Five things you may not know about the 1995 Quebec referendum

The Quebec government has passed a controversial secularism bill that mandates students to uncover their faces in schools. This law aims to reinforce secular values but has sparked significant debate about personal freedoms and cultural expression. Critics argue that it infringes on individual rights, particularly for those who wear face coverings for religious or personal reasons, highlighting the ongoing tension between secularism and multiculturalism in the province.

The Senate has successfully passed a bill aimed at nullifying former President Trump's extensive global tariffs affecting over 100 nations, with a close vote of 51-47. This bipartisan effort follows earlier resolutions to repeal tariffs on Canada and Brazil, signaling a significant shift in U.S. trade policy. The move is important as it could foster better international relations and potentially lower prices for consumers, making goods more accessible.

President Trump's announcement of a historically low refugee admission cap of 7,500 has sparked significant backlash, particularly from refugee advocates who view the decision as politically motivated. The prioritization of white South Africans has raised concerns about fairness and the implications for those fleeing persecution. This move not only affects the lives of countless individuals seeking safety but also reflects broader political strategies that could influence future immigration policies.

India's decision to impose a 30% duty on yellow pea imports, starting November 1, is a significant move aimed at stabilizing local prices. This policy will affect imports from Canada, a major supplier, and could lead to increased costs for consumers and businesses relying on this staple. The duty reflects India's ongoing efforts to protect its agricultural sector, but it may also strain trade relations and impact availability in the market.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the APEC leaders summit in South Korea this Friday. This meeting is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in international trade, particularly in light of the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. Strengthening ties with China could open new avenues for Canada, making this summit a pivotal moment for Carney's leadership and Canada's economic strategy.

This week, the U.S. Senate took a significant step by passing non-binding resolutions opposing President Trump's tariffs on Canada and Brazil. This bipartisan effort, with support from at least four Republicans joining Democrats, highlights growing concerns over the impact of these tariffs on trade relations. It matters because it reflects a shift in political dynamics and could influence future trade policies, potentially easing tensions with key allies.

A 17-year-old rapper and TikTok star is leading a new wave of Quebec sovereigntists, aiming to rejuvenate a movement that has seen better days. This young influencer believes he holds more sway than the current Premier, François Legault, and his rise highlights the power of social media in shaping political discourse. This matters because it shows how the next generation is engaging with important issues like sovereignty, potentially reshaping the future of Quebec's political landscape.

In Quebec, non-profit organizations are receiving a much-needed boost as they face the growing threat of cyberattacks. With limited budgets, many of these groups struggle to protect their digital assets. Thankfully, free cybersecurity consulting sessions are being offered to help them strengthen their networks. This initiative is crucial as it not only enhances their security but also ensures that these organizations can continue their important work in the community without the fear of cyber threats.

Latvian lawmakers have voted to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a treaty aimed at combating domestic violence. Supporters of the decision argue that the treaty promotes controversial 'gender' theories, which they oppose. This move raises concerns about the protection of vulnerable individuals and the country's commitment to addressing domestic violence, highlighting a growing divide in attitudes towards gender issues in Europe.

The second men's Twenty20 international between Australia and India is currently taking place at the MCG in Melbourne. Early on, Australian bowler Josh Hazlewood made a significant impact by dismissing Indian opener Shubman Gill. This match is crucial as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants, and fans are eager to see how the game unfolds.

Liverpool is gearing up for an exciting weekend as they prepare to face Aston Villa before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League. This is a crucial time for the defending champions as they aim to solidify their position in the Premier League and make a strong statement in Europe. Fans are eager to see how the team performs ahead of the November international break, making this weekend's matches particularly significant.

Chancellor Reeves has faced criticism from the Prime Minister over a 'regrettable' situation regarding her family's rental property, where she failed to secure the proper license. This incident highlights the importance of compliance in rental agreements and raises questions about accountability among public officials. While Reeves has apologized, the lack of further action suggests a desire to move past the issue without deeper repercussions.

The UK government has expressed strong support for the decision to strip Prince Andrew of his royal titles, marking a significant step towards accountability for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein. Chris Bryant has emphasized the importance of Andrew complying with US Senate requests to address allegations related to Epstein's crimes. This move is seen as a pivotal moment in addressing the concerns of victims and restoring public trust in the monarchy.

Ukraine is facing renewed Russian attacks, with reports indicating the use of a 'secret' missile, the 9M729. This escalation comes as the UN humanitarian coordinator warns that the conflict is increasingly resembling a protracted war, diminishing hopes for a quick resolution. The situation is dire, as previous moments of cautious optimism have faded, leaving many to wonder about the future of peace in the region.