WHAT:

YW Calgary is proud to host Monica Lewinsky, ‘patient zero’ for internet bullying as their keynote speaker at the 6th annual YWhisper Fundraising Gala on Thursday, November 22, 2016. Media are invited to pre-book interview opportunities with two YW Calgary spokespeople who can speak to the ongoing stigmas and shame women face in our community and in the political sphere.

Ms. Lewinsky is working to change online culture, where humiliation and public shaming are becoming the norm. Having experienced nearly two decades of online harassment, Ms. Lewinsky is well versed in the effects online bullying and outright attacks can have on an individual’s reputation as well as their emotional and mental well-being.

WHY:

YW Calgary continues to speak out for and with women. The YWhisper gala is YW Calgary’s largest fundraising event of the year and provides an opportunity to elevate the voices of women and speak up for those who are not able.

Funds raised at this event enable YW to support women and their families who are struggling with poverty, domestic abuse and social exclusion.

WHO:
Media spokespeople:
Sue Tomney, Chief Executive Officer, YW Calgary
Nirmala Naidoo, Chair, YWhisper Fundraising Gala Committee, YW Board Member

WHEN:
Pre-booked 1:1 interview opportunities available:
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

*Note: Ms. Lewinsky will not be available for any media requests.

WHERE:
By appointment only:
Location TBD

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About YW Calgary:
YW Calgary is the largest and longest serving women’s organization in Calgary. For more than 105 years we have focused on enhancing women’s safety and well-being while advocating for equity. In 2015, YW Calgary supported more than 6,700 Calgary women and families. Together with our donors, government and other social agencies, we provide shelter, supportive housing, counselling, child development, childcare, education and employment programs that help move women from crisis to stability.
Women-centred. Brighter-future focused.
ywcalgary.ca
#YWhisper2016

For information and interview bookings please contact:
Carla Link
Manager, Marketing & Communications
YW Calgary
Cell: 587.228.8663 l Phone: 403.705.5779| Email: clink@ywcalgary.ca