letting her talk through her pain. “I hate this,” said Tawanda, “I hate that she’s now part of this club,” referring to the group of people in Baltimore who have had loved ones killed by the Baltimore Police. Tawanda’s brother, Tyrone West, was beaten to death by the police in 2013. Every Wednesday since then, Tawanda has led a protest in his honour.

For many people attending the vigil, there were echoes everywhere. “This feels like Freddie Gray,” one young man said, lighting a candle. Freddie Gray was killed by the Baltimore Police in 2015. Directly across from the vigil, a mural of Trayvon Martin had been painted on the side of a garage. “There’s just so much pain here.”

On the outskirts, police vehicles sat, lights blinking into the crowd. There was nowhere anyone could go to mourn without being able to see the police on the fringes.

As it got darker, people began to filter home, and a soft rain began to fall. Family members picked up the photos of Bilal to take with them. “Bilal was my rock. My foundation,” one woman said, holding up a photo of Bilal standing in front of a red, black, and green wall.

The sky rumbled with thunder softly as people walked home. Tonight was about peace.

May 19, 2025May 20, 2025

A Farewell to Shamani

Yesterday, the communities of Matimekush and Kawawachikamach came together to lay to rest Jean-Marie (Shamani) McKenzie. The Matimekosh church, with its beautiful architecture and warm light, served as the sacred space for his farewell.

Father Gerard Tsetsalam, originally from Cameroon, delivered the entire funeral service in Innu. Later, at the feast, we exchanged words in Innu ourselves—an exchange so unexpected that someone nearby chuckled, “This has to be the weirdest conversation in Innu I’ve ever heard”.

The church was full. Family, friends, elders, and youth packed the pews. Shamani was deeply loved, and his memory brought together generations.

The casket, handcrafted by Craig Jaques, was a true work of art. With a curved lid and inlaid wood, it stood as a testament not only to craftsmanship but also to the love poured into Shamani’s farewell.

Susie Uniam McKenzie, Shamani’s mother, held onto the casket as long as she could before it was loaded into the hearse.

Following tradition in both communities, a long procession followed the hearse out of Schefferville, making its way up the hill to the cemetery.

While the casket was prepared for burial, many took the opportunity to visit their own loved ones buried nearby—an unspoken ritual of connection and remembrance.

The casket was gently lowered onto boards and then into the grave with ropes. His family laid flowers across it before it was sealed inside the outer box.

As the outer box was sealed, Father Tsetsalam offered one last blessing over Shamani’s resting place.

Pierre-Jacques McKenzie, Shamani’s stepfather, and Jacynthe, his niece, embraced Susie Uniam McKenzie before casting their flowers.

As the blessing was spoken, a Whiskichak (Canada Jay) flew low over the mourners, weaving between us before alighting on a wachinakin tree overlooking the grave.

The bird circled a few more times before resting on the large cross at the center of the cemetery. It remained there until every handful of earth had been placed and the crowd began to drift away.

May 7, 2025May 7, 2025

My First Feature in BmoreArt: Rise Baltimore 2025

A stage performance features cellist Lavena Johanson on the left, pianist and composer Judah Adashi at center, and activist Erricka Bridgeford standing at a microphone on the right. They perform in a dimly lit venue with a projected image of a mural of Freddie Gray displayed behind them. Several seated participants are in the background, suggesting a collaborative, multimedia tribute or performance centered on social justice.

I’m thrilled to share that my photography was featured in BmoreArt’s latest article, covering this year’s Rise Bmore concert.

It’s my first time being published in BmoreArt, and I couldn’t be more honored. Huge thanks to the magazine and to writer Gabriella Souza for capturing the spirit of the event so thoughtfully.

I’m especially grateful to Judah Adashi for trusting me year after year to help visually document this deeply meaningful gathering. Rise Bmore continues to be one of the most powerful expressions of love, memory, and protest in Baltimore — and I’m proud to play a small part in it.

You can view the full article here

April 13, 2025April 13, 2025

Looking Back. Moving Forward — A Special West Wednesday at Red Emma’s

On Wednesday night, I had the honor of photographing a very special edition of West Wednesday—its 611th gathering—hosted by Baltimore Beat at Red Emma’s.

The panel was titled “Looking Back. Moving Forward”, and it marked 10 years since the death of Freddie Gray and the 2015 Uprising that followed. The evening served as both reflection and rallying cry—a chance to grieve, to remember, and to imagine what justice can still look like in our city.

The Panelists

The conversation was led by some of Baltimore’s most powerful voices:

Tawanda Jones – Activist, sister of Tyrone West (killed by Baltimore Police in 2013), and the driving force behind West Wednesdays
Devin Allen – Award-winning photographer whose images from 2015 made national headlines
Lisa Snowden – Editor-in-chief of Baltimore Beat
Lawrence Grandpre – Author and Director of Research at Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle
Eze Jackson – Musician, moderator, and one of the city’s strongest community voices

Each of them brought truth, vulnerability, and a fierce clarity to the conversation.

April 9, 2025April 9, 2025

From Benjamin to “Binchibin”: An American Among the Naskapi

Originally published in French by Radio-Canada on March 31, 2025. Translated and shared here into English so more people can read it.

Benjamin Jancewicz is an American and a proud speaker of the Naskapi language.
PHOTO: RADIO-CANADA / SHUSHAN BACON

If you’ve been following my work or journey for a while, you know how much Kawawachikamach means to me. This piece, written by journalist Shushan Bacon for Radio-Canada, captures a part of my story—how I came to speak the Naskapi language, why it matters so much to me, and what it feels like to belong deeply to a place that doesn’t show up on my passport. I’ve translated the article below so my English-speaking friends, supporters, and readers can read it too.

From Benjamin to “Binchibin”: An American Among the Naskapi
By Shushan Bacon | Radio-Canada Espaces Autochtones

Benjamin Jancewicz is one of those people you might come across in Kawawachikamach, the only Naskapi community in the world. Like the vast majority of its residents, he speaks Iyuw Iyimuun. And yet, he’s an American from Baltimore—not even a Canadian citizen. Though he comes from south of the border, it’s in Kawawachikamach where he feels most at home.

During the last trip to Schefferville by the Espaces Autochtones team to cover the 2024 Elders Gathering, this non-Indigenous photographer moved through the crowd, chatting with people in Iyuw Iyimuun (pronounced “ee-you-ai-mun”).

Despite his undeniably Caucasian features, he blends into the community as naturally as anyone. Everyone responds to him in Naskapi, the dominant language in this remote northern region.

People followed his directions in Iyuw Iyimuun as he photographed participants in the march commemorating the community’s fight against drugs and alcohol.

A large group of people stands outdoors under a sunny blue sky, wearing matching red sweatshirts that say “No Drugs, No Alcohol, No Violence.” The group includes children, elders, and adults, many wearing traditional ribbon skirts. They hold signs promoting a substance-free and violence-free community, standing united on a gravel road surrounded by trees. — Group photography during the drug and alcohol march at the 2024 Seniors Gathering.
PHOTO: BENJAMIN JANCEWICZ

Language Learning as a Responsibility

Benjamin Jancewicz grew up in the community of Kawawachikamach. His father, Bill Jancewicz, was a translator hired by the Band Council in the 1980s to help write a Naskapi language dictionary. In doing so, he also worked on translating the Bible.

Young Benjamin, whom the elders affectionately call “Binchibin,” was four years old when he arrived among the Naskapi. When his father visited elders daily to study and learn the Naskapi language, “I’d go with him,” Benjamin says.

David and Susan Swappie were among the elders his father frequently consulted. “Susan Swappie is my noohoom [my grandmother],” Benjamin explains. She often made him Naskapi hats, and despite her memory issues, she still remembers him.

A man with a full beard and green graphic t-shirt sits on a dark couch, gently holding hands with an elderly woman beside him. She wears a black floral blouse, green headscarf, and holds a folder on her lap. Both look toward the camera with calm expressions, seated in a cozy indoor space. — Benjamin Jancewicz, Pentshamen, and his noohoom, Susan Swappie. She holds her Bible in the Naskapi language that Pentshamen’s father, Bill Jancewicz, translated. The wear of the cover shows his affection for his book.
PHOTO: BENJAMIN JANCEWICZ

“Every time I visit her, she always holds my hand and doesn’t let go. To me, she’s like my grandmother. She is my grandmother. She treats me like I’m her grandson.”

Benjamin completed his entire schooling in Kawawachikamach. Learning the language came naturally, but today he considers it a point of pride—and even a duty—to keep the language alive by speaking it daily.

“For me, it’s the responsibility of white people to help—because we’re the ones who created this mess.”

According to the latest census conducted in 2021, only 530 people still speak Naskapi in Canada—and therefore in the world—a 29.3% drop since the previous 2016 census.

Close-up of two hands clasped together—one visibly older and more wrinkled, the other younger and smoother—resting on a gray knit blanket. The image captures a tender, intergenerational moment of connection and support. — Susan Swappie tient toujours les mains de son petit-fils, Pentshamen, quand il lui rend visite,
PHOTO : BENJAMIN JANCEWICZ

Caught in Immigration Limbo… Because of Language

At the moment, Pentshamen is back in Baltimore. As an American citizen, he’s required to return periodically. He’s been trying to obtain Canadian citizenship for three years, even though the rest of his family already holds it.

Back in the late 1990s, when the family applied together, “the government took seven years to process the paperwork. By then, I was already in the U.S. for university and had turned 18. They told my dad, ‘You have to remove your son from the application. He’s an adult, he’s 18.’”

Benjamin had to apply on his own. In the meantime, he finished his university studies in the U.S., got married, and had two children—who are now in university themselves. Since then, he’s divorced. But his goal was never to stay in the United States.

“I’m stuck here,” he says.

Ironically, the very thing preventing him from obtaining Canadian citizenship now is a language issue.

“The hardest part of the citizenship process for me is the French test. My French isn’t perfect. I have to pass a really solid French test to get citizenship. I told them, ‘I speak Naskapi and a bit of Innu,’ but they said that doesn’t count. Only French does.”

Every three or four months, Pentshamen returns to Kawawachikamach for about three weeks. He’s worked for the Naskapi Band Council for several years.

“I handle all their communications—website, Facebook, and I also design posters. They bring me in for special events like the Elders Gathering to take photos and videos to inform people locally and in neighboring communities who took part.”

Regardless of what his documents or immigration authorities may say:

“Kawawachikamach is my home,” he says without hesitation. “I love Kawawa. It’s home, and [the Naskapi people], they’re my people.”

Thanks again to Radio-Canada and journalist Shushan Bacon for taking the time to listen and share my story. If you’d like to learn more about the Naskapi language or community, or follow along with my work up north, feel free to subscribe or check out my latest journal entries.

February 9, 2025February 9, 2025

Last night was the launch of the Baltimore Peace Movement Weekend Rally. I went out and took pictures.

Tonight was the launch of the Baltimore Peace Movement Weekend Rally.

We gathered at Mount Holly & Edmonson Ave, a block west of where we normally meet. Because of the cold, St Bernardine Roman Catholic Church opened its doors so that those who were cold could warm up.

We stood on the corners, encouraging drivers to honk their horns, as we kicked off the Peace Movement Weekend.

The Baltimore Peace Movement began as the Baltimore Cease Fire, a movement to stop gun violence in Baltimore. Since then, as it has become a successful instrument in reducing the homicides and violence the city has traditionally experienced, it has expanded its mission to be more helpful to the people of Baltimore.

While we were gathered, one of our Ambassadors pointed out that just a block away, a young man, Lamel Edwards, had been killed.

The Baltimore Peace Movement has been doing Sacred Spaces since early in its history. We gather in spaces where someone has been hurt by violence in the city and intentionally bring peace to that space.

And so we did that tonight as well.

I also made a video:

The Baltimore Peace Movement has been an important reason why violence has decreased lately. Their work helping with mediation, comfort, and support for the families who have lost loved ones, and many many more things have been a healing salve on the city.

If you’d like to learn more about them and contribute to their work, you can do that here: https://baltimorepeacemovement.com

January 21, 2025January 21, 2025

Apple TV Feels Like the Indie Movie Theater of Streaming

For me, Apple TV feels like that neighborhood indie movie theater—the one you can walk to, the one tucked into the corner of downtown, the one that only shows the best stuff 90% of the time and insists on real butter for the popcorn. It’s not about quantity; they don’t always have shows; it’s about quality.

On a recent episode of Basic AF, cohosted by my friend Jeff Battersby, I had the chance to talk about my love for Apple TV and how it stands apart from other streaming services. During the show, another guest and journaling expert Joe Moyer encouraged me to turn my reviews into a journal entry. So here it is!

Why Apple TV Works for Me

I’ve been evangelizing Apple TV pretty hard lately. With other streaming services continuously hiking their prices, Apple TV’s curated, high-quality content feels like a breath of fresh air. Althought it’s not as accessible as Netflix or Prime, for me that’s actually part of the appeal. It feels exclusive—almost like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.

Because Apple TV creates virtually all their own content, it doesn’t clutter its library with “filler” content. Unlike other services where scrolling too far down reveals some questionable movies, Apple TV curates with care. Similar to the Walled Garden model that their App Store offers, almost every show or film meets a high standard, and I appreciate that level of curation.

And most of what I love on the platform are TV shows, which is surprising for me.

I’m an ex-Lost fan. I had built entire friendships around that show; a group of about 20 of us would meet up in someone’s basement, sharing snacks and debating theories long into the night.

The way that series ended badly scarred me. I tried again with Game of Thrones, only to be let down again. So I stayed away from TV shows for a long time, and watched movies instead. I would only watch a series if the entire run had ended and the end had positive reviews.

Apple TV changed all that.

TV Shows Worth Your Time

The image is a collage of six visuals related to various themes of television shows.

Top left: An astronaut in a spacesuit with the reflection of a person standing on the Moon, with Earth visible in the background and an American flag patch on the suit.
Top center: A futuristic sci-fi themed portrait of a woman with a spaceship and a landscape in the background.
Top right: A stylized artistic representation of a woman’s face overlaid with a group of people holding a torch, symbolizing themes of discovery and leadership.
Bottom left: A minimalistic office setup featuring green partitioned cubicles and an old-fashioned computer on the desk.
Bottom right: A group of shirtless men standing next to a vintage military aircraft, evoking themes of wartime camaraderie and aviation history.

For All Mankind ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A masterpiece. Stellar storytelling, NASA-level science accuracy, and visuals that could rival anything on the big screen. It’s an alternate history that feels so real you might start questioning your knowledge of the space race.

Foundation ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Issac Asimov’s work is notoriously tough to adapt, but they pulled it off. This series manages to balance the sprawling complexity of his novels with a visually stunning and coherent storyline. For bonus points, they brought Robyn Asimov on board to make sure that the show remains in her father’s vision. I can’t wait for more.

Silo ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Silo is a wild ride. The Season 2 finale completely resets everything you thought you knew, and that’s what makes it so brilliant. Apple TV nailed the world-building, special effects, and character development here.

Severance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A haunting, thought-provoking show that deserves at least two watches. The way it explores work-life balance through a sci-fi lens is nothing short of genius.

Masters of the Air ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The visuals in this WWII drama are breathtaking, and you can feel Spielberg’s touch. Every detail, from the sets to the aerial combat, feels meticulously crafted. As a bonus, make sure you watch The Making Of documentary after you’re hooked on the show.

Solid Honorable Mentions

The image is a collage of four different visuals, likely representing characters or themes from popular television shows or movies.

Top left: A person wearing a hat stands in a vast field at sunset, looking toward a triangular portal revealing a starry sky, blending rural and sci-fi aesthetics.
Top right: A man with an intense expression crouches in the aisle of an airplane, seemingly in a tense or action-packed situation.
Bottom left: A woman with vintage 1950s-inspired blonde hair and makeup, wearing a professional outfit, with a pencil tucked behind her ear, evoking themes of classic drama or period storytelling.
Bottom right: A bearded man wearing a beanie holds a sleeping baby close to his chest while holding a green leaf, suggesting themes of family, survival, or emotional drama.

Invasion ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Nail-biting suspense with interwoven stories that keep you invested.
Hijack ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Idris Elba at his finest—gripping and full of twists.
Lessons in Chemistry ⭐️⭐️⭐️: Sweet and surprising, blending science and romance.
The Changeling ⭐️⭐️⭐️: Engaging but a bit too unsettling for my taste.

What’s Coming Soon

The image is a collage of four visuals likely related to upcoming television shows, movies, or cultural references.

Top left: A woman with blonde hair in a black sleeveless top, with the text "WYCARO 339" beside her, suggesting a mystery or drama theme.
Top right: A cyberpunk-style illustration of a man wearing an intricate VR headset with glowing yellow markings, a cigarette in his mouth, and a futuristic, gritty aesthetic.
Bottom left: A classic animated character wearing a racing helmet and gloves, posing in front of a checkered red and yellow background with a stylized futuristic race car, likely referencing vintage racing-themed cartoons.
Bottom right: A retro-style mosaic of an astronaut in a CCCP (Soviet-era) spacesuit, raising one hand in a salute-like gesture, hinting at historical space exploration themes.

There’s more to get hyped about:

Wycaro 399 – Vince Gilligan’s take on sci-fi.
Neuromancer – A long-awaited cyberpunk adaptation.
Speed Racer – A nostalgic cartoon adaptation.
Star City – Alt-history that promises to amaze, spinning off from For All Mankind.

Movies That Stuck with Me

Top left: A period drama scene featuring a man and a woman seated at a dining table, with the woman wrapped in a striped blanket and the man wearing a vintage suit. The setting suggests a historical or Western theme.
Top right: A stylized artistic portrait of a man with part of his head fading into an abstract design, conveying introspection, identity, or psychological themes.
Bottom left: Two men, one in a green jacket and the other in a red fur-lined coat, striking a playful pose against split red and green backgrounds. This suggests a holiday or comedy theme.
Bottom right: A man sitting in a thoughtful pose in a home setting, dressed casually, giving off a contemplative or documentary-style vibe.

Killers of the Flower Moon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I appreciated the attention to historical detail and the powerhouse performances from Lily Gladstone, Robert DeNiro, and Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s hard to watch because it is brutal and raw, but definitely worth it. This should be required viewing in history classes.

Swan Song ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A psychological romantic sci-fi movie, it’s almost like an expanded Black Mirror episode, but with even more emotional depth. It’s beautifully done and deserves more attention.

Spirited ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds compete to be the funniest person in the room? It’s a self-aware Christmas classic in the making.

Still ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I mentioned on the podcast how blown away I was by this documentary’s storytelling. Using old footage and body doubles, they recreated Michael J. Fox’s life in such a seamless way that it feels like stepping into his shoes.

Why Apple TV Stands Out

Apple TV isn’t just about producing “content” — they create art. There’s a level of care in their projects that you just don’t see in most other platforms. Whether it’s sci-fi, drama, or documentaries, their storytelling is top-notch.

If you haven’t checked out Apple TV yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. Now, I start there first when I’m looking for something new to watch because I know I’m going to find something worth my time.

What’s been your favorite Apple TV show or movie? Or is there something I absolutely need to add to my list? Let me know—I’m always up for a recommendation.

September 24, 2024September 24, 2024

Time in Montreal, and On The Road Again

Sat, Sep 7

The next few days were spent with Marilyne in Montreal. Not nearly enough time, but I’m grateful for every minute we had together.

A close-up of a delicate white flower with a bright yellow center, surrounded by blurred green stems and leaves in the background, with hints of pink and purple flowers peeking through.

A vivid pink flower with a yellow center standing out against a soft background of blurred greenery and other pink flowers, with flower buds in the foreground just starting to open.

We went for a walk, and I couldn’t help but notice how the garden cosmos are really blooming in the city! The vibrant colors really caught my eye.

A small church with a domed green roof and a white steeple topped with a cross, seen from a straight-on view. The path leading to the dark wooden doors is cracked and weathered, flanked by green grass and small shrubs. The sky above is overcast, casting a soft light on the building.

We passed by Saint Brendan’s Catholic Church of Montreal, and its architecture stood out to me. It’s got an interesting shape for sure, but the stucco walls? Definitely a… choice.

A woman with short hair smiles softly, wearing tortoiseshell glasses and a bright red sleeveless top. She has a fall leaf tucked behind her ear, and she’s accessorized with gold earrings and a pendant necklace. She’s standing against a dark background, with warm lighting illuminating part of the image.

During our walk, I found a beautiful leaf and gave it to a beautiful lady. It perfectly matched her outfit.

A hearty breakfast plate featuring scrambled eggs, golden brown breakfast potatoes, three sausages, and a fresh fruit-topped waffle. The waffle is garnished with strawberries, cantaloupe, and honeydew, drizzled with cream, and accompanied by a slice of lemon on the side.

A woman with glasses and a red dress smiles softly while sitting in a restaurant. She has a fall leaf tucked behind her ear, and her hand rests against her chin. In the background, other people are dining, and a sign on the wall reads "Chère semaine de stress, notre histoire s'arrête."

The same woman, now wearing a denim jacket over her red dress, sits in front of a hearty brunch. She is smiling and gesturing excitedly. Her plate includes sunny-side-up eggs, bacon, sausage, potato wedges, and a crêpe drizzled with chocolate and topped with a strawberry. The restaurant background features a sign with the phrase "Chère semaine de stress, notre histoire s'arrête."

Brunch at L’Oeufrier with Marilyne was wonderful, as always. Good food, even better company.

A tall stone church tower with a statue of a saint standing in a niche partway up. Above the statue is a large, modern cellphone transmitter, creating a striking contrast between the historical architecture and contemporary technology. The transmitter is prominent and unadorned, sitting visibly at the top of the tower.

One thing that struck me was the church we passed. Outside of it stood a tall tower with a cellphone transmitter sitting right on top. It’s kind of ironic, don’t you think? A building meant to honor someone, and then there’s this huge transmitter towering above the statue of whoever they’re honoring. It almost makes it look like the building is dedicated to the transmitter itself!

I’ve seen transmitters disguised better than this—sometimes even as statues themselves! I think more thought needs to go into how we integrate infrastructure into the environment, especially around places of significance like this.

A smiling couple takes a selfie inside what appears to be a movie theater lobby. The woman is wearing a black leather jacket and the man has a thick beard and is wearing a patterned shirt. The background is lit with colorful lights and displays, likely from arcade games or movie posters. The atmosphere suggests they are about to enjoy or have just finished watching a movie.

Later in the day, we went to Starcité Montreal to see Alien: Romulus. Terrifying—but really good. Honestly, the Alien movies seem to get better with each installment.

A poster for the movie Alien: Romulus features a dark red background with a detailed, close-up image of a human head being enveloped by the long, spindly legs of an alien facehugger. The creature's tail is wrapped around the person’s neck. The movie title "ALIEN ROMULUS" is displayed in bold white text near the bottom of the poster.

I do have one critique though. They introduced an android character named Andy, and it felt like they were starting to lean into the “Magical Negro” trope—like in The Legend of Bagger Vance. The trope usually involves a Black character whose sole purpose is to move the plot forward for the main (white) characters, without any real depth of their own.

A scene from Alien: Romulus featuring actor David Jonsson. He stands in the middle of a futuristic, dimly lit spacecraft corridor wearing a grey spacesuit. The corridor is sleek, with metallic walls, red doors, and panels with control consoles. Jonsson's character appears serious and focused as he looks straight ahead.

But then they flipped it, giving Andy a much more nuanced and developed personality, which made him the best character in the film, in my opinion. So maybe it was a bait-and-switch, like a subversion of the trope? Either way, it did leave me wondering.

Either way, David Jonsson’s performance was excellent. He stole the show.

Sun, Sep 8

Two pairs of matching yellow moccasins with intricate beadwork on the top, featuring a blue, red, and white floral design. The moccasins are being worn by two people standing on a light wooden floor, their feet positioned towards each other. The moccasins are traditional Naskapi footwear, beautifully crafted.

Norma Einish made matching ᒥᔅᒋᓇ (moccasins) for me and Marilyne. They fit perfectly, and I love that we have a little piece of my home to share between us.

A smiling couple takes a selfie inside a car. The woman is seated in the passenger seat, wearing a light purple sweater and glasses, while the man is in the driver's seat, sporting a beard, glasses, and a blue hoodie. Both are wearing seatbelts, and the car's interior is visible with a bit of the outside background showing through the windows.

But now, she’s off to France, and I’m heading south on my own. It’s always hard to part ways, even for a little while.

A woman stands outside an airport terminal, smiling and waving while posing beside a luggage cart. She is wearing a light purple sweater, teal pants, and white sneakers. The cart holds two rose-colored suitcases, a brown handbag, and a neck pillow. The airport's glass windows and modern design are visible in the background.

The same woman is waving goodbye from a distance outside the airport terminal. She stands near a glass door, smiling and waving with one hand raised, as a car door in the foreground is partially open. A worker in a high-visibility vest and another passenger are seen in the background.

As I continue my journey, I’m taking in the peace of the road.

A man with a thick beard and glasses takes a selfie while sitting in the driver's seat of a car. He is wearing a blue hoodie and a seatbelt. The background shows a view of trees and part of a car behind him through the rear window, indicating he is driving on a road surrounded by greenery.

Tonight, I’m catching the stars outside my friend Jeff’s house.

There’s something so comforting about seeing the night sky in a quiet place, reminding me how vast the universe is.

A peaceful night sky filled with countless stars, seen from a ground perspective with the tops of trees framing both sides of the image. The stars are bright against the dark sky, and the trees are gently illuminated, possibly by nearby light sources. The scene evokes a sense of tranquility and the vastness of the universe.

https://www.tiktok.com/@benjancewicz/video/7413598817049709855

September 24, 2024September 26, 2024

Engineers didn’t cause the Titan explosion, indolence did – Evelyn Pazan – The Daily Campus

Engineers didn’t cause the Titan explosion, indolence did

In June 2023, the internet was taken by storm at the news that the Titan submersible, an experimental project by OceanGate, had gone missing on a trip to the Titanic wreckage. For four days, there had been no communication with the vessel and the search and rescue turned into a recovery mission. It was determined that during the mission, the Titan submersible had imploded, killing all five passengers inside, including OceanGate founder Stockton Rush.

This September, the U.S. Coast Guard began the public hearing investigating the disaster. Each testimony by ex-employees, directors and engineers reveals new and disturbing details that show just how corrupt the company was. As the investigation continues to unfold, the Titan disaster should be a sobering reminder of the indolence and hidden workplace politics that put people at risk every day.

Anyone working on the submersibles at OceanGate would have been able to recognize that the Titan mission was doomed to fail. Whether they were willing to admit it, though, was a different question. According to testimonies by ex-employees, the Titan had experienced a plethora of development issuesleading up to the disaster. From equipment issues to irresponsible storage practices, it was clear that the Titan was not fit for the mission. Former engineering director, Tony Nissen, recognized these issues and did his due diligence, refusing to sign off on a mission to the Titanic wreckage. Soon after, Nissen was fired. He is just one of many engineers and team members that challenged the OceanGate founder and were silenced.

OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush email exchange with Submersible Operations Expert (Rob McCallum) pic.twitter.com/XYQuoX4ryR
— Benjamin Young Savage (ᐱᓐᒋᐱᓐ)  (@benjancewicz) June 26, 2023

The workplace politics at OceanGate are not the only failure that took the lives of the five passengers. Former director of machine operations, David Lochridge, was bold enough to bring his safety concerns to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration after he was fired. Despite promises by OSHA to investigate the company and involve the Coast Guard, nothing came from their inquiries except for a lawsuit and agreement for Lochridge effectively barring him from filing any more complaints. OSHA and other safety agencies failed to do their jobs and did not take seriously the complaints that Lochridge brought up.

Since OceanGate was a private deep-sea exploration company operating outside of territorial waters, they were not required to obtain certifications or safety checks before operating the Titan. OceanGate was able to bypass all safety requirements in the name of engineering and money-generation.

The lack of regulations on submersibles and private companies combined with the failure of safety organizations and responsible individuals underscores a problem we know all too well. There are far too few regulations on all companies that are responsible for human lives here and abroad. The regulations that exist are too full of loopholes and clauses that render them ineffective. Because of these two conditions, OceanGate was the perfect breeding ground for workplace politics that prevented any kind of complaint that might impact their reputation. Even for upstanding employees who valued safety, their efforts were useless.

Far too many companies in recent years have been responsible for outbreaks of illnesses and putting lives at risk. The citizens of America and the world deserve to know that the products and services they enjoy have been properly regulated and investigated. They deserve to know that safety issues are not being buried and hidden away from public knowledge. The greed and indolence of individuals must not overrule our regulatory systems. After all, it was greed and indolence that led five people to a death sentence and a watery grave.

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024

Missed Flights, Goodbyes, and Leaving Kawawachikamach

Thu, Sep 5

A light wood-colored laminate floor with a person’s foot in a black sock and jeans visible at the bottom right. In the bottom left, a red broom and dustpan are shown, as if mid-cleaning. The room appears clean with minimal dust or debris on the floor.

This morning, I cleaned up the rectory in preparation for leaving and stopped by the Naskapi Development Corporation and the Naskapi Nation band office to see if anyone needed anything. I wanted to know if there would be another time they’d need me, possibly in late October.

A man wearing glasses and a dark sweatshirt is seated in the driver’s seat of a vehicle, holding the steering wheel with both hands. He is buckled in with a seatbelt, and the view outside the window shows a cloudy sky and trees in the distance. The interior of the car, including the dashboard and roof, is visible.

Jimmy Shecanapish, ever so kind, offered to drive me to the airport, as he usually does. But today, God’s timing was different from mine.

A crowded airport waiting area filled with people, many sitting on chairs or benches while others stand or walk through the space. Most people appear bundled in coats, and luggage is scattered around them. The ceiling features wooden beams, and a traditional canoe is mounted on the wall. The scene captures the busy atmosphere after an event, with people preparing to travel.

When we got to the airport, it was packed. The crowd was overwhelming, with so many people heading home after the Elders Gathering. That’s when I learned about Air Inuit’s new check-in policy, which was stricter than I had anticipated.

Because there were so many standby flights, seats were in high demand. I missed the check-in window by just three minutes.

Disappointed, I called my girlfriend to let her know the situation. Trisha, in the Band Office, worked her magic and got me on a flight for the next day.

I was disappointed, but I decided not to get too upset and just rolled with it.

Two elderly men are seated together in a cozy, wood-paneled room. One man, holding a cane, is wearing a white t-shirt and plaid pants, while the other, wearing glasses and a collared shirt, shows him a red folder with papers inside. The room is warmly lit, and family photos and religious images adorn the walls, creating a comforting atmosphere.

While scrolling through Facebook, I saw a post from Matthew Mameamskum’s family. Something about it instantly gave me a sinking feeling. Matthew had always been close to my family—he worked with my dad, Bill, checking translations for the church and the community. His wife, Kitty, always ensured I was fed when she provided lunches for Innu kids at Jimmy Sandy Memorial School.

A gravel driveway leading up to a small gray house with trucks parked along the sides. Another gray house is visible on the right side, and a few trees stand in the background beneath a cloudy sky. The scene appears to be in a rural area, with signs of community gathering evident from the parked vehicles.

I jumped on the side-by-side and rode over to his house, where the driveway was already filling up with trucks. Community members were beginning to gather. Inside, I sat with Ishko Mameamskum and his brothers, paying my respects.

Rod Mackenzy was there, helping coordinate, and passed our masks to everyone since a few family members were sick.

A group of people gathered inside a home, many wearing face masks. Some are seated on chairs and recliners, while others stand near a kitchen island in the background. The room is decorated with string lights and a mix of family photos and floral arrangements. A few people are passing out masks, while others engage in conversation, creating a warm and communal atmosphere.

Matthew had just passed away.

Two hearses are parked outside a small brown house with a dirt driveway. A dog walks near the steps leading up to the house. The sky is overcast, and trees can be seen in the background. The scene captures the moment as people gather for a funeral.

As I was there, I remembered that today was also George Amos Guanish’s funeral, so I quickly went to his house as the hearse was arriving.

A man kneels at a doorway, using a drill to remove the door frame. Another man stands in the background, watching as the work is being done. The door frame has been partially dismantled, with pieces of pink insulation visible on the wooden deck. The scene shows preparations for accommodating pallbearers carrying a casket.

John Chescappio was, as usual, helping in every way possible, even removing the door frame so that the pallbearers could carry the casket out smoothly.

A crowded room filled with people standing and sitting, as they pay their respects during a funeral service. A casket is visible at the front of the room, with mourners gathered around it. A cross hangs on the wall in the background, and the room is simply decorated. The atmosphere is somber as visitors move through the space.

The house was packed. The family had laid cardboard on the floor to accommodate the steady stream of visitors who came through the back door, paid their respects, and exited through the front.

Outside, I spoke with Uapush, who had been very close to George. He wanted to do something to show his respect, so I agreed to help him get his guitar so he could sing at the funeral.

A group of pallbearers, wearing black hoodies and red sashes, carefully carry a casket down the steps of a house toward a waiting hearse. The casket is silver, and the men work together to lower it from the porch. The house is a modest home with brown siding, and the sky is partly cloudy.

The pallbearers gently lowered George’s casket out of the house and into the hearse.

A small bird, identified as a whiskychak (Canada jay), perches on an overhead wire against a cloudy sky. The roof of a house is visible below, and the bird appears to be watching the scene below curiously.

A whiskychak watched over us curiously.

The family started walking in a procession to the church, and Uapush and I sped around the back to his house to go get his guitar.

A funeral procession follows a hearse down a dirt road, with people walking closely behind it. Some carry flowers, and others wear red sashes over their clothing. The scene takes place in a residential area with modest houses and overcast skies, reflecting the somber mood of the procession.

The procession to the church was somber, and the church was completely filled.

The interior of a church with a casket draped in a purple cloth at the front, adorned with a large bouquet of flowers. In front of the casket, a wooden cross with dates "2000-01-10" and "2024-08-28" is displayed. Lit candles and religious symbols, including a crucifix on the wall, surround the altar, creating a solemn and reverent atmosphere.

Susan Nabinacaboo’s voice filled the space with Family Circle, and the air was thick with emotion.

A man with a guitar, identified as Uapush, stands at the front of a church near the pulpit, playing a song during a funeral service. The congregation is gathered closely around, with many people standing in the pews. A lit candle sits on the pulpit, and a wooden cross is visible on the wall behind the altar. The emotional moment brings a sense of solemnity to the scene.

When the time came, Uapush played a song that brought tears to the family.

A group of pallbearers, wearing black with red sashes, carry a silver casket down the steps of a church and towards an open hearse. The scene takes place in a small community, with several trucks parked nearby and houses visible in the background under a cloudy sky. The mood is solemn as the service concludes and the casket is prepared for transport.

After the service, the pallbearers brought the casket down the church steps and placed it back in the hearse.

A long line of vehicles drives down a dirt road, forming a procession as they make their way through a forested area. The cars have their lights on, and the road stretches into the distance, surrounded by trees and utility poles. The procession is part of a traditional funeral, passing through the village before heading to the cemetery.

As is tradition, a parade of cars formed and circled the village, passing George Amos’ home on the way to the cemetery.

The view from inside a vehicle, showing a woman in a red sweatshirt driving a bus along a dirt road. Vehicles traveling in the opposite direction have pulled over, stopping to allow the funeral procession to pass. The windshield is covered with dust, and the scene outside shows a cloudy sky and a few vehicles on the road.

Out of respect, traffic in the opposite direction stopped to let us pass.

A group of pallbearers, wearing red sashes, carry a silver casket from the hearse at a cemetery. Family members follow closely behind, some holding floral wreaths. The scene takes place outdoors, with a small shelter in the background and a mix of emotions on the faces of the mourners.

A group of mourners stands around an open grave at a cemetery, with some holding umbrellas as a light rain begins to fall. Two men inside the grave prepare to lower the casket, while a wooden cross marked with the name and dates of the deceased is held by one mourner. The sky is dark and overcast, reflecting the somber mood.

At the cemetery, a light rain began to fall. It softened the heavy hearts of those grieving, mingling with tears.

A large group of mourners gathers around an open grave at a cemetery, some holding umbrellas as light rain falls. The grave is lined with green turf, and floral arrangements can be seen inside the grave. People stand in silence, offering prayers and support to one another.

A group of mourners stands around an open grave, where a blue floral wreath rests on the casket at the bottom. One mourner holds a cross painted with the name and dates of the deceased. The sky is dark and overcast, and the mood is solemn as people reflect and offer comfort.

We offered prayers and shared comfort in hushed tones.

A large gathering in a gymnasium, where tables are set for a feast following the funeral ceremony. People are seated along long rows of tables, sharing a meal and conversations. The atmosphere is a mix of somber reflection and warmth as family and friends come together to remember the deceased. The gym's high ceilings and basketball hoops are visible, and a large banner hangs on the back wall.

After the ceremony, we returned to Kawawachikamach, where the family had prepared a feast. People shared smiles through their tears, remembering the good times they had with George Amos.

An elderly man, identified as Matthew Mameamskum, sits on a bed in a warmly lit room with wood-paneled walls. He is wearing a light striped button-up shirt and looking directly at the camera with a calm expression. Behind him are family photos and books on a wooden dresser, adding a personal and cozy atmosphere to the scene.

Later that day, I returned to Matthew’s house to check on his family. I spoke with his daughter Louise for a while. Though it was difficult, she found peace knowing that Matthew was now reunited with Kitty.

A nighttime view of a village illuminated by bright lights in the distance, seen from a hill surrounded by darkness. The sky is almost entirely black, while the lights below create a soft glow over the trees and buildings, evoking a sense of quiet reflection.

As the evening wore on, I spent some time alone on the hill overlooking the village where I grew up.

A bearded man, wearing glasses and a cap with the word "Kawawachikamach" embroidered on it, sits in a vehicle at night. He is looking ahead with a thoughtful expression, illuminated by the dim light inside the vehicle. A seatbelt is visible across his chest, and the background outside is dark.

I’m so grateful that I missed my flight. It allowed me to be here for the people who matter most to me.

Fri, Sep 6

A man with a full beard and slightly wet, tousled hair takes a selfie after a shower. He is wearing a red shirt with a Canadian symbol on it, and he looks directly at the camera with a content expression. The background shows a plain white wall and door, suggesting the photo was taken at home while preparing for the day.

Woke up, showered, and took some time to clean up a little more. Everything’s packed, and I’m ready to go.

A red wooden building with the sign "Naskapi Development Corporation" is seen on a cloudy day. A rugged side-by-side vehicle is parked in front of the building, loaded with bags and gear. The building has boarded-up windows on the ground floor, and wooden steps lead up to the entrance. The vehicle, covered in mud, reflects its use in rough terrain.

After loading up, I made my way to drop off the rectory keys at the Naskapi Development Corporation and returned the side-by-side to the Naskapi Nation garage. That side-by-side has been a godsend for getting around!

A man, Jimmy Shecanapish, is seen driving a large SUV, smiling and focused on the road. He is wearing a dark blue hoodie and glasses, with his seatbelt on. The interior of the vehicle is modern with a touchscreen display and controls on the console. Trees and the road are visible through the windows as they drive.

Jimmy Shecanapish, always looking out for me, picked me up today—in a giant sedan SUV limousine, no less! Quite the departure from my usual rides.

An airport waiting area with several people seated. A woman in a pink jacket drinks from a bottle, while a man in gray sits beside her. Another person is lying down on a bench in the foreground. Above the seating area hangs a traditional canoe, beautifully crafted and suspended from the ceiling. The canoe is a reminder of the unique cultural heritage of the community.

At the airport, I had some time before boarding. I always love looking at the canoe on the wall here. Every community has its own style of canoe design, and it reminds me of how deeply unique each nation is.

Then came the moment I dreaded—getting ready to board. No matter how many times I do it, I hate leaving. This place always feels like home, and it’s never easy to say goodbye.