Largely lost amidst last week’s pundit analysis of Provincial Budget 2015 was recognition of commitments that indicate the needs of marginalized women and their families will - at last - be seen and addressed. Budget 2015 Supporting jobs, Supporting Families. The Alberta Way included a number of positive changes in government-funded programs measures that will [...]

This morning saw a headline about a woman viciously assaulted in her home, in front of her young child, in our city. The only thing surprising is why this particular attack warranted a headline, social media post, police statement or broadcast on the evening news. Certainly other women were beaten and hospitalized at the hands [...]

In the spirit of the electoral season I want to make a promise:  this election will end soon.  And to double down I promise to keep my promise - it really will end. The fact that it is almost over feels like the best part of this dreadful election.  It is tough for me to [...]

Martin Luther King, III is the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King. As a political leader, global humanitarian and human rights activist, Mr. King is an ambassador of his parents’ legacy and continues their quest for equality and justice. For nearly 20 years, Mr. King has [...]

On Monday, a mock election for Calgarians experiencing homelessness and poverty was held by the Calgary Homeless Foundation with polling stations at four locations in the city. Between the Calgary Drop-in Centre, Alpha House, The Alex and the YWCA polling stations, nearly 500 people turned up to learn more about the voting process as well [...]

We asked some YWCA staff members and past walkers: What was a standout moment for you at a WALK A MILE event over the past 10 years? "For me, it is just before all the participants start walking. As the planner, I have spent several months working out all the details; the bookings, the website, [...]

In honour of the YWCA of Calgary WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES® 10th anniversary, we thought it would be fun to showcase the evolution of the legendary event where men walk in high heels for family violence prevention… Early 2000s The YWCA was often referred to as the “best kept secret in town” - [...]

It is a question almost always asked of a woman living in the perils of an abusive relationship. “Why does she stay?” The question not often asked is, “Why does he choose to hit her?” The first question suggests, in some way, that she has options, that she is in control of the situation. For [...]

Today the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation – the new owners of the storied Cecil Hotel – have announced the 1911 building will come down. We won’t be sad to see the Cecil - which for many vulnerable women and families evokes memories of loss and pain - razed. As the next door neighbour to the [...]

With today’s payout of increased baby bonuses to an estimated four million families, we’re reminded again of the difference between what’s equal and what’s equitable. The expanded Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB), enacted by the Government of Canada this spring, will result in significant retroactive payments today and regular monthly payouts moving forward to individual [...]