I have worked in fly-in communities, Webequie, Marten Falls and Attawapiskat and at a local reserve Georgina Island. All have been affected by water issues. I consider the people I have come to know and love, family and my family of First Nations people is suffering. Damaged skin from chemicals in the water, mercury and lead poisoning, constantly having to boil their water or drink very expensive bottled water...
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This Newsletter serves to keep our Social Justice Reps and interested Vincentians up to date regarding advocacy issues. It suggests specific actions individual Vincentians can take to help our neighbours in need achieve a better life.
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I encourage you to support the Government of Canada rescinding the Safe Third Country Agreement between Canada and the U.S.A. by signing the petition at the attached link to Amnesty International Canada. You can also read about the agreement at this website. While the final decision on the eligibility of an individual entering Canada does not change we can at least make the procedure one that is a much safer and humanitarian route for those crossing our border. As long as this agreement remains in effect, a person must enter illegally, facing challenging physical barriers and then being arrested.
Jim Paddon, Chair, National Social Justice Committee, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, Canada.
Amnesty International

As one of my duties as chair of our national social justice committee, I take part in monthly conference calls with social justice reps from various branches of the Vincentian family. There are likely about 15 or so who may attend these calls, with most being located in the U.S.A. and a couple of Sisters of Charity from Canada. There is such a general feeling of disgust and disappointment amongst this group with their president and the very dangerous level of racism and hatred being faced today in the U.S.A.
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