Updates & Events
09 Mar, 2010 - Conference/Workshops- Canadian School of Peacebuilding- Winnipeg, June 14 - July 2, 2010
This second annual Canadian School of Peacebuilding (CSOP), a program of Canadian Mennonite University (CMU), will be held in Winnipeg, MB, from June 14 to July 2, 2010. Three 5-day sessions, each with two or three courses running concurrently, will be offered for academic credit or for professional training for practitioners.
The Canadian School of Peacebuilding has been created to serve practitioners, professionals, activists, students, non-governmental organizations and faith-based groups engaged in peacebuilding. Its goal is to serve peacebuilders around the world by bringing them together in a collaborative learning community, nurturing and equipping them for various forms of peace practice and exposing them to some of the most significant, emerging ideas and teachers in the field.
Courses will be taught by expert and engaging instructors who are committed to peace work. Already there are applications in hand for people from 25 different countries for this year’s event. You are invited to join this international gathering this summer for one or more of the following courses:
Session I – June 14-18
Poets, Prophets and Music of Social Justice
Instructors: John Bell, with Irma Fast Dueck
Our Contested Food System: Cultivating a Just Peace
In collaboration with Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Instructors: Cathy Campbell, Martin Entz, Kenton Lobe and Ray Vander Zaag
A Cree Perspective on Non-Violence
Instructor: Ovide Mercredi
Session II – June 21-25
Agents of Change in Intractable Conflicts: Lessons from Middle East Peacebuilding
Instructor: Marc Gopin
Peace Skills Practice
Instructor: Karen Ridd
Mennonite Approaches to Peace and Justice
In collaboration with Mennonite Central Committee Canada
Instructor: Harry Huebner
Session III – June 28-July 2
International Perspectives on Restorative Justice
Instructor: Howard Zehr
Thriving in a Firestorm: Congregational Peacebuilding
In collaboration with Congregational Peacebuilding Partners
Instructor: Lois Edmund
For more information visit www.cmu.ca/csop or e-mail csop@cmu.ca.
09 Mar, 2010 - Earth Hour- March 27, 2010 at 8:30 PM
On March 27 at 8:30 pm, hundreds of millions of people around the world will turn off their lights for an hour to demand action on climate change. But that's just the beginning. Every hour, Canadians are taking small steps to lessen their impact on the environment. From hanging your clothes to dry to taking transit to work, those small steps add up to huge changes for the better.
For more information visit wwf.ca
09 Mar, 2010 - Lee Global Education Awards
Deadline: Friday, March 22, 2010
The goal of the Lee Global Education Awards is to create and support opportunities for young Albertans to become more knowledgeable about and experienced in the challenges and issues facing developing nations, related to socio-economic development, environment, human rights, civil society, peace and security, and social justice, and to contribute to their understanding of Canada's role in meeting these challenges.
The Awards will support global education programming undertaken locally by the University of Alberta as well as provide awards in the form of financial assistance to individuals or organizations on and off campus to engage in experiential global education activities for young Albertans.
Recently, most awards to individuals were $350-500 to support experiences in countries of the Global South. Preference has been given to those without significant experience living in the Global South, and for experiences judged to contribute most to developing knowledge, skills and attributes related to global citizenship.
The Lee Global Education Awards were established in 2004 through an endowment by the Clifford E. Lee Foundation, as one of its wind-up legacy grants.
More information about the Lee Global Education Awards is available at www.international.ualberta.ca or contact Eilis Pourbaix at (780) 492-6442 or Eilis.pourbaix@ualberta.ca.
09 Mar, 2010 - Call for Submissions – Film Festival at Concordia, Montreal – Deadline April 5
Concordia University is holding a film festival from April 30th to May 3rd.
The theme is “existentialism – the search for meaning with oneself, others, and objects”. Each part, (ie., oneself, others, and objects) are a separate sub-theme.
Films will be chosen by a panel of judges. The deadline for submissions is April 5th.
Films will be played on a DVD player so please make sure that the format is DVD-friendly and save it to two formats just in case. DVD’s will not be returned but all producers/directors of all films will be notified if their film is selected or not. Style can be anything but there is a 30 minute time limit for any film. Any language is fine but please include English subtitles. Feel free to send multiple submissions. We require the rights to show the film. Expected attendance is 173 per viewing. Screenings will be at De Seve theater.
Feel free to contact Humza at makhdoomh@gmail.com for further information, or call 514.298.9096.
For more information on forms and regulations please visit www.sophiaconcordia.ca
Mailing address:
Philosophy Department (care to: SoPhiA)
Concordia University (PR building)
1455 Maisonneuve Blvd. West
Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8
09 Mar, 2010 - Water for Life 2010 Conference- Calgary, March 25, 2010
The Centre for Public Interest Accounting at the Haskayne School of Business and the Development Studies Club (University of Calgary) are pleased to announce the Water for Life 2010 Conference.
Thursday, March 25, 2010- 9am to 4pm
Great Hall, Rozsa Centre UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY
FREE EVENT / Complimentary lunch will be provided
For more information visit www.ucalgary.ca/water
Water crises are emerging more frequently in recent years and they threaten the lives of people and ecosystems everywhere. The need for comprehensive and integrated water management programs that aim at involving parties outside the water sector is more pressing today.
This forum will focus on Alberta water management, its progress and challenges, and the implications of water issues around the world.
Speakers include:
Rob Renner, Alberta Environment Minister
Terra Simieritsch, Pembina Institute
Caesar Apentiik, University of Calgary
William Cosgrove, United Nations Water
Abu Shiraz Rahaman, Haskayne School of Business
Mike Scarth, Alberta WaterSMART
John Barlow, Okotoks Western Wheel
Tobias R. Provost, Water Management Consultant
Alanna Mitchell, Journalist and Author
RSVP to Sylvia Fuchek at sylvia.fuchek@haskayne.ucalgary.ca or 403-220-3812.
09 Mar, 2010 - Sombrilla Presents An Evening of Music with Vocalist Robyn Walters- Edmonton, March 19, 2010
Sombrilla would like to invite you to the first of a series of house concerts they have planned to support the Yurac Yacu project in Peru. The concerts will be small and intimate, with only 30 tickets to each. The first concert features vocalist Robyn Walters and will be held in a beautiful home on the edge of Mill Creek Ravine. Delicious food will be provided and wine will be available at cost. The tickets are $50 each and Sombrilla will supply a tax receipt for the $30 donation portion of the ticket.
March 19th, 2010
9704-88th Ave
Doors at 7 pm, Music at 8 pm
If you would like tickets please get in touch with Autumn by phone at (780) 466 7577 or by e-mail at sombrillahome@gmail.com.
This house concert is in benefit of the Yurac Yacu Community Development Centre for the communities of Rivas and Chachimpampas near Huaraz, Peru. To learn more visit www.sombrilla.ca.
03 Mar, 2010 - Volunteers Needed!- Edmonton, March 26 - 27, 2010
The John Humphrey Centre is looking for volunteers for our Casino Fundraiser, for March 26-27 (Friday/Saturday).
Your contribution helps the JHC out tremendously, as this funding helps us move forward with all our awesome programs. Come out and lend us a hand! We are still in need of some volunteers to help us out for the following positions:
2 Count Room Volunteers: 9:45 p.m. - 3 a.m. (Both Days)
2 Chip Runners: 10:30am-4:30pm (Both days)
1 Chip Runner: 9:30 p.m. - 3 a.m. (Both Days)
1 Chip Runner at 4pm-10pm (Friday only)
If you're available to help us out, please contact Carrie Malloy at carrie@jhcentre.org!
03 Mar, 2010 - Calling for Youth to Participate in the new Fight-Violence Campaign!
The YOUCAN team in Edmonton is looking to put together a group of young people aged 14-16 to participate in the face-lift of the current Fight Violence campaign.
This is an exciting opportunity for Edmonton youth, as they will be trained in a variety of skills including conflict resolution, peace building, how to use a variety of multi-media tools and public speaking. Furthermore, they get to be a part of a youth-driven campaign to re-vamp the Fight Violence project; thus, they will gain a great deal of experience in social media, with the goal of spreading the message of how conflict, when handled appropriately, can be a constructive opportunity for change.
If you have a youth you'd like to refer, please contact:
Mandy Halabi, Project Manager
YOUCAN Edmonton Team
TEL: (780) 444-3348 ext 26
EMAIL: mandy.halabi@youcan.ca
03 Mar, 2010 - The Rotaract Club of Edmonton Fundraiser- Edmonton, March 12, 2010
The Rotaract Club of Edmonton is hosting a fundraiser on March 12, 2010 to support their Empowerment through Education initiative.
Rotaract programs focus on working with youth in Edmonton and area communities, as well as abroad. The proceeds of this event will contribute to the next steps in training the next group of leaders and thinkers and supporting the students who participate in Rotaract programs to succeed and grow.
During the evening you will get an in depth look at what the Rotaract Edmonton Centre club is trying to achieve through their ongoing projects while feasting on a delicious Chinese dinner and shopping at the silent auction tables.
Rotaract Club of Edmonton Centre's Empowerment Through Education
Date: March 12, 2010 (Friday)
Time: Doors open at 6pm, Dinner at 7pm
Place: Dynasty Century Palace 9700 105th Ave Suite 200 Edmonton, AB
Tickets: $50.00; please contact fundraising.rotaract@gmail.com for more information.
Rotaract is an international organization of young professionals and students ages 18 to 30 that are committed to service and leadership in their communities and abroad. Established in 1968 by Rotary International, Rotaract is a global network of young people who are changing the world with clubs in about 163 countries. The purpose of Rotaract is to provide an opportunity for young men and women to enhance the knowledge and skills that will assist them in personal development, to address the physical and social needs of their communities, and to promote better relations between all people worldwide through a framework of friendship and service.
01 Mar, 2010 - APIRG Toolkit Series: Popular Education Workshops for All!- Edmonton
Privilege and Marginalization in Organizing
When: Thursday, March 11th, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Tory Building 1-5, University of Alberta
Are you part of an organization, group, or community that is working towards social change? Do you feel disempowered in meetings, planning processes or actions because you feel you are not being heard or included? Do you see patterns of stereotypes being perpetuated that mirror exactly the system you are trying to change? Are you looking for ways to engage people in a movement in more meaningful ways?
Even if you answer NO to these questions, this workshop is for you!
This workshop will ask participants to reflect on their own organizing for social change, within group settings as well as larger community settings, and through an anti-colonial framework, look for solutions to the oppressions that occur every single day within progressive movements.
Creative Visuals: Banner Making and Silk Screening
When: Tuesday, March 23rd, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Tory Building 1-5, University of Alberta
Creative, bold visuals make a great centre piece for any public demonstration. They do much more than make your actions look good. They unify your group, amplify your message, invite people to have a personal interaction with your work, and provide a visual story through symbols that clarify the issue. If you integrate art into your campaign strategy and actions, you can make change irresistible.
In this workshop we will be looking at how to make awesome banners, as well as DIY silk screening techniques.
Please email Denise Ogonoski at volutneer@apirg.org to register for each Toolkit Series.
01 Mar, 2010 - Canadian Consultation for the Open Forum on Civil Society Development Effectiveness- Gatineua, March 16 - 18, 2010
What measures are civil society organizations taking to improve their development effectiveness? As part of the global Open Forum on CSO Development Effectiveness, CSOs in over 70 countries have committed to lead their own process and conduct consultations to identify sector-defined key principles.
You are invited to attend the March 16-18, 2010 Canadian Consultation for the Open Forum on Civil Society Development Effectiveness in Gatineau, Quebec.
The results from these national consultations will feed into the mid-term “Global Assembly of the Open Forum” being held in Montreal this August. The final outcome of the 2011 Open Forum will be an International Framework of principles and guidelines for CSO Development Effectiveness. This Framework is likely to have a profound impact on all of our organizational practices since fellow CSOs, donors and governments will look to it for reference.
Given the importance of helping to build the International Framework, the Canadian Consultation, organized by CCIC, will bring together a cross section of Canadian CSOs working in international development, invited Southern CSO colleagues, and government officials. The three day event integrates CSO-only processes with a dialogue on enabling policies to strengthen CSOs as development actors involving senior officials from CIDA and other government departments.
To help focus the discussions for Canadian CSOs, the Consultation will concentrate on two broad areas of issues in CSO development effectiveness:
1) North/South CSO relationships;
2) the ways in which Canadian CSOs engage their public constituencies in Canada.
Participation is encouraged from experienced people in your organization who are well placed to discuss either of these issues. More than one participant per organization is welcome.
Additional information is available from Brian Tomlinson btomlinson@ccic.ca or Anne Buchanan abuchanan@ccic.ca. Register before March 3rd to benefit from the early bird rate.
A limited number of travel subsidies are available for CCIC members from outside Quebec and Ontario, on a first-come-first-served basis. Subsidies apply to air and train travel costs only, at the rate of: 75% for travel from British Columbia; 50 % from other provinces. Funding can be provided for only one representative per organization. Travel arrangements should be made at the best available economy class fares in accordance with CCIC’s travel reimbursement policy.
01 Mar, 2010 - APIRG Lunchbox Series Presentations- Edmonton
Living Green On Campus
Presented by ECOS (Environmental Coordination Office of Students)
When: Wednesday, March 10th, 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Where: Ed 107
In order to shift to a sustainable future, those of us on the U of A campus need to take a look at how we live and what we can do to change how and what we consume, as well as what sorts of things we are leaving behind for future students. Louise Veillard, with the Environmental Coordination Office of Students, will give an interactive presentation about how to live green on campus.
26 Feb, 2010 - The Official Opening of the Centre for Global Citizenship Education & Research (CGCER)- Edmonton, March 12, 2010
The opening will feature a welcome reception and keynote address by Dr.Handel Wright, Professor, Canada Research Chair & Cultural Studies Director at the Centre for Culture, Identity and Education at the University of British Columbia. Dr. Wright's address is entitled, "National and International Politics of Difference: Pedagogy and the Makings of 'Glocal' Citizenship".
Additionally, the program will include greetings from the CGCER co-directors, Dr. Lynette Shultz and Dr. Ali A. Abdi; the Dean of Education; and representatives from the Department of Educational Policy Studies and CGCER community partners. There will also be an introduction of the CGCER Research Fellows.
March 12, 3:30 - 5:30 pm, ED 129 (Education Building- North), University of Alberta
25 Feb, 2010 - Free Screening to Finding Farley- Edmonton, March 10, 2010
Join the National Film Board and Mountain Equipment Co-Op for a FREE screening of Finding Farley!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 7:00pm
Metro Cinema
(Zeidler Hall 9828 - 101A Ave.)
Edmonton
FREE ADMISSION
Director Leanne Allison in attendance.
When Karsten Heuer and Leanne Allison (Being Caribou), along with their two-year old son, Zev, and indomitable dog Willow, say they're going to retrace the literary footsteps of one of Canada's most famous writers, they mean it literally. Their 5000-kilometre trip- trekking, sailing, portaging and paddling from the prairies to the Maritimes- to discover the people and places that inspired Farley Mowat's most acclaimed books is captured in the compelling documentary Finding Farley.
Watch the trailer: nfb.ca/findingfarley
Finding Farley will be preceded by Marie Burke's new NFB short film Carrying Fire and a special presentation about the Flathead River Valley from Wildsight Southern Rockies campaigner, visit www.flathead.ca for more details.
19 Feb, 2010 - Celebrate water, celebrate life. Help Us Make Waves!
Water is a basic human need, yet millions of people around the world do not have access to clean, safe drinking water. Raise awareness by hosting an event in your community – your home, school, church or club!
Visit www.HelpUsMakeWaves.org for a free downloadable event planning kit, which is full of tips from the pros that will help you put together a fun and educational celebration. You can also request promotional materials, information packages, displays, interactive games, or someone to present an informative talk at your event.
If event planning isn’t for you, you can…
Attend a water event. There will be lots of events posted to the Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) website! Also see the following websites for further information on events. www.worldwaterday.org
www.worldwaterday.netMark your calendar today for the annual World Water Day celebration featuring action projects implemented by participants in our Wavemakers youth program.
March 22, 2010 at 5:30-8:30pm
City of Calgary Water Centre
625 - 25 Street SE
Light refreshments will be provided
Please RSVP to vsobie@cawst.org or 403-243-3285, extension 221 by Thursday, March 18, 2010 or Register here!
Learn about local and global water issues and be inspired at www.HelpUsMakeWaves.org.
Become a Member and have a say! Just visit www.cawst.org and follow the links.
For information or questions, email info@helpusmakewaves.org.
19 Feb, 2010 - Alberta's YouthVOLUNTEER! Society
Alberta's YouthVOLUNTEER! Society works to encourage, enhance and support youth volunteerism across the province. Our website offers a free matching service for volunteers and organizations province-wide to find opportunities and events, and to recruit youth volunteers.
The online matching function works so your one-time or ongoing volunteer opportunities posted are matched with youth according to their location, schedule, and interests as well as age and qualifications.Your position is then sent to the email inbox of all matching volunteers. With this free tool, recruiting engaged and dedicated volunteers becomes easy! Also, posting events and announcements on our website is a great way to reach your youth audience.
Please contact Andree Patenaude with any questions regarding this program or other services at andree@youthvolunteer.ca or 780.492.2987.
For further information visit www.youthvolunteer.ca
19 Feb, 2010 - NGO Management School Geneva: Management Courses for NGO Staff- Geneva, Switzerland, February - May 2010
Courses are for practitioners and address challenges faced by non-profit managers, leaders, and staff. These training courses help sharpening key skills and developing strategies that participants can immediately use in their work.
FEB-MAY 2010 COURSES:
22-26 February: Essentials of NGO Management (5 days)
How to manage and lead an NGO
1-5 March: Essentials of Human Resource Management (5 days)
How to lay the foundation for a solid approach in Human Resources
10-12 March: Essentials of Fundraising (3 days)
How to raise funds for NGO activities
22-24 March: Improving the Effectiveness of Your Board (3 days)
Essential of Non-profit Governance and Board Relations
12-16 April: Training of Trainers (5 days)
How to design, deliver and follow-up a training course
10-14 May: Project Cycle Management Compact (5 days) course in French
Fast-track project management for practitioners
24-28 May: Designing and Planning Projects (5 days)
Mastering fundamental project design skills
All trainers are qualified professionals with extensive training and working experience in conducting courses for NGOs in countries in the South and in the North. They have worked themselves in NGOs in management and leadership positions, thus they know NGOs from the inside.
Registration for these courses is now open. For course objectives, detailed programme, course fees and inscription, please visit www.ngom.org/coursedates. Group tariffs are available.
The NGO Management School Switzerland is a registered Swiss non-profit association based in the Geneva area. For more information, please visit www.ngoms.org.
17 Feb, 2010 - 13th Annual Harmony Brunch: Commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination- Edmonton, March 21, 2010
The Canadian Multicultural Education Foundation is now selling tickets for their 13th Annual Harmony Brunch event.
Taking place on March 21, 2010 to commemorate International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the keynote speaker is Dr. W. Andy Knight, Chair of the Political Science Department at the University of Alberta. His topic is: “Humanitarian Intervention and The Responsibility to Protect”.
WHEN: March 21, 2010 at 12:30 pm
WHERE: Ramada Hotel and Conference Centre (11834 Kingsway Avenue NW Edmonton, AB)
Tickets are $20.00 and includes a full buffet brunch.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact:
Sharon: 780-453-2638
Karen: 780-458-5515
e-mail: harmonybrunch@cmef.ca
17 Feb, 2010 - Philosopher’s Café Series: Thinking Our Way in a Time of Crisis – Feb 13 – April 24
No registration/fee required to attend these events!
For more information visit www.augustana.ualberta.ca/ronning
This series is hosted at Steeps- The Urban Tea House, 11116 – Whyte (82nd) Avenue, Edmonton
3) Changing Our Ideas About Progress, Animated by Dittmar Mündel (Professor, Religious Studies and Philosophy, Augustana Campus, University of Alberta) Saturday, 13 March, 1:00–3:30 p.m.
4) Is the Good Life the Pursuit of Happiness? Animated by Archbishop Lazar (Abbot, All Saints of North America Monastery, Dewdney, BC)
Saturday, 27 March, 1:00–3:30 p.m.
5) How Should We Rethink the Purpose of a Liberal Arts Education? Animated by Roger Epp (Dean, Augustana Campus, University of Alberta)
Saturday, 10 April, 1:00–3:30 p.m.
6) Is it Possible to Find a Comfortable Place for Death in Our Approach to Life? Animated by David J. Goa (Director, Chester Ronning Centre)
Saturday, 24 Aprril, 1:00–3:30 p.m.
16 Feb, 2010 - Rights & Democracy's John Humphrey Award 2010
Do you know someone who campaigns for human rights and whose activities deserve recognition?
For the 19th year, the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development (Rights & Democracy) will confer the John Humphrey Award on an individual or an organization to highlight their contribution to the promotion of human rights and democratic development.
The Award includes:
* A $30,000 grant.
* A Canadian tour to mobilize public opinion and raise awareness of the Laureate’s cause.
For more information please visit www.dd-rd.ca
Deadline is April 30, 2010.
16 Feb, 2010 - Take Back the Night Edmonton- March 27, 2010
Demand an end to violence against women!
We will be lighting our candles as a symbol of hope and healing. The candle-lighting ceremony begins at 8:00pm and will mark the culmination of our campaign. If you are unable to attend the march, we encourage you to participate by lighting a candle at home that night in support of child and adult survivors of sexual violence. This year's march will be for women and girls only, while men will be invited to participate in an anti-violence discussion group. We will be gathering at the Alberta Avenue Community Centre.
Want to get involved - check out their website.
Location: Alberta Ave Community League, 9210 118 Avenue
Cost: Free
Contact: Monika at 780.423.4102 or at monikap@sace.ab.ca
16 Feb, 2010 - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination- March 21, 2010
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March with activities led by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva , New York and at field-presences.
This year's theme is: "Racism and Discrimination: Obstacles to Development."
On 21 March 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville , South Africa , against the apartheid "pass laws". In 1966, the General Assembly proclaimed 21 March as International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to commemorate the Sharpeville tragedy (resolution 2142 (XXI) of 26 October 1966). 21 March has since then served not only to remind the international community of the dire consequences of racism, but also to recall our obligation and determination to combat racial discrimination.
Location: Everywhere
Cost: Free
Check out the following website for further information: www.un.org
16 Feb, 2010 - Global Visions- Junior Team Canada- Calgary, March 14 - 15, 2010
The Global Leaders Centre is offering the Foundation for Leadership Series to Canadian youth between the ages of 16-25! This program brings together youth with business, industry, and government leadership in a one day interactive session held in major centres across Canada.
The Series features are:
- Networking, Diversity, Confidence, Accountability, Business Etiquette, Leading A Team
- Participation in a Model G8 Summit
- Canada's role in the G20 framework to generate strong, sustainable and balanced growth.
- Learn how to become a Junior Team Canada Ambassador (JTC) who: promotes their region; represents Canadian industries on the world stage; experiences new cultures and markets; and makes an impact on their communities: local, national and global.
Now To Get The Experience That Matters!
After completion of the GLC ( Global Leaders Centre) you can apply to:
- G8 G20 National Youth Forum, Ottawa, May 2010
- MySummits 2010 - G8 G20, Huntsville and Toronto, June 23-28, 2010
- Junior Team Canada Trade & Development Mission to China, August 2010
- Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Tokyo, Japan, November 2010
For more information!
16 Feb, 2010 - fYrefly Mentorship Program Information Night
The Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services, in partnership with Big Brothers and Big Sisters Society of Edmonton & Area is pleased to invite interested adults to our information night about our new fYrefly mentorship program.
To stay updated on this new mentoring program, please join the listserv at www.mailman.srv.ualberta.ca
For more information, please contact:
Scott Mair
Youth Intervention and Outreach Worker & Director of Youth Understanding Youth
Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services
7-104 Education North Building
Faculty of Education, University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA T6G 2G5
(780) 492-0772 Institute Office
(780) 248-1971 Direct Line (Scott)
(780) 492-2024 fax
E-mail: scott.mair@ualberta.ca
05 Feb, 2010 - Marda Loop Justice Film Festival - Film Night- Calgary, March 9, 2010
Film Night- FREE
Tuesday, March 9, 2009
7:00pm
River Park Church Auditorium
3818 -14A St. SW, Calgary
Disposable
Delhi generates about 8000 metric tonnes of solid waste every day. The work of more than 100,000 “Ragpikers” saves the Delhi Municipal District $6,000,000 Cdn annually. The workers and their creative industries deserve our gratitude. “Disposable” is the story of waste and the stories of those who live off it. Both get disposed in the process but they play a crucial role in the environmental and social cycle. 22min
Calcutta Hilton
Sonagacchi is the largest, most infamous sex district in Calcutta. Many women have been stolen from their homes, some tricked, others sold into prostitution by friends and family. In the class system of India, they languish at the bottom of the heap. A woman in Sonagacchi can live her entire life within a one-kilometer radius of where she sells her body. She could literally work, sleep and die all in the same bed.
The Hiltons, a family from New Zealand, set about creating a viable business, Freeset, teaching the women to read and write as well as training them to become skilled workers and business women. Freeset is a Fair Trade certified business that manufactures jute bags in Calcutta, India. 23 min
Dr. Aradhana Parmar, Associate Professor of Development Studies, Faculty of Communication and Culture, University of Calgary
Dr. Parmar’s expertise includes gender and development, development studies, South Asia, immigrant women in Canada and ancient Indian political thought. Dr. Parmar is a recognized scholar, with numerous publications—book, articles, reports to her credit. She is also the past-president of India-Canada Association of Calgary and Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association and Canadian Association for the Study of International Development.
For more information please visit www.justicefilmfestival.ca
Volunteer
The Marda Loop Justice Film Festival is seeking an experienced marketing volunteer to audit our promotions and make recommendations. Email justicefilmfestival@gmail.com for more information!
05 Feb, 2010 - ACGC's Development in a Box!
ACGC is thrilled to be accepting applications to participate in the Development in a Box program. Follow the link for more information about how your classroom can participate!
Within this educational resource you will discover a wealth of lesson plans, activities and supplementary support, which will assist you in guiding your students through the Alberta curriculum in their journey towards becoming global citizens. The lesson plans and activities included in this box have been contributed by twenty of ACGC’s sixty-five members and touch upon thematic areas based around the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)- poverty, economics, human rights, environmental sustainability, peace studies and taking action on global issues; additional activities not falling directly under one of these specific categories are also included.
Upon exploration of this resource book you will discover: an individual table of contents for the lesson plans and activities; a section dedicated to lesson descriptions; applicable Alberta curriculum links in varying subject areas for grades seven through twelve, for each specific lesson; a description and contact information for each of our member organizations.
If you have any questions please contact Diana engagement@acgc.ca or Julia projects@acgc.ca
Download the Registration Form and sign up today!
28 Jan, 2010 - Conference on Disaster Management- Halifax, June 1-3, 2010
The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce our annual Conference on Disaster Management to be held in Atlantic Canada in the city of Halifax from June 1-3, 2010.
The conference will provide opportunities for individuals involved with or interested in the many facets of disaster management to come together and become better prepared for and respond to disasters both internationally and within Canada, with a focus in post-disaster shelter.
It is anticipated that participants will include representatives from Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, key not-for-profit international organizations; representatives from the private sector; Canadian municipal, provincial and federal government agencies and departments. Last year, the conference attracted more than 350 participants.
This conference provides a forum to facilitate the synthesis of best practices and lessons learned of the post-disaster shelter programming from various actors involved in the shelter sector.
The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to invite a representative from your Organization to participate and encourages you to visit the conference website at www.redcross.ca/disasterconference to find more details on the themes, accommodation and cost.
07 Jan, 2010 - Human Rights Cafe Series- Edmonton
The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights would like to announce the launch of our Human Rights Cafe Series!
On the first Sunday afternoon of each month, we welcome you to join one of our Human Rights Facilitators in a dialogue on a variety of topics following internationally recognized ‘days’ that speak to important human rights issues.
The dialogues, which aim to foster the continual movement of Edmonton as a Human Rights City, will take place at the Three Bananas Cafe in Sir Winston Churchill Square where participants will have the opportunity to explore critical human rights issues as they relate to our lives in Edmonton.
The next Human Rights Cafe will take place on Sunday, March 7th, from 1 -3 pm in celebration of International Women's Day (March 8)- A Dialogue of Violence Against Women, highlighting Highway of Tears.
To look forward to:
April: Earth Day (April 22)
May: World Press Freedom Day (May 3) and Aboriginal Awareness Week (May 25-31)
June: Canadian Multiculturalism Day (June 27)
22 Dec, 2009 - Open Letter from CCIC to Minister Oda regarding KAIROS
This open letter was sent today by the Canadian Council for International Co-operation(CCIC) to Bev Oda, Minister for International Cooperation, expressing “shock and dismay” at the recent events concerning a CCIC member, KAIROS.
17 Dec, 2009 - The Otesha Project 2010 Bike Tours
Combine sustainable living, community building, theatre, leadership training and phenomenal bicycle touring!
Teams of a dozen or more motivated and energetic young people, aged 18 to 30, will set off on cycling and performing tours in 2010. You can be one of them! Tour members will share an incredible experience as they live as a mobile and sustainable community. They will cycle from performance to performance, braving the elements, connecting with communities along the route, and exploring all the ups and downs of directly addressing environmental and social justice issues through their own every day actions. No bike touring or other experience is necessary, just a willingness to train beforehand and give it your all!
2010 tours:
May 3 to June 25: Ferocious Farm Tour (Ottawa to Toronto and back)
June 25 to October 20: Coast to Capital (Vancouver to Ottawa)
Septeber 7 to November 2: Highlands and Islands (Fredericton to Halifax)
About:
The Otesha Project is a youth-run charitable organization that uses theatre to mobilize young people to create local and global change through their daily consumer choices.
More tour info + to apply:
www.otesha.ca/bike+tours
www.otesha.ca/files
See www.otesha.ca for further information.
14 Dec, 2009 - 2010 Alan Thomas Fellowship to Promote Civil Society and Voluntary Action
New call for Applications!!
The Carold Institute is pleased to announce the call for applications for the 2010 Alan Thomas Fellowship to Promote Civil Society and Voluntary Action. Awarded for the first time in 2008, this initiative is aimed at strengthening leadership for civil society and promoting greater understanding of the significance of voluntary action.
The Fellowship will again be awarded in 2010 to a leader in the NGO/non-profit sector who would not normally have access to a sabbatical leave. Valued at a maximum amount of $60,000 for up to one year, the award is intended to allow the recipient, at a transitional moment in his or her career, to make a significant contribution to the sector, through research and reflection, leading to possible publication, or dissemination in another medium.
The award is designed to support individual leaders, but also to build a broader network of researchers and practitioners.
Visit www.carold.ca for fuller details on the Fellowship and the 2009 recipients. The new deadline for applications is March 26, 2010, and the 2010 Fellow will be announced in late June 2010.
28 Oct, 2009 - Scholarships Available!
Inter-American Workshop on the Role of Arts and Communications Media in Promoting democratic values and practices among children and youth
We are pleased to announce that the Organization of American States (OAS), Department of Human Development, Education and Culture in collaboration with the Inter-American Committee on Culture (CIC), and the Inter-American Committee on Education (CIE) of the OAS, are offering scholarships for the course: "Inter-American Workshop on the role of arts and communications media in promoting democratic values and practices among children and youth: Implications for research, policy and practice".
This workshop aims to give technical experts and policy makers from the education and culture sectors the opportunity to come together to learn about examples of good practice in incorporating cultural contents and activities in the educational curriculum and to design joint activities.
Applicants should contact their National Liaison Offices (ONE) to verify the submission deadline in their own countries, as stated in the call for applications.
This is an online-onsite course and will be delivered in Spanish and English. The scholarships are for travel grants to participate in the workshop.
For more information and to apply
16 Oct, 2009 - Human Rights Education in the School Systems of Europe, Central Asia and North America: A Compendium of Good Practice
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE/ODIHR), the Council of Europe, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are pleased to announce the publication of Human Rights Education in the School Systems of Europe, Central Asia and North America: A Compendium of Good Practice. HREA was retained to develop the Compendium under the guidance of these partners.
Designed for primary and secondary schools, teacher training institutions and other learning settings, the new tool, which collects 101 exemplary practices from Central Asia, Europe and North America, is a valuable resource for teachers and education policymakers.
It provides resource materials relevant to key elements for successful human rights education, including 1) laws, guidelines and standards; 2) learning environment; 3) teaching and learning tools; 4) professional development for educators, and 5) evaluation.
The collection demonstrates creative approaches to human rights education and aims to facilitate networking and exchange of experience among education professionals. The practices can be adapted to local conditions anywhere in the world.
Launched today, 2 October 2009, at the annual OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting in Warsaw (Poland), the collection contributes to the national implementation of the World Programme for Human Rights Education, a global initiative of the United Nations General Assembly.
A PDF version of the main part of the Compendium is available on the websites of the partner organizations, in addition to HREA’s www.hrea.org/compendium. This document does not yet include the Annex containing samples of the resources. We anticipate that the Compendium will be fully available online as of December 2009.
25 Sep, 2009 - Youth Contest: Vision for Canada’s Future with Asia
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada is hosting a Youth contest related to the topic: "What's your vision for Canada's future with Asia?"
Please visit www.25at25.ca
22 Sep, 2009 - Tread Lightly Climate Change Education Initiative
Tread Lightly is a climate change education initiative offered by TakingITGlobal (TIG), the world's largest online social network of youth working for positive change, with the generous support of the Staples Foundation for Learning®. Developed to help global citizens to lighten the load they place on planet earth, it features:
- An interdisciplinary secondary school curriculum that explores climate change through the lens of ecological footprints - a measure of the toll humans are placing on the planet;
- "Imprints" - an international ecological art contest;
- A global 40-day footprint challenge.
To Learn More email info@treadlightly.me or visit www.treadlightly.me
03 Sep, 2009 - Alberta Cultural and Community Spirit - Grants and Foundations
We are anticipating that shortly there will be information available on the Alberta Cultural and Community Spirit website regarding the Community Initiatives Program (CIP) and the International Development Program (IDP) through the Provincial Government. This information is expected in the next week or so - and ACGC will be sending out information as soon as we receive it. In the meantime people can check in with the government website at http://www.culture.alberta.ca/grantprograms/humanservices.aspx.
There are some changes in how these programs will function in this new format, the big changes being that organizations will only be able to apply to either CIP or IDP and are limited to one application per fiscal year.
28 May, 2009 - Creating Change MDG Poster Contest winners announced!
ACGC challenged students in grades 3-12 to make a poster about one of the Millennium Development Goals this past year. In May members of the public stopped by to vote on which posters were their favourites. Have a look at the winning posters.
A collection of the posters will be included in a calendar for 2010.
Thanks to all the students who submitted their posters - the artwork created was fantastic!
15 Apr, 2009 - Take Action to ensure that the cuts to Wildrose are NOT permanent!
Government cuts to the Wild Rose Foundation are not what Albertans want!
The Alberta Council for Global Cooperation (ACGC), an umbrella organization representing over 60 non-profit international development organizations, is furious that the Alberta Government has eliminated the Wild Rose Foundation and sees the decision as contrary to the role Albertans want their government to play. On March 10, 2009 ACGC and Angus Reid Strategies released research (full results) that found 71 % of Albertans wanted their provincial government to play a role in addressing global poverty. The negative impact of the loss of the Wild Rose Foundation and its support of international development in Alberta will have wide-ranging negative consequences for the future.
Previous to the April 7th budget the Wild Rose Foundation provided 1.4 million dollars in funding to Alberta non-profit organizations through its International Development Program. This International Development Program has been described by the Alberta government as “a positive Alberta presence internationally” and the funds for the International Development Program “reflect the long-standing support and commitment of Albertans as they work with non-government organizations abroad.”
Albertans believe that providing poverty reduction support to developing countries would bring benefits. Almost two-thirds (64%) claim action to deal with global poverty would contribute to global political stability, and at least half of respondents think it would prevent terrorism (55%), and ultimately create a stronger economy at home by creating stronger economies overseas (50%).
“Albertans care about global poverty and international development.” says Heather McPherson, Executive Director of ACGC. “They want to be personally involved and they want their government to be involved. The Wild Rose Foundation has been a key avenue for that involvement.”
If you would like to hear about the results achieved with the Wild Rose Foundation or meet our members who have benefited from Wild Rose funding please contact ACGC.
Heather McPherson, Executive Director,
Tel: 780-988-0200
Cell: 780-238-8504
Email: director@acgc.ca
On Monday, April 20th the provincial government will be voting on the new budget. Make sure that this change to international funding is not permanent!
03 Apr, 2009 - ACGC Supports the Wild Rose Foundation
Several of our members have expressed concern that there may be changes to the Wild Rose Foundation in the upcoming Provincial budget which is slated to be released on April 7, 2009. There has been speculation that the Wild Rose Foundation will cease to exist. Many of our members have worked with the Wild Rose Foundation over the years to achieve significant successes and there is grave concern about the impact the loss of the Foundation would have on local and global projects.
Recently, with funding from the Wild Rose Foundation, ACGC commissioned Angus Reid Strategies to conduct a poll of over 800 Albertans about global poverty. What we found strongly supports continued funding for organizations like those supported by the Wild Rose Foundation.
Some key findings from the poll were:
The majority of Albertans (71%) believe global poverty should be addressed at a Provincial level.
Global Poverty ranks in the top 5 issues from a global perspective. Further, 88% of Albertans believe poverty is increasing both at home and abroad.
Nearly half of all Albertans feel personally affected by Global Poverty due to reasons of personal connections; While Albertans see the benefits of addressing Global Poverty to Canada's global reputation and political stability, the majority of those that feel affected by global poverty identify compassionate and humanitarian reasons. Most Albertans indicate feeling a sense of personal responsibility to do something about Global Poverty.
It is important to let our government know that Albertans support the Wild Rose Foundation. ACGC has written a letter to Premier Stelmach in support of the Wild Rose Foundation and the incredible results it has achieved over the past 25 years. Read this letter. Bob Wyatt, Executive Director of the Muttart Foundation has also written an interesting email about what may happen.
What can you do to help?
Alberta Council for Global Cooperation and its member organizations urge you to become involved and take action. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
· Write or meet with your MLA. Tell them that you support the work done by organizations funded by the Wild Rose Foundation. You can find out who is your MLA
· Write to Premier Stelmach and tell him that Albertans do care about global poverty! Feel free to use any portion of the enclosed letter or details from the Perceptions of Poverty Poll.
16 Mar, 2009 - Global Poverty Study - in the news!
Last week marked the launch of the Global Poverty Study conducted by ACGC in partnership with the Wildrose Foundation and Angus Reid Strategies. Check it out in the news!
Calgary's Global TV has picked up the story which you can watch online. It is under top stories!
You can also listen to a clip from CBC Calgary's Eye Opener on the study.
If you see ACGC in the news anywhere else - let us know!
10 Mar, 2009 - TODAY! Global Poverty Study Launch!
The Alberta Council for Global Cooperation (ACGC), in partnership with the Wild Rose Foundation and Angus Reid Strategies has conducted a province-wide survey on Global Poverty. We asked Albertans about global poverty and how important it was to them. The results might surprise you!
Today launched the information and presentations and now we can begin on the work of developing a strategy to engage Albertans and the rest of Canada in the fight against global poverty!
Check out the present resources and watch for the other coming information!
Webcast
The webcast from the launch in Calgary is available to you - and will continue to be archived for the next 90 days. Check out the the Media Advisory or click one of the following links to see the webcast!
10 Mar, 2009 - Press Kit - Global Poverty Study
Please see the press kit for information regarding the Global Poverty Study conducted by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation, Wildrose Foundation and Angus Reid Strategies.
07 Feb, 2009 - ACGC in the Edmonton Journal!
As part of CIDA's International Development Week ACGC has been touring the province visiting grade 6 classrooms with Victor Larico Ticona from Bolivia as part of our "Circling the World: Global Literature Circles" novel study. Today, Saturday Feb 7th, we were in the City section of the Edmonton Journal.
Follow the Journal Link or download the document in PDF form
