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Music for Deaf Persons by Bruno Cruz Petit
The title of this article could be ironic or a joke for some, including deaf persons. That is what happened to a friend, a music teacher, at arriving at a school for the deaf and being told that he was hired to teach music. Music for deaf people? How are we to explain the evolution of music from Bach to the Beatles to someone who cannot hear their works?" Source: Reprinted from Esperanza on Disability World
December 22, 2003

Ottawa gets serious on mental health - Canada the only G8 country without a national policy - Ottawa is finally paying close attention to mental health issues, according to experts in mental health policy who spoke at a recent meeting of the Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA) Much of the discussion centered on the work of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology. Its chairman, Senator Michael Kirby, outlined the committee's specific focus on mental health and mental illness. Source: Medical Post
December 22, 2003

The True Story Project: Where Theater and the True Nature of Disability Meet
by Ross M. Wolfarth (Half the Planet)
In artistic programs for people with disabilities, there is a dangerous tendency to let the disability take precedence over the art. The True Story Project is an acting company that overcomes that tendency. Rather than treating the productions of its troupe of disabled adult actors as therapy, The True Story Project holds its performers to a standard comparable to that of any other professional company. And by doing so, The True Story Project uses its genuine art to demonstrate the unique and yet fundamentally human experience of Americans with disabilities
December 22, 2003
Examination of Disability in the Context of Sustainable Human & Social Development from Chapter 33 in the Universal Design Handbook
Written by CJ Walsh, t
his Paper examines "disability" and "contextual factors" from the broad perspective of Sustainable Human and Social Development. It remains for the reader to decide whether or not the concepts of "Universal Design/Design-for-All" are sufficiently elastic to remain on the European Disability Agenda for the short term - up to the year 2010
December 21, 2003
Send the Hon. Coell/Cruel in BC a Clear Message
Stop hurting people in need! Rescind the two year limit on welfare!
Coell/Cruel billboard located on Pat Bay Highway from Dec-15-03 to Jan-15-04
Sponsored by End Legislated Poverty - caricature is by Dirk Van Stralen
December 20, 2003

List of organizations involved in Income Support work in Ontario
http://dawn.thot.net/coalition-work.html
Letter to Premier McGuinty from the Association of Community Legal Clinics of Ontario (ACLCO) calling for an Increase to Social Assistance Rates
http://dawn.thot.net/aclco.html
Organizing Information & Resources for Ontario Social Justice Activists
http://dawn.thot.net/organizing-ontario.html
December 20, 2003

Updates on the Coroner's Jury Recommendations (Kimberly Rogers Inquest)
Scant solace for the poor by Sarah Blackstock & Jacquie Chic, Op/Ed Toronto Star, Dec. 19, 2003
Hansard - Legislative Assembly - Oral Questions - Social Assistance exchange between MPP Shelley Martel, NDP Nickel Belt, and Minister of Community and Social Services, Sandra Pupatello- Dec. 17, 2003
Kimberly Rogers Inquest: a year later press conference - Queen's Park - Dec. 17, 2003
Pupatello vows to act on welfare by Kate Harries, Toronto Star Dec. 17, 2003
Welfare activists baffled by Grits' inaction by Bob Vaillancourt, Sudbury Star, Dec. 15, 2003
December 15 - 19, 2003
Disability in Canada: A 2001 Profile
Report released by Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) highlights selected findings from Statistics Canada's 2001 Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS).
The report is available on HRDC's website in HTML, text, and PDF formats.
HTML: http://www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/hrib/sdd-dds/odi/documents/PALS/PALS000.shtml
Text: http://www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/hrib/sdd-dds/odi/documents/PALS/PALS.txt
PDF: http://www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/hrib/sdd-dds/odi/documents/pdfs/PALS.pdf [size: 4.3 mb]
December 7, 2003
Honouring our beloved daughters, sisters and friends
NUPGE - Dec. 6, 2003 - Montreal tragedy happened 14 years ago today
Canadians called to remember and take action against violence against women Status of Women Canada News Release dd Dec. 6, 2003
December 6, 2003
"The Failed Experiment - Gun Control and Public Safety in Canada, Australia, England &Wales" New Gun Control Study released by Fraser Institute - Nov. 2003
Op/Ed by tOM Trottier
December 5, 2003
Celebrate the 2004 Youth Exchange on the International Day of Disabled Persons
The Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability (ALACD) is pleased to celebrate the International Day of Disabled Persons by inviting 50 young people from across Canada to Ottawa for  the experience of a lifetime. In partnership with premiere sponsor, Pfizer Canada Inc., the fourth annual Youth Exchange will be held in Ottawa at Carleton University from June 29 to July 4, 2004. This event is supported by the YMCA Youth Exchanges Canada program funded by Canadian Heritage.
December 3, 2003
Master and Slave - Op/Ed by tOM Trottier
November 28, 2003
choose to change this - Women and children more at risk in province
"Since June 1995: 161 women, 21 children, 10 family and friends murdered.   33% increase in murders of women between 2000 and 2001--virtually all in Ontario" - The title of this report is borrowed from the Liberal Party election campaign slogan "choose change" because we look forward to a new approach that will offer hope to women and children experiencing violence in Ontario. Abused women work hard every day to change their lives and the lives of their children. Governments can take women's lives from poverty to promise, from fear to freedom--if they choose to take action now. During November Wife Assault Prevention Month in Ontario, we especially look forward to positive and speedy change. Read the report released by OAITH - Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses - on Monday, Nov. 24, 2003 at Queen's Park. (Reproduced in HTML from PDF file)
November 26, 2003
Research Paper – The Legal Concept of Employment : Marginalizing Workers
Now available on the Law Commission of Canada’s web site, the research report: “The Legal Concept of Employment: Marginalizing Workers“ by Judy Fudge, Eric Tucker & Leah Vosko of York University. The report provides an interesting statistical, historical and legal analysis of self-employment in Canada. The report, which was funded by the Law Commission of Canada & Human Resources Development Canada, was produced for a project examining law reform and policy options to better meet the needs of vulnerable workers in Canada. Copies of this Research report are available at this pinpoint URL:
English:
http://www.lcc.gc.ca/en/themes/er/tvw/worker_main.asp
Français: http://www.lcc.gc.ca/fr/themes/er/tvw/worker_main.asp
November 26, 2003
In recognition of the United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons, the National Film Board of Canada and the Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres will present a special live web cast screening and discussion of the film Bearing Witness: Luke Melchior - Dec 3, 2003 7 pm EST
United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons
The National Film Board of Canada & the Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres (CAILC) will present a special live web cast screening & discussion of the film Bearing Witness: Luke Melchior
on December 3, 2003 at 7 pm EST
November 26, 2003
Stop Violence Against Women
website launched Nov. 25, International Day Against Violence Against Women by Minnesota Advocates for Human Rights, in cooperation with UNIFEM & Network Women's Program of OSI

November 25, 2003
November 23 - 29, 2003 is Child Poverty Awareness Week
Test your knowledge of Child & Family Poverty by taking the Child Poverty Quiz
and find out what needs to happen to ensure the well-being of children and families
November 23, 2003

Speech from the Throne - Strengthening The Foundation For Change
Text of first Throne Speech of the new McGuinty government

McGuinty's First Throne Speech focuses on Restraint
Special Throne Speech Edition - United Ways of Ontario
TAKE ACTION!

The Throne Speech ignored the Liberal Party's campaign promise to increase welfare benefits by the cost of living for the first time in eight years. Social Services Minister Sandra Pupatello said the gov't can't afford to increase benefits now because of the $5.6 billion deficit left by the former Tory gov't.
"Our goal will be to do exactly that ... timing is going to be the issue... because we have some huge fiscal challenges," she said.
It is absolutely essential that MPPs across the province hear from their constituents that this is an outrageous violation of promises made during the election, and a callous disregard for the lives of the people who have been suffering for years without enough income to survive in the richest province in one of the richest countries in the world. Call your MPP today, and demand that they take immediate steps to raise the rates. Ontario MPP contact information available at http://olaap.ontla.on.ca/mpp/contact.jsp
November 21, 2003

Amnesty International Canada ACTION Alert
Uncovering the truth: Why was Maher Arar deported to Syria

Canadian citizen Maher Arar was subjected to torture, repeated interrogation and horrific conditions while being held without charge for over a year in Syria. His fundamental rights were violated after being detained in the in the US in September 2002 and accused of links to "terrorism". Amnesty International Canada is calling for a public inquiry into what role, if any, Canadian law enforcement and security agencies played in his deportation to Syria. Without the answers, there is no guarantee it won't happen again. Read More
TAKE ACTION: Sign the online petition
November 19, 2003

North Bay Network for Social Action - Media Advisory dd Nov. 19, 2003
Child Poverty & Housing Crisis:
The North Bay Network for Social Action will hold a Press Conference Friday, November 21, 2003 at 11:00 A.M at the Catholic Centre, 387 Algonquin Avenue

November 19, 2003
ACTION Alert - Liberals Fast track New Adams Mine Bid
Public Concern Temiskaming:
Barely 30 days into office, the new Liberal government has made the shocking decision to issue a draft permit to drain the Adams Mine. The draft permit sets the stage for Adams Mine Rail Haul to begin pumping 26 million litres of groundwater out of the pit, everyday for to up two years. Once drained, the pit will then be filled with garbage. The move flies in the face of an election promise by Premier Dalton McGuinty to halt all development at Adams Mine pending a full review of the controversial project.
November 18, 2003

Have you seen Cecilia Zhang? 9 year-old Missing Girl
The missing girl has been identified as Dong-Yue (Cecilia) ZHANG
a 9-year old
grade 4 student at Seneca Hill Public School, Ontario. Her parents last saw the child when she went to bed on Sunday Oct. 19th, 2003. She is described as female, Asian, 9 years of age, 4'11", 70 lbs, thin build, shoulder length black hair with blond highlights, brown eyes, wearing unknown clothing.
Anyone with Information is asked to contact 33 Division at 416-808-3300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
No
vember 12, 2003

Presentation to Judy Marsales, MPP, and staff of Ted McMeekin MPP -- At the Meeting of the Campaign for Adequate Welfare and Disability Benefits (CAWDB)
Nov. 12, 2003 - Presented by Mike Hogeterp and Darlene Burkett
November 12, 2003
Hon. Jean Augustine speaking on Beijing platform of Action
The Honourable Jean Augustine, Secretary of State, will be guest speaker at a public forum Sunday, November 16, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Committee Room 1, Toronto City Hall. The event is being sponsored by The Older Women's Network, an organization committed to act in support of justice, equality, dignity and respect for older women in Ontario
November 11, 2003
UN Day of the Elimination of Violence against Women
Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) media release

In recognizing the UN Day of the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 7th), the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) calls upon the public, governments and communities to join social workers in working towards the amelioration of the social and economic conditions that contribute to the persistence of violence against women. Read More
November 7, 2003
Call for Abstracts for the inaugural meeting of the Canadian Disability Studies Association. Abstracts invited from academics, community members and graduate students for papers/panels on the intersections with (and within) disability and disability studies, including disability and medicine; social policy and disability; disability history; the immigrant experience and disability; law and disability; disability and queerness; disability and culture; disability in literature; feminism and disability; ethics and disability, disability and pedagogy; and disability and personal/private space.
November 3, 2003

Access to Breast Cancer Screening Programs for Women with Disabilities
by Maria Barile -- Equal access to health services for women with disabilities to health services is a constant concern in all aspects of throughout their life cycles. Often, women with disabilities are denied services provided to women simply because these services are “unintentionally” geared to non-disabled women. In some cases, as in the case of breast-cancer screening, this inequality of access for all women with disabilities can have life-threatening consequences. Read More
November 2, 2003

Alternative Federal Budget predicts substantial surpluses and spending room, despite Ottawa¹s fear mongering
Press Release: Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives dd Oct-31-2003 OTTAWA:
Despite John Manley and Paul Martin¹s repeated warnings of a dismal fiscal outlook, the Alternative Federal Budget¹s calculations show Canadians can expect an underlying federal surplus of $6.6 billion in fiscal year 2003-04.
October 31, 2003

Bad walls make bad neighbours
Op/Ed by tOM Trottier
October 28, 2003

Message from the Coalition for Fair Opposition
NDP Party Status
October 24, 2003

October 17th - the International Day Against Poverty
Poverty is a human rights violation. Every woman, man, youth and child has the human right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being, to food, clothing, housing, medical care and social services. These fundamental human rights are defined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, CEDAW, the International Covenants and other widely adhered to international human rights treaties and Declarations -- powerful tools that can empower efforts for social and economic justice worldwide.
How much do you know about poverty? Take these Poverty Quizzes:

World Poverty Quiz

Poverty in Canada Quiz
Spotlight on Angie Sandow
Co-founder & lead guitarist of Bare Rump: AC/DC Tribute band

Angie Sandow is a musician with a disability living in Mississauga, Ontario who has been playing the electric guitar for nearly 25 years. 3 years ago, Angie and her musician/drummer husband, Lloyd Walsh, formed a band called "Bare Rump" - a tribute band to the music of AC/DC. Angie is the "Angus" or lead guitarist. One of the reasons why Angie chose to do this was because she wanted to show people what a person with disability can achieve. Read More

October 13, 2003
Elections Ontario Needs Volunteers to Participate in an Important Survey
On behalf of Elections Ontario, Ipsos-Reid - the national opinion research firm - will be conducting a comprehensive research project among eligible voters (whether they voted or not). The findings will help us make further improvements to the administration and management of the electoral process in Ontario. The survey will take about 20 minutes to complete and will be conducted in English. If the nature of your disability would make it difficult for you to do a telephone interview, please contact Ipsos-Reid at Toll free 1-888-666-8541, TTY 1-888-292-2312, or email electionsurvey@ipsos-reid.com. Read More
October 1, 2003
Who cares about Ontario's poor? Op/Ed in Toronto Star - Sept. 29, 2003
by Sarah Blackstock & Jacquie Chic -
It should outrage all of us. But it doesn't. Nearly 2 million people in this rich province live in poverty. In spite of this, poverty has barely been mentioned by candidates in the current election campaign. Why? Perhaps, after eight years of Progressive Conservate rants blaming poor people for their own poverty, we've started to believe the rhetoric. However, the consequences of buying into such rhetoric are dire.We would do well right now to take a lead from the jury which examined the death of Kimberly Rogers. Eight months pregnant, convicted of welfare fraud and sentenced to house arrest during the height of summer, Rogers died in August, 2001. Read More
September 29, 2003

Update in the case of Bilquis and Imran!
(disabled women and her teenage son)
On September 17, 2003 Bilquis and Imran received approval to appeal their PRRA rejection to the Federal Court of Appeal. Their appearing at the Federal Court of Appeal is set for December and until then a stay has been granted and they are being released from detention on Mon. Sept. 29, 2003. Their case HAS NOT BEEN WON until they are granted a permanent stay and their deportation order is overturned. Minister Coderre still has the ability to intervene and stop the deportation and our campaign must continue.Read More & TAKE ACTION
September 29, 2003

Access to Justice - Governance in the America
Deadline for responses to questionnaire Tues. Sept. 29, 2003

Women from across Canada are invited to participate in an Americas-wide project to assess the progress made by the region’s governments in the areas of: access to justice, freedom of expression, access to information,civil society participation and strengthening local governments since the 2001 Summit of the Americas in Quebec City. Information on the current legal/regulatory state of these issues in theory and practice will be collected in 21 participating countries, including Canada
Follow this link to read a brief
description of the Access to Justice Project
Follow this link to read some information about the Canadian Foundation for the Americas
Follow this link to read and respond to the questionnaire
September 26, 2003
McGuinty in the middle by Scott Piatkowski
Anyone keeping score had to give Hampton top marks for staying on topic, for consistency and for actually proposing ideas.
Ontario Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty has developed a strategy for exceeding the expectations of voters. Aided admirably by the Conservatives' negative campaign against him, McGuinty has systematically ensured that those expectations are so low that he exceeds them simply by showing up and not tripping over his own tongue. Aside from his surprising revelation that we are now living in 2005, he did that Tuesday evening in the televised leaders' debate. Read More on Rabble
September 25, 2003
CHANGE the Voting System - Take Action - Contact your MP!
We have the opportunity to finally change the way our federal politicians are elected. Members of Parliament will be voting on Tuesday, September 30th on a motion to call a referendum asking Canadians if they would like to change the electoral system to proportional representation
September 25, 2003

Strategic Voting? Hold Your Nose
September 25, 2003

Court Overturns Stoning Sentence of Woman in Nigeria
Amina Lawal Case Update - Sept. 25, 2003

September 25, 2003
Happy Retirement to Gilles Seguin from HRDC
Publisher of Canadian Social Research Links - a virtual resource centre for Canadian social program information
September 24, 2003

Sudbury emergency food aid because of August blackout was badly done
Anti-Poverty Group, City Squabble Over Blackout Payments
Contrast Sudbury's $50 for singles and up to $125 for families with Hamilton's measly $10 and $20 vouchers. In both cities, the responsible authority failed to get the word out effectively
September 20, 2003

Obstacles to Justice Research Project
This is a research project aimed at identifying obstacles in the justice system which prevent or discourage sexual assault survivors' access. The project will examine the current trend towards criminalizing women or making them responsible for men's violence (eg. dual charging, using the defense of provocation in aid of violent men, criminalizing women when they do not give abusive fathers access to their children, and requiring that women supervise/monitor the violent behaviour of abusive fathers in the home).
Read Project Descriptions & Questions

September 20, 2003
When Social Policy is Health Policy MS Word doc size 1.3 mb
Why Increasing Poverty & Low Income Threatens Canadians' Health & Health Care System by Dennis Raphael
School Of Health Policy & Management, York University
September 19, 2003

Q & A sheets on the child tax benefit, the minimum wage and social assistance, developed by
John Fraser
, former policy analyst with the Income Security Advocacy Centre

Leaving Welfare for Work? Questions & Answers
Child Benefits in Ontario - Questions & Answers
Minimum Wage - Questions & Answers
September 18, 2003

Political Campaign in Support of Bilquis & Imran
Disabled woman & her teenaged son to be deported - Reason(s) given: "Cost" to Canadians - Contact Members of Parliament Today!
September 16, 2003
The Killing of Dudley George - Eight Years on Many Questions Remain Unanswered
Dudley George
was killed by a sniper on Sept. 6, 1995, when the Ontario Provincial Police attacked a small group of unarmed protestors occupying Ipperwash Provincial Park. Eight years later, critical questions remain unanswered about the decision to use force against the protestors and the influence of government officials. Amnesty International released this week, a new report on the case, Canada: Why there must be a public inquiry into the police killing of Dudley GeorgeCanada: Why there must be a public inquiry into the police killing of Dudley George
September 6, 2003
Make poverty an election issue in your community: September 10 province wide event
With nearly 2 million people in Ontario living below the poverty line, politicians in this province need to take poverty seriously. They need to commit to raising the minimum wage and social assistance rates. On Sept 10, in communities across Ontario, activists will be making it clear to political candidates that raising the minimum wage and social assistance rates must be a priority. Read More
September 5, 2003
EI Program robs workers, especially women
Women who work to support their families and pay for unemployment insurance protection get robbed by the federal government. A new report released today shows that the EI Program, which was set up to administer unemployment insurance in 1996, pays insurance to just one third of working women who lose their jobs. Read More on the Canadian Labour Congress site
September 4, 2003

Ontario Election 2003
Organizing Information and Resources for Anti-Poverty and Disability Activists

70+ links to a comprehensive collection of information about social justice campaigns happening around the Ontario provincial election called for Oct 2, 2003
September 3, 2003

Ontarians With Disabilities Act (ODA) Committee Election 2003 Action Kit
United to Achieve a Barrier-Free Ontario

The ODA Committee is a voluntary coalition of individuals & community organizations who have united to secure the passage in Ontario of a new law which would achieve a barrier-free society for people with disabilities. For the Oct. 2, 2003 Ontario Election, we've launched a campaign to move forward on the long, challenging road to a barrier-free Ontario for 1.9 million Ontarians with disabilities.
ODA Committee Action Kit
ODA Committee Election 2003 Leaflet
ODA Committee Chronology

Election 2003 Political Parties Voting Record Factsheet
September 2, 2003
Feeding the Poor in Yorkville from rabble.ca
While no one got to literally "Eat the Rich" at OCAP's feast in Toronto's Yorkville, people who would ordinarily only go into the posh neighbourhood to work as waiters got a chance to wine and dine like working class kings and queens. Read more
August 29, 2003
Postal Workers Torn on Contract
For the next month, Canadian postal workers will be voting to accept or reject the contract their union negotiated last month. Most agree that finally contacting-in some 6,000 Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers was a massive gain. But some union locals say that came at the expense of too many concessions for the traditional urban membership. Read more
August 29, 2003
Florida Governor Jeb Bush Sends Lawyers to Represent a Fetus:
Targeting A Mentally Retarded Pregnant Woman for Pro-Life Intervention

FindLaw columnist and Rutgers law professor Sherry Colb discusses a new angle on the controversial decision by Governor Jeb Bush to seek the appointment of a fetal guardian in an abortion controversy. In the case in which he has sought a guardian, the woman at issue is a mentally disabled rape victim. Colb argues that the fact that Governor Bush chose hers as the test case for fetal guardianship should trouble all Americans -- whether pro-life or pro-choice. Read More

August 29, 2003
Plain Talk - Summer 2003 Issue
Newsletter of the Income Security Advocacy Centre (ISAC)

August 26, 2003
Disablement and Feminisation of Poverty by Maria Barile
"From the economic viewpoint, one can infer that poverty and disablement are synonymous with each other. What happens when poverty and disability are experienced at the same time?" Article looks into the economic and social experiences of women with disability based on the Canadian experience.
August 26, 2003
Polaris InstituteWTO Pusher profile: ACCENTUREA
Identifying Characteristics: Big business consultants who are big-time privatization pushers of gov't services, especially social services. Makes lots of money replacing people's jobs with machines, love to slash welfare benefits, & pillage public health care & education funds.
Persistent Patterns:
Appetite for privatizing welfare & social services. Hunger for profits satisfied through the elimination of public sector jobs. Has a record for major cost overruns & receiving payments far greater than initial projections. Despite substantial profiteering, practices major job cts on their own.

Known Hangouts:
Head office 40 King St. W. Toronto. Check out www.accenture.com for more locations Known Aliases: Was known as Andersen Consulting, changed name in Jan. 2001, in largest, most costly "re-branding" effort in history.
Known Allies:
Member of a number of influential business groups including the U.S. Coalition of Service Industries (USCSI), a major GATS pusher. Connections to Shell Oil's nasty activities in Nigeria and Inco's pillaging of Innu Land in Labrador.
Follow this link for more detailed information
GATS Pusher Profile: ACCENTURE

More Cut-Offs of BC's Most Vulnerable - People with DisAbilities (PWD)
Today's Georgia Straight article by Bill Tieleman is about the BC Liberal Government's ongoing threats to people with disabilities (PWDs), and about what intentions the BC Liberals' most recent media spin is likely designed to cover up. Read More
August 23, 2003

BC Court Victory - DisAbilities, Autism
Another at least temporary court victory for People with Disabilities! In this case there are implications for at least children with autism. Read More

August 23, 2003
Amina Lawal: continuing appeals process to prevent execution by stoning
TAKE ACTION: Please sign the Amnesty International Petition Read More
August 19, 2003
Provincial Party Leaders Respond to Letter from Ontario’s Religious Leaders
Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition (ISARC) - On 24 Feb, 2003, a letter from Ontario religious leaders was sent to each of the three Ontario provincial party leaders asking him to respond to
six questions within the next six weeks. ISARC was asked to receive the letters and distribute them to religious leaders and various coalitions. The responses from the two opposition leaders came by 1 April 2003. After numerous calls to both Premier Ernie Eves MPP & Minister Brenda Elliott MPP, ISARC finally received the government’s letter, dated 10 June 2003. All responses under each leader are complete, unedited quotes from their letters. No information was deleted except salutations & closings. Read More
August 19, 2003
Disablement and Feminisation of Poverty by Maria Barile
From the economic viewpoint, one can infer that poverty and disablement are synonymous with each other. What happens when poverty and disability are experienced at the same time? This article will look into the economic and social experiences of women with disability based on the Canadian experience. Read More August 14, 2003
New Snapshot of Family Violence
Family violence now accounts for one-quarter of all violent crimes reported to Canadian police services, according to new data from Statistics Canada. The vast majority of victims (85%) were women, and two-thirds of perpetrators were spouses or ex-spouses. Read More
August 13, 2003

Kids with Disabilities & Families Struggle
... 155,000 Canadian kids with disabilities & their families NOT getting the help they need

Data recently released by Statistics Canada examining the lives of the estimated 155,000 Canadian children (ages 5 to 14) with some form of activity-limiting condition reveals they and their parents don’t always get the help they need. Read More
August 13, 2003

Ontario Settles Pay Equity Dispute Affecting 100,000 Women
In June a settlement was reached in a long-standing pay equity dispute affecting more than 100,000 Ontario women. The settlement covers female dominated workplaces in the public sector and many community-based organizations that receive transfer payments from the province. Read More
August 13, 2003
W32.Blaster.Worm - Virus Alert & Steps to Recovery
In mid-July, Microsoft issues a critical update about a security hole that made Windows systems
vulnerable to viruses. Microsoft urged users to download and install a software update to "patch" the hole / vulnerability.
Computers running Windows XP were among the systems that needed to be patched. Apparently, some people didn't get the message (or couldn't get the update to work). A new computer virus/worm that takes advantage of the security hole is spreading rapidly around the world this week. The worm is known by several names, including "MS Blaster" & "Lovesan." Read More
August 12, 2003
Prisoners' Justice Day - August 10
August 10th is a day set aside to remember all the men and women who have died unnatural deaths inside Canadian prisons. This August 10th marks the 27th Anniversary of Prison Justice Day, a day when prisoners across the country go on a one day hunger strike and work stoppage to protest the deaths of all the men and women who die at the hands of an apathetic prison system. Read More
August 10, 2003
A look at what a Budget can buy
on the 2nd Anniversa
ry of the death of Kimberly Rogers
by Barbara Anello
Today, August 9th marks the second anniversary of the death of Kimberly Rogers who died while serving a conditional sentence of 6 months under house arrest after pleading guilty to welfare fraud. So it was interesting to read in the Toronto Star today just how much of our tax dollars, the Eves government wasted on the "Magna Budget" Read More
August 9, 2003
Using the Internet for Outreach & Organizing: A Virtual Activist Training Reader
This organizing tool was developed by NetAction and has been reproduced on the DAWN Ontario website with additional pointers to Canadian content and alternative text added to images. NetAction permits reproduction with appropriate credit
August 2, 2003
Women's Health Matters Resource Database
Searchable bilingual database of women’s health resources for consumers and health professionals; provides women with information about where to find women’s health resources to support their health-care decision-making. Users can search the database using a variety of criteria to retrieve results that contain standardized descriptions of reviewed resources
August 1, 2003
Mental Pause and Menopause or Mutation
She Says (M. Kathleen Williams) ... He Says (Andrew D. Tutty)
... a new Op/Ed column on the DAWN Ontario site -- Read the first SARS WARS
July 25, 2003

Canadian ISM activist, Tarek Loubani, arrested and beaten by Israeli police

A London Ontario activist named Tarek Loubani was arrested by the Israeli police while working with International Solidarity Movement (ISM) peace activists some time ago. Though the arrest was outrageous enough (they were merely observers to monitor and prevent human rights abuses in the occupied territories of Palestine) the treatment they have received in prison is nothing short of shocking. Read the 8 updates on the issue, including a note that Tarek slipped to attornies during preliminary trials - Tarek describes beatings and solitary confinement conditions that he has been subjected to while in prison. We urge you to contact your MP & Bill Graham, the Minister of Foreign Affairs to express your outrage at this situation. This is especially relevant to the government given the recent brutal beating death of
Zahra Kazemi
, the Canadian photo journalist, in Iran. Read More & Take Action
July 23, 2003

Ontario Disability Support Program Facts and Questions: Ontario Election 2003
July 21, 2003

Feminist Principles, Practices and Processes - An Online Guidebook
Feminist principles guide the work that we do within equality-seeking organizations, as well as the way
that we do it. Taking the time to examine or revisit our feminist principles can assist in deepening our understanding of feminist practices and processes, and reconnecting with our feminist basis of unity. (Reproduced in HTML by DAWN Ontario from PDF version of a segment from the Feminism: Our Basis for Unity published by PACSW Newfoundland & Labrador)
Read More
July 20, 2003

Getting Off Welfare Submitted anonymously to Sound, a social justice magazine in Kamloops BC
"So, here you are. All your life you have been self-sufficient and now you find yourself in this place. Feeling a little ashamed, perhaps? Voices whispering in your ear, “What’s the matter, loser, can’t you find a job?” No, not yet? Well, while you wait, let me tell you about some of the experiences that are coming your way..." Read More
July 19, 2003
Eves Gov't Invests $1 Billion to Help People with Developmental Disabilities MCFCS News Release dd July 18, 2003: "To help people with developmental disabilities live meaningful lives, close to their families and their communities, the Ernie Eves government is increasing funding by $56 million in 2003/04, Minister of Community, Family and Children's Services Brenda Elliott announced today"
July 19, 2003

Adams Mine Consortium applying for dewatering permits

On July 9th, Adams Mine Rail Haul applied for dewatering Permits for Adams Mine! The move comes as farmers are assembling evidence that the pit is no longer filling with water --meaning pit water is probably flowing into the surrounding groundwater. If the MOE approves this permit, they will be destroying the evidence needed to prove this pit poses a risk to our groundwater. As well, by approving this now, they will be saddling the incoming provincial government with an "on the ground fact"-- ie. an Adams Mine operation that is well on its way to completion. We Need Action Immediately. Read More
July 18, 2003

Addiction and mental health privatization in Ontario?
Leaked memo indicates Tories plottiing another P3 give-away
The privatization zeal of the Ontario Tories knows no bounds: now they are apparently ready to let business make a buck on the backs of citizens requiring addiction and mental health treatment. The Toronto Star reports that the province is quietly considering a plan to amalgamate four Toronto addiction and mental health treatment sites - with a big role for their favourite friends - the private sector. Read More
July 11, 2003

Pay the Rent Lobby Blitz
Take Action to raise the shelter allowance portion of Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program to average rent levels. Phone, fax or email your MPPs on July 17 and August 7 to deliver the message that social assistance rates must be raised so that everyone can pay the rent, feed themselves and if they have children, feed the kids. Take Action
July 9, 2003

The Coca Cola Campaign - Boycott Coca-Cola
22nd July 2003 - International Day of Action

Coca Cola & Nestlé both stand accused of serious human rights violations in Colombia. While Nestlé sack union members, Coca Cola kill them. Paramilitary Death Squads, acting under orders from Coca Cola management, have assassinated 8 trade union leaders in their workplaces. The union, SINTRAMINERCOL, has responded by calling for an international boycott of Coca Cola & all of their products, starting 22 July
July 8, 2003

Higher Child Benefits Needed To Counter Persistent Poverty
Toronto - Increased investments in the Canada Child Tax Benefit are needed in order to substantially reduce child poverty, say researchers and advocates following the release of the 2002 National Child Benefit Progress Report (1). They argue that enhancement of child benefits combined with an end to the clawback of the National Child Benefit (NCB) from families on social assistance would go along way to bolster family income security in Canada -- Press Release dd July 4, 2003 Campaign 2000
July 7, 2003
Canada slips on U.N. list
We drop to 8th place in index based on quality of life - U.S., Australia, even Belgium ranked as better places to live. "For the first time in more than a decade Canada has slipped below the United States, Australia and Belgium as the world's best place to live, according to a United Nations quality of life report. This year's Human Development Index, part of the U.N.'s Human Development Report 2003, ranks Canada as the 8th best country in the world in terms of living conditions. Read More on the Toronto Star
July 4, 2003
Support the right of transexuals to obtain gov't funding for
Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS)

It's up to the Federal Government to make sure the Provinces provide equal health care to all the people in the provinces. They cannot discriminate against transexuals, but they do by not paying for S.R.S.
Please
join in and write to your Government.
Read More & Take Action
July 4, 2003
Squat Evicted in Peterborough, Squatters move to City Hall
As of Friday, July 4th, the squatters of 1130 Water Street will be residing on the lawn in front of city hall. The decision to move to City Hall was made after the squatters were forcibly removed from their home at 6:30 am on Thursday July 3, 2003. Half an hour after a city official and police officer notified the squatters that they were trespassing and advised the squatters to leave, nine police officers in full riot gear and gas masks descended upon the building while a dozen other police officers surrounded the building. The squatters were later released in a public park without charge. Read More
July 4, 2003
Housing Ontario Means Everyone
HOME HOME logo -- image of housing
Read the HOME brochure online! HOME is a new Toronto-based coalition of community groups, tenant organizations and organizations working with homeless people & people with housing problems. We want to raise awareness of housing and homelessness issues in the month's ahead.
Download the HOME Brochure (PDF size 135 kb)
July 3, 2003
Anti WTO Demonstrations in Montreal
A newly formed coalition in Toronto is mobilizing to attend