The Sunday Magazine for September 26, 2021
This week on The Sunday Magazine with Piya Chattopadhyay:
Joanna Chiu on the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor and what it means for Canada-China relations
After spending nearly three years in a Chinese prison, Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are home. Joanna Chiu is a friend of Kovrig's, and she has spent more than a decade reporting on China's rise to a world power. The Toronto Star reporter speaks with Chattopadhyay about the release of Meng Whanzhou and the Canadians' return home. She also provides insight into what the latest events signal about Canada's relationship with China. Her new book China Unbound: A New World Disorder, breaks down how and why the Chinese government operates the way it does, at home and abroad, and why it's essential for countries like Canada gain a better understanding of that.
Guy Vanderhaeghe on the fragility of humanity in times of crisis
In his first novel in a decade, celebrated author Guy Vanderhaeghe zooms in on a small town in Saskatchewan in the lead up to the Second World War. August into Winter follows two brothers, veterans racked with their own guilt and trauma, who are enlisted to chase down a murder suspect after the town's only constable is killed. The three-time Governor General's Award winner speaks with Chattopadhyay about how times of crisis can expose the worst in us – but also provide an opportunity for immense kindness and humanity.
Two Alberta mayors dissect provincial politics and the pandemic crisis
As another surge of COVID-19 pounds Alberta, Chattopadhyay speaks with Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi and Red Deer mayor Tara Veer about the human toll and the province's handling of the pandemic, including premier Jason Kenney's latest attempts to reign in the crisis and manage his own political fortunes. They discuss the political stakes following the federal election and before municipal elections take place across the province in October.
Reflecting on Canada's first National Truth and Reconciliation Day
In an adapted excerpt from his newly-released memoir Life in the City of Dirty Water: A Memoir of Healing, Cree author and activist Clayton Thomas-Müller reflects on his own family's history with residential schools, and the path forward.
Three ex-MPs weigh in on what's changed and what needs to change after Canada's 44th election
As Canada digests the aftermath of its 44th federal election, Chattopadhyay catches up with three former Members of Parliament: Megan Leslie, Jane Philpott and Lisa Raitt. They discuss the election results, the future for women in politics, and they reflect on life inside Ottawa and outside and what it's like to try to make a difference for Canadians when you're no longer a part of the system.
