I remember picking up my first issue of the Obiter Dicta sometime during an O-Week lunch break two years ago. My initial thoughts were probably somewhere along the lines of “what does ‘obiter dicta’ mean” and “how does anyone have time to read this during law school much less produce its content?” But as every IL eventually learns, the scarce amounts of spare time we are afforded are best spent on something enjoyable – and I can say without hesitation that both reading and writing for the Obiter is highly enjoyable.
The reading part is a no brainer. Articles written by Ozzies are as insightful, creative, opinionated, and hilarious as the students themselves. I recall a classmate last year commenting on how beautifully written a certain series of fiction was (and it was). I myself always looked forward to reading “The Unreasonable Man” column by Travis Weagant, who joined the editorial team this year and graciously agreed to continue the series. And, as many of you 2Ls and 3Ls know, Kyle Rees and RJ Walia’s “Fake It Or Make It” articles were almost legendary.
Every year, the Obiter welcomes new and wonderful writers. For some, myself included, writing has always been a part of who they are and it seems only natural to continue the habit in a new environment. For others, contributing to the Obiter is a great way to simultaneously hone language skills and vent about concerns that only fellow Ozzies can truly empathize with. If you have something to say and want to be heard, I highly encourage you to submit. (Deadlines are every other Wednesday at 2pm. Email submissions to obiterdicta@osgoode.yorku.ca.)
This year, the Obiter Dicta has endured a few more changes. Our website has been updated yet again with an integrated commenting system, crisp layout, PDF archive, and embedded Twitter feed (@obiterdictaoz). Our physical paper has been given a makeover as well for a more modern look. We have also moved to a biweekly distribution schedule so you can hold a truly quality paper in your hands.
Welcome back, Osgoode and remember – let go and live in the moment because you can always read the details later in the Obiter.