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December 09 & Januar y 2010 • Volume 3 • Issue 1 • w w w.thevoiceindiaspora.com • T:905.920.1752
“Using the power of the pen to facilitate smooth integration for immigrants into the Canadian society.”
FE DRI T EI OEN
Community Happenings
Page 3,4,18.19
A Christmas Wish
A time of year, to think of love and sharing, A time of peace, For the whole world to cherish, A time to be with all your friends and family And wish them all, A Merry Christmas
Government of Canada Tables 2010 Immigration Plan
HAPPY 2010! Quebec makes it Easier to Welcome More Immigrants part of an agreement with the federal government, had made changes to the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. The changes to the program were announced and implemented on October 14, and the new selection system for Quebec Skilled Workers may make it easier for some applicants to qualify.
The province of Quebec, which is responsible for its own immigration program as
Ottawa, October 30, 2009 — Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, tabled Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s 2009 Annual Report today in Parliament.
migration levels as a short-term response to the global economic downturn, our government is actually maintaining its immigration levels to meet...
“While other countries have cut back im-
∞ continued on page 5
Lack of Fear in Early Childhood Predicts Later Criminal Behavior sponses at the age of 3 years — a finding that strengthens evidence that early brain dysfunction increases the risk of criminal offending.
The most significant change reduces the overall selection pass mark from 59 to 55 for a single applicant, and from 68 to 63 for a couple. ∞ continued on page 5
U of T Faculty of Law Internationally Trained Lawyers (ITL) Program The U of T Faculty of Law has been funded to establish the Internationally Trained Lawyers (ITL) Program in Ontario, Canada. The program starts in May 2010. The ITL Program is a "bridge training program" and is optional. It is NOT a requirement to practice law in Ontario. The ITL Program will operate at the U of T Faculty of Law in Toronto, Ontario, and will run from May 2010 to March 2011.
A 20-year, longitudinal study shows children who become criminal offenders by the age of 23 years are more likely to display abnormal fear conditioning re-
Farmers’ Market and Central Library has begun, as part of an ongoing initiative to renew the Downtown Core and the York Boulevard corridor between Bay and James Streets.
Canada's Employment Downturn Recently-arrived Immigrants Hit Hard It also outlines some of the harder hit populations, including recently-arrived immigrants: ∞ continued on page 5
∞ continued on page 16
Work is progressing to revitalize the Farmers’ Market and Central Library
∞ continued on page 5
This Statistics Canada report outlines how employment declined much faster in the early months of the current economic downturn than it did in the early months of the recessions in 1981 and 1990.
"Our findings suggest that criminal behavior may have neurodevelopmental roots, and this may apply to both males and females, different ethnicity groups, and at various social adversity levels," said lead investigator Yu Gao, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania's Jerry Lee Center of Criminology in Philadelphia, who suspects that this indicates dysfunction in the amygdala and ventral prefrontal cortex.
November 23, 2009 – The second phase of construction to revitalize the Hamilton
Over the summer and fall, the Library echoed with the sounds of demolition work on the first floor and during the construction of the new foundations. The Central Library renovations are fully underway with the existing windows and frames now removed from the building and the steel structure being erected for the new building addition along York Boulevard. ∞ continued on page 5
EDITORIAL
Time flies so fast. We are already nearing the end of the year and into 2010. What an incredible opportunity I have to provide quality news and community happenings to our numerous readers. Reporting the challenges posed by systemic racism, and culture shock for most ethnic immigrants as they navigate the system to get settled in Canada remains the Voice in Diaspora’s central purpose of existence. It is by making these challenges known to the general public that significant, positive and permanent changes could be put in place to resolve them. It is tiresome at times chasing information, both from the ethnic communities and the main stream society. However, as long as these challenges are in place, so will our focus remain on them.
The New Harmonized Tax coming in place next year is widely unknown to the general public. The democratically elected government refused to seek the opinion of its electorate in an important issue that would impact the lives of its people. It is a shame that peoples’ voices are being ignored by the very government that got it’s mandate to rule from the same voices it is un-ashamedly ignoring. Time will tell the impact of this tax on the masses. Hamilton is home to diverse ethnic population. However, the government of this city shows very little in reflecting this diversity. Changes are needed to make all spheres of this city as well as the rest of Canada reflective of this diversity. As we remember the killing of women in Montreal this period, it is equally important to take
seriously the needs of women in many shelters around the city, who are fleeing one form of abuse or the other. It is a shame that in this century when Canada is involved in protecting lives of many people in strife-torn countries, the needs of its vulnerable populations like hungry children, abused women, and homeless populations are merely being resolved. More so, people
Veronica Chris-Ike Publisher/Editor
Elect More Women Education Series for women candidates and volunteers 2009-2010 Preparing women for the 2010 Municipal Election We will be conducting the following evening sessions to prepare future women candidates and campaign volunteers for the Municipal election in November 2010. If you are thinking about running as a school board trustee, councillor or considering volunteering on a campaign these sessions have been designed with you in mind. 1. Making the Decision to Run
Newcomer Family Centre
that flee their countries for a safe haven like Canada need not suffer double tragedy manifested in systemic racism, and lack of opportunities for advancement. Merry Christmas and Happy 2010!
What are the responsibilities of a councillor and school board trustee? What municipal issues are motivating you to run? How will this decision impact you and your family? How do you choose a ward to run in? How do you do an analysis? Once a decision is made, what are the next steps? What is the nomination process?
WHEN: November 17th, 2009 -6.00pm-8.30pm-YWCA Hamilton-75 MacNab St S, Hamilton, Room 5R RSVP: 905 522 9922x 111 or email: electmorewomen@yahoo.ca
2511 Barton St. E., Hamilton, ON L8E 2X1 (905) 561-2039
2. Campaign Team and Developing Your Platform
Downtown Office 360 James St. N Lower Concourse Hamilton, ON L8L 1H5 (905) 667-SISO (7476) siso@sisohamilton.org
Who do you need on your team? Develop a list of key skills that you will be looking for in volunteers Volunteer Management What will you include in your platform? Develop key messages and campaign slogan
WHEN: January 19th, 2010-6.00pm-8.30pm-YWCA Hamilton-75 MacNab St S, Hamilton, Room 5R --RSVP: 905 522 9922x 111 or email: electmorewomen@yahoo.ca
3. Campaign Finances and Fundraising Strategies
Programs and Services
FOR NEWCOMERS
Create a campaign budget-know the limits and the costs associated with running a campaign Know the rules-Municipal Election’s Act Fundraising strategies that work
WHEN: February 2nd,2010- 6.00pm-8.30pm-YWCA Hamilton-75 MacNab St S, Hamilton, Room 5R -- RSVP: 905 522 9922x 111 or email: electmorewomen@yahoo.ca
in Hamilton
SETTLEMENT SERVICES • LANGUAGE ASSESSMENT INFORMATION, ORIENTATION AND REFERRAL • SOCIAL CONNECTIONS COMMUNITY HEALTH PROGRAMS AND SERVICES ASSISTANCE WITH EMPLOYMENT, TRAINING OR EDUCATION, LICENSING AND ACCREDITATION SPECIALIZED SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, WOMEN, SENIORS AND YOUTH CULTURAL INTERPRETATION AND TRANSLATION SERVICES (24/7) RESOURCE CENTRES: ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY AND RESOURCES MOBILE SERVICES IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD • BUSINESS START-UP
Business And Corporate Services
FOR EMPLOYERS AND RECRUITERS Access Global Skills and Talents
Reduce Hiring and Turnover Costs
www.skillsadvantage.com
Improve Staff Morale and Productivity www.thetoolkit.ca
Youth Centre
Mountain Office
Mobile Office
Watch Shen Yun Performing Arts and support ‘at risk’ kids Hamilton
Mississauga
Kitchener-Waterloo
Ottawa
This January, Shen Yun Performing Arts is offering RTO/ERO members the opportunity to watch a world class performance of Chinese classical dance and music, while also helping “at risk” students involved in art education attend the show with their families. Acclaimed for its high-level performances that seek to revive the true authentic artistic traditions of Chinese culture, Shen Yun Performing Arts features masterful choreography, colourful costumes, spectacular backdrops and a live orchestra that combines Eastern and Western instruments. With performances that seek to revive cultural artistry rooted in traditional values of beauty and goodness, Shen Yun’s local organizers have teamed with DAREarts, a Canadian organization that fosters arts education for thousands of youth in difficult socioeconomic conditions. The founder Marilyn Field is a Meritorious Service Medal winner and a TDSB teacher. For every RTO/ERO member, as well as family and friends who buy a Shen Yun ticket, 20% will allow DAREarts kids and their families to see the performance. To take advantage of this opportunity to experience the richness of Chinese culture, and help DAREarts children call:
1030 Upper James St., Hamilton, ON L9C 6X6 (905) 385-6192 thebusinesshub@sisohamilton.org
24 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON L8P 1H2 (905) 527-2049 youth@sisohamilton.org www.sisoglobe.ca
Location and route at www.sisohamilton.org/calendar
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
Hamilton - Jan 19-20 Hamilton Place Hotline : 905.689.0781 code: RTO
Ottawa - Jan 10-11 National Arts Centre Hotline: 613.314.4291 code: RETTEACHER
Mississauga – Jan 23-24 The Living Arts Centre Hotline: 416.248.1168 code: RTO
Shen Yun Performing Arts will also be performing in Montreal (Jan 15-17), Vancouver (March 25-28) and Winnipeg (April 7-8).
(905) 667-SISO (7476) or 1-877-255-8136 www.sisohamilton.org
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Kitchener-Waterloo - Jan 6-8 Centre in the Square Box office: 1.800.265.8977 code: RTO
For more information about show dates and location, visit www.ShenYunPerformingArts.com For more information about DAREarts, visit: www.darearts.com
w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
Graduation of HCCI Ontario Community Builders Program
The Voice in Diaspora 571 James Street N. L8L 1J8 Hamilton, Ontario Tel: 905.521.2875 - Fax: 905.385.8085 www.thevoiceindiaspora.com
Our Mission Using the power of the pen to facilitate smooth integration for immigrants into the Canadian society.
Publisher/Editor Veronica Chris-Ike venike@thevoiceindiaspora.com
Art & Creative Design Jihan C. Aydin www . A4AMEDIA . com
Advertising & Marketing Tel: (905) 920 1752 Venike@thevoiceindiaspora.com
Contributors Nica Brown , Veronica Chris-Ike, Hussein Hamdani, Jihan C. Aydin, St. Joseph's Immigrant Women Centre SISO (Settlement And Integration Services Organization) The Voice in Diaspora Newspaper is free of charge. Publication will be done Bi-monthly. 10,000 copies will be printed and distributed as follows: 1000 copies mailed to stake holders, 6,000 copies dropped into personal mail boxes; 3000 copies will be distributed to businesses, shopping malls, churches, Non-profit organizations, adult learning Centres, etc, in Hamilton and environs. The views/materials expressed/used by writers/contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this newspaper. All rights reserved. The Voice in Diaspora is not responsible for accuracy of information provided by advertisers and contributors. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior permission is prohibited. Some graphic images may be used via flickr.com with respect to its rightful owners under the Creative Commons Licencing.
Diversity Training How to decide what kind of training your organization needs
An effective diversity training program begins with identifying the specific organizational needs and culture. Every organization has a culture of its own, shaped by the people who founded it and staff it. Studies indicate that effective diversity training is: • Integrated with the organization's education and training systems • Combined with other diversity initiatives within the organization • Delivered to all employees (including top-level managers) • Planned to include accountability The diversity training should include some key components: • Leadership, support and participation of top management • Clearly articulated goals that connect to the organization's strategic plan • Instructors skilled in multicultural issues and adult learning • Experiential learning including role plays, exercises and group activities • Evaluation, modification, and followup to facilitate institutionalizing the learning • Define diversity and ensure that your organization’s commitment and goals are communicated to everyone in the company • Each company has its own diversity-
related issues, so a customized training approach is absolutely critical • Diversity training must be accompanied by an examination of how the company does business • The best training programs focus on inclusion. Everyone should understand diversity in the broadest terms • Some training programs include sessions where people actually identify and work through real issues within the company. This can provide an opportunity to facilitate real communication and begin tackling real issues • Diversity training should be part of the orientation process for new employees • An organization can use several steps to evaluate their diversity training programs. "First it can look at employees' reaction and how well they like the program. Second, it should find out which principles, techniques, and facts are understood and absorbed by employees. Third, it can use quantitative and qualitative measurement of change in job-thejob performance. Fourth, how well the program achieves the desired results is also essential Regardless of its length, the priority of the education session is to provide participants with an understanding of: • The characteristics and effects of organizational cultures on individual and team performance • The differences between exclusive and inclusive work cultures • The nature and benefits of inclusive behaviors and attitudes, including the importance of using clear and direct communication in all interactions
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• What it takes to leverage diversity for higher performance • The nature of strategic culture change • Create a training plan. Develop training and training support materials. • Diversity training should always emphasize how diversity can be used to improve productivity and therefore make an impact on the bottom line • Companies are realizing that encouraging a diverse workforce is not just a matter of what is right, it is a strategic advantage. But, as with any other strategy, employees need training to make it happen Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion has developed the following training modules for businesses and organizations looking at increasing their diversity awareness. HCCI Training Modules Module 1 - Cross Cultural Adaptability Inventory-Self Evaluation Module 2 - Social Cultures and Differences Module 3 - Culture and the Cultural Iceberg Module 4 – Exploring Power and Privilege Module 5 - Cross Cultural Communication Module 6 - Sticks and Stones Module 7 - Workplace Cultures and Differences Module 8 – Power, Race and Class Module 9 – Building Culturally Competent and Inclusive Organizations Module 10– Building Inclusion in Health Care Module 11 – Maximizing Your Productive Capacity Module 12 – Beyond Cultural Competency For complete description of all modules please visit our web site at www.hcci.ca or contact us at info@hcci.ca to arrange for a training needs assessment. ■
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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St Joseph's Immigrant Women Centre Marketplace Event (Nov 27 & 28, 2009)
LATIN NIGHT VENCEREMOS incites creative union
Artists, activists, students, and workers have put their creative vision into collective action by instigating Latin Night Venceremos, a recognition and celebration of social, labour and political struggles and gains of Latin American countries. Spoken word, dance performances, musical numbers, performance art, and art exhibitions were showcased on November 25th, Wednesday, 8:00 pm at McMaster University’s Bridges Café. Master Creative Working Class (MCWC), a recognized McMaster club, hosted the event. Ontario Latin American Students (OLAS) provided dance numbers while Sapno Ritmos band rendered musical numbers. Artivistas (artist activists) and pensadores (intellectual/creative workers) also perform during the event. Artist activist and MCWC Creative Director Roberto Lavidez describes Latin Night Ven-
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ceremos as a creative platform for students to express their ideas and insights about the theme while exploring collaborative and learning opportunities with community artists and activists. He went on to elaborate that “Latin Night Venceremos paves the way to harnessing the pedagogical principles of anti-oppression that serves as nucleus of our creative workshop, “Anatomy of Oppression”. It is our active commitment to utilize art and drama in educating people about oppression, dissecting its roots within the social, labour and political context.” McMaster Creative Working Class has a membership of undergraduate and graduate students, artists, activists and workers within and outside of McMaster community. Last April, MCWC presented its initial presentation, Labour Palette, which toured around universities and labour centres across Canada. MCWC’s “Anatomy of Oppression” is an ongoing creative workshop offered to students and non-students at McMaster every Thursday from 4:00- 6:00 pm.
eral skilled worker applicants as part of the Action Plan for Faster Immigration. Although the Action Plan has been in place for less than a year, early indications are that it is paying off. “People applying now under the federal skilled worker program can expect to receive a decision within six to twelve months, compared to up to six years under the old system,” said Minister Kenney. “We’ve also brought the backlog of federal skilled worker applicants down from over 630,000 to 425,000—a reduction of more than 30%.”
Government of Canada Tables 2010 Immigration Plan ...Continued from page 1 ...the country’s medium- to long-term economic needs,” said Minister Kenney. “Canada plans to welcome between 240,000 and 265,000 new permanent residents in 2010, the same number of immigrants as in recent years. In 2010, Canada will again welcome more new permanent residents than the average annual intake during the 1990s,” said Minister Kenney. “The focus of the 2010 plan is on economic immigration to support Canada’s economy during and beyond the current economic recovery.” In particular, the admission ranges for immigrants nominated by the provinces and territories have been increased. Provinces and territories are in the best position to understand how Canada’s immigration intake can be aligned to their labour market needs. Second, by increasing the admission ranges in the Provincial Nominee Program, the Government of Canada is helping to ensure that the benefits of immigration are distributed across this country. Canada and the provinces will work together to manage growth in the provincial nominee program. Increasing the total number of immigrants processed under the economic category will also allow CIC to continue reducing the backlog of fed-
The backlog consists of people who applied before February 27, 2008, the date the Action Plan took effect. Since then, almost 240,000 people have applied to the new federal skilled worker program under the Action Plan. But even with those additional applicants, the total number of people currently awaiting a decision on their application is still 12% lower than when the Action Plan took effect. “Before we changed the system, we had to process every application received. Since many more people applied every year than could be accepted, a backlog was created,” said Minister Kenney. “Now that we are processing only those applications that meet specified criteria, our Government is making significant progress in reducing the backlog.” Improving the federal skilled worker program is part of the Government of Canada’s overall commitment to modernizing the immigration system to maximize its contribution to our overall economic growth. “The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces, territories and stakeholders to make sure immigration meets the needs of communities, employers and families now and in the future,” concluded the Minister. For further information (media only), please contact: ■ Alykhan Velshi Minister’s Office Citizenship and Immigration Canada CIC Media Relations, Communications Branch Citizenship and Immigration Canada 613-952-1650 CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
THANK YOU!
CEP CEP-23 2322
Hamilton’s NDP MPs wish to thank the ethnic and immigrant communities for their contributions to strengthening our city!
Work is progressing to revitalize the Farmers’ Market and Central Library ...Continued from page 1 With the demolition phase of the Library and Market completed, work is fully underway to pour the new concrete stairs, ramps and floors, including the installation of the structural steel framing for the new building addition. Plumbing and electrical work is progressing with the new washrooms, Market stall utilities and ductwork being installed. “Within the next couple of months the public can look forward to viewing the new glazed curtain wall which will provide the Library and Market its new “glass box
David Christopherson, MP
www.chrischarlton.ca
hamilton@davidchristopherson.ca
Hamilton Mountain
Hamilton Centre
Wayne Marston, MP Hamilton East Stoney Creek www.waynemarston.ca
YOUR HAMILTON NEW DEMOCRATS
Representation that’s working for you
Once this element of the project has been completed, the building will be weather tight, allowing the remaining interior works to commence. The renovations of these facilities began in May 2009 and the work is scheduled for completion in Fall 2010, which will include infrastructure enhancements and major improvements to the streetscape that will increase the ‘walkability’ of York Boulevard between Bay and James Streets. For more information and artist renderings of the design plans for the two facilities, please visit www.hamilton.ca/foodforthought ■
Canada's Employment Downturn Recently-arrived Immigrants Hit Hard ...Continued from page 1 "Between October 2008 and October 2009, immigrants in the core working-age group who had landed within the previous five years were more affected by the economic downturn than Canadian-born workers. Employment declined 12.9% among this group of immigrants, more than five times the decline of 2.2% among the Canadian-born. The bulk of the losses for these immigrants occurred among those working in manufacturing. Immigrants who landed in Canada more than 5 years to 10 years earlier, however, experienced smaller losses than the Canadian-born over the 12-month period, and those who landed more than 10 years earlier experienced modest employment gains." ■ Canada's employment downturn on the Statistics Canada website.
Quebec makes it Easier to welcome more Immigrants ...Continued from page 1 The breakdown of points awarded for education has been amended to recognize more types of diplomas than under the previous system. Undergraduate diplomas attesting to 1 or 2 years of university education and more vocational and technical diplomas are now considered. In addition, the “Areas of Training” criterion, which awards bonus points to applicants with certain educational or training backgrounds, has been changed to reflect the current needs of Quebec’s economy and labour market. Applicants with certain educational backgrounds will not only benefit from more points, but will also qualify for priority processing. The breakdown of points awarded for an applicant’s age has also been adjusted, so that it declines less rapidly after the age of
U of T Faculty of Law Internationally Trained Lawyers (ITL) Program ...Continued from page 1
Chris Charlton, MP
“ shape and exterior façade,” said Janet Warner, Project Manager for the renovations project. “Once this glass façade is in place, the community will really be able to visualize the exciting transformation that’s taking place at these facilities.”
It will include intensive full-time academic courses during the summer session (May to August 2010); and part-time courses and workshops during the fall and winter sessions from September to November 2010 and January to March 2011. There will be no classes scheduled during December 2010. All classes will be open to all program participants and many will be mandatory. There will be no grades assigned. A brief outline of the courses is included below (a more detailed description and outline will be w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
35 than under the previous system. The more favourable weighting of the education and age criteria could make it easier for some applicants, who did not qualify under the previous system, to become eligible to immigrate to Canada under the Quebec Skilled Worker category. Successful applicants obtain a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), and must then submit their application to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (a Canadian visa office) for medical and security checks and the issuance of a Canadian immigration (permanent resident) visa. This new selection system is in effect as of October 14 2009. Applications that were received by Quebec immigration offices before that date will be assessed under whichever system is more favourable to the applicant, while those received on or after October 14 will be assessed under the new system. The new Programme d’expérience Québecoise, is expected to come into effect in early 2010. ■ http://www.cicnews.com made available prior to the start of classes): A. Academic courses and training to assist international lawyers with preparing for the NCA Challenge Exams, B. Cultural fluency and workplace-specific language training, C. Career services workshops, D. Mentorship, and opportunities to take part in short-term Work Placements. The ITL Program will admit approximately 95 internationally trained lawyers each year to the program. Admission to the program is by application only, and is competitive. For further information about Who can Apply, Prerequisites, Deadlines, Cost, and the Application Process, please return to the main web page. ■ Find complete details on the U of T website.
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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Building An Inclusive Society Canada’s diversity is seen as strengthening the country by building an inclusive society which values differences and fosters a sense of belonging. Canada’s diversity is seen as strengthening the country by building an inclusive society which values differences and fosters a sense of belonging. The Canadian Multiculturalism Act reaffirms multiculturalism as a fundamental characteristic of Canadian society. It encourages federal institutions to uphold longstanding values of respect, fairness, and equality with respect to members of diverse groups. The Act helps protect the rights of all Canadians, fosters the full participation of all members of society, celebrates Canada’s diverse heritage, and recognizes the vast contributions of all Canadians regardless of their ethnic, cultural, racial, religious, and linguistic backgrounds. It encourages federal institutions to respond to the needs of all Canadians of all backgrounds in their programs, policies, and services. The first Annual Report to Parliament, for 1988-1989, stated that the report presented an opportunity to reflect on the degree to which federal institutions were aware of the Act, understood the policy, and were taking steps to apply it. On the occasion of this 20th edition of the Annual Report, federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations were asked how their institution had changed or evolved to consider and respond to Canada’s increasing diversity and to create an inclusive society in which Canadians of all backgrounds can participate. Their responses demonstrate that federal institutions have taken Canada’s multicultural reality into consideration in a wide range of areas such as economic, social, international and government affairs. Consistent with the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, several federal institutions have described how they are now sensitive and responsive to this reality in areas such as policy and program development, service delivery, consultations and employment opportunities. The following is a sample of the responses received from federal institutions: Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) “Since the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s inception in 1997, Canada’s demographic make-up has been changing at a fast pace. With immigration continuing to increase and accounting for a large percentage of the country’s population, the Agency has found itself facing demands for a larger variety of ethnic and imported foods from an ever increasing number of countries. This demand, coupled with increasing globalization has meant that the Agency has had to change and evolve at a fast pace to keep up with consumers needs. To sustain the demand for this large variety of foods, Canadian imports and exports that are subject to CFIA regulation have increased by 45.6 percent in the past eleven years. At this point in time, a large proportion of the food that is imported into Canada is coming from developing countries which have emerged as trading partners in recent years because of the rise in immigration from these parts of the world.” Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) “Since the inception of CSIS in 1984 as a separate employer, which derived from the RCMP, our workforce has evolved from a homogenous white male environment
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into a multicultural and diverse employer which represents a large cross-section of the Canadian population. We have gone from being very secretive to becoming more transparent. In order for CSIS to continue protecting Canada’s national security interests and the safety of all Canadians, we needed to reflect this diversity and have achieved this by building relationships with our clients and by communicating our role so they may attain a better understanding of our organization. As Canadians we all have a role to play in order to combat today’s threat environment.” Department of Citizenship and Immigration (CIC) “The Department of Citizenship and Immigration’s (CIC) Settlement Program is an integral part of Canada’s immigration system and of fulfilling the Government of Canada’s goal for a diverse society that promotes linguistic duality and social inclusion. As such, CIC’s Settlement Program plays a major role in supporting immigration, multiculturalism and diversity by supporting newcomers in their settlement toward longer-term integration in Canada. Over the years, CIC’s support for the integration of newcomers to Canada has evolved along with the changing needs of this diverse population. The Settlement Program is aligned with CIC’s mission and is central to fulfilling one of the Department’s strategic objectives — successful integration of newcomers into society and the promotion of Canadian citizenship, which indirectly supports government-wide priorities for diversity and multiculturalism in Canada. While Canada has reaped the benefits of immigration, issues and challenges in newcomer settlement are ever-present. Evolving economic and social factors, as well as emerging domestic and global issues continue to impact newcomers and place pressure on CIC to sustain settlement programming that is flexible enough to adapt to changes and responsive enough to meet the emerging needs of newcomers. Recently, CIC developed a modernized approach to supporting successful settlement that aims to better respond to newcomer needs and address the barriers newcomers face in the current economic, social and cultural landscape in Canada. This new approach involves increased flexibility, efficiency, accountability and planning, while focusing on assessing needs and enhancing outcomes. On October 30, 2008, the responsibility for multiculturalism was transferred from the Department of Canadian Heritage to CIC. The transfer of the Multiculturalism Program to CIC will allow for greater coordination between the Government’s settlement programs for newcomers and its programs to promote further inclusion, participation and shared citizenship.” Department of National Defence/Canadian Forces (CF) “The face of the Canadian Forces is changing rapidly. We are becoming more and more a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural force. Of the last 7,002 new recruits into the CF the demographics have shifted markedly. Of those 7,002 new members they are: Women 15%; Aboriginal People 4%; visible Minorities 8% and Persons with Disabilities 2%. The need to reflect Canadian diversity in the Canadian Forces is w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
mission critical. (…)” Telefilm Canada “Telefilm Canada’s role in Canadian society resonates with key aspects of the Multiculturalism Policy. Since its origins in 1967, the Corporation has been supporting creators from various communities in the development and promotion of audiovisual productions that reflect the diversity of Canada. In this way, Telefilm has contributed to fostering full participation of all members of society, celebrating Canada’s diverse heritage, and enhancing understanding of and respect for the diversity of the members of Canadian society. Through the support of a portfolio of projects that reflect a diversity of format, genre, budget, content and talent, Telefilm Canada has made it possible for Canadian screenwriters, directors, producers, distributors, technicians, performers and new media creators to pursue careers in Canada, and to work in their region and in the official or Aboriginal language of their choice. In recent years, Telefilm has played a significant role in the development of industry professionals from Canada’s Aboriginal, cultural and official languages minority communities. (…) Policies at Telefilm Canada have also developed over time alongside Canada’s evolving legislative framework. (…)” VIA Rail “VIA Rail’s market is becoming more diverse; not only in terms of the expansion of our international marketing efforts abroad, but also here at home. In response to the increasingly diverse multicultural make-up of the Canadian market, VIA has successfully tailored its services and prod-
uct offerings to accommodate specific needs and desires of its customers. This has touched various elements of our services including menu offerings and in the recognition and acceptance of varying religious and cultural traditions. Similar changes and accommodations have arisen in response to the increased cultural and religious diversity found in our workforce. (…) VIA’s internal policies have changed over the years and will continue to evolve in response to this trend…” Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) “Western Economic Diversification Canada is proud of its contributions to multiculturalism under the Canadian Multiculturalism Act. Since 1988, the department has demonstrated a commitment to investing in projects and research aimed to better understand and create a modern western economy, which is diverse, accessible and inclusive of all Canadians. At a departmental level, WD strives to ensure the same commitment by constantly strengthening its internal policies and approaches to capitalize on the benefits of an inclusive, multicultural society.” ■ http://www.cic.gc.ca
Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices. Issue 4 • December 2009 & January 2010 • Published by SJ Immigrant Women’s Centre
Letter from the Editor On December 6 we mark a terrible anniversary. On this day 20 years ago, a man killed 14 engineering students in a Montreal university for no other reason than that they were women.
On the 20th Anniversary of Canada’s worst mass murder, The Women’s Press recalls the Montreal Massacre and its impact on the women’s movement, gun control in Canada and our collective psyche.
The mass murder was widely mourned but also surrounded by controversy. Many were moved to organize around violence against women. But others questioned why we placed so much meaning on what they described as an isolated, freak tragedy; the work of a lone madman. There is no doubt that the self-described feminist-hating gunman was disturbed. But the shattering violence he inflicted on the murdered women, and the dozens more he injured, was neither accidental nor isolated. In Canada, one to two women are murdered by a current or former partner each week, says Statistics Canada. And according to the United Nations, at least one out of every three women in the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her life, usually by someone she knows. In the two decades since the L’Ecole Polytechnique murders, women have made significant gains, particularly in education rates. But gender-based violence persists both here in Canada and around the world. (One World Bank study ranked rape and domestic violence as more dangerous than cancer, car accidents and even war for the planet’s women). This December 6, Canadians across the country will pause and mourn the 14 women killed because of their gender on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. We should also take this time to reflect on what we can do as a community to eradicate violence against us. We must remember, but we must also act. (See details of local vigils and Dec. 6 events inside). In this issue of The Women’s Press, we explore violence against women with a look at sexual assault by SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre); an account of the events of December 6 and its aftermath; and a woman’s legal rights when leaving an abusive relationship. We also explore women’s labour trends and ask some recent graduates of the IWC’s Financial Literacy workshop what this recession has taught them. We also launch a new women-in-the-arts section with a film review of the Canadian film Water and announce an exciting new venture with the YWCA. Please send me your thoughts on all this and more at womenspress@sjosephwomen.on.ca. Sincerely, Ines Rios, Executive Director, SJ Immigrant Women’s Centre
The Montreal Massacre 20 Years Later:
Remembering 14 Canadian women who died because they were women In the early evening of Dec. 6, 1989, a young man carrying a semi automatic rifle walked into an engineering classroom of a Montreal university. Marc Lepine, 25, ordered all the women to one side of the room and told the remaining male students to leave the class. He yelled “I hate feminists” and opened fire on the women. After killing six women and wounding the rest, Lepine left the classroom and began to stalk the corridors of L’Ecole Polytechnique in search of more female victims. His hunt spanned three floors and lasted 30 minutes. Before taking his own life with his gun, Lepine wounded thirteen people, nine women and four men, and killed fourteen women. The event was Canada’s worst mass murder and survives as one of the country’s most painful collective memories. The Aftermath: Shock, mourning and action On December 6, we remember: Geneviève Bergeron, aged 21; Hélène Colgan, 23 Nathalie Croteau, 23 Barbara Daigneault, 22 Anne-Marie Edward, 21 Maud Haviernick, 29 Barbara Maria Klucznik, 31
Maryse Leclair, 23 Annie St.-Arneault, 23 Michèle Richard, 21 Maryse Laganière, 25 Anne-Marie Lemay, 22 Sonia Pelletier, 28 Annie Turcotte, 21
The Montreal Massacre shocked and traumatized Canadians. But it also provoked action: Gun Control in Canada was tightened after the 1989 massacre. New legislation included the registration of firearms in Canada, training for gun owners, screening of firearm applicants and new rules for storing ammunition. The Conservative government has recently moved to abolish the long-gun registry, arguing it is inefficient and a waste of taxpayers’ money. Women’s groups and other critics have objected that the registry helps protect women. The Coalition for Gun Control in Canada was formed by a massacre survivor, Heidi Rathjen, and Ryerson professor, Wendy Cukier. The coalition lobbies for tighter gun control and played a role in the passing of the gun registry. The coalition is an alliance of more than 300 major policing, public safety and violence prevention organizations including the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, Canadian Public Health Association, and YWCA of Canada. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women was established by the Parliament of Canada in 1991. The day is marked every year on December 6th in cities across the country, often with candlelight vigils. Numerous plaques and memorials have also been erected, including one listing the victims’ names outside the John Hodgins Engineering Building at McMaster University here in Hamilton. 1. Who founded the Coalition for Gun Control in Canada?
Please send feedback, letters and submissions to: womenspress@stjosephwomen.on.ca or call Kiruthiha at 905-529-5209 x257
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2. What did the Parliament of Canada establish in 1991 to mark the December 6 anniversary of the Montreal Massacre? Discussion: How will you remember the victims of the Montreal Massacre on Dec. 6?
The Women’s Movement was propelled by the events of December 6, 1989. Future generations of young women and men continue to be reminded of the serious threat of violence against
“After killing six women and wounding the rest, Lepine left the classroom and began to stalk the corridors of L’Ecole Polytechnique in search of more female victims.” women and the urgent need to advocate for policies that shelter women from harm. The White Ribbon Campaign was launched by a group of Canadian men, including NDP leader Jack Layton, following the massacre. Wearing a white ribbon symbolizes men’s opposition to violence against women. The movement has spread to 55 countries and is the largest effort by men against violence against women. Police Response was criticized at the time for waiting too long before entering the building. Changes to emergency response procedures led to better police response as seen in Montreal’s Dawson School shooting in 2006. Prompt police response helped minimize the loss of life, a lesson some credit to the 1989 Montreal shooting.
Violence and Women: By the Numbers 50% of all Canadian women have experienced one incidence of violence since the age of 16 40 is the average number of women murdered by an intimate partner in Ontario every year 60% of Canadian women are worried to walk alone in their own neighbourhood after dark 76% of Canadian women seeking refuge in a shelter were escaping abuse Want to honour the anniversary? Join an event in Hamilton: Montreal Massacre 20th Anniversary Commemorative Event: Friday, December 4th, 2009. Hosted by: McMaster University’s Anti-Violence Network and Women’s Studies Program “From the Montreal Massacre to Sisters in Spirit: The complexities of Violence and Death in the Lives of Women” – a public talk several speakers. 11 a.m. to noon – CIBC Hall, 315 MSUC (McMaster Student Centre. ) Commemorative Program: 12:30–1:30 p.m. Gilmour Hall # 111. For information, contact avnmcmaster@gmail.com December 6th, 1989…Where were you then? Where are we now? Join the Women’s Centre of Hamilton in Remembrance. Sunday, December 6th, 2009 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Workers’s Arts and Heritage Centre, 51 Stuart Street Candle light vigil, art display, women speakers, time capsule, music, light refreshments. For more information, contact the Women’s Centre of Hamilton, womenscentre@on.aibn.com or call 905-0127.
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Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices. Issue 4 • December 2009 & January 2010 • Published by SJ Immigrant Women’s Centre
Rape is not the only form of sexual assault. Unwanted sexual touching or any other form of non-consensual sexual activity is also considered sexual assault. Read on to find out more about common myths, facts and supports available for victims of sexual assault.
Shattering Myths: the truth about Sexual Assault By Krista Warnke, Public Education Coordinator, SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre, Hamilton and Area) In Canadian law, sexual assault is defined as any sexual activity that happens without permission. It includes anything from unwanted sexual touching to unwanted sexual intercourse, also known as rape, and it is a crime. Most people have been taught incorrect information about sexual assault. For example, many people believe that a woman who is sexually assaulted has done something wrong or has “asked for it” in some way. Sexual assault is a violent crime that does not happen because of what a woman was wearing or because of her behaviour. Regardless of the situation, it is never a women’s fault. The man who sexually assaulted her is always 100% responsible. The facts are: Women gather at Hamilton's Take Back the NIght event, held on September 24, 2009, to end violence against women.
1. What is the definition of sexual assault?
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2. What are three ways to help a woman who has experienced sexual assault? Discussion: What are some “myths” you’ve heard about sexual assault.
• 51% of Canadian women report having been physically or sexually assaulted since the age of sixteen. • 38% of sexually assaulted women were assaulted by their husbands or boyfriends. • 80% of sexual assault survivors were assaulted in their homes. When a man sexually assaults a woman, he wants to be in control and to feel powerful. He believes it is proper for the man to be in charge and for the woman to do what the man wants.
Legal Q & A With Deepa Dayal Local lawyer Deepa Dayal answers questions from readers about issues important to women and immigrants.
Leaving an abusive relationship: your options and legal rights
Q: What legal options or rights does a woman have when leaving an abusive relationship? A: Before you leave an abusive
relationship it is very important to speak with a family law lawyer in order to understand your legal options. The following legal issues should be considered: Custody: If you have children one of the most important things to do after leaving your spouse is to apply to the Family Court for temporary custody. This is important because both parents have legal custody of a child. If you are removing children from your spouse’s custody, a temporary custody order is required. This is one of the first steps to take. Restraining Order/ Non-Harassment Order: As an abuse victim, you can ask the Family Court to pass a restraining order against your spouse
that will restrain or stop your spouse from harassing you and your children. This can be enforced by police. Exclusive possession of the Matrimonial Home: It’s important for women to know that even if they temporarily leave their home to escape abuse, they may have a right to return to their home with their children and have their spouse leave. They must make a claim to Family Court. Common-law partners may not necessarily enjoy the same rights. Child Support: The term child support refers to financial support for your children to be paid to you by your spouse. You are legally entitled to claim child support for your children from their other parent or your spouse.
1. What is one of the first things a woman should do when leaving an abusive relationship if there are children involved?
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2. If a woman leaves her home to stay at a shelter, does she have a right to return to live in the family home?
Spousal Support: The term spousal support refers to financial support that is paid to you by your spouse. You are legally entitled to claim spousal support from your spouse if you are not working or even if you are working and your income is insufficient to support yourself. Equalization of the Net Family Properties: If you are married, you have a right to claim an equal share of all the belongings acquired by you and your spouse during your marriage. The Family Court in Hamilton is located at: 55 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8P 1H4. The duty counsel services are provided by the Legal Aid Ontario free of charge at the Family Court. - Deepa Dayal practices law in Hamilton and specializes in the areas of civil, family, immigration, employment and administrative law. She was born and raised in Delhi, India. She can be reached at Deepa Dayal Law Office, Suite No. 107A, 100 Main Street East. Contact her by phone at 905-523-7171 or e-mail at dayal@deepalaw.com.
Discussion: What do you think are of the biggest challenges for women escaping abuse?
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Some men believe that it is his wife’s “duty” to have sex with him whenever he wants even if she does not. In Canada, it is against the law for a husband to have sex with his wife unless he has her permission. (This was not always true, however. Until 1983, Canadian law allowed husbands to have sex with their wives even if she did not want to. Thankfully, the law has changed and women now have the legal right to say ‘no’ to their husbands.) “My friend needs help” When a woman has experienced sexual assault, she may have many feelings. She may feel afraid, ashamed, angry, lost, alone, powerless, betrayed or dirty. She may blame herself or think that no one understands. She may be confused or thinking about it all the time. She may have trouble sleeping and my not want to eat. She may not want to be touched or she may not trust anyone, including herself. If a woman has shared her story, you can help by: • Listening to and believing her • Letting her make her own decisions • Telling her it is not her fault • Letting her know about community resources Getting support can be helpful. Calling an anonymous, confidential 24-hour telephone line or talking with a counselor may be options. She may wish to speak with her family doctor or another trusted person.
“Sexual assault is a violent crime that does not happen because of what a woman was wearing or because of her behaviour. Regardless of the situation, it is never a woman’s fault.” Reporting to the police is an option and is an individual decision. Some women want the police to know and others do not. Either way is okay and must be respected. If she wants to go to the police station, she can bring a support person with her. SACHA – “You are not alone” SACHA or the Sexual Assault Centre (Hamilton & Area) may be able to help you or your friend. Crisis/Support 24-hour telephone support line for women or men who have experienced sexual violence or their support persons. Accompaniment for women to the hospital or police station when reporting a sexual assault. Diverse Communities Outreach Programmes for women from Hamilton’s diverse racial and cultural communities, including Women-Helping-Women groups (in a variety of languages), individual support, advocacy and accompaniment. Counselling and Advocacy Counselling. Advocacy and accompaniment services for women, 16 years of age and older, who have experienced sexual violence at any point in their lives. Public Education Educational presentations and training workshops on issues related to sexual violence and woman abuse. Cultural interpretation and American Sign Language interpretation are available when needed. All services are confidential and free of charge. We may be able to help with transportation and/or childcare. We respect women’s right to safety and privacy.
Contacting SACHA: 905-525-4162 – 24/7 telephone line 905-525-4573 – business office The Women's Press Continues on Page 13 & 14
Human Solidarity – The Bond Between Us
The LINC Learners' Conference
violations of international law, including violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as with humanity at large”. (Commission on Human Rights Res. 2005/35).
I believe in the essential unity of all people and for that matter of all lives. Therefore, I believe that if one person gains spiritually, the whole world gains, and if one person falls, the whole world falls to that extent. Mohandas K. Gandhi In celebration of the world’s unification on global concerns, International Human Solidarity Day is held on December 20th of each year.
International Human Solidarity Day is a day to celebrate our unity in diversity. It is designated to remind governments to respect their commitments to international agreements. It also raises public awareness of the importance of solidarity and encourages debate on the ways to promote solidarity for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, of which include poverty eradication. Most importantly, it is a day of action and a way to encourage new initiatives for the abolition of poverty. International Human Solidarity Day began in 2005 by the United Nations as an initiative in the fight against poverty. The Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines solidarity in terms of: unity (as of a group or class) that produces or is based on community of interests, objectives, and standards. Guided by the spirit of togetherness and humanity, International Human Solidarity Day aims to create a shared sense of justice and fairness in an environment where nations and citizens can work together to ensure social and economic development for all. Since its inception, the United Nations has used the idea of solidarity as a basis for its work. In addition, solidarity is mirrored in the principles held by many in the international community who have acknowledged “human solidarity with victims of
Solidarity essentially touches the sensitive nature of our common humanity. It is most apparent when people come together in the face of humanitarian disasters as was evident in the fallout of the Indian Ocean tsunami. The inspiring response of the international community after that tsunami displayed just how much can be accomplished through global solidarity. International Human Solidarity Day represents the same values expressed through the establishment of the World Solidarity Fund. In August 1999, based on a successful national experience, the President of the Republic of Tunisia, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, called for the creation of the World Solidarity Fund to support international efforts aimed at eradicating poverty. It includes the conviction that the international community should pursue ongoing research for innovative mechanisms to sponsor poverty obliteration and the endorsement of social development. It does this by providing funding support to community-based associations and small private sector bodies in developing countries. Former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan highlighted the importance of solidarity when he said, “In our interconnected world, the human family cannot enjoy security without development, cannot enjoy development without security, and cannot enjoy either without respect for human rights… to act on the understanding we need… a true solidarity among Governments and peoples working together to fulfill those goals.” (http://www.un.org/ esa/socdev/social/intldays/IntSolidarity/ index.html). Human solidarity holds a special meaning for us in terms of social justice, advocacy, linking communities, and equality among all people. Working in the field of social work reminds us of the importance of solidarity. Through our work with refu gees and newcomers to Canada, we are provided with an active responsibility to practice the aims of social development
The LINC Learners’ Conference is a fun instructional event hosted by SISO and funded by CIC. At the conference, LINC learners from all across Hamilton get together and enjoy this unique educational experience. The 2009 LINC Learners’ Conference took place on the 6th of November at the Hamilton Convention Centre. During this one-day event, learners from LINC levels 3 to 7 attend various workshops based on their needs and interests. The workshops covered a wide variety of subjects to address the diversity of the students. All workshops were presented by skillful presenters who are experts in their fields. On the day of the conference, students were provided with useful techniques to
deal with their teens; they learned more about Canadian workplace culture; practiced how to be confident speakers, found new ways to settle in Canada, and a lot more. . This is how Oscar Vasquez, a LINC student and a Master of Ceremony at the conference, commented on the event: Today I felt more confident about myon a daily basis. Human Solidarity is not just a one day initiative, but something everyone should strive to support. Human Solidarity links all of us together towards sentiments of compassion and mercy.
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self because I had a chance to introduce the keynote speaker, which is something I never did before. The conference was very useful for exchanging information, getting to know other people, and practicing listening. I also learned about labor laws, which was useful for me because the labor laws are different in my country. Along the same lines, Su Young Lee commented very positively on the conference. Speaking about the workshop presented by Fran Marshall, the keynote speaker and one of the workshop presenters at the conference, Su remarked: She was so good. She had a great sense of humor and she knew about so many countries. She also knew about my country! She was very well-prepared. I always had difficulty with articles and phrasal verbs and her workshop gave me the opportunity to practice them. Everybody was entertained and engaged. She included funny stories in her lessons. It was my second time attending the conference and it was very good. This unique learning opportunity was made possible through funding from CIC. ■ Marjan Bateni
■ Fatha Dore and Areej Saleh Source: The UN Website at: http://www.un.org/ esa/socdev/social/intldays/IntSolidarity/index. html
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Canadian Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms
World AIDS Day
(a) be informed promptly of the reasons why;
December 10th is designated by the United Nations as Human Rights Day and so it is important to take some time for reflection about Human Rights and what they mean to us. This reflection is particularly important in December because it is not only the official UN Month of Human Rights, but it is a month in which we have many religious celebrations that are part of the various belief systems of our diverse communities. The diversity around us reminds us of the freedoms we are afforded in Canada through the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. Every person in Canada is governed by the Canadian Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms that is entrenched in the Constitution of Canada. Everyone is guaranteed four fundamental freedoms: (a) freedom of conscience and religion; (b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication; (c) freedom of peaceful assembly; and (d) freedom of association. These are called fundamental freedoms because they guarantee rights that are specific to an individual’s belief or value system. There are also many other rights that are contained in the Charter. Every citizen of Canada also has the right to vote in an election and to run as a candidate for office. Canadian Citizens and permanent residents have the right to enter, remain in, and leave Canada. They also have other mobility rights which give them the right to move to and take up residence in any province and to seek employment in any province. Under the Legal Rights that Citizens have, everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person. They also have the right to be secure against unreasonable search or seizure and not to be arbitrarily detained or imprisoned. If a person is arrested or detained, they must:
(b) be able to retain and instruct counsel without delay and to be informed of that right; and (c) have the validity of the detention determined by way of habeas corpus and to be released if the detention is not lawful. In addition, any person charged with an offence has the right: (a) to be informed without unreasonable delay of the specific offence; (b) to be tried within a reasonable time; (c) not to be compelled to be a witness in proceedings against that person in respect of the offence; (d) to be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law in a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal. Equality rights in the Charter state that every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability. In conclusion, on December 10th take liberty to read the Charter and remember your human rights. Join the United Nations and celebrate Human Rights Day. ■ Patrica Wright
WHERE TO GET INFORMATION From The Human Rights Commission (available on-line http://www.ohrc.on.ca) By: Patrica Wright Tel: 1 800 387 9080 Charter of Rights & Freedoms http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/charter/1.html
ENGLISH & FRENCH CONVERSATION CIRCLES December 2009 Open
After we had all cried tears that we thought would never end, we finally found out the truth. My cousin had died of AIDS, leaving behind three children under the age of 11. To this day my aunty still refuses to comment about what killed my cousin, but now we all know the silent truth. In my hometown people prefer to save face rather than to tell the truth about what is happening in our communities. No one dares to talk about one of the leading causes of death, even when it kills your own family. South Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV infections in the world. We are losing a huge chunk of our workforce and gaining many child-led families. Yet people do not want to talk about it. It has been hard for people to step away from a cultural practice that views speaking about sex as taboo. We are taught that a good, unmarried girl like me should not speak of such things. Because many people lie about what killed their loved ones and they lie about there sexual practices, young black women like myself are dying in droves. Losing my cousin opened my eyes and made AIDS personal. After my cousin’s death, I promised myself that I would speak openly about this disease because I believe education can lead to behavioural change and this is the only way that we can stop this angel of death in its path. South Africa, my home that I love so much, is thousands of kilometres away, but HIV/AIDS is right here in Hamilton. In South Africa there is a silence about HIV/AIDS; however, in Hamilton people speak openly about the disease and the government has sponsored many education campaigns so that people would make the right choices. Unfortunately, black women are still the ones who are most often infected in North America. This means that even here, in Canada, I have to bury my sisters. Despite our best efforts, the message is still not reaching the women in our local communi-
ties. Something more needs to be done to help educate our local communities. Something more can be done by you, right now, right here. The United Nations has set December 1st as World AIDS Day. This day serves to recognize the efforts and struggles connected to HIV/AIDS. In honour of this important day, I would like to contribute to the efforts of eradicating this disease by challenging you to educate yourself about HIV/AIDS. Secondly, I challenge you to take your newly acquired knowledge and educate one other person. Through education and knowledge sharing we can expose the truth about HIV/AIDS and end the lies. I do not want my cousin’s death to end in rumours of witchcraft and poisonings, as is commonly done in some communities. My name is Rabelani Ntshavheni Makwarela and AIDS took away my cousin, Mercy Makwarela, at the age of 32. She left behind two sons and a daughter. Please do not let her story end in silence and rumours. Let her story, and others like hers, become a voice for change that is heard throughout the world. ■ Rabelani Ntshavheni Makwarela For more information on HIV/AIDS visit http://www.worldaidsday.org/
WOMEN’S GROUP ACTIVITIES December 2009 Arts & Crafts
Tuesdays, 4:00pm-6:00pm, SISO (1)
Mondays, 2:00pm-4:30pm, St. Charles (1) Mondays, 3:30pm-5:30pm, SISO (2) Mondays, 5:00pm-6:30pm, Central Library (3)
Cooking
4th Wednesdays, 5:00pm-6:30pm, Immanuel Church (2) 2nd Thursdays, 5:00pm-7:00pm, Philpott Church (3)
Tuesdays, 4:30pm-6:00pm, Turner Park (4) Tuesdays, 5:00pm-6:30pm, Central Library
Crafts
2nd Wednesdays, 5:00pm-7:00pm, Immanuel Church 4th Thursdays, 5:00pm-7:00pm, Philpott Church
Sewing
Mondays, 4:00pm-6:00pm, SISO Thursdays, 4:00pm-6:00pm, SISO Saturdays, 10:00am-12:00pm, Jamesville (4)
To Be A Woman
Monthly, 4:00pm-6:00pm, SISO For date call (905) 561-2039
Computer Sessions
Mondays, 5:00pm-7:00pm, SISO Thursdays, 5:00pm-7:00pm, SISO Saturdays, 10:00am-12:00pm, SISO
Let’s Get Exercising
Mondays, 3:30pm-5:30pm, The Globe (5) Thursdays, 3:30pm-5:30pm, The Globe
Wednesdays, 3:30pm-5:30pm, SISO Thursdays, 3:30pm-5:30pm, SISO Thursdays, 4:30pm-6:00pm, Terryberry (5) Saturdays, 10:00am-12:00pm, SISO South Asian
Mondays, 2:00pm-4:00pm, Jamesville (6)
French Circle
Tuesdays, 6:00pm-7:30pm, Central Library
Karen
Saturdays, 10:30am-12:00pm, Jamesville
(1) St. Charles, 150 East 5th (2) SISO, Newcomer Family Centre, 2511 Barton St. E. (3) Central Library, 55 York St.
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Everyone was guessing about what killed her. There were rumours that she had ingested a slow poison. Some of our relatives testified to how withered she was and how ghastly her open sores were. Yet none of us really knew what had killed her. None of us, except one. Her mother knew what had killed her, but she would not let the truth cross her lips.
(4) Turner Park Library, 352 Rymal Rd. E. (5) Terryberry, 100 Mohawk W. (6) Jamesville, 209 MacNab N.
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
(1) SISO, Newcomer Family Centre, 2511 Barton St. E. (2) Immanuel Church, 61 Mohawk W. (3) Philpott Church, 84 York
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(4) Jamesville, 209 MacNab N. (5) The Globe, SISO Youth Centre, 24 Main St. W.
The Faces of Poverty in Hamilton (Part 1) pay for rising utilities and gas; unable to pay for school trips and after school activities for their children.
Poverty is a complicated social issue with many layers that impact our community. It can easily be described as a family’s inability to maintain basic living standards. Other layers of poverty can occur when access to resources, economic and social participation are denied for various reasons which makes poverty a very complicated social dilemma. Over the past two decades the reality of poverty has changed. It has moved from a short-term lack of income during an economic downturn to a more chronic struggle for daily survival with no end in sight. To understand today’s poverty; different lenses must be used to look at the social impact on those most affected. While poverty affects entire households, women, Aboriginal peoples, immigrants and refugees endure a disproportionate burden. As a result of this marginilazation, poverty becomes a major obstacle to the realization of basic human rights. Hamilton is most affected, according to Statistics Canada. Hamilton has a large proportion of women, children and youth living below the Low Income Cut Off (LICO). The LICO is the minimum average cost a person or family needs to cover their expenses including food, shelter, utilities, clothing and other basic needs. There are many categories and factors that need to be considered in order to understand the complexities of poverty. The working poor is the most challenging aspect when addressing poverty. Individual workers or those who work as full-time contractors, part-time or seasonal workers who receive insufficient benefits or wages that cannot maintain or cover basic living standards are the most distressing. These individuals are honest hard working Citizens who report for work every morning, evening and night shift, and yet have to struggle to put food on the table; unable to pay for their expenses, unable to pay for their children’s snack for school; unable to
The hardest struggle for a parent is to send a child to school hungry because they cannot afford to put breakfast on the table. How can a society like ours with our wealth and natural resources send children to school hungry? How can a society like ours explain why we cannot feed some of our children, the most vulnerable populations? How can our leaders and business community explain that we cannot pay sufficient wages and benefits to help struggling families? How can our leaders, at all levels of government make promises year after year, and campaign after campaign and not fulfill their promises of eliminating hunger and poverty in our Canadian cities and towns? People living with disabilities or those with barriers to employment are also hit hard. Their ONLY source of income is the government. The rate of income given to these populations does not cover housing, food, over the counter medications, and high utility cost. The rate given for shelter, for example is 50% less than what the market rate is for single units, thus leading to inadequate and overcrowded housing and poor living conditions. Overall, the rate of poverty stands at 20% in Hamilton according to Statistics Canada, while marginalized groups face much higher rates. Hamilton communities have attempted to address the issues of poverty over the past 5 years. They have launched various initiatives, yet there have been no measurable results or progress. However recognizing the gravity of poverty and raising awareness of its impact is a step in the right direction and requires the commitment of every one of us. But first before we commit, we must understand different social classes of poverty and how it impacts each marginalized group. Poverty is at the heart of denied opportunities and social exclusion. Today’s poverty impacts racialized groups far more than any other social groups.
vices, denied recognition of credentials and opportunities to economic integration and participation for these groups. Our society must fully understand that extreme poverty will persist and have more impact on members of our diverse communities unless we address and highlight the core issues at the heart of poverty. Let me close with a relevant and timely quote from Retired US General and Secretary of State, Colin Powell:
“The root cause of poverty is social injustice and the bad government that abets it. Poverty arises and persists where corruption is endemic and enterprise is stifled, where basic fairness provided by the rule of law is absent. In such circumstances, poverty is an assault against human dignity, and in that assault lies the natural seed of human anger." In our next issue, we will examine the relationship between poverty and single parents (women). ■ Liban A Abdi
MOBILE OFFICE CALENDAR
December 2009/January 2010 MONDAYS
9:00 am - 5:00 pm No Frills & Zellers, 499 Mohawk Rd. E.
TUESDAYS
12:30 pm - 7:00 pm 2 Oriole Crescent
WEDNESDAYS
9:00 am - 5:00 pm 40 Grandville & Delawana
FRIDAYS
9:00 am - 3:00 pm 55 Wendover Dr. (Wendover & Magnolia)
For more information, please call: (905) 667-SISO (7476) (905) 512-7389 (905) 512-8327
Given the strong association between poverty and racialized groups, there is likely to be an upward trend unless equitable solution can be found to these highly marginalized groups with the potential to undermine the social fabric of our entire society. Understanding the challenges and daily experiences of the poor, there must be an approach that highlights barriers to access of programs and ser-
Downtown Office 360 James St. N Lower Concourse (905) 667-SISO (7476)
Mountain Office 1030 Upper James St. (905) 385-6192 Youth Centre 24 Main St. W (905) 527-2049 www.sisoglobe.ca
East End Office 2511 Barton St. E (905) 561-2039
www.sisohamilton.org
NEWCOMER INFORMATION SESSIONS - December 2009/January 2010 MONDAYS
PPC Parents Providing Care
Karen Language Services TUESDAYS
Citizenship Classes
Karen Language Services WEDNESDAYS Pediatric Clinic Call: Penny Drover, 905-667-3173
THURSDAYS 3rd FRIDAYS
Karen Language Services Seniors Workshop
December 2
Home Child Care
Newcomer Family Centre 9:00am-12:00pm
December 4
Pediatric Clinic Call: Penny Drover, 905-667-3173
SISO Downtown Office 1:00pm-3:00pm
December 8
SISO Downtown Office 5:00pm-7:00pm
Income Support Workshop for Seniors
Newcomer Family Centre 1:00pm-3:00pm
December 9
Fraud & Scams
SISO Downtown Office 1:00pm-3:00pm
Newcomer Family Centre 4:00pm-6:00pm
December 10
Income Support Workshop for Seniors
SISO Downtown Office 1:00pm-3:00pm
SISO Downtown Office 12:00pm-7:00pm
December 14
Community Legal Services
Newcomer Family Centre 10:00am-12:00pm
December 21
Income Tax Information Session
Newcomer Family Centre 1:00pm-3:00pm
December 22
Income Tax Information Session
SISO Downtown Office 1:00pm-3:00pm
January 12
Nutrition Session
SISO Downtown Office 1:00pm-3:00pm
January 22
Police Information Session
SISO Mountain Office *** 10:00am-12:00pm
SISO Downtown Office * 9:30am-11:30am or 1:00pm-3:00pm Newcomer Family Centre ** 1:00pm-5:00pm
SISO Downtown Office 5:00pm-9:00pm SISO Downtown Office 9:00am-5:00pm Hamilton Central Public Library 10:00am-12:00pm * SISO Downtown Office: 360 James Street North
** Newcomer Family Centre: 2511 Barton Street East
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*** SISO Mountain Office: 1030 Upper James Street
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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and for offering peace of mind to the parents.
This Christmas Was The Best One Ever! It was a night filled with food, fun, and fourteen people! This Christmas we invited our host match family to have dinner with us and it was so much fun. We showed them what Christmas crackers were and told them about everything they were going to eat. One of our guests, Lay Htoo, ate everything on the plate, but probably only out of kindness! The kids ate their turkey and stuffing, but pretty much left the veggies! After dinner we gave them gifts. The kids made us laugh most because they loved the toys they received, but when they opened their gift of PJ’s they said, “Clothes…yuk!” We thought that was really funny because our kids used to say that, too! And so we said, “Not clothes, PJ’s!”, and then they laughed at us! The best and most touching part of the night was that they had also brought us gifts, which we were not expecting, and beautiful cards in which they had written beautiful sentiments to us in English. They had a card for “their brothers”, and one for Jason and me. They gave the kids a beautiful church that lights up with fiber optic lights and a set of Christmas dishes to Jason and me. Needless to say, we were extremely surprised and touched. The card they wrote thanked us for helping them, but really it is they who have helped our family. They have taught us a lot about how important kindness is. Thanks to them we have become much more aware of the challenges that all immigrants, but especially refugees, face. This has helped to foster more compassion in our family. Most importantly, we have seen that families want the same things for their children, no matter where they are from. I hope they understand that they are a very important part of our family. This Christmas experience was something I do not think I will ever forget. The fourteen of us had a very special Christmas thanks to SISO and the Host Program. This was the best Christmas ever and it is going to be a great year, too!
Daycares vTracey Truman, husband Jason, and four sons, Hayden, Kade, Ethan, and Teague decided to volunteer with the Host program because of their desire to find an opportunity to volunteer together as a family. They have many wonderful stories, like the one above, of sharing and caring during their time spent with a newcomer family from Burma. Thanks to the Volunteers! Volunteers across the community are integral to providing the Host Service. Host Matches come together to make friends and practice their English/French language conversation skills. If you are interested and are an individual or family who enjoys getting to know other cultures and sharing your own then why not consider volunteering with SISO. Being multi-lingual is an asset but is not required. By Tracey Truman, Host Volunteer, SISO For more information please contact Susan Cheeseman at 905-667-7496 or scheeseman@sisohamilton.org.
Making Inroads
It was the first time I was going to part with my daughter. She was only 2 years old and did not speak a word of English, as we had just emigrated to Canada. I was almost sick with worry when I stepped into the daycare area and faced the kind-faced, widely-smiling teacher. “What is she going to do without me?”, I asked myself, choking secretly and blinking my tears away. My daughter, on the other hand, turned out to be actually quite fine without me. She looked amazedly at the colorful walls and fun-looking toys and let go of my sweaty hand to go discover this new interesting world. While I was anxiously explaining my daughter’s particular needs to the teacher— her potty habits, her fussy eating ways, her sleeping preferences, and her lack of knowledge of English language - my daughter dipped her plum hands into the sandbox in the corner, cupped two fistful of sand, and emptied them on her head, looking very much amused. The teacher smiled kindly and patiently at her and told me she thought it was time for me to leave. Trying to say good-bye to my daughter, I kneeled beside her and said “It’s time for me to leave, sweetheart. Are you OK?” Instead of her, the teacher responded “SHE is OK. Are YOU OK, Mommy?” I’ve learned now that daycares are fantastic places for children. They provide opportunities for children’s personal growth, for engaging the children in healthy social interactions, for preparing them for school,
were made at both the international and domestic levels laying the foundations for removing the attitudinal, systemic, and political barriers that have historically excluded people living with disabilities from mainstream society. On the local level the clear signs that people with disabilities have been making inroads into the mainstream can be seen through the accessibility movement with respect to providing greater disabled access to the transportation system, public buildings and businesses, and of course the inclusion movement within the Catholic and Public School Systems in Hamilton. Thirty years ago the sight of a child living with disability attending school in his own neighbourhood with his neighbourhood peers, was just beginning to be possible.
Over the past thirty years the conceptualization of disability has been in transition. This transition has been influenced by differing cultures, social institutions, and physical environments. The influence of the disability rights movement must also be acknowledged for bringing the issues of people living with disabilities into the fore front of the Humans
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Rights discourse. According to Lina Anani, Toronto Lawyer, and disability advocate “In much the same way that women’s human rights emerged from the margins and moved into the mainstream of human discourse, so to have the rights of persons with disabilities.” The first steps of developing instruments, principles and declaration w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
Though Canada’s legislation and policies have mirrored the progressive developments previously mentioned, policy improvements with regard to refugees and immigrants have been lagging behind. Since 2003, the Canadian government’s refugee policy has switched from an economic-based to a Humanitarianbased policy, making it possible for families with a disabled family member to resettle in Canada, whereas this would not have been possible before that time; but
Children can gain a great deal of independence and confidence at daycare. Away from over-supportive parents (like myself!) children learn to do for themselves and they enjoy this independence immensely. After attending daycare for a couple of months, my daughter refused to let me help her put on her shoes in the morning as she was now able to do so by herself, or so she thought, sprawling on the floor and trying to figure out the mystery of shoelace and Velcro. By and by, I realized with great relief that I no more had to feed her dinner bit by bit in front of the TV, getting bored to the bone with her slow eating manner and with Dora the Explorer’s repeating questions. She would eat all by herself now. Soon she learned to dress herself, too. Though color-coordination proved to be a challenge, her sense of self-satisfaction and independence made it all worth our while. Kids also learn how to share at daycare - a necessary characteristic for future socialization. Instead of playing with a ball alone, for example, children learn to play together, sharing the joy of tossing the ball to each other as opposed to fighting tooth and nail over it. Children carry this constructive social skill to settings outside daycare as well; for instance, when dealing with siblings or other children, resulting in smoother playtime for kids and more peaceful time for parents. Above all, daycares are safe and fun places where parents can leave their most beloved ones with peace of mind while pursuing their educational or professional endeavors. Without the assurance and the free time daycare provided me, I could never have followed my dreams and build a satisfying career. I studied, volunteered, and worked knowing with confidence that my child was well taken care of. My daughter has grown a lot since her first day at daycare, yet I still feel the same pang of worry whenever the first day of school approaches. Each year, while I talk nervously to the new teacher, she explores her new class and the new environment merrily. I guess she has learned to be a big kid now while I have remained her worried Mommy, and will probably remain so forever. ■ Marjan Bateni
families coming through the immigration stream still face challenges if they have a family member who is living with a disability. For those who are successful making it to, and staying in Canada, the challenges are many. First they have all the challenges that are typically faced by a newcomer to Canada, plus the added challenge of living with a disability. The thought of this might lead you to wonder how it is possible for them to be successful in Canada when newcomers with fewer challenges struggle as much as they do. From my experience as an advocate for refugees, particularly those living with a disability, the best ingredients for a success story are strong advocacy from settlement groups networking with community groups that support people with disabilities, working to build a community of support around the disabled person, and of course, from the newcomer himself, that indomitable newcomer tenacity that just takes nothing for granted and makes the best of every opportunity. ■ Teresa Simms-Obidi
Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices. Issue 4 • December 2009 & January 2010 • Published by SJ Immigrant Women’s Centre
A Women’s Coalition hopes to monitor the challenges faced by women in Hamilton and help push their progress.
A Snapshot of Women in Hamilton 13% - percentage of Hamilton city councilors who are women (2 out of 15) 21% - percentage of municipal, provincial and federal elected representatives in Canada who are women
A United Voice: Proposing a new Women’s Coalition for Hamilton Who needs a women’s coalition? •
A single mother who needs to find affordable daycare before she can return to work.
•
An educated professional earning 71 per cent of what her male colleague makes.
•
A refugee woman unable to find adequate housing she can afford for herself and her children.
•
A university student afraid to walk home alone after a late night of studying at the campus library.
poverty, be paid less, have greater household and caregiving responsibilities, be under-represented in every level of government, and be physically abused or threatened.
LINC level 3+
Clearly, the struggle for women’s equality is not over. A newly proposed Women’s Coalition hopes to bring more attention to these issues and improve the status of women in Hamilton. Despite the many groups working towards improving the lives of women and their families in Hamilton, there is currently no overarching body to track women’s status and advocate for their progress. The IWC (Immigrant Women’s Centre) and the YWCA of Hamilton are recommending the creation of such a coalition to: • Identify issues important to local women • Measure and report on women’s progress • Advocate for policies that improve women’s lives • Develop concrete strategies to improve women’s status “The health and prosperity of this city depends on the well-being of its mothers, wives, sisters and daughters,” says Ines Rios, Executive Director. “I am excited by the prospect of working with community members dedicated to tackling women’s continued inequality and realizing a better future for us all.”
Women’s Resource Guide:
OTHER HOUSING:
Their circumstances may be different. But as women, we face common challenges because of our gender. Consider the following: A woman in Hamilton is more likely than a man to live in 1. What obstacles or challenges do women in Hamilton share? 2. What will a Women’s Coalition in Hamilton would do? Discussion: Does Hamilton need a Women’s Coalition? Why or why not?
Services and Shelters for Victims of Abuse EMERGENCY HOUSING/SHELTERS:
YWCA 905-522-9922 Transitional and supportive housing. 75 MacNab St. S.
Phoenix Place 905-527-2238 Inasmuch House - Crisis Line: 905-529-8600 Safe accommodation for women and their children who Emergency shelter for women and children in crisis due are ready to leave the emergency shelter and can benefit to abuse and homelessness. Business Line: 905-529-8149 from ongoing support to break the cycle of violence. Interval House of Hamilton - Crisis Line: 905-387-8881 Residential emergency shelter services, outreach and advocacy. 630 Sanatorium Rd - Business Line: 905-387-9959
62 cents – amount a Hamilton woman earns for every dollar a man makes 72 cents – amount a Hamilton woman earns in a fulltime, permanent position for every $1 a man makes 40% - percentage of women-led single families that are poor 1 in 4 – number of women who will be sexually assaulted 10% - amount of sexual assaults reported to police.
Both the IWC and YWCA have long worked with women to increase their social and economic participation in the community. Thanks to the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the two have now started studying how to create a Women’s Coalition for Hamilton. The research will include numerous interviews and several community meetings. The feasibility study will conclude with a proposal for a model for the coalition, a system to track women’s status in Hamilton and clear next steps.
COUNSELLING & SUPPORT: The Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Care Centre 905-525-4162 McMaster University Medical Centre. 1200 Main Street West, Room 4B24. Care provided to survivors to help meet their health, emotional and social needs. Includes Sexual Assault Centre Support Line Catholic Family Services of Hamilton 905-527-3823 ext 264/278
CRISIS LINES & COUNSELLING:
SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre, Hamilton & Area) 905-525-4573
Mary's Place 905-540-8000 Emergency shelter for women 18 years of age and older Services for adults, primarily women, who have experienced sexual violence at any time in their lives. 24-hour in need of safety, support and/or shelter. 50 East Ave N. support line, counseling & advocacy. 75 MacNab St. S., Martha House - Crisis Line: 905-523-6277 3rd floor A secure shelter dedicated to assisting women and chilWomen’s Centre of Hamilton 905-522-0127 dren who are fleeing abuse. Business Line: 905-523-8895 Services to assist women, including women who have Native Women's Centre 905-522-1501 been abused, as they make changes in their lives, and Safe, emergency shelter including all meals, emergency seek personal empowerment in society. Legal advocate clothing and personal need items for all residents. program, counseling & peer support. 100 Main St E, #205
Women are talking about...
447 Main St E, Unit 201. For women dealing with the effects of an abusive relationship, a comprehensive range of counselling, support and case management services are provided in partnership with a local women’s shelter. Hamilton Police Service – Victim Services Branch 905-546-4904 Central Police Station, 155 King William Street. Provides 24-hour crisis intervention for victims of crimes and tragedies.
What has this recession taught you?
Rosa Romero
Elena Tita
Olfat Betelmal
I’ve started being more careful and making a budget, things I should have been doing years ago. I don’t think the recession is really over. There are many unemployed people, including people who have worked for years in one field and now have to start all over again."
"The recession has forced us to get creative. I’m going to school part-time to learn flower and fruit arrangement so I can start my own business, something I’m very excited about."
"The recession taught everyone to do things differently. It taught us to save more, think about what we spend our money on and change our habits. Financial institutions and companies have also re-examined the way they do business. Everyone has." w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
Marta Rivera "Many people have money but no life. Poverty is not only financial. Poverty can be mental and spiritual. This recession has taught me that to be rich you have to invest in yourself, your family and your community" Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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Women in Hamilton, Raising our Voices. Issue 4 • December 2009 & January 2010 • Published by SJ Immigrant Women’s Centre
A look at recent labour figures shows more women are working than ever, but not always for equal pay or training.
Working Women: Working more, Getting less Women’s gains….and losses At first, it seemed like good news for working women: there were actually more women in the Canadian workforce than men in the first half of 2009. According to a recent Statistics Canada labour survey, there were 7.1 million women in paid employment compared to 6.9 million men. But despite the historic milestone, there may be little cause for celebration. According to labour critics, the gender-balance shift is less about significant gains by women and more about job-losses in male-dominated industries like manufacturing. Sectors dominated by women such as health-care, education and other public sector jobs, have not been as badly hurt by the recession…yet. But some analysts predict this may soon change. “There is going to be a fallout with other sectors soon,” Laurel Ritchie of the Canadian Auto Workers told The Women’s Press. The public sector, where women are heavily employed, is one area where Ritchie expects to see more job losses. “With so many fewer people working, there is going to be a smaller tax base, both individual and corporate which will mean less money to fund government programs.” And with retailers predicting slower than usual Christmas sales, women are also ex-
“According to labour critics, the gender-balance shift is less about significant gains by women and more about job-losses in male-dominated industries like manufacturing.” pected to take a big hit in the retail sector which has already seen significant job losses in the last couple of months. More labour inequality While labour statistics continue to fluctuate, critics point to a single constant: women’s continued labour inequality. A woman working full-time still makes on average 71 cents for every dollar a man makes. Women still represent the vast majority of part-time and minimum wage workers and almost half are employed in unstable jobs with little job security or benefits. Add to this,
women’s much bigger share of household and care-giving duties and many are left wondering why so many women are still working so much more for so little. Less training for women Women, Training and Employment Insurance: By the Numbers • Only 1 in 18 low-wage, less-educated, non-union female workers declined employer-sponsored training compared to 1 in 9 of male counterparts. • Since 2004, women's EI training participation rates in Ontario have declined. By 2008, only 21% of EI trainees were women, the lowest number for the province on record. • For women workers, Employment Insurance coverage dropped from 69% in 1990 to 32% in 2004. • A Canadian woman earns 72 cents to every dollar a man in similar work earns, a decrease of 8 cents since 1999. *Figures provided by ACTEW (A Commitment to Training and Employment for Women) www.actew.org
Women are also being held back by a lack of training opportunities, both on and off the job. According to another Statistics Canada study, the most vulnerable female employees – those with the lowest wages and education levels - continue to receive less training from their employers than men despite being the most likely to accept it. The study’s authors said improving on-thejob training would benefit not only women, but the economy: “Having a highly trained workforce also benefits employers in terms of productivity and adaptability, particularly given the emerging shortage of skilled workers in Canada,” they wrote. Unemployed women are also not receiving equal access to training. Training rates for EI (Employment Insurance) eligible women in Ontario is declining, according to ACTEW (A Commitment to Training and Employment for Women). Last year, only one fifth of EI recipients receiving training were women, down 10 per cent from five years ago.
Time Well Spent:
Join us at the Immigrant Women's Centre! Gain New Skills! Improve your computer skills! Microsoft Word Course. January 13 - 29. Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Take a Microsoft Word course to learn basic computer skills. Cost: $25. Free child minding available. Location: 8 Main St. East. Contact Vivyan at 905-529-5209 x233.
Crunch the numbers! Quickbooks Computer Course. January 18 - February 24. Mondays and Fridays 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Take a Quickbooks course to learn basic accounting skills. Cost: $25. Free child minding available. Location: 8 Main St. East. Contact Vivyan at 905-529-5209 x233.
Learn the basics! Introduction to computers and internet. January 18 - February 10, Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30 - to 11:30 a.m. Take a basic computer skills and internet class. Cost: $25. Free child minding available. Location: 1119 Fennell Ave. E. Contact Abir at 905-387-1100 x230.
Get behind the Wheel! Learn to drive and gain independence. January 12 - January 28, Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Take the G1 driving class to prepare for the written test. Cost: $25. Free child minding available. Location: 8 Main St. East. Contact: Vivyan at 905-529-5209 ext. 233.
Learn to Knit & meet new people! New knitting club. January 12 - February 2, Tuesdays 9:30 - to 11:30 a.m. Join other women for a weekly knitting club. Cost: $5. Free childminding. Location: 1119 Fennell Avenue East Suite 234. Contact Abir: 905-397-1100 ext. 230.
Employment Support at IWC Build your confidence! Get the job! Orientation to the Labour Market Workshop January 25 to March 5, Monday to Friday 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. A six-week interactive workshop designed to help job-seeking women discover their skills and define their career goals. Build the confidence you need to find work in Canada. Location: 8 Main Street East. Free childminding and bus tickets available. To register call Ashley at 905-529-5209 x. 232
Information Sessions at IWC Achieve your goals! December 1, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Take some time to work on your goals. Attend How to reach your goals, a presentation by Nelson Ruiz. Free child minding and refreshments. Location: 1119 Fennell Avenue East Suite 236. Contact Abir: 905-387-1111. 1. How many women were in paid employment compared to men in the first half of 2009? 2. Who receives the least amount of on-the-job training? Discussion: Why do you think women receive less Employment Insurance benefits?
LINC level 6+
Moved and Transformed by “Water” A Film Review by Radenka Lescesen
A friend recently suggested I watch the movie “Water”. She said I would feel changed by it and I was. It was one of the most powerful movies I have ever seen. The movie is set in the year 1938, when India was still under British colonial rule. Early on, we meet eight-year-old Chuyia Sarala Kariyawasam who is married to a much older man when she is still very young. When her husband dies she is abandoned in an ashram for widows. Following Hindu tradition of the time, young widows were expected to live a celibate and impoverished life in institutions for widows. They were supposed to make amends for the sins from their previous lives which supposedly caused their hus-
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One to watch for
bands’ deaths. There are fourteen women who live in the small, decaying house built around a central courtyard. The women are sent there to make up for bad karma as well as to relieve their families of financial and emotional burdens. The arrival of young Chuyia, so full of life and joy, opens up their hearts and reminds them that there is hope outside horrible circumstances. The film focuses on several of the shunned widows and explores their struggle for freedom. The film is directed by Indian-born, Canadian filmmaker, Deepa Mehta who fought very hard to make this controversial movie.
Protestors objecting to the film’s subject matter delayed its production which was eventually moved from India to Sri Lanka. The movie speaks about the tragedy and hypocrisy these women must bear, but it also illustrates the quiet revolution we must all experience in order to grow and to change. Mehta’s "Water" is a reminder that many still struggle with ugly realities of people misusing religion and culture to serve their needs. Radenka Lescesen is the Coordinator of Settlement Services (ISAP) for IWC’s Mountain location. She is also a film lover.
LINC level: 3+
Saved by the Power of the Holy Spirit;
Winning souls for Christ
worldly adventures.
Allan was easily influenced by money even at an early age, and this love for money influenced the type of friends he kept. His life turned to parties, girls, booze, drugs, tattoos, stealing, violence, and little regards for authority.
Pastor Allan Baker is a changed man today, thanks to the transformation by the spirit of God. His life was not always what it used to be today. Young Allan was a man driven by the destructive elements in his society. He was chased by many demons, made many mistakes, but was convicted by the Holy Spirit, and now enslaved by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Allan Baker was born to a large family of five sisters and one brother. His father was the provider, while the mother stayed home to care for the children. The Father was home on weekends when his social past time was abusing alcohol. Allan was not much of a school person, and missed more than he was able to attend. Affection and love were very scarce for Allan while growing up, and this turned him into an angry person. Quickly, Allan drifted away from school, and find new interest in
Eid al-Adha Celebrated on November 27 What is Eid al-Adha At the end of the Hajj (annual pilgrimage to Mecca), Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice). In 2009, Eid al-Adha will begin on approximately November 27th, and will last for three days. What does Eid al-Adha commemorate? During the Hajj, Muslims remember and
his character was not changed for the better.
At 19 years of age, Allan was already a terror in the community. He was driven by a hatred for humanity. In 1967, Allan was caught stealing jewels and was sentenced to 9 months in jail. However, due to good behaviour, his sentence was reduced to 6 months. Less than 3 days after serving that 6 month sentence, Allan was arrested for another theft. He got additional 6 months sentence, and was transferred to Millbrook Penitentiary where he spent 2 years. For sometime, Allan was in and out of jails, and that earned him the nick name “the go boy”. At 21 years of age, Allan stole a car, and was resisting arrest, assaulted a police officer. This behaviour landed him to jail for 6 years. At 25 years of age, Allan has graduated from the school of crime as others graduated from academic accomplishments. He knew his ways in and out of jail, and was a repeat offender many times over. Allan changed residence in order to keep away from bad influences, and to change his life as he noticed his friends and accomplices are dying prematurely. However, this attempt at reform failed as
At 27 years of age, Allen advanced to carrying firearms. This resulted in serious and fatal consequences as murder was committed. Such grave action requires serious consequences; hence Allan paid a big price with his freedom. While in MillHaven Penitentiary, he came to reflect on his life, and consequences of his actions. Though all his fellow prisoners were same as him, with anger and disregard for life, law and authority, Allen was blessed to be befriended by one who is different. Allan’s new prison friend introduced him to the bible, and the love of God. To Allan, this is something new and different; a new life full of God’s promises and forgiveness of sins. Oh, Allan embraced this new light, and bible reading became his pre-occupation. The more he reads the good news, the more captivated he became. Soon, Allan’s life began to change, and the change was quite drastic and glaring that people took note. A new Allan Baker was born. The consuming anger, fear, distrust, terror, and pride left his body, soul and spirit, and were replaced with a new and deeper understanding of who he is, especially in relationship to a saviour that died for him on the cross of Calvary. After 10 years into his life sentence, Allan was pardoned, paroled and set free.
commemorate the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Abraham. The Qur'an describes Abraham as follows:
love for his Lord superceded all others, that he would lay down his own life or the lives of those dear to him in order to submit to God.
"Surely Abraham was an example, obedient to Allah, by nature upright, and he was not of the polytheists. He was grateful for Our bounties. We chose him and guided him unto a right path. We gave him good in this world, and in the next he will most surely be among the righteous." (Qur'an 16:120-121)
Why do Muslims sacrifice an animal on this day?
One of Abraham's main trials was to face the command of Allah to kill his only son. Upon hearing this command, he prepared to submit to Allah's will. When he was all prepared to do it, Allah revealed to him that his "sacrifice" had already been fulfilled. He had shown that his
Allah has given us power over animals and allowed us to eat meat, but only if we pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life. Muslims slaughter animals in the same way throughout the year. By saying the name of Allah at the time of slaughter, we are re-
During the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham's trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. This action is very often misunderstood by those outside the faith.
Allan Baker is now a pastor, teacher, preacher, counsellor, Husband, father, and grand-father. He is working diligently in God’s vineyard, winning souls for Christ. He is a shinning example of God’s mercy, love and transformation. As he ministers to numerous people, especially the homeless, drug users and low-income people that come into Christ Voice of Restoration Church for counselling and t o access food bank and soup kitchen, one cannot but see a man well suited to do what he is doing, He was once like those folks he now serves. What a blessing his life has become because of Christ. ■ Veronica Chris-Ike Every ISSUE WE publish articles from different faith groups. minded that life is sacred. The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, onethird is given away to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah's commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others.
■ TVID Source: www.about.com
Lawyers: Your Key to Real Estate vestment. But buying a home can undeniably be an intimidating experience. First, you should consider the costs involved. You will likely need to approach a lending institution, such as a bank, for a mortgage. A mortgage involves two elements: borrowed money and land security. Essentially what happens is the lending institution, or mortgagee, will give you, the mortgagor, money in exchange for a charge on your land. A charge is essentially a document that is registered on the title of your land that says that you owe the lending institution money and if you do not pay them, they can take your land to satisfy their debt.
One of the first major investments that people – whether they are new to the country or just fresh out of university and new to the working world - look at acquiring is a home. Shelter is a basic need, and real estate is, for the most part, a stable in-
Most lending institutions, for the purpose of real estate mortgages, provide 75% of the value of the property. This means that you will have to provide the other 25% yourself. This provides easy way to roughly calculate the price of the home you can afford. Look at how much money you have available for a down payment. That will represent 25% of the value. Multiply that number by four for a rough estimate of the price of the home you may be able to purchase. When considering purchase prices, it is important to keep in mind that along with mortgage payments, there are also general operating costs that will also have
to be paid monthly. Be sure to budget for these along with your monthly mortgage payments. You will also need a lawyer for the transaction. It is important to make sure that you have your own lawyer. Do not attempt to act as your own lawyer or use the other party’s lawyer. You need someone who has only your interests in mind and can help with the legal technicalities and any surprises that may come up during the transaction. Your lawyer should discuss your needs with you and then keep those in mind as he or she looks over all the documents of the transaction. The lawyer should ensure that the clauses in the offer to purchase encompass your particular situation. Also, your lawyer should turn the intimidating experience into a more understandable one. Your lawyer should have knowledge of all the legal technicalities and be able to explain them to you in a manner that you
understand. Ensure that you know and understand all the implications not only of an offer or of the terms of your mortgage, but also your rights and responsibilities as a purchaser and a borrower as well as the rights and responsibilities of the lending institution and the terms by which they operate. With every decision you make, your lawyer should help you make an informed one. They should be able to explain all the elements of the transaction, make suggestions particular to your circumstances and answer any questions you may have. ■ Hussein Hamdani is a lawyer at SimpsonWigle Law LLP where he practices in the area of corporate/commercial and real estate law. Naaila Sangrar is a student-at-law at SimpsonWigle Law LLP, practicing in the areas of corporate/commercial and litigation.
The Voice In Diaspora Needs You!
Are you interested in reaching out to others? Do you have experience organizing or conducting workshops? Do you have good inter-personal skills? If Yes, Contact us for an enriching opportunity to work with the ethno-cultural population in Hamilton. Call: 905-521-2875 venike@thevoiceindiaspora.com w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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Better Pap Smear Follow-Up Needed Among Lower-Income Women and low-income women are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer than highincome women, a new study has found.
In the Canadian province of Ontario, fewer than half of women with abnormal Pap tests receive proper follow-up care
Lack of Fear in Early Childhood Predicts Later Criminal Behavior ...Continued from page 1
The finding strengthens evidence that early brain dysfunction increases the risk of criminal offending. "We are surprised at the findings," Dr. Gao added. "Although it has long been theorized that early fear conditioning deficits may lead to lack of conscience and, in turn, criminal behavior, no empirical studies had been conducted to test this hypothesis. Our findings constitute the first longitudinal study to support this hypothesis, and we are surprised that the relationship between poor conditioning and crime extends over 20 years." The study was published online November 16 in the American Journal of Psychiatry. The study population consisted of a birth cohort of 1795 children from Mauritius, born in 1969 and 1970. When study participants were 3 years of age, fear conditioning was assessed by electrodermal fear responses after presentation of 2 types of long auditory tones. One tone was usually followed by a short, loud, unpleasant sound, and the other tone served as a control tone, which was deeper in pitch and had no unpleasant association. Skin conductance measures the nervous system's control over sweat secretion that is part of the body's fear response. Normal fear conditioning would result in greater skin responses to the conditioned tone than to the control tone. By the age of 23 years, 137 study participants had convictions for serious crimes. These individuals were matched in a casecontrol design to nonoffender matched controls. "A significant group-by-stimulus interaction indicated that the criminal offender group failed to show fear conditioning at age 3," the investigators write. Impaired Amygdala? How this reduced fear conditioning leads to future criminal behavior is uncertain, but the researchers suggest that poor fear conditioning predisposes individuals to crime because "individuals who lack fear are less likely to avoid situations, contexts, and events that are associated with future punishment — resulting in a lack of conscience." "One of the brain areas involved in fear conditioning is amygdala. It is believed that amygdala is rarely susceptible to illness or injury; therefore, we hypothesize that some neurodevelopmental changes which happen in the first 3 years or even [in the] prenatal period may have caused
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"Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet in Ontario more than 1 million women have not been screened, and a disproportionate number of these women are living in lower-income communities," principal investigator Dr. Arlene Bierman, a physician at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, said in a news release from the hospital. She and her colleagues found that less the amygdala impairments. Alternatively, fear conditioning deficits may be a result of a gene expression, which we're awaiting genetic studies to confirm." Dr. Gao said one possible way of preventing criminal behavior is to enhance brain function at an early age. Other studies have indicated that early health enhancement programs among young children at ages 3 to 5 years that include better nutrition, more physical exercise, and cognitive stimulation can improve brain functioning and possibly prevent criminal behavior in adulthood. According to Dr. Gao, these data raise several new questions, such as why some of the children with poor fear conditioning responses did not become criminals. "In other words, what are the protective factors that have prevented the at-risk individuals from committing crime?" Important Contribution Graeme Fairchild, PhD, who is in the Developmental Psychiatry Section at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, has studied fear conditioning in male adolescents with conduct disorder. He told Medscape Psychiatry that Dr. Gao's study represents an important contribution to our understanding of the development of antisocial behavior. "Although the effect doesn't look large in magnitude, the demonstration that deficits in fear conditioning predict criminal outcomes in later life is novel and quite convincing," he said. Dr. Fairchild added that the criminal offender and comparison subject groups were also well matched on a number of important variables, such as social adversity. "We already knew that adult psychopaths show impairments in fear conditioning, and our recent work in adolescents with conduct disorder revealed deficits in fear conditioning in a younger population," said Dr. Fairchild. However, he added, up to now, it wasn't known whether problems with emotional learning caused antisocial behavior or were simply a consequence of having an antisocial or criminal lifestyle. For example, he said, drug abuse might damage the brain circuits involved in fear conditioning. "By showing that fear conditioning impairments were present early in life in those who become criminal offenders, this study suggests that these problems are causally related to the development of antisocial or criminal behavior. It also shows that confounding factors associated with criminal behavior, such as drug use, do not appear to explain the differences between criminals and control subjects in fear conditioning," said Dr. Fairchild. The study was supported by the Medical Research Council and the Wellcome Trust. Dr. Gao and Dr. Fairchild have disclosed no relevant financial relationships. Am J Psychiatry. Published online November 16, 2009. ■ w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
than 50 percent of women who had a Pap test that detected a low-grade abnormality received appropriate follow-up care within the recommended time period, including either a repeat test or a medical procedure called a colposcopy, which examines a woman's cervix and vagina. The low rate of follow-up in these women is cause for concern because they tend to be at greatest risk for eventually developing cervical cancer, the study authors noted. The study also found that the overall rate
of cervical cancer screening in Ontario was 69 percent, with screening rates of 61 percent for low-income women and 75 percent for high-income women. "We need to make special efforts to reach women who are screened, but do not receive the necessary follow-up and may eventually fall through the cracks. To improve surveillance and treatment, we need a system that ensures all abnormal Pap tests are followed-up so that Ontario women can receive the best care possible," Bierman said in the news release. The Project for an Ontario Women's Health Evidence-Based Report (POWER) study was a joint effort by St. Michael's Hospital and the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences. ■ St. Michael's Hospital, news release, Aug. 20, 2009
www.DynamicLawyers.com
Where Prospective Clients and Lawyers Connect • Buying or selling a home? • Going through a divorce? • Injured in an accident? • Negotiating a business contract? • Charged with a crime? • Fired from your job? In these everyday situations, you should consult with a lawyer. They can answer your legal questions, facilitate your transactions, and represent you. But how do you find the right lawyer? Traditional ways of finding a lawyer are inconvenient and sometimes costly. First, getting your mother’s real estate lawyer to handle your tax case may lead to disaster. Second, picking the lawyer with the biggest Yellow Page ad guarantees that you will be paying more, not that you have found the right lawyer. Third, the Law Society of Upper Canada’s Lawyer Referral Service will charge you $6 for a 30-minute phone call with one lawyer. Finally, walking into a lawyer’s office could cost you hundreds of dollars for an initial consultation. Fortunately, the Internet has become the best way to find the right lawyer.
My website, www.DynamicLawyers. com, for example, allows everyday people to freely and anonymously post their legal issue(s) and get free information and quotes from local lawyers. Those lawyers focus on the area of law you need and compete for your hard-earned dollars. www.DynamicLawyers.com is a legal marketplace that empowers everyday people by allowing them to shop around for the right lawyer without paying anything or making a commitment. I am a lawyer and I created www.DynamicLawyers.com to make it easier for everyday people to access lawyers in Ontario to get answers and some predictability and certainty over the costs of legal services. So the next time you or someone you know needs a lawyer, go to www.DynamicLawyers.com and make a post to get some quotes. Since launching last November, www. DynamicLawyers.com has been featured in Canadian newspapers, television and radio. ■ Michael Carabash is a Toronto business lawyer and the Founder/President of www.DynamicLawyers.com
WASSIE – Man on a Mission
Those looking for affordable, delicious and tropical delicacies here in Hamilton should look no further. A new Ethiopian restaurant is bringing culinary delights to people appreciative of home-made, delicious ethnic delicacies. Tucked in the corner of James Street South and Forest Avenue, is Wass Ethiopian Restaurant, known for its healthy meals and competitive prices. The owner is Wassie Mulugeda, whose back ground as an electronic technologist does so little to dampen his love and talent for cooking. This restaurant is every diners delight, as the place is perfectly managed by capable individuals who ensure customer satisfaction at all times. Wassie emigrated from Ethiopia to Canada in 1994, and spent his first twelve years in the Kitchener/Waterloo region. He stud-
dream to help stop de-forestation. Wassie lamented that the cost of up-rooting trees for firewood to cook especially injera and other native food had caused Ethiopia, cyclic famines that is threatening the very existence of the country. By producing a technology that uses electricity instead of firewood, the country’s trees would be spared from extinction, and more famine would be averted. Hence his in-depth research on this alternative source of energy to produce injera. This automated Injera machine is 98% finished. Wassie started working on the machine since 2006, but suffered a financial setback that had temporarily put a hold to the finishing of the wonder-making machine. Now, it is food business and making people enjoy the taste of African delicacies.
ied electronic technology at the Conestoga College and landed his first job with IBM. Currently he works for Carter Group Canada as a Test Engineer. However, his dream had always been to open his own business, and when the opportunity came knocking in form of a restaurant, he wasted no time to grab it. Wassie is a man of many talents. He is an inventor of an automated equipment that would one day help millions of peoples
especially Ethiopians, to produce in mass, their native delicacy “Injera’ with ease and less labour. For thousands of years, Ethiopians and their neighbours have depended on Injera as their staple food. Hours of back-breaking and muscle-wrenching labour are invested to produce this delicacy. Wassie having witnessed first hand the devastations of famine due to dependency on woods as the only source of fuel energy for cooking, have nursed a
Wassie’s good advice to new comers trying to settle down in Canada is to never give up. “If you work hard and very determined, you will succeed. Always plan and write your thoughts down. Plan the work, and work on the plan” Wassie advised. Wassie is grateful to the owner and CEO of taxi cabs 777 7777 for giving him the opportunity to drive a cab when he came newly to Hamilton. He is also grateful to Lucy Olenick for helping make the Ethiopian restaurant a reality. ■ Nica Brown
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji
John C.Holland Institute for Leadership, graduate & 2009 award recipient
I was born on March 28th 1991 to Rev and Rev. Mrs Aboyeji in Lagos, Nigeria. When I was nine, we had to move to the Niger-Delta town of Warri with my parents when I was ten years old as my father had been assigned to mediate the conflict between the oil companies and the Niger delta’s militants. I gained many useful experiences as I watched my parents cater to the spiritual and physical needs of the impoverished people of the Niger Delta. It was certainly a life changing experience for me. Shortly after I graduated from high school at Loyola Jesuit College in Abuja in 2007, I came to Canada to gain an extra high school diploma at Columbia International College of Canada in January of 2008. I graduated in August with an Ontario Diploma and an Ontario Scholar Award. I also won two prizes of academic excellence in Geography and Canadian Law. In September of 2008, I gained admission to the University of Waterloo where I have remained a student since. I hope to be a Professor of African Philosophy when I grow up so I can play an integral part in laying the foundation for a coherent constitution and communitarian governance structure for a united African state. I would also like to return to my country, Nigeria, to assist with the nation building efforts there and possibly run for elective office. I participated in the J.C Holland Leadership Training program in 2008. I actually stumbled upon the program. I had come to visit my friends at the Settlement and Integration Services Organization and one of the staff had told me to wait behind to attend the program. I definitely did not regret that decision. The program was remarkable in itself, not just because it was a leadership training program for young people, a necessity in this age and time, but also because it was a small program that emphasized among other things the importance of community service. That was a very important theme for me. As I listened carefully to talks by revered community leaders, I found the inspiration to define my success by my positive contribution to my community. A year later, I still apply the lessons they taught me to my life. Perhaps what crowns the cake for this program is the mentorship program that follows. The oppurtunity to be guided by wonderful rolemodels within the community is one that I will forever be gratefull to the JCHIL program for. I cannot begin to enumerate the many ways that my mentors, Mathew Green and Leo Nopolu Johnson have and continue to nurture me over this past year.
I believe the JCHL program is one that has the potential to change the lives of youth, especially in our community. I hope that this program will continue to grow because the Young people of Hamilton need it. I don't think-especially at this stage-I can give "advice" to young people my age. I certainly don't think I know enough to do so. However, I can tell you what has worked for me: Always look for better. You know you are in trouble when you think you've found best. He is the 2009 recipient of the Rev. John C. Holland Awards, and a graduate of the JCHIL leadership program. ■ TVID w w w.thevoiceindiasp ora.com
Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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El- Mulid Pakistanis in Hamilton Celebrated
The Pakistani nationals in Hamilton and some from the GTA celebrated Eid Millan party recently. It was well attended by the Consulate General of Pakistan Sahebzada Ahmad Khan. The following guests were present Mr. Eric Girt (Dy. Chief Police); Ms. Sandra Wilson (Chief Coordinator Police); Mr. Fred Eisenberger (Mayor , City of Hamilton); Mr. Wayne Marston (Member of Parliament) Mr. David Christopherson (MP, Hamilton Centre); Mr. Javid Mirza (Community Leader), Mr. Fayyaz Wallana (Chief Editor Urdu Post); Organising Committee Heads, Mr. Zafar Pasha Siddiqui (Director and Secretary Gen Cricketers Association of Canada), Mr. Usman Khan (Director Cricketers Association of Canada), Mr. Naseer Malik (President|).
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YMCA Peace Medal
Wonderful Peace activities are still happening in Hamilton. Lovely breakfast with messages of Peace from Brother Siddiq Burney, Halton Islamic Association, Rabbi Daniel Green, Adas Israel Synagogue and Rev Dr Orville James, Wellington Square Untied Church. Jan Lukas was the first woman to receive the YMCA Peace Medal in 1993 for her efforts with Break The Silence Day ... and CAVEAT Youth Council (1st person was Dr Mo Ali in 1987). Jan Lukas shares “How wonderful for me to be sitting beside the YMCA Peace Medal Winner Melissa Ricci this morning ... who founded the Student Opinion Board at Bishop Tonnes to allow students to anonymously express thoughts on topics such as bullying, isolation and stress. She also raised awareness on issues such as homelessness, discrimination, poverty and senior's isolation through participation in programs such as Heart to Heart, and Random Acts of Kindness (self-initiated). She took part in fundraisers and collects household items and clothes for the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation, the Harvest of Hope / NDH Fundraiser and Relay for Life. She is co-chair of the Hamilton Community Foundation Youth Advisory Council” The event was well attended by many dignitaries and people from diverse communities.
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Dec.09 & Jan. 10 • Vol 3 • Issue 1
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2
great ways to
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Homes and businesses with central air conditioning can participate in the Horizon Utilities peaksaver program FREE of charge, plus receive a $25 account credit. We will install a new state-of-the-art programmable thermostat which allows account holders to have secure Internet access to thermostat settings while at work or on vacation.
The Great Refrigerator Roundup is a hassle-free and environmentally responsible way to remove old fridges and freezers that can waste from $120 to $150 in electricity annually. Horizon Utilities will arrange to have your appliance picked up FREE of charge, right from inside your home.
On occasion from May to September, we will cycle the air conditioner’s compressor on and off every 15 minutes, for not more than four hours (but never on weekends or holidays).
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Official marks of the Ontario Power Authority. ® Registered trademark of Horizon Holdings Inc. peaksaver ® is a registered trademark of Toronto Hydro Corporation. Used under license. * Including cost of installation. Offer valid only for new peaksaver signups. Terms and conditions apply. 2 Terms and conditions apply. Fridges and full-sized freezers qualify if they are between 10 and 27 cubic feet in capacity, 15-years old or more. * 1
Paul Andrea Miller Horwath
MPP, Hamilton East-Stoney Creek 289 Queenston Road (905) 545-0114
MPP, Hamilton Centre
20 Hughson St. S., Suite 200 (905) 544-9644