Connexions Expired Events
Jan 1, 2019 through Mar 31, 2019
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World Braille Day is celebrated every year on January 4th because it is Louis Braille’s birthday, the inventor of braille! Louis was born in 1809 in France. He became blind after a childhood accident, and he quickly mastered his new way of living. When he was just 15 years old, he created the system we know today as braille, based on a system of writing developed by Charles Barbier. Over the years braille was tweaked to make it easier to read, and now it’s used the world over!

Categories:   Disability Issues

The new TTC Board will meet on December 18 for the first time, so we're throwing them a Welcome Party! Help us introduce TTCriders and our demands for fair TTC funding, lower fares, and better service. We will deliver a giant welcome card with a message that you can sign in advance.

The TTC Board will be voting soon on important transit decisions like fare increases, service levels on buses and streetcars, and the TTC budget.

Time:  12:15 PM
Venue:  City Hall
Location:  100 Queen St West, 2nd Floor, Committee Room 4, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/309841142949295/
Categories:   Transportation & Travel; Urban Issues, Transit, Housing, Public Space; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Vigil will be held at the site of her death at 730 Dovercourt Rd and demands made of the city for immediate action on this deadly housing crisis. Speakers to include: Lesley Wood (OCAP), Patricia O'Connell, Melody Grant and Kira Hamilton (Sistering), Kapri Rabin (Street Health), and more.

Toronto: This past Tuesday, Crystal, a homeless woman and frequent user of the Sistering drop-in centre, died under tragic circumstances near Dovercourt and Bloor when she became trapped in a donation bin in the middle of the night.

On the night that Crystal died, women's shelters across the city were full. The sub-standard back-up respite centres were also packed and the two 24/7 drop-ins centres for women and trans people, which function as under-resourced de-facto shelters, were overcapacity.

Mayor John Tory has turned the issue into one about the design and location of donation bins, diverting attention away from the underlying housing and homelessness crisis his administration is responsible for, and can do something about.

After an extended community fight last year Tory agreed to add some respite and shelter capacity, but implementation has been slow and woefully inadequate. A 56-bed shelter that was originally scheduled to open in December will now open sometime in January, but with 120 women sleeping in the drop-ins, and more surviving in the respites, the beds just won't be enough.

Time:  6:00 pm
Location:  730 Dovercourt Rd, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.ocap.ca
Phone:  416 925 6939
Categories:   Social Policy; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives; Women

AFTER THE FIRE by Matthew MacKenzie is a new environmental play premiering in Toronto. Set in the aftermath of the wildfire that nearly destroyed Fort McMurray in the summer of 2016, After the Fire is a dark comedy centered around two couples whose lives have been deeply affected by this 'natural' disaster.

This Indigenous-led, new Canadian work raises vital questions about continued industrial development in Fort McMurray, despite the devastating impact on the environment and the people whose livelihoods rely on it. After The Fire examines our addiction to fossil fuels, shining a spotlight on the families caught in the middle of the Canadian cultural paradox of both condemning while intrinsically profiting from the exploitation of our non-renewable resources.

A special community engagement performance is taking place Friday, January 11, which will feature a post-show panel discussion on topics raised in the play including the environment and perspectives through an Indigenous lens.

We have an exclusive promo code for $17 tickets to share with your networks. You can book with the promo code online at http://theatrecentre.org or call 416-534-9261.

PROMOCODE: TARSANDS

Time:  8:00 PM nightly
Venue:  The Theatre Centre
Location:  1115 Queen St. West, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.punctuatetheatre.com/
For information contact:  outreach@punctuatetheatre.com
Phone:  416-534-9261
Categories:   Environment; Performing Arts; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Please come with ideas and volunteer to help for the Kamloops peace social justice and environment walk.

Time:  4:00 PM
Venue:  Meet at the Smorgasbord Deli
Location:  225 7 Ave., Kamloops, BC
Website:  http://canadians.org/event/kamloops-peace-walk
Categories:   Environment; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Many recent mainstream media articles and popular books have raised alarms over anti-social algorithmic behavior, especially regarding machine learning and artificial intelligence. The concerns include leaks of sensitive personal data by predictive models, algorithmic discrimination as a side-effect of machine learning, and inscrutable decisions made by complex models. While standard and legitimate responses to these phenomena include calls for stronger and better laws and regulations, researchers in machine learning, statistics and related areas are also working on designing better-behaved algorithms. An explosion of recent research in areas such as differential privacy, algorithmic fairness and algorithmic game theory is forging a new science of socially aware algorithm design. I will survey these developments and attempt to place them in a broader societal context. This talk is based on the forthcoming book "The Ethical Algorithm", co-authored with Aaron Roth (Oxford University Press, 2019).

Time:  4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Venue:  Centre for Ethics, University of Toronto
Location:  200 Larkin, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://ethics.utoronto.ca/events/505/ethics-of-ai-in-context-michael-kearns/
Categories:   Computers; Communications Industry & Technology; Human Rights, Law, Legal

Following yet another brutal death of a homeless woman early this morning, the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP) is calling a press conference this Thursday, January 17 at noon to demand action on Toronto’s deadly housing crisis from all three levels of government. The homeless woman, whose identity has not yet been released, was killed after being run over by a garbage truck as she slept on a surface grate for warmth.

This most recent death comes just a week after another homeless woman, Crystal Papineau, died near Dovercourt and Bloor after getting trapped in a clothing donations bin in the middle of the night. That same night, a young homeless Indigenous man was also found dead.

Much like the night Crystal died, Toronto’s emergency shelters were full across all sectors last night, the sub-standard backup respites centres were packed, and the closest women’s drop-in, which offers no sleeping space, was overcapacity. The City’s nightly shelter census data demonstrates that the situation remains virtually the same almost every single night of the year.

Time:  Noon
Location:  Alley next to 165 University Avenue, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://ocap.ca
For information contact:  Yogi Acharya
Phone:  647-764-0488
Categories:   Social Services; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

This forum for Indigenous peoples, policy makers, advocates and academics will profile research that can assist states and Indigenous peoples in implementing the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This Forum will feature international experts, including current and former members of the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, speaking on topics such as international standards, norms, laws and mechanisms related to the human rights of Indigenous peoples and on regional case studies.

Confirmed speakers include:

Chief Wilton Littlechild, former commissioner of TRC, former member of Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and former member of Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.

Members of the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples including Alexey Tsykarev, Edtami Mansayagan, Kristen Carpenter, and Erika Yamada.

Former members of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, Dalee Sambo Dorough and Grand Chief Ed John.

Time:  8:00 AM Jan 18 to 4:00 PM Jan 19
Venue:  Robson Hall
Location:  224 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://law.robsonhall.com/blog/event/kiskinohamatowin-an-international-academic-forum-on-the
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Native Peoples; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Join U.S. comedian and podcaster Hari Kondabolu in a seriously funny conversation about the future of work with the Atkinson Foundation's Ausma Malik, and the Canadian Roots Exchange's Max FineDay. They'll be talking about how to get a future that's fair and work that's decent. The cast of The Jetsons, the first colour cartoon series aired in 1962 and set 100 years in the future, will make a cameo appearance. Hari, Max and Ausma will riff about bosses and workers, tech for lifestyles and livelihoods, and how race, money and gender colours everything for millennials.

Just Work It is a platform for podcasts and live events about decent work for and by millennials.

Time:  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Venue:  Isabel Bader Theatre, Victoria College- U of T
Location:  93 Charles Street W., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2062-beyond-a-cartoon-future-for-millennials-a-live-podcast-event
Categories:   Performing Arts; Labour, Workplace, Unions; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

This highly influential film in architecture and planning circles by William H. Whyte analyzes the success and failures of urban spaces. Observing the natural order of spaces and the way people move through them, Whyte provides an intuitive critique of urban spaces and ways these spaces can be improved. (IMDB; Luke Keller)

Time:  6:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Venue:  Centre for Ethics, University of Toronto
Location:  Larkin Building, Rm 200, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://ethics.utoronto.ca/events/553/ethics-film-the-social-life-of-small-urban-spaces-ethic
Categories:   Urban Issues, Transit, Housing, Public Space; Design; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Acknowledging the importance of education for achieving sustainable development, eradicating poverty, promoting gender equality, and promoting peace and respect for human rights

Website:  http://undocs.org/A/RES/73/25
Categories:   Education

Speak out against the ongoing coup attempt in Venezuela and the US and Canadian government's support!

The Trump and Trudeau governments have announced that they are recognizing a self-appointed opposition leader as President of Venezuela. Nicolas Maduro was elected President of Venezuela last year in free and fair elections.

This is an ongoing coup plot with serious consequences for peace and sovereignty around the world and deadly consequences for Venezuelans and their fight for self-determination and social justice in that country.

Time:  2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Venue:  Bloor St W & Spadina (South East corner)
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/442257976312416/
Categories:   International; Politics & Political Organizations; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

The theme of the Holocaust remembrance and education activities this year is Holocaust Remembrance: Demand and Defend Your Human Rights. This theme encourages youth to learn from the lessons of the Holocaust, act against discrimination and defend democratic values in their communities, at a time when the spread of Neo-Nazism and hate groups fuels the rising antisemitism and other forms of hatred around the world. The theme highlights the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/2019/calendar2019.html
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Boots Riley's Sorry to Bother You was one of the most critical acclaimed films of 2018. Though an brilliant mix of satire, drama, and humour, Riley is able to capture the horror, absurdity, and contradictions of life within contemporary capitalism. Exploring themes of exploitation, racism, alienation, and the strained relationship between activism, art, popular culture, and profound social change, Riley effectively captures the tensions, paradoxes, and necessities of the modern political landscape. Following the film there will be a short presentation and discussion on some of the important political questions raised by the film.

Time:  7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Venue:  Eyesore Cinema
Location:  1176 Bloor Street, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/2261535594115653/
Categories:   Arts & Culture; Politics & Political Organizations; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Please join the Council of Women of Winnipeg Inc. at the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD) January 31st. CWW will feature a film and presentation about "Human Trafficking" - a worldwide issue which has an impact here in our city.

A speaker from the Joy Smith Foundation will be leading the discussion.

Time:  7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Venue:  Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD)
Location:  825 Sherbrook Ave., Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://humanrightshub.ca/event/human-trafficking/
For information contact:  adj@mymts.net
Phone:  (204) 589-6449
Categories:   Women; Human Rights, Law, Legal; International

Recognizing the imperative need for dialogue among different faiths and religions to enhance mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people, the General Assembly encourages all States to support during that week the spread of the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in the world’s churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and other places of worship, on a voluntary basis and according to their own religious traditions or convictions.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/interfaithharmonyweek/
Categories:   Religious; International

Warm up with us this winter- come join us for an evening of fun and excitement to support the St. James Town Community Co-op. This artistic fundraiser will feature performances by Wiz The Mc, Bryant Didier, Iron Mic, Maria Zak, and a poetry reading by Frizzkid. Plus other artists will be announced closer to the fundraiser date. All proceeds will go to support the OASIS food hub project. This event is sponsored by Evolutionary Music Co-op and LIFT Toronto.


"The St. James Town Community Co-op (SJTCC) aims to enable community projects and social enterprises that benefit the residents of St James Town and improve the quality of life in the community. The primary focus is on food security and resilience to climate change.

One of our visions is to build and develop a climate resilience food hub in the middle of downtown Toronto: the OASIS Food Hub. The food hub will be a space for residents and co-op members to have cooking workshops, grow food, and engage in food initiatives and dialogue together so that we can have a food secure and healthy community. See more of our vision here."

Time:  Sun, 7:30 PM - Mon, 12:30 AM
Venue:  Tranzac Club
Location:  292 Brunswick Avenue, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/oasis-community-fundraiser-tickets-53884833989
Categories:   Performing Arts; Arts & Culture; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

YORK - U OF T - RYERSON - GEORGE BROWN - SENECA - HUMBER - CENTENNIAL - OCAD - AND ALL GTA SCHOOLS

Calling all Toronto students, and students from any post secondary institution around the Toronto area. Join us for to take part in the Central location of the Province Wide March for Students' Rights on Monday the 4th.

Details to come in the following days, but we have lots of exciting speakers lined up! Sign up today and invite as many Toronto friends as you can.

Remember to mark yourself as going to the province-wide event, which can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/774883509561071/

Time:  12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Venue:  Queen's Park
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/296202404419912/
Categories:   Education; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Info session and training on how to get our politicians to build the Eglinton East LRT publicly, now and fund TTC service instead of raising fares.

Time:  5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Venue:  East Scarborough Storefront
Location:  4040 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/380700945823983/
Categories:   Transportation & Travel; Urban Issues, Transit, Housing, Public Space; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/femalegenitalmutilationday/index.shtml
Categories:   Health/Health Care; Women

John Polanyi is Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of Toronto. A recipient of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1986) and over thirty honorary degrees from six countries, he has served on the Prime Minister of Canada’s Advisory Board on Science and Technology and the Premier's Council of Ontario.

He was a founding member of both the Committee on Scholarly Freedom of the Royal Society, and a further international human rights organization, the Canadian Committee for Scientists and Scholars, of which he is the current President. Additionally he was the founding Chairman of the Canadian Pugwash Group in 1960, and has been active for 40years in International Pugwash. He has written extensively on science policy, the control of armaments, and peacekeeping. He is co-editor of a book, The Dangers of Nuclear War, and was a participant in the recent 'Canada 21' study of a 21st-century defence posture for Canada. He was co-chair (with Sir Brian Urquhart) of the Department of Foreign Affairs International Consultative Committee on a Rapid Response Capability for the United Nations.

Time:  5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Venue:  George Ignatieff Theatre
Location:  15 Devonshire Pl, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/nobel-laureate-john-polanyi-what-can-we-do-to-prevent-nuclear-war
Categories:   International; Military; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

David Treuer is Ojibwe from the Leech Lake Reservation in northern Minnesota, and is the author of four previous novels, and two books of nonfiction. His new book, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee is an essential read that melds history with reportage and memoir, and chronicles 125 years of Native American history.

Hear Treuer discuss the history-and counter-narrative-of Native American life from the Wounded Knee massacre to the present. In conversation with author, educator and activist Taiaiake Alfred.

Time:  7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue:  Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library
Location:  789 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/david-treuer-beyond-wounded-knee-tickets-54668130851
Categories:   Native Peoples; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

APPLICATIONS FOR 2019 OPEN: November 14, 2018 – February 8, 2019

The Young Conservation Professionals (YCP) Leadership Program is a year-long personal and professional development program serving the conservation and environmental sector in Ontario, Canada.

The YCP program takes place over the course of one calendar year and requires a total on-site time commitment of approximately 14 days, including:

- Three three-day (two night) residential retreats in March, June, and October focused on personal and professional leadership development;

- A minimum of four (out of up to six) one-day workshops throughout the year focused on key management skills,

- Program graduation at the A. D. Latornell Conservation Symposium.

Time:  Applications close Feb. 8
Venue:  Albion Hills Field Centre
Location:  Caledon, ON
Website:  http://ycpleadership.ca/
For information contact:  Elizabeth Wren
Phone:  416-569-6786
Categories:   Environment; Skills & Training; Children & Youth

Doug Ford has threatened to break apart the TTC by taking over the subway system we paid for and maintain. This will open it up to privatization, higher fares, reduced service, and less democratic control by Toronto’s residents.

We're ramping up the campaign in the new year by organizing subway stop canvases, door knocking, and lit drops. Join us for this canvass at Kennedy Subway Station to hand out flyers and talk to riders.

TTC tokens available. Contact 647-220-9739 to find us.

Time:  5:30 PM
Venue:  Kennedy station
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/2302591569804802/?event_time_id=2302591576471468
Categories:   Transportation & Travel; Urban Issues, Transit, Housing, Public Space; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

This free, half-day training opportunity will enhance your understanding of Female Circumcision (also known as Female Genital Cutting - FGC, or Female Genital Mutilation - FGM). This training is ideal for those working with immigrant and/or refugee women from communities where FGC is practiced.

You will have the opportunity to:

-Examine your own personal and cultural values related to women's sexuality and FGC
-Become aware of the types of FGC along with possible health consequences
-Be able to identify strategies for responding in a culturally safe way to the issue of FGC

IDEAL FOR: Service providers who work with immigrant and newcomer women from FGC practicing communities, health care providers who work with newcomer and immigrant communities, social service workers and social workers who work with culturally diverse communities, and students in the social sciences, humanities and related human service fields.

CERTIFICATION: Participants will receive a certificate of completion worth 3.0 Hrs. that can be applied to continuing competency programs for various professional regulating bodies.

COST: There is no cost for attending this event. Light refreshments and coffee/tea will be provided. Click on the link above to register now and you will receive a copy of "Working with Women and Girls who have experienced FGC" to read prior to this event.

Time:  9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Location:  200 - 226 Osborne Street North, Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://bookwhen.com/sercmb#focus=ev-scww-20190209093000
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Health/Health Care; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

In January 1919, Polish-German revolutionary socialist Rosa Luxemburg was murdered by far-right thugs. Much has changed since 1919, but as capitalism threatens us with devastating climate change, austerity, and a growing far-right threat, Luxemburg's ideas may be as relavent for people today as they were a century ago.

Join the Toronto New Socialists for a presentation and discussion. Our speaker is David Camfield, a labour activist in Winnipeg and the author of We Can Do Better: Ideas for Changing Society and Canadian Labour in Crisis: Reinventing the Workers' Movement.

Time:  2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Venue:  A Different Booklist
Location:  777-779 Bathurst St., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/230712107809518/
Categories:   Labour, Workplace, Unions; Politics & Political Organizations; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Science and gender equality are both vital for the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals. Over the past 15 years, the global community has made a lot of effort in inspiring and engaging women and girls in science. Unfortunately, women and girls continued to be excluded from participating fully in science. In order to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls, and further achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, the United Nations General Assembly declared 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/women-and-girls-in-science-day/index.shtml
Categories:   Women; Science & Technology

Murderous wildfires, a 10-alarm UN IPCC report and the advent of an election year, when the result could hinge on perceptions of a newly introduced federal carbon tax, have put climate change high in the minds of Canadians, again. Yet, how can environmental organizations, governments and others keep the issue front and centre? Explore the Canadian role in Climate Change in this 60-minute webinar presented by Dr. Erick Lachapelle, Universite de Montreal.

The webinar takes place on February 12, 2019, from 1-2 pm Eastern. An audio recording of the webinar will be made available to all those who register so sign up even if you can not make the live offering.

Time:  1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Website:  http://sustainabilitynetwork.ca/climate-change-canadians-new-public-opinion-research-ecoanal
Categories:   Environment; Information, Libraries, Research; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Most nonprofits are great at taking care of the people they exist to serve. But how well do you look after your own employees? Find out how to better care for your staff at our free webinar!

The psychological health of your teams is becoming increasingly important in the context of performance, retention, and cost - all things that are crucial to achieving your mission. Join the Canadian Mental Health Association to hear more about how organizations both small and large are addressing psychological health and safety. You will learn about practical, low-cost (or no-cost!) strategies you can implement quickly and that are proven to help create a culture that enables your employees to do their best and thrive at work.

Time:  1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT
Website:  http://charityvillage.com/cms/active-learning/webinars/addressing-psychological-health-and-s
Categories:   Health/Health Care; Skills & Training; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Celebrate Metis identity and history! Come and celebrate Louis Riel Day at the Museum!

This Louis Riel Day, take a free Metis Rights Tour or join us to celebrate the launch of a new Metis Rights and Sites mobile app!

On Louis Riel Day, join one of our interpreters for the Metis Rights Tour! On this 75-minute guided tour, you will discover the rich and complex human rights history of Metis people. Learn about ongoing efforts of the Metis to achieve justice and recognition in Canada.

The Metis Rights Tour is offered at:

10:30 a.m. in English
1 p.m. in English
2 p.m. in French
2:30 p.m. in English

Cost: Free with admission

Time:  10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Venue:  Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Location:  Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://humanrights.ca/event/louis-riel-day-3?ts=February%2018%2C%202019%20-%2010%3A00am
Categories:   Arts & Culture; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

We The Students will not back down! Students across Ontario have made it clear that the Provincial government picked a fight with the wrong people.

We The Students call on the government to:
- Provide More Grants NOT loans
- Eliminate Tuition Fees for ALL Students
- Increase Public Funding for Public Education
- Protect Students' Independent Voices and,
- Defend the Right to Organize

Join us for a Week of Action from Tuesday, February 19 to Friday, February 22 to welcome back Members of Provincial Parliament as they head back to Queen's Park to remind them that We The Students will NOT accept their cuts to OSAP and their attack on student autonomy!

Time:  Feb 19 at 12:00 PM - Feb 22 at 11:59 PM
Venue:  CFS Ontario // FCEE Ontario
Location:  225 Richmond Street West,, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/252997205592024/
Categories:   Education; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Meet author Cecil Foster as he discusses his new book, They Call Me George: The Untold Story of Black Train Porters and the Birth of Modern Canada.

His historical work sheds light on the unrevealed stories of black railway porters - the so-called "Pullmen" working in the Canadian rail lines in the mid-twentieth century. Through his interviews with the last living porters from the era, Foster documents their political activism and fight for social justice that helped lay the groundwork for the multicultural Canada we know today.

The event will wrap up with a book signing and a meet-and-greet with the author.

The book will be available for purchase in the Museum Boutique.

Seating is first come, first served.

Time:  7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Venue:  Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Location:  Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://humanrights.ca/event/book-launch-cecil-foster?ts=February%2020%2C%202019%20-%207%3A00
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Labour, Workplace, Unions; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Social justice is an underlying principle for peaceful and prosperous coexistence within and among nations. We uphold the principles of social justice when we promote gender equality or the rights of indigenous peoples and migrants. We advance social justice when we remove barriers that people face because of gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture or disability. For the United Nations, the pursuit of social justice for all is at the core of our global mission to promote development and human dignity.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/socialjusticeday/
Categories:   Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

The lives of 6 homeless people came to a gruesome end this January. Their lives were cut short not because of choices they made, but because of the choices made for them by John Tory, Doug Ford and Justin Trudeau.

It is clear all three levels of government need to act urgently to end these preventable deaths, alleviate suffering in cramped facilities, and build rent-geared-to-income housing. Yet, neither government is willing to do so.

They disorient us by blaming refugees, mental health issues, and addictions for the housing crisis. They hope we'll take the bait and attack each other as we get reeled out of housing and dumped onto the streets.

The battle ahead is difficult, but it's one we must win. So join us to take inspiration from ongoing battles, learn from past ones, ask questions, and build connections with struggles outside Toronto.

Speakers to be announced soon.

This event is part of the monthly OCAP Speakers Series, where we gather to discuss issues that are critical to the success of poor people's movements. Join us.

Time:  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue:  CRC at 40 Oaks
Location:  40 Oak Street, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/1023957634470050/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Urban Issues, Transit, Housing, Public Space; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Languages, with their complex implications for identity, communication, social integration, education and development, are of strategic importance for people and planet. Yet, due to globalization processes, they are increasingly under threat, or disappearing altogether. When languages fade, so does the world's rich tapestry of cultural diversity. At least 43% of the estimated 6000 languages spoken in the world are endangered. Only a few hundred languages have genuinely been given a place in education systems and the public domain, and less than a hundred are used in the digital world.
International Mother Language Day has been observed every year since February 2000 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/motherlanguageday/
Categories:   Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Once again PEGIDA (the "Patriotische Europäer gegen die Islamisierung des Abendlandes") is planning to hold an anti-Muslim, anti-refugee rally at the corner of University Avenue and Armoury Street. Once again, we expect various far-right groups to take part, including the Proud Boys, the Northern Guard, the Three Percenter militia, and others. And once again, we intended to shut it down.

TAF will be there to stand against racism and fascism. Please come out and support Muslims, refugees, immigrants, and all others under threat by these organizations.

Time:  1:00 PM
Location:  361 University Ave., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/2019732978133887/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

We cannot be silent in the face of the latest aggression against the Venezuelan people organized and supported by the governments of Canada and the United States. In Toronto, we are joining with over 130 other actions across the world organized on February 23rd under the demand "No war on Venezuela".

The Canadian corporate media and Canada's own public broadcaster, the CBC, are overwhelmingly campaigning in support of the regime change push in Venezuela. We appeal to people across Canada to remember past slanders that proved false against countries and leaders that ended in US invasions, support for proxy armies and regional and civil wars.

In rallying at CBC we will continue to expose the lies behind the US coup attempt in Venezuela and ensure that the voices of the majority of Venezuelans who oppose it are heard.

Time:  11:00AM
Location:  250 Front St W., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/438547873638548/
Categories:   International; Politics & Political Organizations; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

When academics express their views on intellectual, institutional, or more public matters, they should invite rebuttal, not fear reprisal. Alas, once again today, the possibility of muzzling and menace attend virtually every aspect of academic work and academics' exercise of their citizens' rights. Self-censorship, sycophancy, and co-optable careerism are too much in evidence in Canadian universities, despite the protections still afforded by institutional autonomy, shared governance, and academic freedom. In this illustrated talk, I will use images, quotations, and analysis first to establish connections linking peace with justice and the public interest. I will then use examples of partnership and provocation originating within campuses but also with governments and corporations, to show how–as part of the shift from the liberal arts to the neoliberal ones, and from the fractious university to the fracked one- academic freedom is being diminished and denied in ways that isolate in order to further endanger peace, justice, and the public interest. I will conclude by arguing that a significant public reinvestment in Canada's universities is urgently needed, but that reinvestment cannot and should not occur without the resurgence of the undeterrable academic and public intellectual.

Time:  4:00PM - 5:30 PM
Venue:  Greek Canadian Democratic Organization
Location:  290 Danforth Ave., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://scienceforpeace.ca/events/thre-responsibility-of-academics/
Categories:   Education; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Black Writers Matter is a powerful new anthology of African-Canadian writing, edited by Whitney French. The stories in this collection offer a cross-section of established writers and newcomers to the literary world who tackle contemporary and pressing issues with beautiful, sometimes raw, prose.

Come to an evening discussion about the Black Canadian experience, as told through the stories of some of the writers in this collection.

Participants:
- Whitney French: writer, storyteller, and multidisciplinary artist.
- Angela Walcott: multidisciplinary artist and writer.
- Sapphire Woods: queer nerd with a passion for Black education.

Moderated by Canisia Lubrin, award-winning writer, critic, teacher.

Time:  6:00 PM
Venue:  Bram and Bluma Appel Salon - 2nd Fl - Toronto Public Library
Location:  789 Yonge St., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/black-writers-matter-tickets-55663113872
Categories:   Journalism, Writing, Literary, Language; Arts & Culture

Calling all education workers, parents, labour affiliates, community partners and allies of public education to a MASS RALLY.

Ford's assault on public education in declaring a strip of 4% from education by removing class caps, dismantling full-day kindergarten as we know it and slashing millions from critical programming is beyond reprehensible. It's urgent that we build our mass and resist in power. Please mark this rally in your calendars and share widely with your networks. Further details to follow soon.

Where: Outside the 2019 PC Leaders' Dinner Event at the Toronto Congress Centre - 650 Dixon Rd., Etobicoke

Time:  5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue:  Toronto Congress Center
Location:  650 Dixon Road, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/2200026136929600/
Categories:   Education; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Happy Black History Month OWV family! We are so excited to share our upcoming event "WHAT A TIME TO BE BLACK" in collabatoration with Black Women With Wings & Margin of Eras Gallery on February 28th. This event is inclusive and open to all POC/non-POC folks but is solely to celebrate black history, black women and spotlight black femme creatives. Tickets: EB $10 GA: $15.

About the Exhibit, The Black Experience:

The Purpose Of The Black Experience Exhibit... And The Women Behind The Lens!
The Black Experience explores the perspectives of Black People of Color. Capturing real people in their element. The Mission is to simply give as many black people of color, the opportunity to not only share their experiences but the space to start a conversation. Bernice Johnson the creator behind the Exhibit, teamed up with Creatives Tiana a Digital Content Creator. Who uses her art and platform to explore her personal and artistic journey as a black, queer, femme woman. And Chris Lowe, a photographer who creates with intention. Aiming to capture the concepts, the visuals, and the stories of her subjects. Creating a picture that resonates and connects with others. The Black Experience aims to celebrate inclusivity, educate people, and create a positive dialogue that is reflective of BPOC. Creating an overall feeling of togetherness.

See website for the full programme.

Time:  6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Venue:  Margin Of Eras Gallery
Location:  1684 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/owv-x-bwww-what-a-time-to-be-black-tickets-56061400157?aff=erelli
Categories:   Arts & Culture; Performing Arts; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Discrimination is often based on misinformation or fear of the unknown. By reflecting on people in everyday situations, on Zero Discrimination Day, 1 March, UNAIDS is challenging people to recognize where everyday discrimination takes place and to take action to stop it.

Website:  http://www.unaids.org/en/resources/campaigns/zero_discrimination
Categories:   Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Where Intersectional Realities Make Space for Social Justice. The goal of this section is to discuss the ways in which the media continues to present distorted images of women of color, call out instances of negative stereotyping, and highlight positive examples of inclusive and accurate portrayals of women of color throughout entertainment mediums.

What can we, as WoC, possibly do to get fair treatment on social media? What do you, as accomplices, do to amplify us and reach out on our behalf?

Time:  12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Venue:  Location is tentative based on numbers
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/black-history-month-workshop-social-identity-woc-in-social-media-
Categories:   Women; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

The animals and plants that live in the wild have an intrinsic value and contribute to the ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic aspects of human well-being and sustainable development.
World Wildlife Day is an opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that conservation provides to people. At the same time, the Day reminds us of the urgent need to step up the fight against wildlife crime and human induced reduction of species, which have wide-ranging economic, environmental and social impacts.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/wildlifeday/
Categories:   Environment

Join the Association of Palestinian Students in welcoming the acclaimed political scientist Norman Finkelstein. Finkelstein will be talking about Gaza and mediating a Q&A session about this topic.

This FREE event is open to UTM and non-UTM audience and will take place on the second day of the Make Hummus Not Walls Week at the University of Toronto Mississauga campus.

RSVP on the EventBrite link to ensure your seat for the event. We look forward to seeing you all there!

Time:  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Venue:  University of Toronto Mississauga
Location:  3359 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.com/e/norman-finkelstein-talk-qa-session-on-gaza-tickets-57257939037
Categories:   International; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

A teen girl introducing her family to her girlfriend. A woman fighting to get to the moon. Another reflecting on her relationship with her body.

This free, annual event presented by Sarasvati Productions features monologues and performance pieces about women embracing their identities and coming into their own, often in the face of adversity.

Time:  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Venue:  Canadian Museum for Human Rights - galleries on Levels 2, 3 and 7
Location:  85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB
Website:  http://humanrights.ca/event/here-i-am-2019-cabaret-monologues?ts=March%206%2C%202019%20-%206
For information contact:  info@humanrights.ca
Categories:   Women; Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

International Women's Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/womensday/
Categories:   Women

Over the last several weeks, we have been calling upon U of T administration to take a bold stance and stand with us as we advocate against the reckless changes to post-secondary education that will negatively impact students across the province.

The changes to OSAP includes eliminating the six month interest-free grace period post-graduation, changing the definition of an "independent student" to someone who has been out of high school for six years rather than four years and narrowing family income eligibility on top of changing the ratios so that students receive more loans than grants. In the long run, students from low and middle-income families will be forced to take on more debt while paying more for their education.

What's more, the small fraction of fees that are earmarked directly for student societies, levies and clubs which are re-distributed to students through events, programming, and support will be reduced to an opt-out which directly interferes with students' right to organize, make informed, collective decisions on campus and hold their institutions accountable.

Finally, because the Ontario government will not be providing additional funding to institutions that would alleviate the financial pressure of a tuition cut, this can only lead to larger class sizes, employment instability for both staff and faculty, as well as a reduction in institutional student services.

We are calling on all U of T students, staff and faculty to join us in this walk-out.

Time:  10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Venue:  Sidney Smith Hall St George Campus
Location:  100 St. George Street, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/565152223978818/
Categories:   Education; Government & Public Sector; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Every person is entitled to human rights without discrimination. The rights to equality and non-discrimination are cornerstones of human rights law. Yet racism, xenophobia and intolerance are problems prevalent in all societies, and discriminatory practices are widespread, particularly targeting migrants and refugees as well as people of African descent. States are urged to take comprehensive measures to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and to promote tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity. Every day, each and every one of us can stand up against racial prejudice and intolerant attitudes.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/
Categories:   Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

This global celebration of forests provides a platform to raise awareness of the importance of all types of woodlands and trees, and celebrate the ways in which they sustain and protect us.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/forestsday/
Categories:   Forestry, Lumber, Paper; Environment

Urban Alliance on Race Relations and Toronto and York Region Labour Council jointly invite you to join us at our Community Forum at Toronto City Hall to mark International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination (March 21st).

Hate crimes and incidents of racism have been on the rise. The xenophobic narratives about refugees and migrants have been on the rise, emboldened by a few but significant number of political representatives and media outlets. It is extremely critical that we put forward a concerted, focused and united effort to push back against increasing hate and racism. Please join on this important historic day to stand together for racial justice, human rights and freedom.

Time:  7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Venue:  Toronto City Hall
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/1265046916978062/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives; International

On March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racism, join us at Nathan Phillips Square at 5:30pm to celebrate the power of our communities, and say no to racism and xenophobia. We will be joining with people across the country who are taking action in their own communities.

Please bring a pair of shoes that represents migrant and refugees crossing borders, working in the fields, shops and homes, living in fear, facing exploitation and police violence. These shoes could represent your own experience or someone that you know who has had to overcome many struggles in working or migrating. The shoes will contribute towards an action that will take place during the rally. You can leave the shoes, or take them back with you. Grassroots organizations that work with migrants, refugees and their families will be planning various activities in the Square as part of the event.

Time:  5:30 PM
Venue:  Nathan Phillips Square
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://actionnetwork.org
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives; International

Down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement that has always been a part of the human condition, exists in all regions across the globe and commonly results in variable effects on learning styles, physical characteristics or health. Adequate access to health care, to early intervention programmes and to inclusive education, as well as appropriate research, are vital to the growth and development of the individual.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/downsyndromeday/
Categories:   Health/Health Care

March 21 to March 27 is the Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling Against Racism and Racial Discrimination.
Declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979, March 21st is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination March 21, commemorates the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960 and falls at the beginning of this week of action to address racism and support those who are facing and fighting against racism and racial discrimination.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/events.shtml#week
Categories:   Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

March 22 is World Water Day a great day to take action for water in your community! There are few things more important than clean, safe water, but damaging and polluting industries, the lack of strong federal government protections, and water privatization efforts are putting many water sources at risk.

Did you know that there are many people who live without access to safe drinking water?

Last fall, there were 167 drinking water advisories in 98 First Nations. There are routinely more than 100 water advisories in effect at any given time - some communities have lived under advisories for nearly 20 years.

Prime Minister Trudeau promised during the 2015 election campaign to end boil water advisories in First Nations within five years of forming government. In December, the Parliamentary Budget Officer said the Trudeau government was spending only part of what it is needed to end drinking water advisories in First Nations. Funding promised in the recently-released 2018 federal budget is still just a drop in the bucket of what is needed to ensure access to safe drinking water in First Nations.

You can help. This World Water Day, take action for water in your community! Whether it’s pressing the Trudeau government to keep its promise for safe water in First Nations, talking to your municipal council about becoming a Blue Community, or joining the Nestle boycott, there are many ways you can make a difference.

If you decide to plan an event, let us know what you are doing.

Website:  http://canadians.org/worldwaterday#actions
For information contact:  webmaster@canadians.org
Categories:   Environment; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Water is an essential building block of life. It is more than just essential to quench thirst or protect health; water is vital for creating jobs and supporting economic, social, and human development.
Today, there are over 663 million people living without a safe water supply close to home, spending countless hours queuing or trekking to distant sources, and coping with the health impacts of using contaminated water.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/waterday/
Categories:   Environment

Once again PEGIDA (the "Patriotische Europaer gegen die Islamisierung des Abendlandes") is planning to hold an anti-Muslim, anti-refugee rally at the corner of University Avenue and Armoury Street. Once again, we expect various far-right groups to take part, including the Proud Boys, the Northern Guard, the Three Percenter militia, and others. And once again, we intend to shut it down.

TAF will be there to stand against islamophobia, racism, and fascism. Please come out and support Muslims, refugees, immigrants, and all others under threat by these organizations.

Time:  1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location:  361 University Ave., Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/2363090553921260/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

The right to the truth is often invoked in the context of gross violations of human rights and grave breaches of humanitarian law. The relatives of victims of summary executions, enforced disappearance, missing persons, abducted children, torture, require to know what happened to them. The right to the truth implies knowing the full and complete truth as to the events that transpired, their specific circumstances, and who participated in them, including knowing the circumstances in which the violations took place, as well as the reasons for them.
This annual observance pays tribute to the memory of Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero, who was murdered on 24 March 1980. Monsignor Romero was actively engaged in denouncing violations of the human rights of the most vulnerable individuals in El Salvador.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/righttotruthday/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal

Each year we commemorate World TB Day on March 24 to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of tuberculosis (TB) and to step up efforts to end the global TB epidemic. The date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.
Despite significant progress over the last decades, TB continues to be the top infectious killer worldwide, claiming over 4 500 lives a day.

Categories:   Health/Health Care

For over 400 years, more than 15 million men, women and children were the victims of the tragic transatlantic slave trade, one of the darkest chapters in human history.
Every year on 25 March, the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade offers the opportunity to honour and remember those who suffered and died at the hands of the brutal slavery system. The International Day also aims to raise awareness about the dangers of racism and prejudice today.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/slaveryremembranceday/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is marked each year on the anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett, a former journalist who was working for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) when he was abducted by armed gunman in 1985. His body was finally found in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley in 2009.
The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members has taken on even greater importance in recent years, as attacks against the United Nations intensify. This is a day to mobilize action, demand justice and strengthen our resolve to protect UN staff and peacekeepers, as well as our colleagues in the non-governmental community and the press.

Website:  http://www.un.org/en/events/detainedstaffday/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal

Between 2010 and 2014, nearly 3,000 Palestinian children were arrested by Israeli forces for reasons like throwing stones. Many are kept in solitary confinement for days, shackled and subjected to intimidating questioning without the presence of their parents or a lawyer. Mohammad Zedani, 14, has been arrested six times. The experience has left him traumatised: he struggles to sleep and displays symptoms of PTSD. The film tells his story, along with those of Rami and Ahmed, three out of thousands of children affected by the occupation. We also hear from those working to stop the abuses.

A STONE'S THROW FROM PRISON
65 mins, Raquel Castells
Documentary, 2016 - Spain, Palestine
Watch the trailer: https://vimeo.com/79281086

Time:  7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Venue:  University of Toronto, Lash Miller - Room 158
Location:  Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.facebook.com/events/379950416179231/
Categories:   Human Rights, Law, Legal; Children & Youth; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives

Vladimir Zhagora spent most of his UN career working in Africa, or on issues related to the continent. From 1992-1994, for instance, he was part of the United Nations Observer Mission in South Africa (UNOMSA) that helped facilitate both a democratic dispensation and the presidential election of Nelson His other positions - which included leadership roles at the UN Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE), the UN Advance Mission in the Sudan (UNAMIS), and the UN Mission in the Sudan (UNMIS) - brought him to the forefront of crisis settlement negotiations in some of Africa's most contested disputes.

Since the 1990s, there has been a very large number of peace processes in Africa - many of which he was part of. They are an important part of the continent's modern political history. However, there does not seem to exist any aggregate set of statistics on them. This incomplete scope of basic evidence means that critical data is not being systematically utilized as the basis of research, even though a comprehensive systemization should be the most desirable outcome of any academic inquiry into peace processes. Systemization would help create a set of best practice guidelines and a list of lessons learned for practitioners to utilize. Regrettably, both products are rare commodities for Africa's peace processes.

Zhagora aims at overcoming this shortage by donating his personal archives to the World Peace Foundation.

Time:  7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Venue:  University College, University of Toronto
Location:  15 King's College Circle - Room 140, Toronto, ON
Website:  http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/mediating-peace-agreements-the-un-experience-in-africa-tickets-54
Categories:   International; Information, Libraries, Research; Social Change, Social Justice, Alternatives