Never stop thinking.
A working draft is a work in progress — a living document composed of multiple drafts that is constantly evolving with the input of diverse voices. In this second edition of Working Draft magazine, our writers are exploring the theme of “new normal.”
Feature
Seniors lament care gaps, social isolation in ‘sad’ pandemic year
Back in January 2020, life was seemingly normal for Manitobans. Two months later, COVID-19 turned life upside down — especially for people 65 and over. Manitoba seniors share their stories and struggles as they battle through isolation, loss, and mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Skating Upstream: Fighting the Binaries of the Winnipeg Skateboard Scene
A few powerful women are working hard to change the binary stigmas that still grip the local skateboarding community, shining a light on women, trans and non-binary skaters in Winnipeg.
Read MoreCreative Nonfiction
Pair of Genes
Ethan Ani looks into his father’s adoption to understand future parenting options in this three-part story. Ani explores the themes affecting both him and his father related to masculinity, identity, and belonging.
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A Driving EVolution — Navigating Myths & Facts of Owning an Electric Vehicle
Electric vehicles (EVs) are better for the environment, fun to drive, and save owners money over the car’s lifespan. So why don’t more people in Manitoba drive them? This article explores why people do and don’t buy EVs, the myths and facts surrounding them, and what it’s like to own one.
Read MoreCreative Nonfiction
Where the Grass is Mildly Greener
Understanding how your brain works can change your life — which is exactly what an accurate mental health diagnosis can offer. Kelsey takes an honest look at three people’s diagnosis journeys — including her own.
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Carnage of Complacency
The opening of Ethan Boyer Way at Brady Road and the Perimeter Highway marked two things: a safer intersection and a grim reminder of lives lost there. This investigative feature unpacks the devastating impacts of poor infrastructure and the gap that exists between policy and people.
Read MoreCreative Nonfiction
The Sixties Scoop: Far More than a Decade
The Sixties Scoop left behind a profound shock and a loss of heritage, language, families and identity. In 2017, the Canadian government announced the Sixties Scoop Settlement in acknowledgement of its cultural genocide. But, only for Inuit and Indigenous people with status. Métis and non-status, who were adopted under the same scheme of assimilating children into white society, still cannot apply.
Read MoreCreative Nonfiction
You’re a Man? Prove it
Growing up in a hyper-masculine environment, Owen wanted nothing more than to be a masculine guy. But so much of Western society’s version of masculinity expressly excludes gay men. This piece examines if there is a new version of masculinity that can include everyone who identifies as a man, or are we stuck with the 21st-century bro?
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Creative Nonfiction
The Sixties Scoop: Far More than a Decade
The Sixties Scoop left behind a profound shock and a loss of heritage, language, families and identity. In 2017, the Canadian government announced the Sixties Scoop Settlement in acknowledgement of its cultural genocide. But, only for Inuit and Indigenous people with status. Métis and non-status, who were adopted under the same scheme of assimilating children into white society, still cannot apply.
Read More
Creative Nonfiction
Withdrawn
When a young adult stays out all night without phoning home, the worst one might expect is a stern word from worried parents. But Pam faced far worse consequences – the loss of her community and the loss of her family. For 25 years, Pam’s parents chose the Exclusive Brethren church over their daughter, leaving Pam to find friendship and family outside their circle. But the draw of familial relationship can overcome censure and lead to reconciliation.
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Creative Nonfiction
You’re a Man? Prove it
Growing up in a hyper-masculine environment, Owen wanted nothing more than to be a masculine guy. But so much of Western society’s version of masculinity expressly excludes gay men. This piece examines if there is a new version of masculinity that can include everyone who identifies as a man, or are we stuck with the 21st-century bro?
Read More
Feature
The Deadly Cost of ADHD
Most people experience financial stress, but for the ADHD community, it’s causing an alarming number of adults to consider taking their own life.
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Feature
Seniors lament care gaps, social isolation in ‘sad’ pandemic year
Back in January 2020, life was seemingly normal for Manitobans. Two months later, COVID-19 turned life upside down — especially for people 65 and over. Manitoba seniors share their stories and struggles as they battle through isolation, loss, and mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read More