"I want for myself what I want for other women,
absolute equality.”
~ Agnes Macphail
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LEADERSHIP MESSAGE
Dear YWCA Toronto Community,
I hope you are keeping well despite some troubling developments.
In the United States, the possible overturn of Roe vs. Wade serves as a sobering reminder that women’s reproductive rights are still not guaranteed. The recent act of anti-Black violence in Buffalo is also a painful reminder of the dangers of white supremacy. From Ukraine to Afghanistan, unbridled aggression continues to displace so many women, children and families. The news can be very distressing to watch sometimes.
I draw my strength from feminist communities across the world. In response to the mass shooting in Buffalo, YWCA USA boldly condemned white supremacy in the strongest of terms. Indeed, the slogan of YWCA USA is “eliminating racism; empowering women,” which is a slogan I strongly believe in as well. Our national office issued a statement recently condemning the possible reversal of Roe vs. Wade.
Here in Ontario, an election is on our horizon, which represents an opportunity to get involved in important issues and exercise our democratic right to vote. I do see our struggles as interconnected and encourage everyone to get involved with YWCA Ontario’s election issues.
In more uplifting news, I am proud to share with you our 2021 Annual Report: Change is Possible. This wonderful document reflects our collective capacity to create change during a difficult time. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our feminist community. From wherever you are reading this newsletter, your support makes our work possible.
Kind regards,
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Heather McGregor
Chief Executive Officer
YWCA Toronto
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The 2022 provincial election will take place on June 2. There is a great deal at stake in this election, especially for women, girls and gender diverse communities.
We are calling for increased social assistance rates, a plan to end gender-based violence, affordable housing, and better pay and decent work for child care workers.
Our campaign includes an online petition, social media toolkit, voting guide, policy brief and several engagement opportunities.
Access all of our YWCA Ontario election resources here.
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Summer in Parry Sound
In a few weeks, our Camp Tapawingo will open its cabin doors to young campers for the 2022 season. Campers will take part in arts, crafts, land and water activities. Each year, we aim to enrich the lives of girls and gender diverse youth through skill-building activities, group work and leadership development in a safe, fun and inclusive outdoor environment.
Adults and families can also enjoy what our camp has to offer by booking a week or weekend stay on the shores of Georgian Bay.
To register for summer camp or for adult and family programs, click here.
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
For more information about volunteering at the event, please contact us on or before May 26: Agata Nowicka, Administrative, Volunteer & Gift in Kind Officer Anowicka@ywcatoronto.org.
If you would like to attend the event or make a donation click here.
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Photo | Courtesy of YWCA Ontario |
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LUNCH N' LEARN EVENT
On May 26, join YWCA Ontario and Elections Ontario for a lunch and learn virtual event.
Grab your lunch and tune in at noon for an engaging presentation from Elections Ontario covering everything you need to know about casting your ballot on June 2. The presentation will cover topics such as how to register to vote, how and where to vote, accessible voting, and how to support people who are unsure about the voting process. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how they can get involved in our #ChooseGenderEquity campaign.
Register for the event here.
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Photo | Courtesy of Workers' Action Centre |
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AN URGENT AGENDA FOR DECENT WORK
Workers’ Action Centre recently released a report that provides comprehensive strategies to promote decent work for all. The report highlights the key issues facing workers today. Workers across Ontario shared their insights to guide this report. The recommendations outlined by Workers’ Action Centre aim to strengthen Ontario’s employment laws by closing gaps and loopholes that give rise to working conditions that are precarious.
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WHY WOMEN’S REPRESENTATION IN POLITICS MATTERS
Women face significant hurdles in running for office – a challenge that is particularly pronounced for racialized women. In our latest blog, our Woman of Distinction alumnae, Chi Nguyen, shares her perspective on the systemic barriers faced by women entering politics. Chi calls for gender diversity on all fronts to inform better policy on child care, housing and public education. She also highlights how crucial it is to have women’s representation in politics in order to attain a feminist recovery in a post-pandemic working world.
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EQUITY AND ACCESS IN HIGHER EDUCTION
More than ever, it is critical to empower women in leadership roles. Our 2022 Woman of Distinction for education, Cheryl Regehr, reflects on her work as a Professor, Vice-President and Provost at the University of Toronto. In Cheryl’s own words, “We know how empowering and validating it is when we see other women in executive and senior positions. For those of us who are leaders, being among other women can give us a sense of belonging in a leadership community.”
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LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
YWCA Toronto operates on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat and Petun First Nations, the Seneca, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. We are grateful to work on this territory as we strive to build a more equitable and just city for women, girls, and gender diverse people.
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