Colour of Change Network e-Bulletin ( April 16, 2012 ) - inequality seeking austerity mythologies + community destroying immigration changes + media monitoring + racial justice in Ontario news, views, events and reports !!
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Apr 17, 2012, 2:22:35 PM4/17/12
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Colour of Change Network e-Bulletin ( April 13, 2012 ) - though profoundly disappointing - it comes as no surprise that our Prime Minister would dismiss any official acknowledgement of the 30th Anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms ( April 17, 1982 ) one of the key features of our model of governance that helps to explain what has made Canada the successful country and society that it is today - as he has in fact dedicated most of his life to attacking this framework for equity, human rights and social justice - not to mention the rule of law and the Canadian courts - for which even more troublingly he has all too little respect - unless when they happen to agree with him !? But hiding behind the excuse that because there are historical differences of position on the repatriation of the Constitution and the Charter ( isn't that the very stuff of politics and everyday political debate !? ) - just gives further evidence as to both the terrifically ideologically narrow understanding of the world of the man - as well as his real child-like, controlling and intolerant character ! But given this conscious and deliberate effort on the part of the current federal government to harnessing a variety of the latent fears, hatreds and intolerances that some Canadians harbour - all in the effort to build ever deeper and ever wider inequity and inequality across Canadian regions, communities and neighbourhoods - at this critical moment we need continue to focus on continuing to bring a racial justice lens to both the Ontario Human Rights Review and Social Assistance ( Income Security ) Review, as well as the again ideologically and corporately driven "austerity agenda" that receives all too little critical analysis from an ever more under-resourced - and seemingly "compliant" - if not economically incompetent media, the social engineering and community destroying policy initiatives in the area of immigration - and in the context of the governments escalating attack on the CBC - the nature and character of the media itself as it deals - or not - with racial equity, racial justice themes and issues !!
So as we try to seize this historical Charter moment - to reflect on where we are regarding the growing "colour-coded" inequality in Ontario and the current opportunities and possibilities for engaging racial justice principles - see - Racism in Canada profiled on The Story From Here ( CBC Radio - March 28, 2012 ), Canada’s proposed Office of Religious Freedom raises human rights concerns ( CBC The Link - March 21, 2012 ), Komagata Maru coming to life on new interactive website ( CBC The Link - March 2012 ), and - Post-Racial - Americans and Race in the Age of Obama ( The Greenlining Institute - November 2011 ).
AGAIN - please find attached our FINAL Submission on the Social Assistance Review - Options Paper ( COP-COC - March 16, 2012 ) - feel free to use and share as you feel appropriate - including discussing the priorities with MPP's - as we continue to best ensure that equity and racial justice meaningfully informs and gets reflected in the Commissioners final recommendations.
In order to help build together a shared understanding of what's happening and why in the area of immigration policy - and then craft a coherent and consistent racial justice response - see below - Canada's New Immigration ( TVO The Agenda - April 13, 2012 ), Myths and Facts related to Bill C-31 ( Canadian Council for Refugees - March 2012 ), Take Action to Protect Refugees in Canada ( April 2012 ), Pointers to Discriminatory Canadian Immigration Policies ( S. Kaduuli - October 2011 ), and - Is there an ideological divide in immigration and refugee system ( The Vancouver Sun - November 26, 2011 ).
Economic literacy is a key priority for Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change ( see the Economic Literacy "playlist" on the Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change YouTube Channel !! ) As we work to help build a broader and deeper shared understanding of economic options and choices and their racial justice consequences - see the following links and attachments - Budget dilemma - How do we spread the pain of retrenchment fairly ( Toronto Star - March 25, 2012 ), Dr Tanya Zakrison of Doctors for Fair Taxation ( CBC Lang & O'Leary Exchange - March 22, 2012 ) - an inspiring interview where co-host Kevin O'Leary tries to use his typically rude bombast and bullying style to push Dr Zakrison back on her heels, she doesn't bat an eye, doesn't get angry or flustered - leaving Mr. O'Leary looking like the selfish, mean-spirited, ideologically driven idiot that he so often is revealed to be, Dramatic Cuts ( CBC Radio - March 21, 2012 ), the New Face of Poverty ( CBC Radio - March 22, 2012 ), Corporate America Untaxed - Tax Avoidance on the Rise ( The Greenlining Institute - August 2011 ), The Economic Crisis Facing Seniors of Color ( The Greenlining Institute - August 2011 ), and - 2012 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission ( CUPE - March 2012 ).
And as we all organize ourselves to be most effective at moving forward the racial equity, racial justice effort - always understood through an intersectional lens - again - Take Action to protect refugees in Canada, sign the below petition related to social housing and federal government budget priorities and Call or email your MPP ( and MP ! ) - let them know you oppose the austerity agenda, that you don't want the government to follow Drummond's dangerous path, and that you will vote for an MPP ( or MP ) who supports good jobs and a strong economy. Click Here for MPP contact information or Click Here to electronically message your MPP RIGHT NOW! And as we now work to most effectively harness the current political moment provincially - being ever wary of efforts at avoiding the race conversation by using the "newcomer" or "immigrant" as a more convenient and comfortable "proxy" - please continue to spread the racial justice policy priority messages - provincial employment equity, and ethno-racially and otherwise disaggregated data gathering, collection and analysis - see - Ontario New Democratic Party ( NDP ) wants to hear your thoughts on the budget - "In this minority government, with an election looming, we cannot take the budget lightly. This budget will shape people’s lives. That's why we want you to have your say. Email or call us with your thoughts on the budget" - Call - 1-855-ONT-BDGT - or go on-line at - http://www.ondpcaucus.com/yoursay/ And don't forget how to creatively engage the new leadership of the Official Opposition federally - see a Toronto Star piece below - "NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader" !!
Lastly - any thoughts are welcome as to who - in Canada - we might approach to best carry forward the racial justice equivalent of - The righteous anger of Bruce Springsteen ( Toronto Star - March 26, 2012 ) - also attached !!
REMEMBER - the CHAMP Action Research Study is still actively recruiting !
All the details below and attached - michael
Canada's New Immigration ( TVO The Agenda - April 13, 2012 ) - Immigration Minister Jason Kenney discusses his "common-sense" Islamophobic impulses and his plan where he says he wants to match the needs of immigrants with Canada's economic needs - as well as apparently given the fact that most newcomers are now no longer white Europeans - it seems that Minister Kenney now believes that it's time to end the right to citizenship for children born in Canada !?
The Debate - Realigning Canadian Immigration - in an effort to modernize Canada's immigration process, the Conservative Government has introduced several key proposals. The Agenda looks at what the proposals mean for those coming to Canada. Guests - Francisco Rico-Martinez - Co-Director - FCJ Refugee Centre, Phil Triadafilopoulos - Assistant Professor - Political Science - University of Toronto Scarborough, Binoy Thomas - Editor-in-Chief - The Weekly Voice, Audrey Macklin - Professor - Faculty of Law - University of Toronto, and - Arthur Sweetman - Professor of Economics - McMaster University. The Agenda with Steve Paikin airs weeknights at 8:00pm and 11:00pm ET on TVO.
Myths and Facts related to Bill C-31 ( Canadian Council for Refugees - March 2012 ) - the Canadian Council for Refugees now has an updated Fact Sheet - Myths and Facts on Bill C-31 - as well as other new outreach and advocacy tools ! See the Fact Sheet at - http://ccrweb.ca/en/myths-and-facts-c31 Please share this information with your Member of Parliament and with as many members of the general public as you can - they need to know why this new legislation is bad for refugees and bad for Canadian communities. In addition, they have created additional social media resources that incorporate these myths and facts. To check out these new model tweets and for more information on how to get involved on social media, see - http://ccrweb.ca/en/social-media-c31 For resources to help you contact your Member of Parliament with your concerns on Bill C-31, and to encourage others to do the same, see - http://ccrweb.ca/en/write-your-member-parliament If you have already contacted your local Member of Parliament with your concerns, please contact all the MPs on the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration - see - http://ccrweb.ca/files/cimm2012.xls ( The Standing Committee will be studying Bill C-31 after the bill passes the present second reading in the House of Commons ). The main page for Bill C-31 on the CCR's website, with links to all of the resources above, is - http://ccrweb.ca/en/refugee-reform Thank you for getting involved in this critical foundational piece of the Ontario - and Canada - community based racial justice education and advocacy effort !!
Take Action to Protect Refugees in Canada ( April 2012 ) - The Conservative's Bill C-31 will mean that when a person arrives in Canada as a refugee they will face a series of unjust measures which violate the principles of refugee protection. The impact of these harsh measures is compounded by the fact that many refugees have already lived through extremely difficult, stressful and life threatening experiences before they arrive in Canada. Several of the most disturbing, unfair and human rights denying elements of Bill C-31 are - 1) Some persons making a refugee claim in Canada can be detained for up to a year, without a review of the reasons for their detention – imagine fleeing a war-torn situation, arriving in Canada and being placed in a jail cell for up to a year with limited opportunities to make your claim as a refugee; 2) The Bill states that there will be a five year ban on family reunification for some refugees who are accepted into Canada. Imagine you have been given a second chance at life in a peaceful country, but your safety cannot be shared with your loved ones. They must continue to live in an unstable and perhaps life threatening situation; 3) The Bill states that some refugees will not be able to appeal a negative decision of their refugee claim. You will be returned to the country you came from – and to the harsh realities you fled; 4) The Bill gives the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration power to arbitrarily influence the outcome of refugee decision making; and - 5) The Bill threatens to expel refugees from Canada when the conditions in their home country which forced them to flee no longer exist. The violations and shortcomings in Bill C-31 do not uphold international refugee and human rights principles which Canada helped to establish. Add your voice at - http://www.amnesty.ca/protectrefugees Sign & share Amnesty’s appeal to MP’s – easy way to send a message - http://www.amnesty.ca/iwriteforjustice/take_action.php?actionid=843
Dramatic Cuts ( CBC Radio - March 21, 2012 ) -
where Metro Morning host Matt Galloway spoke about deficit driven
proposed budget cuts at the Toronto District School Board, with school
trustee Howard Goodman. Rather than stepping up to publicly and actively
challenge the provincial government - and the very real failings and
inadequacies of the Mike Harris era funding formula - to defend the
Board of Trustees moving toward a decision to cut - Mr. Goodman sets up
the employee groups at the Board as the "bad guys" !? Apparently in Mr.
Goodman's mind - not only has the TDSB - and thus its employee groups -
seemingly had it too good for too long - but he believes that they will in fact be responsible for the many First Peoples, peoples of colour and other equity-seeking group members - who have been hired over the past five or more years under the Boards employment equity policy - will "unfortunately" now lose their jobs - not because of the cuts -
in a terrific slight of hand and attempt to engage in something of a
"bait and switch" strategy - but due to seniority provisions in the
Board's federation and union collective agreements !? Listen at - http://www.cbc.ca/metromorning/episodes/2012/03/21/dramatic-cuts/
New Face of Poverty ( CBC Radio - March 22, 2012 ) - where in discussing a new report released by Statistics Canada - Metro Morning host Matt Galloway speaks with - of all people - their regular business commentator - a consistently narrow-minded, frustratingly uni-dimensional raving promoter of all things neo-liberal - of the all too familiar and mindless lower taxes good, government ( and CBC funding !? ) bad mentality ? In looking at who are "lower income" Canadians they reference seniors and lone-parents as relative success stories in percentage change over time terms - and then turn to "newcomers" or "new immigrants" - where Hlinka focuses his analysis on international visa students that he apparently teaches ( indoctrinates !? ) at George Brown College and avoids any discussion of actual newcomers - let alone "peoples of colour" - for which Mr. Galloway then thanks him !? Listen at - http://www.cbc.ca/metromorning/columnists/business/2012/03/22/new-face-of-poverty/
Racism in Canada profiled on "The Story From Here" ( CBC Radio - March 28, 2012 ) - in part one of this episode - an aboriginal man talks about the racism he experienced in the Alberta oil patch, and award winning poet George Elliot Clarke speaks about the racist treatment of black refugees in Nova Scotia from the war of 1812. Listen to the program at - http://www.cbc.ca/thestoryfromhere/episode-update/2012/03/29/march-28-2012/
Canada’s Office of Religious Freedom raises human rights concerns ( CBC The Link - March 21, 2012 ) -
During the last federal election
campaign the Conservative Party announced its plan to create an Office
of Religious Freedom. Closed door talks have begun between Canada's
Minister of Foreign Affairs and some religious leaders in Canada. Arvind
Sharma, a professor of comparative religion at McGill University in
Montreal says the Canadian government may be creating problems for
itself. Listen to CBC "The Link" - Public Radio International segment at - http://www.rcinet.ca/english/column/the-link-s-top-stories/14-49_2012-03-21-canadarsquo-s-proposed-office-of-religious-freedom-raises-human-rights-concerns/ See Prof. Arvind Sharma's book at - http://www.springer.com/philosophy/value+theory/book/978-90-481-8992-2
Komagata Maru coming to life on new interactive website ( CBC The Link - March 2012 ) -
2012 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission ( CUPE - March 2012 ) - in a quick review of this attached recent contribution to the 2012 Ontario Budget debates we see several welcome references from our friends at CUPE-Ontario to the need to acknowledge and address the growing racialized or "colour-coded" inequities and disparities in Ontario - though unfortunately in no doubt taking guidance from certain of those allies that continue to avoid naming race as a ( if not "the" ) key driver of disadvantage - and thereby "cloaking" this concern in the proxy of "newcomer" or "immigrant" - the folks at CUPE have in a below excerpt fallen into that trap - see - Section - 1.2 - Commission on the Reform of Ontario’s Public Services ( page 8 ) - "These cuts to services will negatively affect all the people of Ontario. Women, especially racialized women, will take on a disproportionate amount of the burden to make-up for social service cuts through providing care in the home." Section - 3.6.5 - Ontario Works ( p. 23 ) - "Social assistance cheques will be cut and even fewer people will qualify for benefits if the province implements the Commission’s recommendations - a move that would not gel with the McGuinty government’s poverty reduction strategy. A $179 million funding cut would mean many of Ontario’s poorest people, the majority of whom are children, women, people with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples, ( what of peoples of colour !? ) and immigrant populations, would have to rely on food banks, that are already stretched to capacity, and other charities just to survive." Section - 3.7 - Equality ( p. 24-25 ) - "The downloading of services and the push to fund only “high priority” services will negatively impact the quality of life of people from equality seeking and marginalized communities the most." "Those that provide front-line care........are women, many whom are racialized women and recent immigrants." "........women continue to take home $0.70 for every dollar earned by men and racialized women early only $0.60 compared to non-racialized men." "........front-line service providers ( women, of whom many are racialized women ) will be the first to face lower compensation ( including wages, loss of benefits, loss of pay equity rights, and loss of pension ) through either the casualization of the work, being forced to work for less, or loss of employment completely." and "Our communities and economy need a budget commitment for equality to make sure that the broader public sector workforce reflects the community to which it is servicing."
Current and Critical
a) Ontario Public Service one of Canada's "Best Employers" - For Whom ? ( BOPSers - April 2012 )
b) Post-Racial - Americans and Race in the Age of Obama ( The Greenlining Institute - November 2011 )
c) REMINDER - CHAMP Action Research Study Actively Recruiting
d) A Boy to Be Sacrificed ( New York Times - March 24, 2012 )
e) Call for Submissions - by April 22, 2012 - for Black Diaspora Networking Zone for Global Village International AIDS 2012 Conference ( Washington, DC - July 22-27, 2012 )
f) Request for Proposals – First Nations Agricultural Interventions Research in Canada ( applications due by April 27, 2012 )
g) Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20 - June 15-23, 2012 - Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft
h) Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture - study and series ( Anderson Cooper 360 - April 2-6, 2012 )
i) NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader ( Toronto Star - March 24, 2012 )
c) REMINDER - CHAMP Action Research Study Actively Recruiting - Seeking active community members from Asian, Black & Latino
Communities living with/affected by HIV/AIDS to join them to evaluate two
innovative stigma reduction interventions ! Training starting April 2012. Space Limited ! CONTACT THEM NOW !!
Call for Submissions for Black Diaspora Networking Zone for Global Village International AIDS 2012 Conference ( Washington, DC - July 22-27, 2012 ) - ABDGN, the Black AIDS Institute and the Black Diaspora Regional Working Group for AIDS 2012 have extended the call for submissions for the Black Diaspora Networking Zone at AIDS 2012 in Washington DC July 22-27, 2012. Applications are now due - MONDAY APRIL 22nd, 2012 !! The Zone
will be a prominent and dynamic space for people of African descent and
African/Caribbean migrant and mobile populations from around the world.
The organizers invite you to submit an activity proposal to be
presented at the Zone during the
week of the conference ranging from poster presentations, facilitated
dialogues, cultural activities, visual arts displays and panel
discussions. Be creative and help make the Black Diaspora Networking Zone a place for inspiration, action, and global solidarity across its diverse populations and experiences. For details and the submission form click here - http://bit.ly/HswM5I Contact - African and Black Diaspora Global Network on HIV and AIDS - 2 Carlton Street, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1J3, Tel - 416-525-6662, Fax - 416-593-5867, Website - www.abdgn.org
f) Request for Proposals – First Nations Agricultural Interventions Research in Canada ( applications due by April 27, 2012 ) - Community Economic Development in First Nations communities is a priority for Heifer International Canada’s programmatic portfolio. They are soliciting proposals to pursue Canada-wide research to help them understand exemplary or promosing practices that are already in place and determine how Heifer International Canada can be involved in positive change. Read more >>
g) Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20 - June 15-23, 2012 - Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft - during the Rio+20 negotiations and in the lead-up to the next Rio+20 planning meeting, the UN-Non-Governmental Liaison Service and Social Watch co-organized a side event entitled “Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20: Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft.” This event brought together key players involved in the People’s Summit, a parallel process to Rio+20 organized by civil society that will take place 15-23 June in Flamingo Park, Rio de Janeiro. Three members of the Brazilian Civil Society Facilitating Committee for Rio+20, along with representatives from La Via Campesina and IBON International, shared their views on the Rio+20 informal negotiations, articulated goals for the conference, and formulated strategies to include human rights in discussions at Rio and beyond. See further information at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3814 For information on Rio+20 ( June 20-22, 2012 ) see - http://www.uncsd2012.org/rio20/ and - The Road to Rio e-Newsletter at - http://www.un-ngls.org/newsletters/newsletter.php?id=704
h) "Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture" - study and series ( Anderson Cooper 360 - April 2-6, 2012 ) - television journalist Anderson Cooper details the results of a study commissioned by his program AC360° to explore children's perception of race in the USA. The week long series - "Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture", provides an in-depth look at how young children interpret ambiguous drawings and understand interracial friendships. The study aims to answer such questions as these - “Is race a factor in how children view conflicts and choose friends ? Do children see race or are they, as many parents believe, socially colorblind ? How, when and why do they form their opinions on race ? Can those opinions change over time or at a certain age, are kids “hard-wired” about race ? And does the racial make-up of their school and environment affect their opinions on race ?” See the series homepage at - http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/category/kids-on-race/?hpt=ac_ac3
i) NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader ( Toronto Star - March 24, 2012 ) - The New Democratic Party has taken the plunge. It has entrusted its leadership to the candidate most likely to push and pull it in new directions, the man who told it frankly to dump the comfy old “1950s boilerplate” language of the labour and social-democratic movements and reach out to a much wider universe of voters.In choosing Thomas Mulcair the NDP did the right thing for its future and for all Canadians with a stake in seeing a strong, progressive alternative to the Conservative government. More than anything else, Mulcair held out to New Democrats something they have never before seriously contemplated on the federal level – the prospect of actually winning. See full Opinion piece attached and at - http://www.thestar.com/opinion/article/1151596--ndp-makes-the-right-bet-by-making-thomas-mulcair-its-leader
Recent racial justice related tools and resources as well as upcoming anti-oppressive learning and engagement opportunities taking place around Ontario -
1) Jump For Jamaica - Jamaican Canadians and supporters Celebrate Jamaica's 50th Anniversary ( 1962-2012 )
2) World Atlas of Gender Equality in Education ( UNESCO-UIS - March - 2012 )
3) UN Population Fund ( UNFPA ) launches new website - International Conference on Population & Development ( ICPD ) Beyond 2014
4) “Voices of Youth on Social Justice” on World Day of Social Justice 2012 ( International Labour Organization - ILO )
5) Children in an Urban World - The State of the World's Children 2012 ( UNICEF - February 2012 )
6) Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity ( UN-OHCHR - November 2011 )
7) Tell Us Your Hair Story - Understanding Culture + Community for Black Youth in Ontario's Systems of Care ( Advocate for Children & Youth - March 2012 )
8) REMINDER - Checking Our Constitution@30 - The Influence of the Canadian Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms on Legislation, Identities and Federalism ( Ottawa - April 17-18, 2012 )
9) REMINDER - "Taking Real Steps Towards Racial Justice" - ARC Spring 2012 Racial Justice Webinar Series ( On-Line - April 19, 2012 )
10) Diverse Spaces - Examining identity, community and citizenship within Canadian public culture ( Peterborough - April 19-21, 2012 )
11) REMINDER - Ontario Day of Action Against Cuts ( Queen's Park - Toronto - April 21, 2012 )
12) KANONHSTATON – SIX NATIONS ( The Protected Place ) - May the Sacred Fire Never End in Your Heart ( Toronto - April 21, 2012 )
13) UN Conference on Trade And Development - UNCTAD XIII ( Doha, Qatar - April 21-26, 2012 )
14) Activism in Education - Pushing Limits in Increasingly Conservative Times Symposium ( Toronto - April 25, 2012 )
15) OHRC Policy on Competing Human Rights - launch invitation ( Toronto - April 26, 2012 )
16) Transcending Borders Towards Discovering Sustainable Pathways from Local to Global Health Conference ( London - April 27-29, 2012 )
17) REMINDER - Equity & Inclusive Education - From Policy to Practice Conference ( Toronto - May 3-5, 2012 )
18) Mission to Canada - The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food ( cross Canada visit - May 6-16, 2012 )
19) We.Will.Now presents the 2012 Refocus Fashion Show ( Toronto - May 9, 2012 )
20) Heifer International Canada - Call for Small Grants Applications – Ontario ( applications due by May 11, 2012 )
21) Jamaica 50th Anniversary Schools Fundraising Concert ( Toronto - May 25, 2012 )
22) REMINDER - Our Dreams Matter Too - A Walk for Culturally Based Equity for First Nations Children ( Toronto - June 11, 2012 )
23) REMINDER - Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad ( Niagara-on-the-Lake - November 23-24, 2012 ) - Call for presentations by August 1, 2012 !!
24) METRAC Workplace Inclusion Conference 2012 ( Markham - September 20-21, 2012 )
25) REMINDER - Facing Race. Define Justice. Make Change Conference - organized by the Applied Research Center ( Baltimore - November 15-17, 2012 )
1) Jump For Jamaica - Jamaican Canadians & supporters celebrate Jamaica's 50th Anniversary ( 1962-2012 ) - the Jamaica 50 Celebration Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that has established a Steering Committee for Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area to plan an exciting and wide-ranging program of events and activities. The Committee’s goal is to show case the outstanding contributions of Jamaicans in Canada; to foster tourism to Jamaica; to encourage youth of Jamaican heritage to be better informed and to support Jamaica; and to provide a legacy to Jamaica and Canada through charitable and other social and cultural initiatives. The Committee will also collaborate with various community organizations in celebrating the 50th anniversary. For more information about the various activities taking place see - http://jamaica50.ca/
ICPD Beyond 2014
- is the official website for the UNFPA-led global review process of
the International Conference on Population and Development Programme of
Action (PoA).
The website details the progress of the Cairo vision to improve the
lives of all people and aims to consolidate comprehensive information
and personal reflections about the continuing relevance of the PoA. The
site is open for engagement and contributions from UNFPA partners,
stakeholders, and the general public. More information is available at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3770
5) Children in an Urban World - The State of the World's Children 2012 ( UNICEF - February 2012 ) - The State of the World’s Children, the annual flagship report of the United Nations Children’s Fund ( UNICEF ) was dedicated in 2012 to - “Children in an Urban World” - drawing attention to the fact that over a billion children are living in a more and more urbanized world. “Already, half of all people live in urban areas. By mid-century, over two thirds of the global population will call these places home,” the report explains. Cities are often perceived as a synonym for economic growth, development and employment. However, in reality, not all children are benefitting form urban growth. In this regard, the report draws attention to the fact that many children living in cities still lack access to education, health and sanitation. With different graphs and statistical tables the report aims to show the reality in which children in an urban world live; the challenges they face; and the main urban problems that affect their lives. The report also presents a number of examples of initiatives that try to improve the quality of life of these children; and it identifies policies that are needed to address urban disparities. See more at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3780
6) Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity ( UN-OHCHR - November 2011 ) -
8) REMINDER - Checking Our Constitution@30 - The Influence of the Canadian Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms on Legislation, Identities and Federalism ( Ottawa - April 17-18, 2012 ) - April 17th, 2012 will mark the 30th anniversary of the patriation of the Canadian Constitution and the creation of a Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Constitution and Charter have had a profound impact on our law and public policy. Many Canadians view the Constitution and the Charter of Rights as shaping important aspects of our collective identity and defining a set of shared values. For the most part, Canadians hold a favorable opinion of the Constitution and Charter. Yet many see these defining documents as divisive. How have the debates over the Constitution shaped our identities? Have the Constitution and Charter of Rights strengthened or weakened Canadian democracy and Federalism? What have the Constitution and Charter meant for women, aboriginals, and language minorities, ethnic and visible minorities, religious groups and new Canadians? What role have the Courts played in the interpretation of the Constitution, and how has the Charter transformed the judiciary in Canada? Has the distinction between Law and Politics become blurred over the past thirty years? Are the courts becoming more or less accessible to the public? Are there benefits to an unwritten constitution? How has the Constitution affected the balance of powers in Canada, and the dynamics of federalism? For more information see - http://www.acs-aec.ca/en/events/other-events/checking-our-constitution30-the-influence-of-the-canadian-constitution-the-charter-of-rights-freedoms-on-legislation-identities-federalism-april-17-18-2012-ottawa-ontario-/
9) REMINDER - “Taking Real Steps Towards Racial Justice” ( April 19, 2012 - 1pm ET/10am PT ) - most people want to eliminate racism, but are not sure what to do or how to do it. Racism often occurs without consciousness or malice, but creating racial justice requires clarity and methodology. For further webinar details see - http://arc.org/webinars
10) Diverse Spaces - Examining identity, community and citizenship within Canadian public culture ( Peterborough - April 19-21, 2012 ) - a conference bringing together a diverse range of academics, community leaders, culture/heritage workers and students to discuss multiculturalism in Canadian public cultural sites and institutions. Drawing on interdisciplinary fields presentations will interrogate the spaces, the structures, the goals, the practices, the people and the processes of public cultural and heritage spaces on local community. KEYNOTE SPEAKERS - Rinaldo Walcott, Department of Sociology and Equity Studies in Education, OISE-University of Toronto - "Toward the Multicultural Public Good - Race, Caste and the Canadian Public Sphere"; and - Mo Dhaliwal, Vancouver International Bhangra Celebration Society, Vancouver - "Shattering Barriers between People - The Arts and Diverse Cultural Spaces". Organized by the Frost Centre for Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies, Trail College, Trent University - Peterborough. See information and registration details at - http://diversespaces.com/
12) KANONHSTATON - SIX NATIONS ( The Protected Place ) - May the Sacred Fire Never End in Your Heart ( Toronto - April 21, 2012 ) - on April 20th, 2006 the peoples of the Six Nations Grand River Territory were violently raided by the Ontario Provincial Police at the reclamation of a small piece of land known as the Douglas Creek Estates, renamed Kanonhstaton or The Protected Place. The former Douglas Creek Estates were at the edge of a settler town known as Caledonia, bordering the Six Nations Reserve of Oshweken, the largest native reserve in Canada. Ongoing displacement and encroachment of Six Nations peoples - in direct violation of the Haldimand Proclamation of 1784 - lead to the uprising in defense of the land. The reclamation sparked one of the biggest demonstrations of indigenous resistance to ongoing colonial encroachment since the Oka Crisis of 1990. The films document these events and the speakers from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory speak to their continuing strength, dignity and courage in the struggle - “Day Zero - the Invasion. Six Nations Reclamation” by Jon Jeex ( 7:00pm ), “Inside the Reclamation” by Alicia Elliott ( 8:00pm ) Where - Graduate Students Union - Harvest Noon Cafe - 16 Bancroft Avenue ( east of Spadina, north of College ), Toronto. See - http://wccctoronto.wordpress.com/
13) UN Conference on Trade And Development - UNCTAD XIII ( Doha, Qatar - April 21-26, 2012 ) - "A true break" with the prevailing thinking behind the global economic system over the past 30 years and a shift to a reformed system of "development-centred globalization" that allows more stable and inclusive economic progress is needed as the world recovers from recession, the Secretary-General of UNCTAD said in a recent report for the upcoming UNCTAD conference - "....'business as usual' is the wrong response, both for short-term macroeconomic and for long-term structural, social and environmental reasons. The interconnected challenges of rebalancing financial systems and real economies, repairing domestic social contracts, and tackling environmental, demographic and food challenges cannot be dealt with through the incremental and discrete actions which are typical of the interplay of market forces." "....in our interdependent world, a more secure and inclusive global economy requires strong international leadership and carries collective responsibilities. See the Civil Society Forum ( April 17-25, 2012 ) at - http://unctadxiii.org/en/Pages/Civil%20Society/Civil-Society-Portal.aspx For general information - http://unctadxiii.org/en/Pages/home.aspx
14) Activism in Education - Pushing Limits in Increasingly Conservative Times Symposium ( Toronto - April 25 - 6:00-8:00pm, 2012 ) - Educating Citizens in Global Times for Knowing, Caring, and Acting ( by James Banks ) - James Banks holds the Chair in Diversity Studies and is Founding Director of the Center for Multicultural Education at the University of Washington, Seattle. He is a past President of the American Educational Research Association (AERA) and a specialist in social studies education and in multicultural education. His most recent book is entitled, Diversity and Citizenship Education - Global Perspectives - Teaching Strategies for Ethnic Studies. James Banks’ fundamental principles for developing inclusive curriculum have been a foundation for equity work across many school districts and teacher education programs in Ontario. Occupy Education ( by Judy Rebick ) - Judy Rebick is a well-known Canadian social justice activist, writer, educator and speaker - currently the Eakin Fellow in Canadian Studies at McGill University. She is also part of the Media panel on CBC radio’s Q. Her latest book is Transforming Power - From the Personal to the Political. Judy Rebick is the founding publisher of rabble.ca, Canada’s well known independent online news and discussion site, she is perhaps best known to Canadians as a former president of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women, Canada’s largest women’s group. For more information - see this link - and - location - Isabel Bader Theatre - 93 Charles St. W., Toronto ( just east of the Museum Subway Station ) - and to RSVP - wwsympos...@utoronto.ca ( space is limited )
Politique sur les droits de la personne contradictoires de la CODP ( Toronto - Le jeudi 26 avril 2012 ) - À mesure que les gens comprennent mieux leurs droits et entendent les exercer, il peut sembler que certains de ces droits entrent en conflit avec les droits d’autrui. Cela s’applique tout particulièrement à la société de plus en plus diversifiée et complexe de l’Ontario. Des conflits peuvent survenir lorsqu’une personne ou un groupe tente de se prévaloir d’un droit ou d’agir selon des valeurs ou des intérêts précis). Parfois, ces revendications peuvent être en conflit avec celles d’autres personnes, ou sembler l’être. Selon les circonstances, par exemple, les droits de ne pas subir de discrimination fondée sur la croyance, l’orientation sexuelle ou le sexe peuvent sembler entrer en opposition les uns avec les autres, ou avec d’autres droits, lois et pratiques. L’objectif de la politique de la CODP est de fournir aux organismes, décisionnaires, parties à un différend, arbitres et autres décisionnaires un guide claire et convivial sur la façon d’évaluer, de traiter et de résoudre des situations de droits contradictoires. La politique aidera les établissements d’enseignement et particuliers à faire face à des situations courantes de droits contradictoires et à éviter de consacrer temps et argent au dépôt d’un recours judiciaire devant un tribunal ou une autre entité chargée de trancher en matière de droits de la personne. La politique offre un cadre d’intervention en situation de droits contradictoires pouvant être utilisé dans sa forme actuelle ou adapté aux besoins spécifiques d’un établissement. La Commission des droits de la personne de l’Ontario et le Centre for Human Rights de l’Université York vous invite au lancement de la - Politique sur les droits de la personne contradictoires de la CODP. Nous vous invitons à assister en personne ou par webémission au lancement de la politique - Le jeudi 26 avril 2012, de 9 h 30 – 12 h 30 Endroit - Tribute Communities Recital Hall - Fine Arts Accolade East Building - 83, boulevard York, Université York, 4700, rue Keele. Le lien à la webémission vous sera transmis sur réception de votre confirmation. Veuillez confirmer votre présence d’ici le 13 avril 2012 à - communi...@ohrc.on.ca
18) Mission to Canada - The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food ( cross Canada visit - May 6-16, 2012 ) -
Vimeo - http://vimeo.com/38552668
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZnBLBUJLRo&context=C4926a02ADvjVQa1PpcFNDJHq_an8_uQY8Jc8jepX0lLK61iuxLbc=
We.Will.Now - www.wewillnow.com
A team of dynamic, creative, and passionate young people were brought together earlier this year, and they became the "Refocus Team". They worked together, learned from one another, and began to create the symbols that will be known throughout the city to represent the social causes that they are passionate about. For one night only, the Refocus Team is attempting to bring a diverse group of people together and hopefully getting them to "refocus" on what matters. The event will feature a one-of-a-kind fashion show, entertainment, light refreshments, and networking ( you will actually get to meet and talk to the stars of the night - the amazing Refocus team ). And one more thing, I heard a few whispers....and apparently they are going to be giving away some of the items that you will see on the runway. But, I don't like to start rumours, so forget I said that - What are you waiting for ? Get your tickets today !! PLEASE NOTE - the use of video/camera equipment during the fashion show is strictly prohibited. Media professionals and/or organizations interested in capturing the event must pre-register. A limited number of Media passes will be available. Media passes will allow you to capture the fashion show ONLY, the networking portion of the event and backstage activities are not accessible to media pass holders. To pre-register please send an email to - in...@wewillnow.ca - with "Media Pass request" in the subject line. We.Will.Now ( WWN ) is a non-profit organization focused on supporting and encouraging visible minority young people from under-resourced communities to become more socially and civically engaged in global development. Our objective is to provide quality learning opportunities both locally and abroad that strengthen communities and individuals to be self-sustaining leaders. WWN works to create innovative cross-cultural programs, projects and events that meet the needs of marginalized groups throughout the world, supports the priorities within the respective communities, and also allows for information sharing and dialogue.
20) Heifer International Canada - Call for Small Grants Applications - Ontario ( applications due - May 11, 2012 ) - Heifer International Canada is soliciting applications for up to $5,000 from Ontario-based organizations with charitable status. Eligible applicants are pursuing projects with a goal to assist people in need to engage in food-oriented income generating activities as a sustainable pathway out of poverty. Read more >>
21) Jamaica 50th Anniversary Schools Fundraising Concert ( Toronto - May 25, 2012 ) - you are cordially invited by the Kay Morris Foundation to its Jamaica 50th Anniversary Celebration Schools Fundraising Concert on Friday, May 25, 2012, at 7:00pm - at the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA), 995 Arrow Road, Toronto. All are welcome - media, special guests, Jamaicans, friends of Jamaica, people within the African Diaspora, international and local artists and all others to a historic night of celebration of Jamaica. This "gold carpet - star studded" event will feature a stellar line up of local and international artists such as - Marcia Brown, Kay Morris, Pastor John Taylor, Marvia Providence, Korexion, Dwayne Morgan, Nadine Williams, Liberty Silver, Jimmy Lala, and Patrick Blair. International artist - Landlord - from the Bahamas - will be the featured artist - all MC'd by both Allan Jones of G98.7FM and Bro. Gee of CIUT 89.5FM. Please come out and share in this historic event as they celebrate and raise funds to support elementary school students in Jamaica - to purchase computers and lap tops in support of library & computer lab project in these schools. For information contact - in...@kaymorrisfoundation.com or call - 416-844-7038.
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michael kerr
Coordinator
Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change
# 1701 - 180 Dundas St. W.
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 1Z8
Ph. 416-966-3882
Fax 416-971-6780
E-mail - colouro...@gmail.com
Web-site - www.colourofpoverty.ca
Blog - www.racesEDJ.ca
So as we try to seize this historical Charter moment - to reflect on where we are regarding the growing "colour-coded" inequality in Ontario and the current opportunities and possibilities for engaging racial justice principles - see - Racism in Canada profiled on The Story From Here ( CBC Radio - March 28, 2012 ), Canada’s proposed Office of Religious Freedom raises human rights concerns ( CBC The Link - March 21, 2012 ), Komagata Maru coming to life on new interactive website ( CBC The Link - March 2012 ), and - Post-Racial - Americans and Race in the Age of Obama ( The Greenlining Institute - November 2011 ).
AGAIN - please find attached our FINAL Submission on the Social Assistance Review - Options Paper ( COP-COC - March 16, 2012 ) - feel free to use and share as you feel appropriate - including discussing the priorities with MPP's - as we continue to best ensure that equity and racial justice meaningfully informs and gets reflected in the Commissioners final recommendations.
In order to help build together a shared understanding of what's happening and why in the area of immigration policy - and then craft a coherent and consistent racial justice response - see below - Canada's New Immigration ( TVO The Agenda - April 13, 2012 ), Myths and Facts related to Bill C-31 ( Canadian Council for Refugees - March 2012 ), Take Action to Protect Refugees in Canada ( April 2012 ), Pointers to Discriminatory Canadian Immigration Policies ( S. Kaduuli - October 2011 ), and - Is there an ideological divide in immigration and refugee system ( The Vancouver Sun - November 26, 2011 ).
Economic literacy is a key priority for Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change ( see the Economic Literacy "playlist" on the Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change YouTube Channel !! ) As we work to help build a broader and deeper shared understanding of economic options and choices and their racial justice consequences - see the following links and attachments - Budget dilemma - How do we spread the pain of retrenchment fairly ( Toronto Star - March 25, 2012 ), Dr Tanya Zakrison of Doctors for Fair Taxation ( CBC Lang & O'Leary Exchange - March 22, 2012 ) - an inspiring interview where co-host Kevin O'Leary tries to use his typically rude bombast and bullying style to push Dr Zakrison back on her heels, she doesn't bat an eye, doesn't get angry or flustered - leaving Mr. O'Leary looking like the selfish, mean-spirited, ideologically driven idiot that he so often is revealed to be, Dramatic Cuts ( CBC Radio - March 21, 2012 ), the New Face of Poverty ( CBC Radio - March 22, 2012 ), Corporate America Untaxed - Tax Avoidance on the Rise ( The Greenlining Institute - August 2011 ), The Economic Crisis Facing Seniors of Color ( The Greenlining Institute - August 2011 ), and - 2012 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission ( CUPE - March 2012 ).
And as we all organize ourselves to be most effective at moving forward the racial equity, racial justice effort - always understood through an intersectional lens - again - Take Action to protect refugees in Canada, sign the below petition related to social housing and federal government budget priorities and Call or email your MPP ( and MP ! ) - let them know you oppose the austerity agenda, that you don't want the government to follow Drummond's dangerous path, and that you will vote for an MPP ( or MP ) who supports good jobs and a strong economy. Click Here for MPP contact information or Click Here to electronically message your MPP RIGHT NOW! And as we now work to most effectively harness the current political moment provincially - being ever wary of efforts at avoiding the race conversation by using the "newcomer" or "immigrant" as a more convenient and comfortable "proxy" - please continue to spread the racial justice policy priority messages - provincial employment equity, and ethno-racially and otherwise disaggregated data gathering, collection and analysis - see - Ontario New Democratic Party ( NDP ) wants to hear your thoughts on the budget - "In this minority government, with an election looming, we cannot take the budget lightly. This budget will shape people’s lives. That's why we want you to have your say. Email or call us with your thoughts on the budget" - Call - 1-855-ONT-BDGT - or go on-line at - http://www.ondpcaucus.com/yoursay/ And don't forget how to creatively engage the new leadership of the Official Opposition federally - see a Toronto Star piece below - "NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader" !!
Lastly - any thoughts are welcome as to who - in Canada - we might approach to best carry forward the racial justice equivalent of - The righteous anger of Bruce Springsteen ( Toronto Star - March 26, 2012 ) - also attached !!
REMEMBER - the CHAMP Action Research Study is still actively recruiting !
All the details below and attached - michael
 |
The Debate - Realigning Canadian Immigration - in an effort to modernize Canada's immigration process, the Conservative Government has introduced several key proposals. The Agenda looks at what the proposals mean for those coming to Canada. Guests - Francisco Rico-Martinez - Co-Director - FCJ Refugee Centre, Phil Triadafilopoulos - Assistant Professor - Political Science - University of Toronto Scarborough, Binoy Thomas - Editor-in-Chief - The Weekly Voice, Audrey Macklin - Professor - Faculty of Law - University of Toronto, and - Arthur Sweetman - Professor of Economics - McMaster University. The Agenda with Steve Paikin airs weeknights at 8:00pm and 11:00pm ET on TVO.
Myths and Facts related to Bill C-31 ( Canadian Council for Refugees - March 2012 ) - the Canadian Council for Refugees now has an updated Fact Sheet - Myths and Facts on Bill C-31 - as well as other new outreach and advocacy tools ! See the Fact Sheet at - http://ccrweb.ca/en/myths-and-facts-c31 Please share this information with your Member of Parliament and with as many members of the general public as you can - they need to know why this new legislation is bad for refugees and bad for Canadian communities. In addition, they have created additional social media resources that incorporate these myths and facts. To check out these new model tweets and for more information on how to get involved on social media, see - http://ccrweb.ca/en/social-media-c31 For resources to help you contact your Member of Parliament with your concerns on Bill C-31, and to encourage others to do the same, see - http://ccrweb.ca/en/write-your-member-parliament If you have already contacted your local Member of Parliament with your concerns, please contact all the MPs on the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration - see - http://ccrweb.ca/files/cimm2012.xls ( The Standing Committee will be studying Bill C-31 after the bill passes the present second reading in the House of Commons ). The main page for Bill C-31 on the CCR's website, with links to all of the resources above, is - http://ccrweb.ca/en/refugee-reform Thank you for getting involved in this critical foundational piece of the Ontario - and Canada - community based racial justice education and advocacy effort !!
Take Action to Protect Refugees in Canada ( April 2012 ) - The Conservative's Bill C-31 will mean that when a person arrives in Canada as a refugee they will face a series of unjust measures which violate the principles of refugee protection. The impact of these harsh measures is compounded by the fact that many refugees have already lived through extremely difficult, stressful and life threatening experiences before they arrive in Canada. Several of the most disturbing, unfair and human rights denying elements of Bill C-31 are - 1) Some persons making a refugee claim in Canada can be detained for up to a year, without a review of the reasons for their detention – imagine fleeing a war-torn situation, arriving in Canada and being placed in a jail cell for up to a year with limited opportunities to make your claim as a refugee; 2) The Bill states that there will be a five year ban on family reunification for some refugees who are accepted into Canada. Imagine you have been given a second chance at life in a peaceful country, but your safety cannot be shared with your loved ones. They must continue to live in an unstable and perhaps life threatening situation; 3) The Bill states that some refugees will not be able to appeal a negative decision of their refugee claim. You will be returned to the country you came from – and to the harsh realities you fled; 4) The Bill gives the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration power to arbitrarily influence the outcome of refugee decision making; and - 5) The Bill threatens to expel refugees from Canada when the conditions in their home country which forced them to flee no longer exist. The violations and shortcomings in Bill C-31 do not uphold international refugee and human rights principles which Canada helped to establish. Add your voice at - http://www.amnesty.ca/protectrefugees Sign & share Amnesty’s appeal to MP’s – easy way to send a message - http://www.amnesty.ca/iwriteforjustice/take_action.php?actionid=843
Pointers to Discriminatory Canadian Immigration Policies ( Stephen Kaduuli - October 2011 ) - Canada has been a haven for refuge seekers from around the world for many years because of its relatively generous immigration rules. For that reason, in 1986, the people of Canada were awarded the Nansen Refugee Award by UNHCR for helping refugees integrate successfully into Canadian society. However, there appear to be discriminatory tendencies in its immigration policies, which in the past were based on race. This contribution delves into the differential treatment of immigrants from the global south compared to the preferential treatment of English speaking Caucasians from Europe and Oceania. The question that arises at this juncture is why, given all the accolades heaped on Canada, do discriminatory laws and practices persist in the assessment of non-European immigrants’ credentials. Could it be that the laws and practices are crafted to cleverly continue with the old agenda of keeping certain types or races of people out of Canada? The Canadian Council for Refugees (2000: 1) observes that racism and discrimination are part of the Canadian reality, manifested at the personal level in the way individuals are treated and manifested at the systemic level, through government bodies and the refugee and immigration policies that have a differential impact on racialized groups. Those bodies and policies can also lead to discrimination against newcomers as a group, or certain sub-groups of newcomers. This contribution proceeds by taking a look at the country’s history in terms of immigration policy history to shed light on the current underlying discrimination in immigration policy, practices and law. See full article at - http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1949981
Is there an ideological divide in immigration and refugee system? Research hints judges' decisions correlate with the party that appointed them ( by Don Butler - The Vancouver Sun - Postmedia News - November 26, 2011 ) - the Federal Court of Canada judges appointed by Conservatives are significantly less likely to overturn decisions by government officers and tribunals, to deny refugee claims or deport non-citizens, than are judges appointed by past Liberal administrations. And an applicant's likelihood of success diminishes even further if the appeal or review of their case is heard by judges named to the court in the past three years by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. See attached or - http://www.vancouversun.com/news/there+ideological+divide+immigration+refugee+system/5772212/story.html
New Face of Poverty ( CBC Radio - March 22, 2012 ) - where in discussing a new report released by Statistics Canada - Metro Morning host Matt Galloway speaks with - of all people - their regular business commentator - a consistently narrow-minded, frustratingly uni-dimensional raving promoter of all things neo-liberal - of the all too familiar and mindless lower taxes good, government ( and CBC funding !? ) bad mentality ? In looking at who are "lower income" Canadians they reference seniors and lone-parents as relative success stories in percentage change over time terms - and then turn to "newcomers" or "new immigrants" - where Hlinka focuses his analysis on international visa students that he apparently teaches ( indoctrinates !? ) at George Brown College and avoids any discussion of actual newcomers - let alone "peoples of colour" - for which Mr. Galloway then thanks him !? Listen at - http://www.cbc.ca/metromorning/columnists/business/2012/03/22/new-face-of-poverty/
Racism in Canada profiled on "The Story From Here" ( CBC Radio - March 28, 2012 ) - in part one of this episode - an aboriginal man talks about the racism he experienced in the Alberta oil patch, and award winning poet George Elliot Clarke speaks about the racist treatment of black refugees in Nova Scotia from the war of 1812. Listen to the program at - http://www.cbc.ca/thestoryfromhere/episode-update/2012/03/29/march-28-2012/
Canada’s Office of Religious Freedom raises human rights concerns ( CBC The Link - March 21, 2012 ) -
During the last federal election
campaign the Conservative Party announced its plan to create an Office
of Religious Freedom. Closed door talks have begun between Canada's
Minister of Foreign Affairs and some religious leaders in Canada. Arvind
Sharma, a professor of comparative religion at McGill University in
Montreal says the Canadian government may be creating problems for
itself. Listen to CBC "The Link" - Public Radio International segment at - http://www.rcinet.ca/english/column/the-link-s-top-stories/14-49_2012-03-21-canadarsquo-s-proposed-office-of-religious-freedom-raises-human-rights-concerns/ See Prof. Arvind Sharma's book at - http://www.springer.com/philosophy/value+theory/book/978-90-481-8992-2Komagata Maru coming to life on new interactive website ( CBC The Link - March 2012 ) -
British Columbia’s Simon Fraser
University has just launched a new interactive
website about the Komagata Maru, a ship that arrived in Vancouver in 1914. Most
of its 376 passengers were from Punjab in what was then British India, and 352 of
them were not allowed to disembark in Canada. Upon their arrival back in India,
twenty of them were later shot and killed by British officials during a skirmish at
the dock. Moninder Bubber is community liaison officer with the Simon Fraser
University Library. She tells Carmel Kilkenny from Radio Canada International how
this website on the Komagata Maru is unique, and why this event is still relevant in Canada today. CBC "The Link" - Radio Canada International ( PRI ) segment - http://www.rcinet.ca/english/column/the-link-s-top-stories/14-17_2012-03-29-komagata-maru-coming-to-life-on-interactive-website/ Website link - http://komagatamarujourney.ca/
website about the Komagata Maru, a ship that arrived in Vancouver in 1914. Most
of its 376 passengers were from Punjab in what was then British India, and 352 of
them were not allowed to disembark in Canada. Upon their arrival back in India,
twenty of them were later shot and killed by British officials during a skirmish at
the dock. Moninder Bubber is community liaison officer with the Simon Fraser
University Library. She tells Carmel Kilkenny from Radio Canada International how
this website on the Komagata Maru is unique, and why this event is still relevant in Canada today. CBC "The Link" - Radio Canada International ( PRI ) segment - http://www.rcinet.ca/english/column/the-link-s-top-stories/14-17_2012-03-29-komagata-maru-coming-to-life-on-interactive-website/ Website link - http://komagatamarujourney.ca/
2012 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission ( CUPE - March 2012 ) - in a quick review of this attached recent contribution to the 2012 Ontario Budget debates we see several welcome references from our friends at CUPE-Ontario to the need to acknowledge and address the growing racialized or "colour-coded" inequities and disparities in Ontario - though unfortunately in no doubt taking guidance from certain of those allies that continue to avoid naming race as a ( if not "the" ) key driver of disadvantage - and thereby "cloaking" this concern in the proxy of "newcomer" or "immigrant" - the folks at CUPE have in a below excerpt fallen into that trap - see - Section - 1.2 - Commission on the Reform of Ontario’s Public Services ( page 8 ) - "These cuts to services will negatively affect all the people of Ontario. Women, especially racialized women, will take on a disproportionate amount of the burden to make-up for social service cuts through providing care in the home." Section - 3.6.5 - Ontario Works ( p. 23 ) - "Social assistance cheques will be cut and even fewer people will qualify for benefits if the province implements the Commission’s recommendations - a move that would not gel with the McGuinty government’s poverty reduction strategy. A $179 million funding cut would mean many of Ontario’s poorest people, the majority of whom are children, women, people with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples, ( what of peoples of colour !? ) and immigrant populations, would have to rely on food banks, that are already stretched to capacity, and other charities just to survive." Section - 3.7 - Equality ( p. 24-25 ) - "The downloading of services and the push to fund only “high priority” services will negatively impact the quality of life of people from equality seeking and marginalized communities the most." "Those that provide front-line care........are women, many whom are racialized women and recent immigrants." "........women continue to take home $0.70 for every dollar earned by men and racialized women early only $0.60 compared to non-racialized men." "........front-line service providers ( women, of whom many are racialized women ) will be the first to face lower compensation ( including wages, loss of benefits, loss of pay equity rights, and loss of pension ) through either the casualization of the work, being forced to work for less, or loss of employment completely." and "Our communities and economy need a budget commitment for equality to make sure that the broader public sector workforce reflects the community to which it is servicing."
Social housing and federal government budget priorities - a petition ( Red Tent Campaign - March 2012 ) - attached is a petition that we encourage you to distribute and sign - part of an initiative organized by the Red Tent Campaign for affordable housing. Though we need to encourage the folks at the Campaign to speak more clearly and openly about the considerable racialized disadvantage of peoples of colour - beyond that as experienced by First Peoples communities - find more information about their efforts at - http://defendoursocialhousing.com/
Current and Critical
a) Ontario Public Service one of Canada's "Best Employers" - For Whom ? ( BOPSers - April 2012 )
b) Post-Racial - Americans and Race in the Age of Obama ( The Greenlining Institute - November 2011 )
c) REMINDER - CHAMP Action Research Study Actively Recruiting
d) A Boy to Be Sacrificed ( New York Times - March 24, 2012 )
e) Call for Submissions - by April 22, 2012 - for Black Diaspora Networking Zone for Global Village International AIDS 2012 Conference ( Washington, DC - July 22-27, 2012 )
f) Request for Proposals – First Nations Agricultural Interventions Research in Canada ( applications due by April 27, 2012 )
g) Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20 - June 15-23, 2012 - Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft
h) Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture - study and series ( Anderson Cooper 360 - April 2-6, 2012 )
i) NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader ( Toronto Star - March 24, 2012 )
a) Ontario Public Service one of Canada’s "Best Employers" - For Whom ? According to the 2011 Human Development Index, Canada is ranked among the top ten best countries within which to live. (http://hdr.undp.org/en/statistics/hdi/ ). In the realm of public service, for the second year in a row the Ontario Public Service ( OPS ) gained recognition as one of Canada’s Best Employers for "new" Canadians. However, there is empirical evidence to suggest that this is only a part of, not the entire picture. The OPS is of course just a microcosmic representation of the wider society of which it is a part, and to this extent it mirrors societal inequalities, wherein with closer examination at the micro level it is revealed that there are ever more glaring disparities and inequalities with respect to various segments of Ontario and Canadian society - specifically inequality in the treatment, hiring, promotion and retention of racialised employees. See a full BOPSers statement attached - as well as recent correspondences forwarded from the Hon. Senator Donald Oliver related to a BOPSers December 2011 Town Hall Meeting, which discloses the fact that Premier Dalton McGuinty, and the Secretary of the Cabinet, Peter Wallace, have both been made aware of these issues. A valuable "window of opportunity" to follow up on and engage the senior provincial leadership on racial equity, racial justice issues, ever more stark "colour-coded" realities and critical policy priorities !
b) Post-Racial - Americans and Race in the Age of Obama ( The Greenlining Institute - November 2011 ) - since the election of Barack Obama as the United States’ first African American president, there has been much discussion of whether this means the USA has become a “post-racial” society. Does race still matter in America ? This question is particularly significant in light of the fact that within about three decades, people of color are projected to become the majority. Policy based on mistaken assumptions could cripple efforts to revive the USA economy. Using the most definitive survey data available, the report investigated perceptions of race in America among different racial and ethnic groups and how those perceptions compare to measurable realities of USA society. For full study see - http://greenlining.org/resources/pdfs/AmericansandRaceinAgeofObama.pdf
d) A Boy to Be Sacrificed ( New York Times - March 24, 2012 ) - in the Morocco of the 1980s, where homosexuality did not, of course, exist, I was an effeminate little boy, a boy to be sacrificed, a humiliated body who bore upon himself every hypocrisy, everything left unsaid. By the time I was 10, though no one spoke of it, I knew what happened to boys like me in our impoverished society; they were designated victims, to be used, with everyone’s blessing, as easy sexual objects by frustrated men. And I knew that no one would save me — not even my parents, who surely loved me. For them too, I was shame, filth. A “zamel.” Read this moving and compelling piece attached and at - http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/25/opinion/sunday/a-boy-to-be-sacrificed.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=abdellah+taia&st=Search
e)Call for Submissions for Black Diaspora Networking Zone for Global Village International AIDS 2012 Conference ( Washington, DC - July 22-27, 2012 ) - ABDGN, the Black AIDS Institute and the Black Diaspora Regional Working Group for AIDS 2012 have extended the call for submissions for the Black Diaspora Networking Zone at AIDS 2012 in Washington DC July 22-27, 2012. Applications are now due - MONDAY APRIL 22nd, 2012 !! The Zone
will be a prominent and dynamic space for people of African descent and
African/Caribbean migrant and mobile populations from around the world.
The organizers invite you to submit an activity proposal to be
presented at the Zone during the
week of the conference ranging from poster presentations, facilitated
dialogues, cultural activities, visual arts displays and panel
discussions. Be creative and help make the Black Diaspora Networking Zone a place for inspiration, action, and global solidarity across its diverse populations and experiences. For details and the submission form click here - http://bit.ly/HswM5I Contact - African and Black Diaspora Global Network on HIV and AIDS - 2 Carlton Street, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1J3, Tel - 416-525-6662, Fax - 416-593-5867, Website - www.abdgn.orgf) Request for Proposals – First Nations Agricultural Interventions Research in Canada ( applications due by April 27, 2012 ) - Community Economic Development in First Nations communities is a priority for Heifer International Canada’s programmatic portfolio. They are soliciting proposals to pursue Canada-wide research to help them understand exemplary or promosing practices that are already in place and determine how Heifer International Canada can be involved in positive change. Read more >>
g) Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20 - June 15-23, 2012 - Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft - during the Rio+20 negotiations and in the lead-up to the next Rio+20 planning meeting, the UN-Non-Governmental Liaison Service and Social Watch co-organized a side event entitled “Towards the People’s Summit at Rio+20: Civil Society Alternatives to the Zero Draft.” This event brought together key players involved in the People’s Summit, a parallel process to Rio+20 organized by civil society that will take place 15-23 June in Flamingo Park, Rio de Janeiro. Three members of the Brazilian Civil Society Facilitating Committee for Rio+20, along with representatives from La Via Campesina and IBON International, shared their views on the Rio+20 informal negotiations, articulated goals for the conference, and formulated strategies to include human rights in discussions at Rio and beyond. See further information at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3814 For information on Rio+20 ( June 20-22, 2012 ) see - http://www.uncsd2012.org/rio20/ and - The Road to Rio e-Newsletter at - http://www.un-ngls.org/newsletters/newsletter.php?id=704
h) "Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture" - study and series ( Anderson Cooper 360 - April 2-6, 2012 ) - television journalist Anderson Cooper details the results of a study commissioned by his program AC360° to explore children's perception of race in the USA. The week long series - "Kids on Race - The Hidden Picture", provides an in-depth look at how young children interpret ambiguous drawings and understand interracial friendships. The study aims to answer such questions as these - “Is race a factor in how children view conflicts and choose friends ? Do children see race or are they, as many parents believe, socially colorblind ? How, when and why do they form their opinions on race ? Can those opinions change over time or at a certain age, are kids “hard-wired” about race ? And does the racial make-up of their school and environment affect their opinions on race ?” See the series homepage at - http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/category/kids-on-race/?hpt=ac_ac3
i) NDP makes the right bet by making Thomas Mulcair its leader ( Toronto Star - March 24, 2012 ) - The New Democratic Party has taken the plunge. It has entrusted its leadership to the candidate most likely to push and pull it in new directions, the man who told it frankly to dump the comfy old “1950s boilerplate” language of the labour and social-democratic movements and reach out to a much wider universe of voters.In choosing Thomas Mulcair the NDP did the right thing for its future and for all Canadians with a stake in seeing a strong, progressive alternative to the Conservative government. More than anything else, Mulcair held out to New Democrats something they have never before seriously contemplated on the federal level – the prospect of actually winning. See full Opinion piece attached and at - http://www.thestar.com/opinion/article/1151596--ndp-makes-the-right-bet-by-making-thomas-mulcair-its-leader
Recent racial justice related tools and resources as well as upcoming anti-oppressive learning and engagement opportunities taking place around Ontario -
1) Jump For Jamaica - Jamaican Canadians and supporters Celebrate Jamaica's 50th Anniversary ( 1962-2012 )
2) World Atlas of Gender Equality in Education ( UNESCO-UIS - March - 2012 )
3) UN Population Fund ( UNFPA ) launches new website - International Conference on Population & Development ( ICPD ) Beyond 2014
4) “Voices of Youth on Social Justice” on World Day of Social Justice 2012 ( International Labour Organization - ILO )
5) Children in an Urban World - The State of the World's Children 2012 ( UNICEF - February 2012 )
6) Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity ( UN-OHCHR - November 2011 )
7) Tell Us Your Hair Story - Understanding Culture + Community for Black Youth in Ontario's Systems of Care ( Advocate for Children & Youth - March 2012 )
8) REMINDER - Checking Our Constitution@30 - The Influence of the Canadian Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms on Legislation, Identities and Federalism ( Ottawa - April 17-18, 2012 )
9) REMINDER - "Taking Real Steps Towards Racial Justice" - ARC Spring 2012 Racial Justice Webinar Series ( On-Line - April 19, 2012 )
10) Diverse Spaces - Examining identity, community and citizenship within Canadian public culture ( Peterborough - April 19-21, 2012 )
11) REMINDER - Ontario Day of Action Against Cuts ( Queen's Park - Toronto - April 21, 2012 )
12) KANONHSTATON – SIX NATIONS ( The Protected Place ) - May the Sacred Fire Never End in Your Heart ( Toronto - April 21, 2012 )
13) UN Conference on Trade And Development - UNCTAD XIII ( Doha, Qatar - April 21-26, 2012 )
14) Activism in Education - Pushing Limits in Increasingly Conservative Times Symposium ( Toronto - April 25, 2012 )
15) OHRC Policy on Competing Human Rights - launch invitation ( Toronto - April 26, 2012 )
16) Transcending Borders Towards Discovering Sustainable Pathways from Local to Global Health Conference ( London - April 27-29, 2012 )
17) REMINDER - Equity & Inclusive Education - From Policy to Practice Conference ( Toronto - May 3-5, 2012 )
18) Mission to Canada - The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food ( cross Canada visit - May 6-16, 2012 )
19) We.Will.Now presents the 2012 Refocus Fashion Show ( Toronto - May 9, 2012 )
20) Heifer International Canada - Call for Small Grants Applications – Ontario ( applications due by May 11, 2012 )
21) Jamaica 50th Anniversary Schools Fundraising Concert ( Toronto - May 25, 2012 )
22) REMINDER - Our Dreams Matter Too - A Walk for Culturally Based Equity for First Nations Children ( Toronto - June 11, 2012 )
23) REMINDER - Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad ( Niagara-on-the-Lake - November 23-24, 2012 ) - Call for presentations by August 1, 2012 !!
24) METRAC Workplace Inclusion Conference 2012 ( Markham - September 20-21, 2012 )
25) REMINDER - Facing Race. Define Justice. Make Change Conference - organized by the Applied Research Center ( Baltimore - November 15-17, 2012 )
1) Jump For Jamaica - Jamaican Canadians & supporters celebrate Jamaica's 50th Anniversary ( 1962-2012 ) - the Jamaica 50 Celebration Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that has established a Steering Committee for Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area to plan an exciting and wide-ranging program of events and activities. The Committee’s goal is to show case the outstanding contributions of Jamaicans in Canada; to foster tourism to Jamaica; to encourage youth of Jamaican heritage to be better informed and to support Jamaica; and to provide a legacy to Jamaica and Canada through charitable and other social and cultural initiatives. The Committee will also collaborate with various community organizations in celebrating the 50th anniversary. For more information about the various activities taking place see - http://jamaica50.ca/
2) World Atlas of Gender Equality in Education ( UNESCO-UIS - March - 2012 ) - in the context of International Women’s Day, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ) and the UNESCO Institute for Statistics ( UIS ) jointly launched the World Atlas of Gender Equality in Education. Featuring over 120 maps, charts and tables on a wide range of sex-disaggregated indicators, the Atlas draws attention to continuing gender disparities, especially in terms of the educational pathways and progression of girls and boys.
3) UN Population Fund ( UNFPA ) launches new website - International Conference on Population & Development ( ICPD ) Beyond 2014 -
ICPD Beyond 2014
- is the official website for the UNFPA-led global review process of
the International Conference on Population and Development Programme of
Action (PoA).
The website details the progress of the Cairo vision to improve the
lives of all people and aims to consolidate comprehensive information
and personal reflections about the continuing relevance of the PoA. The
site is open for engagement and contributions from UNFPA partners,
stakeholders, and the general public. More information is available at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3770
5) Children in an Urban World - The State of the World's Children 2012 ( UNICEF - February 2012 ) - The State of the World’s Children, the annual flagship report of the United Nations Children’s Fund ( UNICEF ) was dedicated in 2012 to - “Children in an Urban World” - drawing attention to the fact that over a billion children are living in a more and more urbanized world. “Already, half of all people live in urban areas. By mid-century, over two thirds of the global population will call these places home,” the report explains. Cities are often perceived as a synonym for economic growth, development and employment. However, in reality, not all children are benefitting form urban growth. In this regard, the report draws attention to the fact that many children living in cities still lack access to education, health and sanitation. With different graphs and statistical tables the report aims to show the reality in which children in an urban world live; the challenges they face; and the main urban problems that affect their lives. The report also presents a number of examples of initiatives that try to improve the quality of life of these children; and it identifies policies that are needed to address urban disparities. See more at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3780
6) Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity ( UN-OHCHR - November 2011 ) -
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released “Discriminatory laws and practices and acts of violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity”, the first ever United Nations report addressing the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. The report, submitted to the Human Rights Council for its nineteenth session (to be held in Geneva in March 2012), highlights the ongoing and vicious homophobic and transphobic violence and discriminatory practices fuelled by people’s sexual orientation or gender identity – practices that are insufficiently addressed and condemned by Member States. See full Report and a Backgrounder at - http://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?page=article_s&id_article=3631
7) REMINDER - Tell Us Your Hair Story - Share Your Experience as a Black Youth in Care ( Provincial Advocate for Children & Youth - submissions due May 31, 2012 ) - the Provincial Advocate for Children & Youth's Office exciting youth outreach and engagement initiative launched during Black History Month - entitled, “Hairstory - Understanding Culture and Community - Black Youth in Ontario’s Systems of Care”. The goal of “Hairstory” is to bring together Black youth who have lived in care, currently live in care or are involved with the Youth Justice System, Children’s Mental Health Services or the Shelter System, to dialogue with other young people and prominent community leaders about culture and community and the barriers Black youth face within Ontario's systems of care. The Advocate's Office wants to work with young people to help instill pride, positive feelings about their identity and get involved in changing Ontario’s systems of care to better support Black youth. We want young people to talk about their hair care experience by asking, "If my hair could talk, what would it say?" We also want young people to talk about their overall experiences within Ontario's systems of care. You may wish to reflect on the knowledge staff have about caring for the hair of Black youth or about the positive or not so positive experiences you have had as a young person who identifies as being part of the "Black Community”. HERE's HOW - 1. Submit a story, a video, or a voice recording of why you are the ideal person to participate in “Hairstory”. 2. You can talk about your experience in care - be it in a group home, being involved in the youth justice system, the child welfare system, the children's mental health system, the shelter system or the system of services that are in place to address the needs of children with disabilities. 3. Send us your submission by May 31st 2012. 4. We have a panel of young people who will review all submissions we receive and select 10 young people who will join us on the first day of the two day “Hairstory” event. 5. Those not attending the first day, don't get discouraged, we want to invite you to attend Day two of our “Hairstory” weekend. It is on Day two we want to bring everyone together for the panel presentation and a bigger discussion of the issues that were raised in all of your submissions. This is an unique and exciting opportunity to have your voice heard and to be a part of a movement to create change. Please look at the videos we have online, talk to your friends, talk about your experiences and plan to join us for “Hairstory” and amplify your voice and your concerns. Check out - http://provincialadvocate.on.ca/storyofmyhair/index.htm and http://www.facebook.com/storyofmyhair Contact - Erica Smith - Strategic Development Department, Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth - 401 Bay Street, Suite 2200, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2Y4 - Tel - 416-325-5985 Toll Free - 1-800-263-2841 Fax - 416-325-5681 TTY - 416-325-2648 Email - erica...@provincialadvocate.on.ca Also - see attached !8) REMINDER - Checking Our Constitution@30 - The Influence of the Canadian Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms on Legislation, Identities and Federalism ( Ottawa - April 17-18, 2012 ) - April 17th, 2012 will mark the 30th anniversary of the patriation of the Canadian Constitution and the creation of a Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Constitution and Charter have had a profound impact on our law and public policy. Many Canadians view the Constitution and the Charter of Rights as shaping important aspects of our collective identity and defining a set of shared values. For the most part, Canadians hold a favorable opinion of the Constitution and Charter. Yet many see these defining documents as divisive. How have the debates over the Constitution shaped our identities? Have the Constitution and Charter of Rights strengthened or weakened Canadian democracy and Federalism? What have the Constitution and Charter meant for women, aboriginals, and language minorities, ethnic and visible minorities, religious groups and new Canadians? What role have the Courts played in the interpretation of the Constitution, and how has the Charter transformed the judiciary in Canada? Has the distinction between Law and Politics become blurred over the past thirty years? Are the courts becoming more or less accessible to the public? Are there benefits to an unwritten constitution? How has the Constitution affected the balance of powers in Canada, and the dynamics of federalism? For more information see - http://www.acs-aec.ca/en/events/other-events/checking-our-constitution30-the-influence-of-the-canadian-constitution-the-charter-of-rights-freedoms-on-legislation-identities-federalism-april-17-18-2012-ottawa-ontario-/
9) REMINDER - “Taking Real Steps Towards Racial Justice” ( April 19, 2012 - 1pm ET/10am PT ) - most people want to eliminate racism, but are not sure what to do or how to do it. Racism often occurs without consciousness or malice, but creating racial justice requires clarity and methodology. For further webinar details see - http://arc.org/webinars
10) Diverse Spaces - Examining identity, community and citizenship within Canadian public culture ( Peterborough - April 19-21, 2012 ) - a conference bringing together a diverse range of academics, community leaders, culture/heritage workers and students to discuss multiculturalism in Canadian public cultural sites and institutions. Drawing on interdisciplinary fields presentations will interrogate the spaces, the structures, the goals, the practices, the people and the processes of public cultural and heritage spaces on local community. KEYNOTE SPEAKERS - Rinaldo Walcott, Department of Sociology and Equity Studies in Education, OISE-University of Toronto - "Toward the Multicultural Public Good - Race, Caste and the Canadian Public Sphere"; and - Mo Dhaliwal, Vancouver International Bhangra Celebration Society, Vancouver - "Shattering Barriers between People - The Arts and Diverse Cultural Spaces". Organized by the Frost Centre for Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies, Trail College, Trent University - Peterborough. See information and registration details at - http://diversespaces.com/
11) Ontario Day of Action Against Cuts ( Queen's Park - Toronto - April 21, 2012 ) - from the Ontario Federation of Labour - your help is needed in building a broad‐based opposition to Premier McGuinty’s upcoming budget cuts and austerity agenda. After hiring banker Don Drummond - who made nearly 400 recommendations targeting jobs and public services, Premier McGuinty is preparing to table a budget that offers prosperity for banks and corporations but austerity for the rest of us. The looming cuts will jeopardize every aspect of society - from health care to full‐day kindergarten to pensions. They will destroy the social safety net at a time when many Ontarians need support. And of course the effect of these cuts will be most strongly felt by First Peoples and peoples of colour, women, other equity ‐ seeking groups and everyone who is struggling to make ends meet. The projected public service layoffs will disproportionately affect the peoples of colour and First Peoples who are over-represented among the more recently hired ( the very limited gains of the current quasi-employment equity initiatives at the province !? ) as well as women - who make up 8 out of 10 front line services providers and administrators. However, it is the loss of services that will hurt our communities most - cuts to child care will impact single‐parents, cuts to special education will target those with disabilities and cuts to education and health care will hurt most Ontarians - but again First Peoples and peoples of colour much more severely !! Opposition to these cuts is about defending equity and human rights in our Province. We need to be ready for a long political struggle against the austerity agenda. Community‐labour partnerships are going to be an important part of building a successful and broad‐based opposition. the Ontario Federation of Labour needs each of your endorsements and assistance in mobilizing for a Day of Action Against Cuts on Saturday, April 21, from 3 to 5 pm – Queen’s Park, Toronto. Please send your endorsement to Duncan MacDonald at the Ontario Federation of Labour - 4164437668 or dmacd...@ofl.ca. The call‐out document, posters and flyers for April 21 may be downloaded from the OFL website at - www.OFL.ca. You can support the Day of Action by - Passing an emergency motion to support the Day of Action; Printing rally flyers and distributing them at every meeting, event and action; Inviting friends on Facebook - http://on.fb.me/A21NoCuts ; Featuring the Day of Action on your website and Facebook page; Appointing an organizer to coordinate your members and community; Bringing signs, banners and flags to show support !! For questions about mobilizing and logistics, contact - Laurie Hardwick - 4164437657 or lhar...@ofl.ca To register your buses with the OFL, contact - Carrol Anne Sceviour - 4164437670 or csce...@ofl.ca Help to mobilize your members, your families, your friends and communities to stop the cuts and put Ontario on the road to equitable economic recovery. The ramifications of budget cuts and the Drummond Commission must be understood, challenged and defeated by the people of Ontario. Our collective future depends on it !! See explanatory letter of invitation attached.
12) KANONHSTATON - SIX NATIONS ( The Protected Place ) - May the Sacred Fire Never End in Your Heart ( Toronto - April 21, 2012 ) - on April 20th, 2006 the peoples of the Six Nations Grand River Territory were violently raided by the Ontario Provincial Police at the reclamation of a small piece of land known as the Douglas Creek Estates, renamed Kanonhstaton or The Protected Place. The former Douglas Creek Estates were at the edge of a settler town known as Caledonia, bordering the Six Nations Reserve of Oshweken, the largest native reserve in Canada. Ongoing displacement and encroachment of Six Nations peoples - in direct violation of the Haldimand Proclamation of 1784 - lead to the uprising in defense of the land. The reclamation sparked one of the biggest demonstrations of indigenous resistance to ongoing colonial encroachment since the Oka Crisis of 1990. The films document these events and the speakers from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory speak to their continuing strength, dignity and courage in the struggle - “Day Zero - the Invasion. Six Nations Reclamation” by Jon Jeex ( 7:00pm ), “Inside the Reclamation” by Alicia Elliott ( 8:00pm ) Where - Graduate Students Union - Harvest Noon Cafe - 16 Bancroft Avenue ( east of Spadina, north of College ), Toronto. See - http://wccctoronto.wordpress.com/
13) UN Conference on Trade And Development - UNCTAD XIII ( Doha, Qatar - April 21-26, 2012 ) - "A true break" with the prevailing thinking behind the global economic system over the past 30 years and a shift to a reformed system of "development-centred globalization" that allows more stable and inclusive economic progress is needed as the world recovers from recession, the Secretary-General of UNCTAD said in a recent report for the upcoming UNCTAD conference - "....'business as usual' is the wrong response, both for short-term macroeconomic and for long-term structural, social and environmental reasons. The interconnected challenges of rebalancing financial systems and real economies, repairing domestic social contracts, and tackling environmental, demographic and food challenges cannot be dealt with through the incremental and discrete actions which are typical of the interplay of market forces." "....in our interdependent world, a more secure and inclusive global economy requires strong international leadership and carries collective responsibilities. See the Civil Society Forum ( April 17-25, 2012 ) at - http://unctadxiii.org/en/Pages/Civil%20Society/Civil-Society-Portal.aspx For general information - http://unctadxiii.org/en/Pages/home.aspx
14) Activism in Education - Pushing Limits in Increasingly Conservative Times Symposium ( Toronto - April 25 - 6:00-8:00pm, 2012 ) - Educating Citizens in Global Times for Knowing, Caring, and Acting ( by James Banks ) - James Banks holds the Chair in Diversity Studies and is Founding Director of the Center for Multicultural Education at the University of Washington, Seattle. He is a past President of the American Educational Research Association (AERA) and a specialist in social studies education and in multicultural education. His most recent book is entitled, Diversity and Citizenship Education - Global Perspectives - Teaching Strategies for Ethnic Studies. James Banks’ fundamental principles for developing inclusive curriculum have been a foundation for equity work across many school districts and teacher education programs in Ontario. Occupy Education ( by Judy Rebick ) - Judy Rebick is a well-known Canadian social justice activist, writer, educator and speaker - currently the Eakin Fellow in Canadian Studies at McGill University. She is also part of the Media panel on CBC radio’s Q. Her latest book is Transforming Power - From the Personal to the Political. Judy Rebick is the founding publisher of rabble.ca, Canada’s well known independent online news and discussion site, she is perhaps best known to Canadians as a former president of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women, Canada’s largest women’s group. For more information - see this link - and - location - Isabel Bader Theatre - 93 Charles St. W., Toronto ( just east of the Museum Subway Station ) - and to RSVP - wwsympos...@utoronto.ca ( space is limited )
Politique sur les droits de la personne contradictoires de la CODP ( Toronto - Le jeudi 26 avril 2012 ) - À mesure que les gens comprennent mieux leurs droits et entendent les exercer, il peut sembler que certains de ces droits entrent en conflit avec les droits d’autrui. Cela s’applique tout particulièrement à la société de plus en plus diversifiée et complexe de l’Ontario. Des conflits peuvent survenir lorsqu’une personne ou un groupe tente de se prévaloir d’un droit ou d’agir selon des valeurs ou des intérêts précis). Parfois, ces revendications peuvent être en conflit avec celles d’autres personnes, ou sembler l’être. Selon les circonstances, par exemple, les droits de ne pas subir de discrimination fondée sur la croyance, l’orientation sexuelle ou le sexe peuvent sembler entrer en opposition les uns avec les autres, ou avec d’autres droits, lois et pratiques. L’objectif de la politique de la CODP est de fournir aux organismes, décisionnaires, parties à un différend, arbitres et autres décisionnaires un guide claire et convivial sur la façon d’évaluer, de traiter et de résoudre des situations de droits contradictoires. La politique aidera les établissements d’enseignement et particuliers à faire face à des situations courantes de droits contradictoires et à éviter de consacrer temps et argent au dépôt d’un recours judiciaire devant un tribunal ou une autre entité chargée de trancher en matière de droits de la personne. La politique offre un cadre d’intervention en situation de droits contradictoires pouvant être utilisé dans sa forme actuelle ou adapté aux besoins spécifiques d’un établissement. La Commission des droits de la personne de l’Ontario et le Centre for Human Rights de l’Université York vous invite au lancement de la - Politique sur les droits de la personne contradictoires de la CODP. Nous vous invitons à assister en personne ou par webémission au lancement de la politique - Le jeudi 26 avril 2012, de 9 h 30 – 12 h 30 Endroit - Tribute Communities Recital Hall - Fine Arts Accolade East Building - 83, boulevard York, Université York, 4700, rue Keele. Le lien à la webémission vous sera transmis sur réception de votre confirmation. Veuillez confirmer votre présence d’ici le 13 avril 2012 à - communi...@ohrc.on.ca
16) Transcending Borders Towards Global Health - Discovering Sustainable Pathways from Local to Global ( London - April 27-29, 2012 ) -
The conference
that aims to advance awareness and knowledge of Global Health issues,
locally and abroad by engaging members of the global health community,
other academics and professionals across different disciplines to share
their innovative ideas and concepts
on the dynamics of Global Health and the socio-ecological determinants
that impact health worldwide. Sub-themes will include a range of
interdisciplinary topics - International Health & Ethics, Marginalized & Healthy Communities, EcoHealth, Education, Advocacy & Policy.
The idea to host an international conference began with a vision and
belief that through co-operation, discussion, the creation of linkages
and partnerships, active components
for change to solve global health problems both locally and internationally could be fostered. All those interested in Global Health are welcome to register. Confirmed keynote speakers and plenary panellists include - Dr. Karen Hill - Aboriginal Health, World Health Organization Director General, Dr. Margaret Chan (Video Message), Dr. Danielle Martin - Chair of Canadian Doctors for Medicare, Dr. Ted Schrecker - Author of "Fatal Indifference - The G8,
Africa & Health" & Coordinator of the GKN of the WHO Commission
on Social Determinants of Health, Kenise Murphy - "Migrating to Ontario Over the Age of 50 - Implications for physical and mental health", Kathryn Edmunds - "We Want People to Know - The Lives and Health of Women Temporary Agricultural Workers in Southwestern Ontario" and - Dr. Jeff Turnbull, Founder of the Ottawa Inner City Health Project & former CMA President. Also featuring -
Seeds of Hope: Visions of sustainability, steps toward change
- a new, full-colour and interactive exhibit inspired by the Earth
Charter that stresses our interconnectedness with the rest of the
community of life and the need to broaden our sphere of compassion and concern.
It will be on display throughout the Transcending
Borders conference. The key message "It starts with one," encourages
viewers to overcome feelings of powerlessness and highlights the fact
that a single individual can initiate positive change. The conference organizing committee is passionate
about global health and the
pursuit of promoting equity, justice, participation, and access to
health care for at-risk and under-served populations through culturally
respectful forms of exchange and partnership by advocating for ethical
and sustainable methods to address global health
issues. For more information visit - www.transcendingborders.ca or
contact - Ellena Andoniou at - Phone - 519-661-2111 ext 89135 or E-mail - globalhealth@schulich.uwo.ca
17) REMINDER - EQUITY AND INCLUSIVE EDUCATION - From Policy to Practice ( Toronto - May 3-5, 2012 ) - the Toronto District School Board FUTURES 2012 Conference is taking place at the Allstream Centre in the Exhibition Grounds at the CNE in Toronto on May 3 - 5, 2012. As hoped for the conference has captured the interest of school boards from across the province. The keynote speakers include - Sylvia Maracle, Tim Wise, Uzma Shakir, Dr. Wayne Hammond, Connor Steele, Dr. Pedro Noguera and the TDSB Director, Dr. Chris Spence, see attached. For up-to-date conference information visit - www.tdsbFUTURES.com
18) Mission to Canada - The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food ( cross Canada visit - May 6-16, 2012 ) -
From
May 6th to 16th, Olivier de Schutter, the United Nations Special
Rapporteur on the Right to Food, will be conducting a formal country
mission to Canada - including stops in Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton and the Island Lakes Region. He and his team will be looking at issues
including - economic accessibility and poverty; Aboriginal peoples and
the right to food; organization of food chains; governance, policies and
programs; and international development, trade and investment. A coordinating committee, including Food Secure Canada, is assisting in convening a series of meetings with civil society across the country. For more
information about the right to food and the mission to Canada, including
how to send submission to the Special Rapporteur, click here.
Sign up to participate in a pan-Canadian call about how to promote the People's Food Policy to your MP. Download some useful background information and how to get involved - here.
19) We.Will.Now presents the 2012 Refocus Fashion ShowWednesday, May 9, 2012 - from 4:45 PM to 8:30 PM
Art Gallery of Ontario/Weston Family Learning Centre - 317 Dundas Street West, TorontoTickets are free. Visit - wewillnow.com or 2012refocus.eventbrite.com - to reserve your tickets. |
 |
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZnBLBUJLRo&context=C4926a02ADvjVQa1PpcFNDJHq_an8_uQY8Jc8jepX0lLK61iuxLbc=
We.Will.Now - www.wewillnow.com
A team of dynamic, creative, and passionate young people were brought together earlier this year, and they became the "Refocus Team". They worked together, learned from one another, and began to create the symbols that will be known throughout the city to represent the social causes that they are passionate about. For one night only, the Refocus Team is attempting to bring a diverse group of people together and hopefully getting them to "refocus" on what matters. The event will feature a one-of-a-kind fashion show, entertainment, light refreshments, and networking ( you will actually get to meet and talk to the stars of the night - the amazing Refocus team ). And one more thing, I heard a few whispers....and apparently they are going to be giving away some of the items that you will see on the runway. But, I don't like to start rumours, so forget I said that - What are you waiting for ? Get your tickets today !! PLEASE NOTE - the use of video/camera equipment during the fashion show is strictly prohibited. Media professionals and/or organizations interested in capturing the event must pre-register. A limited number of Media passes will be available. Media passes will allow you to capture the fashion show ONLY, the networking portion of the event and backstage activities are not accessible to media pass holders. To pre-register please send an email to - in...@wewillnow.ca - with "Media Pass request" in the subject line. We.Will.Now ( WWN ) is a non-profit organization focused on supporting and encouraging visible minority young people from under-resourced communities to become more socially and civically engaged in global development. Our objective is to provide quality learning opportunities both locally and abroad that strengthen communities and individuals to be self-sustaining leaders. WWN works to create innovative cross-cultural programs, projects and events that meet the needs of marginalized groups throughout the world, supports the priorities within the respective communities, and also allows for information sharing and dialogue.
20) Heifer International Canada - Call for Small Grants Applications - Ontario ( applications due - May 11, 2012 ) - Heifer International Canada is soliciting applications for up to $5,000 from Ontario-based organizations with charitable status. Eligible applicants are pursuing projects with a goal to assist people in need to engage in food-oriented income generating activities as a sustainable pathway out of poverty. Read more >>
21) Jamaica 50th Anniversary Schools Fundraising Concert ( Toronto - May 25, 2012 ) - you are cordially invited by the Kay Morris Foundation to its Jamaica 50th Anniversary Celebration Schools Fundraising Concert on Friday, May 25, 2012, at 7:00pm - at the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA), 995 Arrow Road, Toronto. All are welcome - media, special guests, Jamaicans, friends of Jamaica, people within the African Diaspora, international and local artists and all others to a historic night of celebration of Jamaica. This "gold carpet - star studded" event will feature a stellar line up of local and international artists such as - Marcia Brown, Kay Morris, Pastor John Taylor, Marvia Providence, Korexion, Dwayne Morgan, Nadine Williams, Liberty Silver, Jimmy Lala, and Patrick Blair. International artist - Landlord - from the Bahamas - will be the featured artist - all MC'd by both Allan Jones of G98.7FM and Bro. Gee of CIUT 89.5FM. Please come out and share in this historic event as they celebrate and raise funds to support elementary school students in Jamaica - to purchase computers and lap tops in support of library & computer lab project in these schools. For information contact - in...@kaymorrisfoundation.com or call - 416-844-7038.
22)
Our Dreams Matter Too - A Walk for Culturally Based Equity for First Nations Children ( Toronto - June 11, 2012 ) - Aboriginal children lag behind their non-Aboriginal peers in academic
performance and health status, and they are overrepresented in the child
welfare system – there are approximately eight
times more Aboriginal children in government care than other children.
Aboriginal child welfare programs are chronically underfunded,
preventing First Nations children from having the same chance to
succeed. Some research indicates that Aboriginal child welfare receives
22% less funding than non-Aboriginal child welfare services. On June 11, 2012 at 11:00am, students from the Factor-Inwentash Faculty
of Social Work at the University of Toronto, the School of Social Work
at Ryerson University, and the School of Social Work at York University,
will be hosting a walk for First Nation children’s cultural equity, on
behalf of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada ( FNCFCS ).
Participants will walk together to Queen’s Park where they will submit
letters to the Prime Minister and/or MP in support of First Nations
children. A mail box designed by children, representing the dreams, hope
and dignity of First Nations children, will be at the finish line for
participants to post their letters. We hope to have 500+
people walk in support of Aboriginal children and send 1000 letters to
the Prime Minister and local MPs asking them to support Aboriginal
children. Registration for the event is free. If you are
interested in joining the walk, getting assembly times and locations, registering as an individual or as part of a team - email -
walkforF...@gmail.com - for information - or with your name and/or team members’ names, your organization (optional) and contact information. See - Equity for 1st Nations Children - Human Rights Complaint - Briefing Note #1 ( FNCFCS - August 2011 ) - as well as - http://www.facebook.com/events/250861198327638/ For fuller background see - Our Dreams Matter Too - First Nations childrens rights, lives & education and Honouring the Children - Shadow Report on Canada to UN Committee on the Rights of the Child
23) Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad ( Niagara-on-the-Lake - November 23-24, 2012 ) - the Association for Canadian studies and the Canadian Ethnic Studies Association invite proposals for their joint annual conference entitled - Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad - to be held November 23-24, 2012 at the White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The organizers welcome proposals for papers, sessions, panels, roundtables, poster and video presentations that address the topics of ethnic identity, immigration, diversity, and multiculturalism in Canada and internationally. Welcomes topics include ethnic identity, identity formation, immigration, racism, discrimination, social justice, Indigenous Peoples, second- and third-generation issues, and Francophone identity. Organizers invite submissions from a variety of perspectives, academic disciplines, and areas of study, including the humanities and the social sciences. Travel assistance is available for some domestic presenters, the amount to be determined based on number of participants. The conference should be relevant to a wide range of people with a critical interest in ethnicity, race, immigration, multiculturalism, and related diversity issues in Canada, particularly as they intersect with issues of multiculturalism. Abstracts should be 250 words. Individual conference presentations will normally be 20 minutes in length, and conference sessions will be 90 minutes. Visit - cesa.uwinnipeg.ca or http://www.acs-aec.ca/en/events/acs-annual-conference/ethnic-identity-formation-change-in-canada-abroad/ for more information - or contact - James Ondrick, Director of Programs, Association for Canadian Studies - james....@acs-aec.ca Deadline for submission of proposals for papers, sessions, roundtables, and poster presentations is August 1, 2012.
23) Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad ( Niagara-on-the-Lake - November 23-24, 2012 ) - the Association for Canadian studies and the Canadian Ethnic Studies Association invite proposals for their joint annual conference entitled - Ethnic Identity Formation and Change in Canada and Abroad - to be held November 23-24, 2012 at the White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The organizers welcome proposals for papers, sessions, panels, roundtables, poster and video presentations that address the topics of ethnic identity, immigration, diversity, and multiculturalism in Canada and internationally. Welcomes topics include ethnic identity, identity formation, immigration, racism, discrimination, social justice, Indigenous Peoples, second- and third-generation issues, and Francophone identity. Organizers invite submissions from a variety of perspectives, academic disciplines, and areas of study, including the humanities and the social sciences. Travel assistance is available for some domestic presenters, the amount to be determined based on number of participants. The conference should be relevant to a wide range of people with a critical interest in ethnicity, race, immigration, multiculturalism, and related diversity issues in Canada, particularly as they intersect with issues of multiculturalism. Abstracts should be 250 words. Individual conference presentations will normally be 20 minutes in length, and conference sessions will be 90 minutes. Visit - cesa.uwinnipeg.ca or http://www.acs-aec.ca/en/events/acs-annual-conference/ethnic-identity-formation-change-in-canada-abroad/ for more information - or contact - James Ondrick, Director of Programs, Association for Canadian Studies - james....@acs-aec.ca Deadline for submission of proposals for papers, sessions, roundtables, and poster presentations is August 1, 2012.
24) METRAC Workplace Inclusion Conference 2012 ( Markham - September 20-21, 2012 ) -
METRAC invites you to their first annual Workplace Inclusion Conference
- a two-day event in September with 14 concurrent workshops and 4 panel
discussions - skill-building sessions which will provide you with
must-have knowledge and tools that you can take back into your
organization. The panel discussions offer idea-exchanges with organizations that have implemented a range of workplace inclusion initiatives.
These non-profit and public sector organizations will offer practical
insights into the benefits and challenges of undertaking these
initiatives. See conference registration package attached - with
workshop descriptions and information about the trainers and keynote
speakers. See - http://www.metrac.org/upcoming/downloads/workplace.inclusion.conference.package.pdf
25)
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michael kerr
Coordinator
Colour of Poverty - Colour of Change
# 1701 - 180 Dundas St. W.
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 1Z8
Ph. 416-966-3882
Fax 416-971-6780
E-mail - colouro...@gmail.com
Web-site - www.colourofpoverty.ca
Blog - www.racesEDJ.ca
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