The N C W C Newsletter
October 2014
Volume 14, Issue 3
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Time to put our noses to the grindstone again!
Since our Annual Meeting and Conference in June, your Board has been busy
reviewing the material on our website in preparation for the new site which we will
launch in a few weeks. Beverley Colquhoun, our Newsletter Editor, has been
happily working on it since the spring and gave the Board a preview at the post
AGM meeting. We are all very excited to be renovating our image.
Karen Dempsey, V.P. Economics, submitted a very well researched paper to the
2014 Pre-Budget Consultation of the House of Commons Standing Committee on
Finance on our behalf in early August.
We were contacted by the family of Miss Sophie Steadman who offered us four
boxes of papers for our archives. In the 1970’s, Miss Steadman was, for three
years, a V.P. on the Board and Corresponding Secretary. I believe she never threw
a paper out; her collection made very interesting reading. She was very active at the
time of the Royal Commission on the Status of Women and applied for a grant from
the Department of the Secretary of State to publish and distribute a Guide to the
Commission’s findings, entitled ”What’s in it” throughout every province and territory
of Canada. NCWC distributed over 10,000 copies!
It has been thirty years since the federal government has had a consultation with
women’s groups about particular issues important to our half the Canadian
population. We have signed on to a letter coming from the major women’s groups
asking for a Debate about such issues. We will let you know if we get a response,
now that the federal election is in the news.
We are sorry to announce that Arlene Draffin Jones has let us know that because
of continuing health problems she is unable to continue as V.P. Social
Development. We wish Arlene and Bob, who is not well either, better health in the
coming year. We are happy to welcome Barbara Hall, President of the B.C.
Provincial Council, who will take on Arlene’s role until the AGM in June. In fact, this
year is an election year for your Board. We will be holding an election in the spring
so it is time to start thinking if you could offer yourself or, if that is not possible, think
about whom you could nominate.
NCWC has worked for over
120 years to improve
the quality of life for women,
their families and communities
www.ncwc.ca
www.facebook.com/thencwc
[email protected]
DISTRIBUTE
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
President’s Message…...…………….......1
NCWC Education Fund/NCWCDO…3
Local Women’s Councils……...…….4–5
Provincial Women’s Councils …...6-11
Standing Study Committee……….12-14
Nationally Organized Societies….15-16
Mary Potter has sent the official Minutes of the AGM and Conference, so we are
preparing the Brief which is traditionally sent to the political parties in October. We
will be holding our Fall Board meeting over the Halloween week-end.
International Councils of Women….17
You will find lots of Council news in this issue. Let us hear from you. Let’s all work
together to see that our country is the best it can be.
Women’s Issues.………………………….20
Denise Mattok
President, National Council of Women of Canada, [email protected]
Regional Council of Americas………..17
Obituaries……………………………....18-19
NEXT ISSUE: Winter 2015
SUBMISSIONS : January 15
NEWS — NCWC TAKES ACTION!
NATIONAL SECURITY VS. CIVIL LIBERTIES
National Council of Women of Canada takes action on mass surveillance issue
The Edward Snowdon revelations about the scope of spying by the National Security Agency and its international
partners, including Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSEC), have drawn attention to the
increasing importance of finding a balance between national security and civil liberties. It is also a reminder that
privacy is a fundamental human right recognized in the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
National Council has relevant policies, The Right of the Canadian Public in Information Concerning the
Public Business 1977 and Balancing Protection against International Terrorism and the Protection of
Civil Rights 2002. These policies were the basis of letters sent to the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
(18 September 2013) encouraging her to investigate and report on CSEC’s compliance with Canada’s privacy
laws, and to the Prime Minster (25 March, 2014) urging an independent commission of inquiry. This, we said,
was necessary because of the unprecedented escalation of mass surveillance by governments and private
companies in tandem with the growth of electronic communications world-wide since 11 September 2001.
Senator Hugh Segal, who sits on the Senate Committee for National Security and Defence – at least until he
steps down at the end of June – called for a Royal Commission in an op-ed in the Globe and Mail, 13 January
2014.
The University of Ottawa hosted an invitation-only workshop on The Politics of Surveillance, 8-10 September.
I was fortunate to represent NCWC and learned much from academics, lawyers and advocates from Canada, the
United States, Austria, Australia and England. The event began with a book launch. Transparent Lives:
Surveillance in Canada is an easy to read publication available for free in pdf from the New Transparency
Project’s web-site.
The workshop ended with the circulation of a consensus document, Ottawa Statement. The National Council of
Women of Canada has signed on. It is to be posted on the openmedia.ca website.
Elizabeth Fleming
———————————————————————————————
OTTAWA COUNCIL OF WOMEN DEBATING THE 2014 RESOLUTIONS
Photos by
Beverlee
McIntosh
———————————————————————————————
LOCAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF NEW WESTMINISTER — TRIBUTE TO DOROTHY BEACH
HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY, DOROTHY BEACH !
On May 16, 2014, the NCWC Board sent birthday greetings to Dorothy Beach, of
New Westminister, B.C. Dorothy is believed to be NCWC’s oldest Life Member. At
the age of only 99, she told a reporter she had secret plans to retire in a few
years, specifically at age 106, the age two of her aunts had achieved! We wish
Dorothy every success in achieving her goal!
Dorothy Beach Honoured by Lifetime Award “In honour of her 100th birthday, Dorothy Beach was awarded
the Harold Steves Award for lifetime dedication to the preservation of farmland. It was presented by Harold Steves and the Farmland Defence League campaign director Donna Passmore.” Theresa McManus, Royal City
Record, May 28, 2013: "Like Harold Steves, Dorothy began advocating the preservation of farmland long before the agricultural land reserve was created in 1973," Donna Passmore said in a press release. "As a board
member of the Society Promoting Environmental Conservation, the Citizens Health Action Network and the Fraser River Coalition, and as board member and volunteer for a vast number of environmental causes and campaigns, Dorothy has been an inspiration to several generations of British Columbians."
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NCWC DEVELOPMENT
ORGANIZATION
The NCWCDO was established by the
National Council of Women of Canada in
1985. It is a Registered Charitable
Organization dedicated to the advancement
of women and girls in Third World countries
and Canada.
Funds are raised to support projects that address
education and skills that will improve the life of women
and children through basic education and skill training. In
addition, projects that will protect children and young
women from physical, sexual and mental abuse are
strongly supported. In the past 25 years the NCWCDO
has supported programs around the world.
Donations toward these GRASS ROOTS projects have
shown a positive influence in the communities. The
NCWCDO aims to fund small local initiatives that
contribute to the empowerment of women to become
self sufficient and to the prevention of crimes and abuse
against women and children. Volunteers, mostly women,
play a significant role in all projects. A small donation
toward these programs has lasting impact.
Please consider supporting this non-profit National
organization.
Bonnie Stamos Destounis, Chair, NCWCDO
NCWCDO
Please send your donation to
NCWCDO Treasurer
P.O. Box 67099
Ottawa, ON K2A 4E4
or
ON LINE : CanadaHelps.org
NCWC EDUCATION FUND
Shining a Light on Stigma and Mental
Health — Changing the way people think
about mental health
On June 7th, 2014, Dr. Heather Stuart,
the Bell Canada Mental Health and
Anti-Stigma Research chair and Queens
University professor of Community Health
and Epidemiology in the Faculty of Health Sciences,
challenged our members and the public in attendance to
turn their biases and understandings of the mental
health challenges facing many Canadians upside-down.
Dr. Stuart brought her anti-stigma message home
through clear examples of our own biases, perhaps the
closest to home for many of us, being her challenge to
examine closely why we’d say we had no prejudice
towards those with mental health challenges, and yet
very probably wouldn’t trust our children’s care with
these very same people. Hers was a wake-up call for
attitudinal change and action, and we know we must
think long and hard, aim to make this a part of our
everyday actions; and spread the word on to others.
As a start on this task, our NCWC membership extended
our “Common Program / NCWC Education Fund
journey of discovery into this upcoming year and we
have a broad set of resources on our NCWC web site,
with more to follow this Fall.
** According to a Bell Canada web site
reference to Dr. Stewart, “In February
2012, Bell announced a world’s first: the
creation of the Bell Canada Mental
Health and Anti-Stigma Research Chair.
Dr. Stuart was named the chair holder.
As part of their “Let’s Talk” mental health initiative, Bell’s
donation of $1 million over five years allows Dr. Stuart to
focus her research on developing and disseminating
best practices to reduce stigma, hire research
assistants and bring in experts to speak at conferences,
among other activities.
Dr. Stuart says: “We need to change the way people
think about mental illness, change the fears and
prejudices so those affected will be treated fairly and
without stigma.”
DONATIONS
NCWC EDUCATION FUND
Please help financially with the NCWC Education
Fund and the NCWCDO programs. Send your
cheques made out to NCWC Education Fund or the
NCWCDO or donate to both on line by credit card
through CanadaHelps.org.
Please send your donation to
Receipts for tax purposes will be issued promptly
NCWC Education Fund
P.O. Box 67099
Ottawa, ON, K2A 4E4.
or
ON LINE : CanadaHelps.org
3
NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILS
PRINCE ALBERT COUNCIL OF WOMEN — TRIBUTE TO CAROLE SANDERSON, C.M., S.O.M.
The Prince Albert Council of Women, Saskatchewan, had its annual general meeting on April 12. New
table officers were elected. We are pleased that several young women have joined our council and,
through them, look forward to our Council of Women continuing to be a strong and
vibrant force in
Prince Albert.
The Prince Albert Council of Women held its yearly Prince Albert Women’s Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony on March 16, 2014. Our inductee this year was Carole Sanderson
C.M., S.O.M. (posthumously).
Carole devoted her life to education, especially for First Nations. She was instrumental in
the establishment of the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre, the First Nations
University of Canada and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, all of which
have had a tremendous impact in Prince Albert, as well as throughout Saskatchewan.
She contributed to the development of the Canadian Constitution and the Royal
Carole Sanderson Commission on Aboriginal People.
Carole was a mentor and continues, even after her death, to be an inspiration to all young women, both
First Nation and non-First Nation, in Prince Albert, throughout Saskatchewan and, indeed, across Canada.
She truly embodies the intent of the Council of Women’s Hall of Fame and of the 2014 International
Women’s Day theme as proclaimed by the United Nations, “Inspiring Change”.
The 2014 theme proclaimed in Saskatchewan is “Communities in Action: Ending Violence Against Women
and Girls”. Mrs. Sanderson believed that women could escape violence, poverty and hopelessness
through education, and she devoted her life to making education accessible to everyone. Both themes
truly describe the dedication and life’s work of this year’s inductee.
The Prince Albert Council of Women has proudly added Carole Sanderson to its Women’s Hall of Fame.
The Hall of Fame is located on the 2nd floor of Prince Albert City Hall and is very visible to all visitors to the
Mayor’s office.
Rose Rothenburger, PACW
———————————————————————————————
VANCOUVER COUNCIL OF WOMEN — CELEBRATES 120 YEARS
Getting into the fall routine after experiencing a beautifully warm summer in the city
could have been a challenge. Instead, we are proceeding with enthusiasm, looking
forward to celebrating our 120th Anniversary in November.
The contract for our meeting room venue for the year has been signed and our
program is well underway. The September meeting brought us up-to-date on Council
policy emanating from the NCWC AGM in Ottawa, as well as information on our
International connection. October Women’s History Month, will have a prominent
woman as our guest speaker. Additionally, as is always the case, our conveners
inform us of regional issues.
In November, as has been the custom since the 1930’s in a civic election year, we
invite candidates for Mayor of the City and female candidates for City Council to
express their views. December gives us the opportunity to recognize directly the
needs of our community and the joy of sharing.
Federate Representatives, who attend meetings regularly and participate actively,
provide the vital link and continuity we need in our local organization. Their diversity
of age and variety of interests and professions not only enrich our deliberations, but
enhance our discussions.
...cont’d next page
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NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILS
VANCOUVER COUNCIL OF WOMEN — CELEBRATES 120 YEARS
...cont’d
Special bonds of friendship are formed which span the years from the youth convener in her twenties to
the nonagenarians. We have just celebrated the 94th birthday of Stella Shulhan who has represented
the Ukrainian Women’s Association for many years and rarely misses a meeting. She is a caterer by
profession and her expertise, when her federate organization hosts our meeting, is well recognized.
Stella has a zest for life that is inspiring. She makes physical activity a part of each day and recently
modeled in a fashion show.
Equality for Women is Progress for All.
———————————————————————————————
VANCOUVER COUNCIL OF WOMEN
The BC Minister of Children and Family Development, Stephanie Cadieux, is to outline the
recommendations reached by research into the needs of youth aging out of foster care in this Province.
Many post secondary institutions, like BCIT, are now waiving tuition for this population and the Ministry
has established a Student Bursary Program as of September, with a priority given to Aboriginal or
infant/toddler educational studies. Twelve BC community sites for Early Year Centres were announced
on August 19, three in the lower mainland: Delta, Langley and Mission.
The BC Society for Children and Youth provides multilingual brochures and posters to help inform
youth of their rights in the community. Early childhood investment boosts adult health, lowers crime
rates, promotes education and raises their earning potential.
The Single Mother’s Alliance, launched in June, provides empowerment and leadership through
education and has formed a partnership with anti-poverty groups advocating for an end to child support
cutbacks.
Seventy percent of parents said that they had made arrangements for child care if schools do not open
in September. More than half admitted that the contract dispute has resulted in increased stress and
worry about a long term effect on their careers. Around 11,000 parents signed a petition urging the
Government to negotiate with teachers because of concerns about per student funding and student/
teacher ratio.
Let’s Talk Families: There is a survey from the BC Council for Families available on line at:
http://fluidsurveys.com/s/firstcallinvite where you can discuss the challenges faced by BC families and
propose solutions to poverty and child care needs. There is also an ongoing National Survey by the
First Nations Information Governance Centre on Early Childhood Education and Development.
BC Healthy Communities will facilitate a forum in 2015 called “Cities Fit for Children” to educate local
governments on how to improve the environment for families. Input from interested organizations is
welcomed.
Beryl Matthewson, Convenor for Family and Education, VCW
———————————————————————————————
COUNCIL OF WINNIPEG WOMEN — TO HOST A MAYORAL FORUM ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2014
The CWW will be hosting a Mayoral Forum along with the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg and ten
other Winnipeg organizations. For more details, see the article written by Cheryl Girard, Community
Correspondent, published in the Canstar Community News:
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/times/Council-of-Winnipeg-Women-to-host-forum—275339181.html
5
NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
The Provincial Council of Women of BC is pleased to announce that BPW Past International Vice President
Jill Worobec has joined our provincial board and will be reporting on Project Five O.
As this is a joint venture with International Council of Women, we will be pleased to pass along any
information.
As a member of BPW, at our fall board meeting, I encouraged all BC BPW groups to join a local council and
work together on various issues and resolution topics.
Respectfully,
Barbara Hall, PCWBC
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF ONTARIO
The PCWO held its AGM on May 14, 2014, and here are some photos of the meeting.
WOMEN
EMPOWERING
WOMEN
WOMEN
IN
FELLOWSHIP
Photos by: Beverlee McIntosh, PCWO
6
NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF ONTARIO
Over the summer, the Provincial Council of Women of Ontario (PCWO) has been writing a few letters
and a brief. Gracia Janes, the PCWO representative to the Ontario Power Generation, will be submitting
a brief to the OPG Deep Geologic Repository Joint Review Panel on September 16 regarding the burial
of nuclear waste at the Bruce site near Lake Huron. The following are four questions that PCWO is
asking of the panel:
“The PCWO asks the Panel to consider the following questions:
1. Given the many thousands of years some of this nuclear waste must be kept isolated and the
possible dangers if it is not, and the uncertainties raised by presenters at these hearings and in some
of the materials presented by OPG, NWMO and CNSC, is the “Observational Method” the
appropriate one?
2. What kind of effective changes can OPG, or others possibly make should problems arise after the
proposal is approved and construction begins? After it is sealed off?
3. What remedial help can be advised immediately, a few years on, or thousands of years in the future
should OPG’s plans fail?
4. Is there a chance that once the OPG gets the licences and begins to construct the repository, OPG
would cease work and decide to abandon the plan for this repository if major flaws are discovered in
the execution of the “Observational” process?”
Another concern we have is the proposed transportation of radioactive liquid nuclear fuel waste from
Chalk River near Ottawa to South Carolina. These shipments would be transported by road on a weekly
basis for a 2 to 4 year period. There is the potential for accidents with the radioactive waste entering the
water system. We urged the Provincial Government to consider alternative methods such as solidifying
the materials before transport. We also asked the Provincial Government to work with municipal
governments to ensure that emergency preparedness plans are in place before shipments begin.
We sent a letter to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario asking them to ensure that
palliative care is included in the curricula of medical schools and to provide courses for practicing
physicians to train them to discuss palliative care with their patients. We also urged that physicians have
printed material on end of life care for patients to take home
Mary Potter, PCWO
LOCAL & PROVINCIAL
COUNCILS &
NOSs & CONVENERS
SUBMISSION DEADLINE — REMINDER
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The Editor: [email protected]
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FROM YOU!
Submission date for the next issue of newsletter is by
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YOUR VOICE
JANUARY 15, 2015
7
NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF MANITOBA
The Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba Celebrates International Women’s Day with a
High Tea
The High Tea, in celebration of International
Women’s Day held on March 2, 2014, at the
Fort Garry Hotel, was fun and elegant with
around 40 people in attendance. Joanne
Kelly, a journalism instructor in the Creative
Communications program at Red River
College, was the emcee who read greetings
from Her Honour Anita K. Lee and delightfully
guided the afternoon. Delicious refreshments
of scones, fancy sandwiches, dainties and tea
were served at the tables. Entertainment
consisted of Nelly McClung in her own
words…a reading by Peggy Barker, who
brought to life in humour the struggles of
L-R: Alberta Johnson, Arlene Draffin Jones, Peggy Barkgetting the vote for women. Rachel Cameron,
er, Maxine Balbon, Aster Abraham, Bonnie Siemens,
accompanist at Royal Dance at The Forks,
President Sharon Taylor
complemented the atmosphere with musical
selections through the years on the piano. At
the tables, everyone received a favor bag of three delicious imperial cookies, as well as tea bags
from Common Sense Market. The hats and fascinators worn by the guests were spectacular. Prizes
went to three hats picked for their charm, outlandishness and vintage. To add to the fun, three door
prizes were given to the lucky ticket holders and everyone took home their tea cup and saucer.
Maxine closed the ceremonies with a thank you to all.
The high tea was made possible with the support of the PCWM Board and the hard work of the
PCWM. The Fundraising Committee consisted of Shirley Walker, Peggy Barker, Arlene Draffin
Jones, Alberta Johnson, Aster Abraham, Bonnie Siemens and Maxine Balbon. Many thanks go to
volunteers Sharon Taylor and Rany Jeyaratnam for their assistance.
The event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the efforts of women who give so much to their
community. The fundraising part of the celebration enables PCWM to continue their advocacy and
research in the relevant challenges of the women of today.
Maxine Balbon, Membership Chair, PCWM
———————————————————————————————
Status of Women All Party Committee Studies Eating Disorders
Canadians suffering from eating disorders across our country are desperately searching for “timely”
treatment. Unfortunately, long waiting lists prevail in most provinces - anywhere from 6 months to
one and a half years. This is a very grave situation as Eating Disorders, in particular Anorexia
Nervosa (AN), have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. It is estimated that 10 percent of
individuals with AN will die within 10 years of the onset of the disorder. Sullivan, P. (2002). Course
and outcome of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. In Fairburn, C. G. & Brownell, K. D. (Eds.).
Eating Disorders and Obesity (pp. 226-232), New York, New York: Guilford.
To make matters worse many physicians have no training in treating eating disorders.
...cont’d next page
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NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF MANITOBA
...cont’d
Status of Women All Party Committee Studies Eating Disorders
Early specialized eating disorder treatment intervention, as with many other illnesses, is often one of
the most important keys to a successful recovery. Many who suffer from eating disorders often have
co-occurring illnesses such as obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety disorder, addiction (drugs,
alcohol) and frequently engage in self-harm (burning, cutting, suicide attempts).
Unfortunately, I can attest to the deadly nature of eating
disorders. Our daughter, Alyssa, passed away at only 24
years of age after a 12 year battle with anorexia in 2002.
But hope is on the horizon as federal politicians from all
parties study the current epidemic of eating disorders in
Canada. The Status of Women Committee on Eating
Disorders study is the first of its kind on a federal level.
Do not underestimate your own self-worth
by comparing yourself to others.
It is because we are all different that we
are all so beautiful.
I was very honoured to be asked to testify to this committee in March of 2014. Many testified
including Doctors, Parents, Advocates, Eating Disorder Organizations, Researchers, Academics and
therapists/counsellors.
The principle issues that I raised to Members of Parliament were:
 Lack of Accessibility to timely treatment;
 Tracking: Currently federal and provincial governments are
not tracking eating disorders;
 National Strategy: Must be developed to ensure that best
practices in Treatment and Prevention are standardized across
Canada;
 Waiting List Management: Canada has wait list standards for
all kinds of surgeries and medical services. The time has come
for “Waiting List” standards for all Canadians waiting for
urgently needed eating disorder and mental health services;
 Rural and Northern Eating Disorder Services Delivery: Expand the use of Tele-Health in rural
and northern communities. Utilize recurring visits by eating disorder specialists to communities
and adopt a “Train the Trainer” process for mental health specialists;
 Media Messaging: Fund research on the impact of negative media messaging, marketing and
sexualized content to children;
 Training: Critical for all ICU staff that they be educated about Renourishment / Refeeding
syndrome and the essential need to re-nourish clients very slowly and monitor very closely to avoid
electrolyte imbalances, seizures, cardiac arrhythmia and even death;
 Media Literacy: Integrate media education into school curriculum starting in elementary grades.
Eighty to ninety percent of girls and women are dissatisfied with their body. Research has found
that exposure to mass media images depicting the “thin ideal” is associated with greater body
related concerns and anxiety (APA, 2010). This is not surprising when the majority of images we
see are so Photoshopped;
 Diet Products: Restrict the purchase of diet pills and laxatives, to young children. Encourage
adults to check with their doctor or pharmacist before purchasing these products to ensure no
harm because of serious existing health conditions or the use of conflicting medications;
...cont’d next page
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NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF MANITOBA
...cont’d
Status of Women All Party Committee Studies Eating Disorders
 Funding for unbiased Canadian Eating Disorder Research: Unbiased eating disorder research is
critically needed. Too often the research that is featured in the newspapers and on radios and
television has often been paid for by the diet industry and is very biased;
 Health at Every Size (HAES) model – Governments must focus on health programs and initiatives
that will create a healthier environment for all regardless of their size and body type. Weight is not a
behavior. The focus has to be taken off weight and “obesity” and placed on supporting healthy
choices, healthy lifestyles and behaviours for all.
After 24 years as an advocate in the area of eating disorders treatment, education, awareness and
prevention, I am hopeful that this report will lead to action on the serious lack of comprehensive eating
disorder services across Canada. Hopefully, in partnership with all M.P.’s, we can join together to save
lives.
Elaine Stevenson, Alyssa Stevenson Eating Disorder Memorial Trust, member of PCWM
———————————————————————————————
8th ANNUAL GALA CELEBRATING WOMEN
Celebrating the Volunteer Work and
Contribution by Women to their Community
Sponsored by Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba
On Tuesday, July 8, 2014, the Provincial Council of
Women of Manitoba honoured the achievements of
four Manitoba women and a federate group –
Sarasvati Productions. All of them have made a
difference in the quality of life for women, their
families and society.
AWARD WINNERS
The 8th Annual Celebrating Women Gala was held at
the Viscount Gort Hotel, 1670 Portage Avenue.
Emcee, Joanne Kelly, a Creative Communications
Instructor at Red River College, welcomed the crowd
of approximately 120. There were delicious
refreshments, door prizes, a fabulous rainbow
auction, displays from federates and sponsors, and
the Celebrating Women Art Boutique. The jazz band
“Night Fall” entertained with instrumental background
music and vocal selections. Piper, Barb Wipf, led the
honourees in for the formal program. Each honouree
was presented with a commemorative engraved
vase.
The Gala would not be possible without the help and
support of the PCWM Board and Federates. The CW
Gala Committee worked hard to make the event such
a success: Arlene Draffin Jones, Alberta Johnson,
Peggy Barker, Bonnie Siemens, Shirley Walker,
Aster Abraham and myself. Many thanks to
volunteer Bonnie Warkentine. The Winnipeg Free
Press featured the honourees on The Social Page
and in the Manitoba Movers. Susan Proven was
featured in the Minnedosa area rural newspaper.
We wish to express a very special thank you to our
sponsors. We received generous donations and gifts
from corporate friends and the Manitoba
Government, federates, individual members and
community organizations.
L-R: Kelly-Ann Stevenson (Council of Women of Winnipeg), Hope McIntyre
(Sarasvati Productions - Federate award winner), Nancy Schneider PHEc.
M.Sc., C.I.M. (Manitoba Association of Home Economists), Susan Proven
PHEc. (Manitoba Association of Home Economists) and Enid Clark (Manitoba
Women's Institute).
10
Maxine Balbon
The complete article will be found on the new NCWC
website soon.
NEWS FROM PROVINCIAL COUNCILS
PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF SASKATCHEWAN
One of the many issues which the PCWS has been discussing recently is the rights of children and youth
to legal counsel in cases where the children are in foster care. In recent years the Report of the
Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth has repeatedly raised concern for present care for
children in need of protection.
There has been service offered through Pro Bono Law Saskatchewan to bring applications for legal
representation for children and youth where the interests of the child conflict with either the solution
suggested by the parents or the Department of Social Services, or both.
Mr. Marvin Bernstein, the previous Children’s Advocate, was strongly urging the Government of
Saskatchewan to consider allowing for legal advocacy in protection cases to ensure The voice of the youth
was heard, or at least that the Court had relevant evidence available to fully consider the options. The
present Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth, Mr. Bob Pringle, notes that his office has
worked hard on this issue in collaboration with Pro Bono Law Saskatchewan.
PCWS was looking for an update regarding progress in this area. We congratulate the Government of
Saskatchewan for bringing amendments to the Public Guardian and Trustee Act, The Queen’s Bench Act,
1998, and the Provincial Court Act, 1998. New legislation has been introduced which we hope to see
proclaimed soon. The legislation establishes criteria to be considered by the courts and the Public
Guardian and Trustee to use when deciding whether to appoint legal counsel for a child.
A Counsel of the Children program will be created within the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee to
oversee training and appointment of legal counsel for children. The training for legal counsel with respect
to interviewing and working with children is being offered by the Law Society of Saskatchewan in October,
2014.
In the past, Pro Bono Law has been contacted by the Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth
whenever they saw a need. The services were dependent on the volunteerism of the legal profession,
which has been helpful to raise awareness of the need. Now, requests may come from the child, a family
member, or another concerned person. There are a number of cases where the need for advocacy was
expressed but the mechanism was lacking.
The suggested amendments bring Saskatchewan in line with approaches used in other provinces. The
legislation is not a panacea, but is applauded. The PCWS is continuing to watch with interest.
Randi Arnot, PCWS
CANADIAN NATIONAL EXHIBITION (CNE) 2014
NCWC was there!
The CNE is Canada’s largest annual community event. It offers a wide
variety of entertainment and events, and international food and
shopping are popular highlights.
This year, the CNE was held from August 15 to September 1, 2014, at
Exhibition Place in Toronto. NCWC’s booth was set up on August 22
by Darla Campbell, NCWC’s Representative to the CNE.
11
NEWS FROM NCWC CONVENERS OF STANDING STUDY COMMITTEES
65th UNITED NATIONS ANNUAL
DPI/NGO CONFERENCE
The 65th conference of the UN Department of Public
Information/Non-Governmental Organization (DPI/NGO)
took place in New York at the United Nations HQ from
the 26th to 29th August 2014. The goal of the conference
was to facilitate and strengthen the relationship between
the UN and the Civil Society. As 2015 is fast
approaching, it is important that civil society makes its
voice heard in the achievement and implementation of
the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
The Agenda of the meeting included the following MDGs:
Poverty Eradication and Fighting Inequalities,
Sustainable Development, Human Rights and Climate
Change.
NGO DPI Executive Committee 2014-2015
http://ngodpiexecom.org/
Poverty Eradication and Fighting Inequalities and Sustainable Development
i. The Global Partnership for Sustainable Development: Participation, Governance and
Accountability
An inclusive and universal agenda is not enough to guarantee full participation in decision-making. It is
also critical to ensure full participation in governance and accountability frameworks. This session
examined the prerequisites for building an enabling environment that guarantees civil society
participation. The role of multi-stake holders partnerships in strengthening Global Partnerships for
Sustainable Development was also discussed. Most importantly, the participation modalities that will
ensure the participation of all relevant stakeholders in governance and accountability frameworks,
especially those who are traditionally excluded from-decision-making, was examined. A particular
emphasis was made on women’s participation and engagement in politics, as well as their role in the
decision-making process.
ii. Fighting Inequalities- Economic, Social, Political and Environmental
The current rising inequalities are related to socio-economic status, gender, access to resources and
services, erosion of social protection, environmental justice and the increasing marginalization of those
living in poverty, even in places where economic growth is robust. How these inequalities can be
arrested and reversed through effective advocacy and just public policies was discussed. In addition,
the need for participatory and robust accountability frameworks, including disaggregated targets, in all
global partnership was examined.
Human Rights
i. Leaving No One Behind
The post-2015 development agenda must be inclusive and universal. How can women, children, youth,
older people, indigenous people, people with disabilities, LGBT and other marginalized communities
exercise their rights to participate in the design and implementation of the SDGs (Sustainable
Development Goals)? How can human rights standards and mechanisms help underpin the
meaningful participation of all the people in the national implementation of the SDGs? How to hold
development actors accountable to these goals was also discussed. In addition, we talked about
strategies to ensure full transparency and public accountability over the design of national indicators to
monitor progress.
...cont’d next page
12
NEWS FROM NCWC CONVENERS OF STANDING STUDY COMMITTEES
65th UNITED NATIONS ANNUAL DPI/NGO CONFERENCE
...cont’d
ii. Eradicating Poverty: A Human Rights Imperative
Since the Millennium Summit in 2000, the United Nations, governments, civil society and others have
been engaged in an historic enterprise to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and are now
defining a new sustainable development agenda for 2015-2030. The post-2015 sustainable
development agenda should have a more ambitious and universal commitment to end all forms of
poverty, everywhere, by 2030.
These discussions explored how to
aim for the complete eradication of
poverty, including the key elements
necessary to irreversibly to end
poverty, particularly for the most
marginalized and vulnerable. The
key in achieving this goal will be the
involvement of those living in
extreme poverty. Poverty is a
multi-dimensional human rights
issue that encompasses access to
and management of resources,
capabilities, choices, security and
power. The conversation focused on
how the end of poverty can be
achieved by promoting human rights
and respecting planetary
boundaries.
Climate Change
i. UNFCCC Processes: Can They
Be Friends?
The UN Annual DPI/NGO Conference was held from August 26th to 29th.
Middle: Daniela Chivu, NCWC
In 2015, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties
(COP 21) to be held in Paris and the launch of the Post-2015 Agenda will culminate within months of
each other. The inter-linkages between both processes and the benefits and drawbacks of having two
separate tracks in the medium and long terms, were debated. Low-carbon development, adaptation,
disasters risk reduction and finance have all been considered. Basically, the new economic game is
based on development of green job opportunities and implementation. The new generation of green
economies should be pursued.
II. Climate Justice in Practice
Climates justice acknowledges that the poor and marginalized are disproportionally burdened by the
impact of climate change. It is also about changing policies that causes climate change and contribute
to continued inequalities. Viewed through this lens, climate changes threaten the entire post-2015
agenda. We have discussed how to ensure that climate change does not reverse development gains
of households and communities, or hinder their effort to escape poverty. This session focused on
building resilience and disaster risks reduction with these communities through human and institutional
capacities building, access and rights to information, decision-making processes and productive
resources, and technology as linked to the post-2015 agenda.
...cont’d next page
13
NEWS FROM NCWC CONVENERS OF STANDING STUDY COMMITTEES
65th UNITED NATIONS ANNUAL DPI/NGO CONFERENCE
...cont’d
The Final Outcome
Ultimately, as it may be noted above, one of the most important components have been missed,
namely, Women’s Peace and Security. None of the Trusteeship Council session has adopted any of the
following topics: early child marriage, female genital mutilation and the most current case of rape used
as a weapon in conflict. Women, particularly, in the war zones, such as Central-African Republic, Iraq,
Syria and South Sudan, are being physically abused and raped every day. Moreover, in countries
where early child marriage is being practiced, such as parts of Africa, India, parts of Middle East, and, in
particular, in Iraq and Syria, women and girls are subject to slavery.
As we have been asked to contribute with solutions, I recommended to many of the NGO groups, from
countries where early child marriage is epidemic, to get in touch with our government since Canada has
a program focused on ending early child marriage. Civil society is refusing to acknowledge the
importance of Women’s Peace and Security. It rather put a strong emphasis on the environment and
climate change. Although, the environment and climate are very important to human survival, this
conference forgot one very important element, i.e. sustainable development cannot be achieved
without peace and security.
What is the right formula to achieve peace and security for women? The use of language with respect to defining
the goals of this conference is general and weak in reference to women, it is indirect and unspecific. Women’s
Peace and security has various components addressed in Resolution 1820. The basic points mentioned above,
early child marriage, female genital mutilation and rape as weapon in conflict have not been mentioned in the final
Declaration of the Conference. The only terms used in reference to women are women’s rights which remain still
nonspecific and indirect. Civil society at the 65 th Conference, UNDPI/NGO has, in my view has failed to address
violence against women.
Daniela Chivu, NCWC Convener Global Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship
Resource Document: An Outcome Document for the 65th UN DPI/NGO Conference is available and describes the goals and
targets, and the means of implementation. It reflects joint statements by UN Major Groups & Stakeholders from civil society,
which have been prepared through transparent and inclusive input and consensus processes, and submitted to the UN SDGs
Open Working Group earlier as official positions. The other part of the Conference’s Outcome Document is the Declaration,
which reflects our position on the vision, recommendations and monitoring and accountability framework for an “Action Agenda” on poverty eradication, sustainable development, human rights and climate change. Both parts must be read in connection.
To view the resource document, visit the UN DPI/NGO
Conference website: http://outreach.un.org/ngorelations/
conference-2014/
.
———————————————————————————————
NEWS FROM STATUS OF WOMEN CANADA
OCTOBER WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
What is your organization doing to celebrate Women’s History Month in Canada?
Share your stories, events and photos with NCWC and send them to The Editor
at [email protected]. They will be included in NCWC’s February Newsletter!
In October 2014, Status of Women Canada (www.swc-cfc.gc.ca) celebrates
Women’s History month with an inspiring theme:
Status of Women
Canada has pre-
Canadian Business Women — A Growing Economic Force.
This is a timely theme as the Government of Canada works towards its priority: jobs,
growth and long-term prosperity.
“Did you know that, according to RBC Economics reports, majority-owned women’s businesses contributed an estimated $148 billion to the Canadian economy in 2011? Or that women-owned businesses
currently employ over 1.5 million Canadians, according to BMO Financial Group?” (SWC website).
Status of Women Canada asks you to recognize Canadian Business Women in your community by
writing an article, letter to the editor or blog post. Visit their website to read about other suggestions.
14
NEWS FROM NATIONALLY ORGANIZED SOCIETIES
CANADIAN COUNCIL OF MUSLIM WOMEN — YEAR END REVIEW
Building upon our rich history of advocating on behalf of Muslim women and their
families, 2013-2014 has been an eventful and exciting period for the Canadian
Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) and its projects. Last October at our annual Women Who Inspire
Awards brunch and fundraiser, CCMW was pleased to honour 6 Muslim from across the country who
made a meaningful impact on their communities and announce the recipients of our Lila Falhman
Scholarship. Scholarships of $1000 are given each year by CCMW to deserving Muslim women, with
funds being raised by our annual brunch and generous donors.
This year’s brunch will be held at the Novotel North York Hotel on Sunday October 28th at the Novotel
North York from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
This past Winter and Spring, CCMW entered the third and fourth phases of our project with Status of
Women Canada. Violence Against Women: Health and Justice for Canadian Muslim Women is a two
year initiative which aims to promote gender equality and to tackle violence against women and girls
(VAW) by engaging Muslim and non-Muslim community members to learn about and address the
issues of 1) femicide, 2) forced marriage, 3) female genital cutting/mutilation and 4) family violence
within their communities.
In January and February, CCMW hosted 3 Train the Trainer sessions in Toronto, Ottawa and
Edmonton. 72 dynamic women from across the country were led by Pamela Cross in further building
their knowledge and understanding of VAW and strategies for mobilizing community action. Trainees
returned to their communities, where they hosted local community workshops. A total of 22
workshops were delivered across Canada, with over 600 (+) individuals from a diversity of
backgrounds.
The project’s publications which include an environmental scan, toolkit, fact sheets and position
statements are available for free on CCMW’s website. We encourage you to share these resources
with your network and colleagues.
May 2014 marked the completion of our two year research project with the Trillium Foundation of
Ontario. Women in Niqab Speak: A study of the Niqab in Canada, is the first groundbreaking study of
its kind. Over the course of two years, CCMW conducted an Ontario based study with Muslim Women
who wear the niqab (face-veil) in order to better understand who they are, why they wear the face-veil?
and the challenges they face in their daily lives. The overall goal of the project was to allow Muslim
women to speak for themselves.
81 niqab wearing women across the province of Ontario participated in online surveys, focus groups and
interviews to share their stories and voices. The results were published in a final report authored by Dr. Lynda
Clarke of Concordia University. Through the course of the year, CCMW hosted a series of media launch events
across the province in order to raise awareness of the publication and its findings.
To view the publication and its findings, please visit our website where the publication is available for free in both
French and English
CCMW is also pleased to announce the launch of its newest initiative, Project Communitas. Funded by the
Department of Public Safety, the 3 year community-based project aims to fortify Canadian public safety by
strengthening individual and community resilience, by fostering social interdependence, active citizenship,
dialogue and youth leadership.
15
NEWS FROM NATIONALLY ORGANIZED SOCIETIES
CANADIAN COUNCIL OF MUSLIM WOMEN—YEAR END REVIEW
CCMW is currently seeking youth (age 18-30) in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto,
London, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver to participate in the inter-cultural,
inter-community and inter-faith endeavor. If you are interested, please send an
email with your name, age, city, and contact information to [email protected]. The usual work of
the Council continues – with local chapters’ activities, media engagement, advocacy, conferences and
collaboration with sister organizations and international networks such as Musawah.
We are thankful to NCWC for their continued support and encourage its members to subscribe to our
list serve and follow us on Twitter and Facebook. For more information about CCMW or any of our
projects please contact: [email protected]
Usma Qureshi, National Projects Manager, CCMW, website: ccmw.com
———————————————————————————————
CANADA’S FEMINISTS REMEMBER
Let’s not forget the upcoming 25th anniversary on December 6, 2014, of the Montreal
massacre at the Ècole Polytechnique, an event that scarred the country and strengthened
the voice of Canadian feminists. We must continue to challenge sexism and misogyny, and
support the ongoing efforts for gun control and the prevention of violence toward women
and girls. On December 6, please light a candle to remember these courageous women.
Beverley Colquhoun, Editor, NCWC Newsletter
———————————————————————————————
UPCOMING NOMINATIONS FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CONVENERS OF STANDING
STUDY COMMITTEES
IMPORTANT NOTICE
NOMINATIONS TO ELECTED POSITIONS ON NCWC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Information concerning the Nominations to elected positions on the NCWC Board of Directors
and the Conveners of Standing Study Conveners has been sent to all NCWC members individual members and federated members (Councils and Nationally Organized Societies).
Serving on the national Board or as a national Convener gives a member the opportunity to
understand the wider picture beyond local concerns. It is a very rewarding experience.
Would you like to serve in one of these positions? Find two members to nominate you. Do you
know someone you would like to nominate to one of these positions? It is a good idea to check
with this individual to ensure she is in agreement and then submit her name. Ask a member
who agrees to do so to submit this individual’s name as well.
You have a few months to think about this and you can submit nominations at any time.
However the DEADLINE for submitting nominations is January 15, 2015. Your valued consideration of this important task is very much appreciated.
16
NEWS FROM INTERNATIONAL COUNCILS OF WOMEN
STATEMENT BY ICW-CIF EXECUTIVE — COMMITTEE MEETING,
MALTA, APRIL 2014
“In view of the conflicts and civil unrests around the world, the
International Council of Women (ICW-CIF) is deeply concerned
about the increased violence, in all forms, against women and
girls, which is a violation of their right to live in a safe and healthy
environment.
Cosmina Schenk, ICW President, opening
speech. “ICW is preoccupied with the situation of unrest in the Mediterranean.”
ICW-CIF recognizes that
women's empowerment,
participation and leadership
are critical to maintaining
peace and security.
Through affiliated National
Councils, ICW-CIF urges governments and United Nations
entities to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 2122,
adopted on 18 October 2013, which reaffirms UN commitment to
continuing and full implementation of relevant Security
Council Resolutions 1325, 1820, 1888, 1889, 1960, and
2106, and encourages our members to advocate and
participate in these processes so that women and women's
perspectives are represented in conflict prevention, conflict
resolution, peace negotiation and peace building efforts.”
The inauguration of the exhibition entitled ‘A Pictorial Diary of Women in Maltese Society’
L-R: Cosima Schenk, Pres. ICW; the Hon. Dr.
Owen Bonnici, Min. of Justice, Doris Bingley, Pres.
ECICW, and Mary Gaerty, Pres. NCW Malta
Visit the website of ICW-CIF International Council of Women “Caring for women is caring for the
world.”
Cosima Schenk, President, ICW-CIF, 2012-2015
———————————————————————————————
NEWS FROM REGIONAL COUNCIL OF THE AMERICAS
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF THE UNITED STATES – CELEBRATES 125TH ANNIVERSARY
The National Council of Women of the United States (www.ncwus.net) celebrated its 125th
anniversary with an all-day symposium focusing on women’s issues in March 2014. The
symposium, entitled, "Unfinished Business: Exploring New Horizons for Societal Change", was held
at The Cooper Union in New York City in the Great Hall. This was the very forum where one of the
Council's founders, the esteemed Susan B. Anthony, delivered some of her most impassioned
speeches for women's rights.
The roster of speakers addressed issues that were problematic in Susan B. Anthony’s time, but are
still relevant to the concerns of women today: the power of women’s vote, violence against women,
business empowerment for women, the role of women in the community and the importance of
women giving back to support other women in achieving personal, professional, economic and
political goals. The day included a call to action and ended with a challenge to the next generation to
continue the work that the founders and the Council have worked so hard for the last 125 years to
achieve. Everyone, the presenters and the participants alike, were enthusiastic about the
symposium and the promise it offered for the future of women’s place in the world. The day ended
with a red carpet gala celebration.
17
OBITUARIES
MARY LEMYRE, 1921- 2014
Mary Lemyre, for many years, was President of Toronto Council of Women. She is
the mother of Jacqueline Truax, the current Toronto Council President. Mary worked
to improve the quality of life in her community. She married Owen James Lemyre
and had five children, eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Mary was an
ardent environmentalist, well ahead of her time, and was a loyal member of the
Preservation of Agricultural Land Society whose members have worked for close to 40
years to protect the best farmlands in Canada. Mary volunteered for many years on
the Board of the Provincial Council of Women. As VP Environment, she kept a close
watch on Lake Ontario, including the Don River that flowed into it. As VP Liaison and
Membership, she helped several organizations. Mary enjoyed being a member of the
Colonel John Butler (Niagara) Branch of the United Empire Loyalists of Canada and
had Loyalist ancestors.
HANNA SPENSER, PH.D. nee FISCHL, 1913-2014
Hanna Spenser, a member of the London Council of Women and Professor of
German Studies at UWO, published “Hanna’s Diary,” which is still in print. Hanna
was born in Kladno, Bohema. The daughter of a grocer, she achieved a rarity for a
woman of that period, a PhD in Slavic and Germanic languages from the University
of Prague. As a non-practicing Jew, she suffered the constraints placed on the lives
of Jews by the invading Nazis in 1938. Hanna escaped the Holocaust by immigrating
to Canada in 1939. She taught at Elmwood, a private girls’ school in Ottawa, and
married Elvins Spencer. She kept a diary of those pivotal years, published 60 years
later under the title Hanna’s Diary 1938-1941. She and Elvins settled in London,
Ontario In 1951. She became professor of German at the University of Western
Ontario and became a world authority on the German poet and journalist Heinrich
Heine. Hanna was President of London Council of Women, co-founded the Unitarian
Fellowship in London and was politically active. She was an Intrepid traveler,
accomplished pianist and avid tennis player until the age of 90, and was one of the
earliest participants at the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging. She attributed
her longevity to regular exercise, a very active social life, entertaining and hosting
dinner parties, and cooking into her 101st year.
MAVIS MOORE, 1938- 2013
Mavis Moore was raised on a farm near Lawson, Saskatchewan, and attended
Sion Academy in Moose Jaw. She later moved to Saskatoon where she obtained her
B.A. from the University of Saskatchewan and served as a Legal Aid Commissioner
on the University’s Senate. At the same time, she worked at the Royal University
Hospital where she remained until her retirement.
Mavis was a lifelong activist for social justice issues, notably women’s rights, equality
and gun control. After joining the Canadian Federation of University Women, she
became Local and subsequently National President of CFUW and led the Canadian
delegation to the IFUW meeting in Graz, Austria. She attended the UN Commission
on the Status of Women in New York as a non-governmental member and also
worked on many committees in her community and province. Mavis was elected to
the NCWC Board from 2009-2011 and served one term as VP of Environment.
Mavis was plagued by a chronic illness in her last few years but maintained her
fighting spirit to the end. She died at home on November 9, 2013.
NCWC WISHES TO EXTEND OUR SINCEREST CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE FAMILIES
18
OBITUARIES
LILIANE M. STEWART, 1928-2014
President of the Macdonald Stewart Foundation, Philanthropist, Friend of the MCW
Those who had met Liliane M. Stewart at the Montreal Council of Women
(MCW) meetings in the 1990s and knew of her generosity towards the
MCW, were saddened to learn of her passing on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at
the age of 85. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of giving that
spanned a number of institutions and industries.
The first MCW executive meetings that I attended were held at the
Louis-Joseph Forget House, the home of the Macdonald Stewart
Foundation, where Stewart was the director. It was through her generosity
that we were able to use the space, and we continue to use the building as
our mailing address.
Pioneering philanthropist and tobacco heiress, she was born Liliane
Spengler in Cairo in 1928. Her father was Czech and her mother Italian and
they worked in the tea trade. Stewart and her sister were educated in
French, but she also spoke Arabic, Italian, Spanish and English.
Stewart moved to New York City after the Second World War where she married her first husband in
1954, New York import dealer Bob Rubin. When she was 38, shortly after the birth of her daughter,
Rubin was killed in a car accident. In 1967, Stewart moved to Montreal when she married David
Macdonald Stewart, one of her husband’s clients. Both had daughters from previous relationships.
Stewart’s only child, Roberta, died in 1983.
Stewart took the reins of the Macdonald Stewart Foundation following her husband’s death in 1984.
During the time that she headed the Foundation, she made substantial gifts to the Université de
Montréal, McGill University, many Montreal area hospitals and several other artistic and cultural
institutions. Her philanthropy extended beyond North America, building links between Canada and other
countries.
Chandra Madramootoo, the Dean of the Macdonald Campus of McGill University, has said that her
multi-million dollar gifts put the Macdonald Campus and the Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental
Sciences on a totally new path.
Through my interest in the decorative arts, I first became acquainted with Liliane Stewart at the Chateau
Dufresne which she founded. It was the home of the Montreal Museum of Decorative Arts and
delighted its visitors from 1979 to 1997. Later, she donated her collection to the Montreal Museum of
Fine Arts. It personifies her elegance and artistic flair and makes up the bulk of this important decorative
art collection.
Besides the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Stewart’s contributions to other museums include the
Château Ramezay and the Stewart Museum on Île Sainte-Hélène. It is now joined with the McCord
Museum in order to establish a major museum of Canadian history, the McCord-Stewart Museum.
Stewart was the recipient of numerous honours, including being made an Officier des Arts et des Lettres
in 1988 by the French government. A year later, she was invested as an Officier de l’Ordre national du
Québec. In 2007, Stewart was made an Officer of the Order of Canada.
At the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica, on May 13, 2014, almost 30 years to the day after the death of
her husband, I attended the funeral for Liliane M. Stewart. The pallbearers were members of the armed
forces, reflecting her keen interest in military history. She was a remarkable woman, who leaves behind
a legacy of giving and a profound appreciation of the arts.
Sandra Cohen-Rose, Past President and Councillor, Montreal Council of Women,
Health Convener, NCWC
.19
NATIONAL COUNCIL
OF WOMEN OF CANADA
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2014-15
PRESIDENT: Denise Mattok
VICE PRESIDENTS:
Karen Dempsey
Barbara Hall
Gracia Janes
WOMEN’S ISSUES
FAMILY VIOLENCE IS NOT A RECENT ISSUE!
In early September, NCWC received a very interesting email from
Sally Hall in London England. She wrote that in the course of
researching her family history, she had come upon "archive material
from Canada about a distant cousin Alice Marie Bramfitt, an English
nurse who married Thomas Corbett Ellis from P.E.I. in 1919.
A year later, after what appeared to be a violent relationship, Alice was
found dead. The NCWC protested a verdict of suicide, demanded her
husband be retried and her body be exhumed. Her husband stood trial
for murder but was acquitted; again NCWC protested!"
Rosemary Mallory
Sally writes "You must be very proud of the work of these women."
Carol Schweitzer
Copy and paste the link below which documents the case:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/idtuqir85jgcvc6/Bramfitt%20-%20Ellis%
20murder%20trial.pdf?dl=0
Kelly-Ann Stevenson
TREASURER:
Stephanie Courneyea, CGA
Denise Mattok
DISCLAIMER
The opinions expressed by the
contributors are their own and do
not necessarily reflect or represent
the views of the National Council of
Women of Canada, its members or
federates.
National Council of Women
of Canada
P.O. Box 67099, Ottawa, ON
Canada K2A 4E4
Telephone: 1-613-232-5025
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ncwc.ca
Editor: Beverley Colquhoun
Email: [email protected]
IMPORTANT NOTICE
NCWC COMMON PROGRAM 2015-2017
It is time for NCWC members to submit new ideas for the next
Common Program that will be launched at the 2015 Annual General
Meeting and Conference! The Common Program usually spans
two years but often is extended when members want to continue
educating themselves on an important topic.
Some of the programs have focused on securing our future, water
and energy, and women and mental health. What current topic
interests you and your federate? What topic would interest NCWC
members across Canada?
PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS BY THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29,
2014, to NCWC at [email protected] or to P.O.Box 67099, RPO
Westboro, Ottawa, ON K2A 4E4.
NCWC and NCWC Education Fund work together to present
speakers, panels, workshops, etc. to educate and enlighten
members on the chosen topic. As well, Local and Provincial
Councils usually highlight the topic at one or more of their meetings.
20