Media Release
June 25, 2015

MARTIN LUTHER KING III ANNOUNCED AS GALA KEYNOTE SPEAKER

The YWCA of Calgary (YWCA) is thrilled to announce the keynote speaker for the 5th Annual YWCA WHYWHISPER Fundraising Gala will be Martin Luther King III.

Human rights activist, global humanitarian and political leader, Mr. King has seized the torch lit by his parents and is continuing their quest for equality and justice for all people. For nearly 20 years, Mr. King has been motivating audiences around the world with his insightful message of hope and responsibility.

The YWCA has been a leader in the community for more than 100 years and with their ongoing signature fundraising events, they continue to drive engagement and inspiration among Calgarians. The YWCA WHYWHISPER Fundraising Gala elevates the voices of vulnerable women in Calgary.

Previous keynote speakers for the event were Michaëlle Jean, Gloria Steinem, Naomi Judd and Erin Brockovich.

“The past four gala speakers have been unique, slightly edgy and thoroughly enjoyable. This year’s will be as distinctive,” says Sue Tomney, Chief Executive Officer, YWCA of Calgary. “Mr. King will add an entirely new dimension to the YWCA’s list of keynote speakers and will allow us to build on our advocacy for equity rights.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available today. Tickets go on sale in September. All proceeds raised go to the YWCA’s emergency shelter, housing, counselling and skills programs and services.

-30-
About the YWCA of Calgary:

The YWCA of Calgary is the largest and longest serving women’s organizations in Calgary. Through its more than 104 year history, the organization has touched tens of thousands of lives and evolved its programs to meet the changing needs of women in the community. The YWCA offers more than 18 programs that create a continuum of service for women, and their families, who are struggling with poverty, homelessness, family violence and isolation.

With the focus on empowering women to move from a place of vulnerability to one of resilience, the YWCA continues to be there when and where she needs us most. For more information, visit ywcalgary.ca.

For information and interview inquiries please contact: 

Carla Link
Manager, Marketing & Communications
YWCA of Calgary
Phone: 403.705.5779 l Cell: 587.228.8663 l Email: clink@ywcalgary.ca

Media Release: Martin Luther King III Announcement