If we ever want the world to be better, we must listen to those who argue it isn’t, says Mina Wiebe.

The English student took top honours Friday in the “Why Humanities?” competition, which challenged students to consider the necessity of these disciplines in times of crisis.

“My immediate reaction was to focus solely on the pandemic,” Wiebe says. “After some reflecting, I knew I wanted to focus on struggles besides my own.”

The resulting essay, entitled “Humanity’s Rejection of Stagnancy: Our Movement Toward Petry’s Better World,” highlights the Black Lives Matter movement.

Wiebe is glad to have this message heard, and also welcomes the prize of a $3,000 tuition credit, sponsored by the Office of the President and the Office of the Provost.

“This is my third and final submission to this competition,” she says. “It was an honour to win after so many tries.”

The contest is held each year by the Humanities Research Group. Other 2020 finalists included: Abigail Daniel, Gabriella Krystia, Alex-Andrei Ungurenasu, and Ruby Urlocker.