March 8, 2008 

Provincial Women Report – March 2008

Neither snow, nor sleet, nor wind and rain keep the PWC away.   In Toronto, during a very bad snow storm, the PWC were up bright and early to attend an International Women’s Day Breakfast put on by the United Steelworkers.  After a hearty breakfast, women, men and children boarded a shuttle bus for the start of the International Women’s Day Rally.   Proceeds from the Breakfast went to a women’s shelter in Toronto.  Thanks to the United Steelworkers for putting on a great breakfast. The bus was filled to capacity with bundled members sporting whistles, drums and banners and were entertained during the trip by the Raging Grannies.

The decision was made that we would weather the storm and over one thousand women, men and children made their way down Yonge Street to Ryerson University.  The banners were flying, the cameras flashing and the voices of the group carried loud and clear.  It was a great showing of solidarity, despite the cold blowing snowy conditions.

Prior to the rally, the PWC met for two days finalizing the events planned for the Women’s Convention Breakfast.   Debbie Field has been confirmed as the guest speaker and we are sure that she will provide many insights into the Food Share program.  The Bread and Roses award criterion was finalized as well as the Regional Recognition Awards.  We look forward to seeing everyone at the Women’s Convention Breakfast Friday April 18th at 7:30. Come find out who the recipients are of these honourable awards.

The PWC also finalized plans for items that will be made available at Convention for purchase, displaying the Quilt, and reference material at our PWC table.  We hope that everyone will stop by and see what we are promoting.

The PWC will be meeting prior to the OPSEU Convention in April 2008 to fine tune our events.  We all look forward to connecting with members from across Ontario during Convention.