ONTARIO PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP
2009-2010 Working Groups Year End Report Prepared by Randy Kay
2010
MCMASTER UNIVERSITY
STUDENT CENTRE ROOM
229
OPIRG McMaster: Linking Research with Action on issues of the Environment, Human Rights, and Social Justice
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
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Contents Welcome – Summary by the Coordinator of Volunteers ....................................................................................... 4 Board Approved Working Groups for 2009-2010 .................................................................................................. 6 RETURNING GROUPS ...................................................................................................................................... 6 NEW GROUPS .................................................................................................................................................. 6 Group Spending.................................................................................................................................................... 7 GROUP SPENDING: CHART BREAKDOWN ...................................................................................................... 8 YEAR END REPORT .............................................................................................................................................. 9 GROUPS THAT DID NOT COMPLETE YEAR END REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ............................................ 9 GROUPS THAT CONTRIBUTED TO PIRGSPECTIVES NEWSLETTER ............................................................... 9 GROUPS THAT PARTICIPATED IN PIRGTOPIA ................................................................................................ 9 YEAR END ONLINE SURVEY .............................................................................................................................. 10 GROUPS THAT DID NOT COMPLETE YEAR END ONLINE SURVEY .............................................................. 10 Will your working group remain active over the summer? ........................................................................... 10 How many members of your working group have taken part in an OPIRG Anti-Oppression workshop?....... 11 How many members of your working group have taken part in an OPIRG Consensus Decision-Making workshop?.................................................................................................................................................... 11 Will you be reapplying for working group status in the fall?......................................................................... 12 Please rate your sense of accomplishment regarding your working group activities this year: .................... 12 ACCOMPLISHMENT: CHART BREAKDOWN .................................................................................................. 12 WORKING GROUP SELF REPORTING .................................................................................................................15 Biodiversity Guild .............................................................................................................................................15 Body Equity .................................................................................................................................................... 16 McMaster Campus Choice .............................................................................................................................. 18 Community Volunteer Action ......................................................................................................................... 18 Creativity Circle............................................................................................................................................... 22 The Dominican Republic Self-Help Working Group ......................................................................................... 23 FreeSkool........................................................................................................................................................ 23 Guatemalan Working Group ........................................................................................................................... 25 The Hamilton Vegetarian Society ................................................................................................................... 26 MCMaster First Nations Student Association (MFNSA) .................................................................................. 28 Migrant Workers Family Resource Centre ........................................................................................................33 Save More Students .........................................................................................................................................33 OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
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APPENDIX .......................................................................................................................................................... 38 COMMENTS FROM WORKING GROUP ONLINE SURVEY ............................................................................. 39 Feel free to list any things you liked or disliked about being an OPIRG McMaster Working Group. ............. 39 What could OPIRG McMaster do to improve your Working Group experience? .......................................... 39 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ...................................................................................................................................... 40
Welcome – A Year in Review Welcome to the OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report In many ways 2009-2010 presents a typical year for working groups: a large number of groups with a wide range of interests represented. Also somewhat typical, some groups were able to accomplish a great deal of work, some a more moderate amount, and a small minority of groups produced very little. One approved group produced no results, which again, is not the first such situation. Several factors likely contribute to low productivity, not the least which is the lack of time available to students during a busy, full-time school year. Some people may not be aware of how much time and energy is required to fulfill the requirements of a working group. Nevertheless, we see a fairly high average when it comes to group activity, and there is much to celebrate as working groups work toward their goals, at times with impressive results. Everyone who takes a step toward positive action deserves credit. The Working Group experience is not, however, merely a case of “more is better” but can be seen as a continuum of growth and development. As we find through our survey (data included below), the overwhelming majority of groups intend to return in the fall to build on their previous efforts. It should be noted that groups with a history and experience - and the resultant higher profile and cumulative contacts - and ones just starting out can account for some of the difference in activity levels. OPIRG is able to help erase some of the disparity between new and returning groups since all the groups have access to the same support and infrastructure: $250 operating budget, our e-mail events list, the opirg web site, free workshops, room booking, tools like the button maker, bullhorn, data projector, special project funding, access to academic resources, and the assistance of staff. They also benefit from the energy and smarts of students and other community members. Of course, in a competitive environment such as McMaster, getting noticed is hard enough, so getting new people involved is always a challenge. Keeping in mind Margaret Mead’s well worn statement “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has,” we encourage small groups to grow. OPIRG expects Working Groups to keep an eye on the kind of outreach that reveals a willingness to go the extra distance to make new members feel welcome, and to ensure they have equal opportunity to become engaged in planning and implementation.
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Consensus Decision Making ensures the group dynamic is as inclusive as possible, as does an awareness of AntiOppression principles, so it is always rewarding when Working Group volunteers take part in our free workshops on these topics each term. The expectation is that all volunteers will complete both these workshops. We are fortunate to have exceptional community members to call on for facilitation of these core OPIRG values. This is the first year we are tracking volunteer participation in the workshops with an eye on awarding OPIRG Core Value certificates to those who complete both workshops during their volunteer tenure with us. Valuable in their own right, the workshops are also an excellent addition to resumes, thus providing an extra advantage to our volunteers when seeking employment. With sixteen groups, OPIRG recognizes the advantage of providing opportunities for peer to peer sharing. Thus, Working Group get-togethers are arranged to benefit volunteers by allowing them to meet each other and share their motivations, common concerns, and to make possible any synergies through possible partnerships. This year offered some challenges when it came down to finding a time that suited enough groups, which may be a legitimate case of the “Birthday Paradox” where the larger the group, the more complex the organizing. Enticements of food, and a serious effort on the part of working groups to commit to these meetings, will allow for success in this social and practical aspect of the working group calendar. Overall, working groups expressed satisfaction with meeting their goals, but noted that attracting new members and getting information out on their issues remains a challenge, the majority being only “somewhat satisfied” with this aspect of their work. This awareness assists the work of the Coordinator of Volunteers at OPIRG McMaster in planning, and our ability to empower volunteers to be more effective in their work is thus enhanced. Only six out of 16 groups contributed articles to our PIRGPSECTIVES newsletter, and many groups underutilized our web calendar at opirg.ca. Both these outreach tools could, and should, be used to better advantage as core communication tools by working groups. 2010 witnessed the inaugural PIRGTOPIA, an OPIRG specific Clubs Fest at the start of second term. Working Groups set up displays in the Student Centre Marketplace, and an enthusiastic response meant success in terms of visibility and attracting new people to the various groups. Half (8) of the approved working groups were able to take part. In conclusion, a fairly typical Working Group year, but with the contribution of the year end reports and the survey results, there is a good basis for improvement and growth of our volunteer working group program. Now, let’s take a closer look at the 2009-2010 Working Group year.
Randy Kay, Coordinator of Volunteers
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Board Approved Working Groups for 2009-2010 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Animal Rights Biodiversity Guild Body Equity Campus Choice Community Volunteer Action Creativity Circle Dominican Food Not Bombs
9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.
Freeskool Guatemala Hamilton Vegetarian Society MFNSA Migrant Workers Save More Students SMASH Collective YICHALAL
Budgeted for 15 groups at $250 per group No applicants were denied (previous year, 3 denied).
RETURNING GROUPS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Animal Rights Biodiversity Guild Community Volunteer Action Creativity Circle Dominican Food Not Bombs Guatemala MFNSA Migrant Workers
NEW GROUPS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Body Equity Campus Choice Freeskool Hamilton Vegetarian Society Save More Students SMASH Collective YICHALAL
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Group Spending WORKING GROUP
Projected 2009-10
Animal Rights Biodiversity Guild Community Volunteer Action Creativity Circle Dominican Republic Food Not Bombs Guatemala MFNSA Body Equity Campus Choice Freeskool Hamilton Vegetarian Save More Students SMASH Collective YICHALAL TOTAL
250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 250.00 3,750.00
Difference to Date (still left to spend) 250.00 100.00 7.52
Actual – Total spent to date
0.82 247.72 250.00 37.76 250.00 133.94 116.22
249.18 2.28
35.08 152.95 Cancelled 1,617.31
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
150.00 242.48
212.24 116.06 133.78 250.00 214.92 250.00 97.05 2,132.69
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GROUP SPENDING: CHART BREAKDOWN
TOTAL WG BUDGET (Dollars) 4,000.00 3,500.00 3,000.00 2,500.00 2,000.00 1,500.00 1,000.00 500.00 0.00 Budgeted
Remaining
Spent
Actual – Total spent to date 300 250 200 150 100 50 0
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YEAR END REPORTING 12 of 16 working groups submitted Year End Reports 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Biodiversity Guild Body Equity Campus Choice Community Volunteer Action Creativity Circle Dominican
7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
Freeskool GUAT Hamilton Vegetarian Society MFNSA Migrant Workers Save More Students
GROUPS THAT DID NOT COMPLETE YEAR END REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 1. Animal Rights 2. Food Not Bombs
3. SMASH Collective 4. YICHALAL
GROUPS THAT CONTRIBUTED TO PIRGSPECTIVES NEWSLETTER 1. Community Volunteer Action (fall/winter 2009-2010) 2. Freeskool (fall/winter 2009-2010) 3. Food Not Bombs! (fall/winter 20092010)
4. Save More Students (fall/winter 2009/2010) 5. Body Equity (spring/summer 2010) 6. Guatemala (spring/summer 2010)
GROUPS THAT PARTICIPATED IN PIRGTOPIA
PIRGTOPIA
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
YICHALAL
SMASH Collective
Save More Students
Migrant Workers
Animal Rights Biodiversity Guild Body Equity Campus Choice Community… Creativity Circle Dominican (La… Food Not Bombs Guatemala Hamilton Freeskool Hamilton… McMaster First…
1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0
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YEAR END ONLINE SURVEY 11 of 16 working groups responded to the online survey (results below)
GROUPS THAT DID NOT COMPLETE YEAR END ONLINE SURVEY 1. Animal Rights 2. Food Not Bombs 3. Hamilton Vegetarian Society
4. SMASH Collective 5. YICHALAL
SURVEY RESPONSE SUMMARY Will your working group remain active over the summer?
36.40% 45.50%
YES NO NOT SURE YET
18.20%
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How many members of your working group have taken part in an OPIRG AntiOppression workshop?
70.00%
63.60%
60.00% 50.00% 40.00% 30.00% 18.20%
20.00% 9.10%
10.00%
9.10% 0.00%
0.00% 1 or 2
3 or 4
5 or 6
7 or 8
9 or 10
How many members of your working group have taken part in an OPIRG Consensus Decision-Making workshop?
50.00%
45.50%
45.00% 40.00% 35.00% 27.30%
30.00% 25.00%
18.20%
20.00% 15.00%
9.10%
10.00% 5.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00% none
1 or 2
3 or 4
5 or 6
7 or 8
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
9 or 10
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Will you be reapplying for working group status in the fall?
90.00%
81.80%
80.00% 70.00% 60.00% 50.00% 40.00% 30.00% 18.20%
20.00% 10.00%
0.00%
0.00% Yes
No
Not Sure Yet
Please rate your sense of accomplishment regarding your working group activities this year:
Very satisfied Meeting Group Goals Attracting Members Bringing attention to our issue Contributing new research or perspectives
Somewhat dissatisfied 10%
Very Dissatisfied
60%
Somewhat satisfied 30%
10%
60%
20%
10%
33.3%
66.7%
0.0%
0.0%
22.2%
55.6%
22.2%
0.0%
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
0.0%
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ACCOMPLISHMENT: CHART BREAKDOWN
Meeting Group Goals 70%
60%
60% 50% 40%
30%
30% 20%
10%
10%
0.00%
0% Very satisfied
Somewhat satisfied
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very Disatisfied
Attracting Members 60.00%
55%
50.00% 40.00% 30.00% 20.00%
18.20%
18% 9%
10.00% 0.00% Very Satisfied
Somewhat satisfied
somewhat dissatisfied
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
very disatisfied
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Bringing attention to our issue 70.00%
60.00%
60.00% 50.00%
40.00%
40.00% 30.00% 20.00% 10.00%
0.00%
0.00%
Somewhat Dissatisfied
Very Dissatisfied
0.00% Very Satisfied
Somewhat Satisfied
Contributing new research or perspectives 60.00%
50.00%
50.00% 40.00%
30.00%
30.00%
20.00%
20.00% 10.00%
0.00%
0.00% Very Satisfied
Somewhat satisfied
Somewhat dissatisfied
Very dissatisfied
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WORKING GROUP SELF REPORTING
Biodiversity Guild Throughout the 2009-2010 academic year, the Biodiversity Guild has facilitated a number of activities geared towards raising the profile of biodiversity on campus, through both fundraising and educational initiatives. The chart below briefly outlines events we have planned and participated in throughout the year. Activity (Date)
Major Goals
Brief Summary
Selling of jute bags and pins (ongoing)
- raise funds for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Throughout the year, the Guild sold reusable, biodegradable jute bags, as well as small pins to fundraise for the WWF. Additionally, information on endangered species was disseminated with the pins and bags to raise awareness of the large number of species currently at risk for extinction.
Peace Education Conference (November)
- introduce high school students to the concept of biodiversity
Pub night (November)
- recruit new members
- increase awareness on campus of global biodiversity crisis
- provide a forum to discuss local strategies to protect biodiversity and human welfare
- provide opportunities for networking
Film screening (February)
- raise awareness of how the corporate model of food production can have detrimental environmental impacts - stimulate discussion and networking
Global Citizenship Conference Workshop (March)
- raise awareness of the connection between ecosystem degradation and food production - provide participants with consumer
We presented a workshop for high schools students entitled “An Introduction to Biodiversity and Environmental Justice” at the PEC held at McMaster. The workshop was attended by 15 students, and intended to emphasize the connection between issues of poverty and environmental degradation. The Guild organized a pub night at the Phoenix, which the director of McMaster’s Biodiversity program attended. The pub night provided an opportunity for students interested in the Guild to receive more information, and also for networking between different groups. The pub night was attended by 15 participants. The Guild organized a free screening of the film “Food Inc”, which discusses problems associated with the corporatization of agriculture in North America. Afterwards, an informal discussion was held on how the audience’s own experiences related to the themes present in the film. The screening was attended by approximately 20 participants. At the GCC we presented an interactive workshop entitled “Biodiversity, empowerment and agriculture”. The workshop was attended by 5 participants, and emphasized how food consumption choices have both human
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based strategies for effecting change
development and environmental consequences in the developing world. The workshop also provided participants with an introduction to the benefits and problems associated with alternatives such as organic foods, fair trade certification, and buying local.
Pub night (March)
- raise funds for conservation work
The Guild held a pub night at Silantes to raise funds for the Georgian Bay Land Trust, which purchases ecologically sensitive wetlands to protect them from development. For an admission charge, attendees were provided with complimentary appetizers. Approximately 30 people attended the pub night.
Marsh Cleanup (April)
- take direct action to protect ecologically sensitive areas in the local community
The Guild participated in the OPRIG organized clean-up of the degraded Marsh near Desjardins Canal in Dundas.
Body Equity Meetings (date/time) Jan 20 2010 6:30 - 7:30
Estimated attendance 4
Jan 27 2010
3
description Introductory meeting to Body Equity Working Group and the AntiOppression Workshop idea Review of anti-oppression workshop activities
6:30 - 7:30 4
Plan of action for contacting schools Reporting back progress on researching and contacting schools
Feb 24 2010
2
Workshop rehearsal
11:30 – 2:30 March 3 2010
3
Feb 3 2010 6:30 - 7:30
6:30 – 7:30
March 9 2010
3
Preparation of materials Research self esteem measures, followup resources for physical discrimination related services in Hamilton Modify workshop based on piloting session feedback Finalize self esteem measure for use during workshop
2:30 – 3:30 March 10 2010
2
Compile resources Printing resources for use during workshop
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11:00 – 12:00 March 11 2010
1
Analyzing results of self esteem questionnaires from the workshop
5:00 – 8:00
March 18 2010 March 24 2010
1 3
11:30 – 12:30 March 28 2010
2
(web correspondence) March 31 2010 11-12 AM
And documenting the class responses to activities OPIRG working group update Meeting with Dr. Melanie Heath to discuss qualitative research needs of Body Equity Discuss qualitative research methodology including debriefing, and coding methdology for qualitative research for Body Equity
2 Printing resources
3-4 PM April 1 2010
1
Debriefing session on workshop Analyzing results of self esteem questionnaires from the workshop
5:00 – 8:00
April 9 2010
(from Body Equity: 1)
Working Group Meeting and OPIRG Board Meeting April 14
2
11-12 AM 3-4 PM April 15 2010
And documenting the class responses to activities Update OPIRG board on Working Group progress
Printing resources
1
Debriefing session on workshop Analyzing results of self esteem questionnaires from the workshop
5:00 – 8:00 And documenting the class responses to activities
Public Events (date/time) Nov 13 2009 McMaster Campus 12:00 – 1:00
Estimated attendance 15 – 20
Description Gay Pride Parade http://thesil.ca/blog/news/qsccarranges-mcmasters-first-prideparade/
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Spot Body Equity's Gay Rights banner!
Feb 24 2010
6
McMaster Campus
(3 presenters from Body Equity)
6:30 – 9:00PM March 10 2010 12 – 4PM March 31 12 – 4PM April 14 12 – 4PM
Workshop Piloting Session
30 (2 presenters from Body Equity)
Workshop Session to Grade 6 class at Queen Victoria
30 (2 presenters from Body Equity) 30 (2 presenters from Body Equity)
Workshop Session to Grade 8 class at Queen Victoria Workshop Session to Grade 6/7 class at Queen Victoria
McMaster Campus Choice McMaster Campus Choice is a student run group on campus whose objective is to raise awareness regarding the corporatization of higher learning institution. In McMaster university, we worked on the killer coke campaign, advocating against an exclusive deal with coca-cola on campus. We had approximately 200 people on our mailing list and 5-6 active members throughout the year. We achieved our goal as we won the referendum in february 2010. The referendum was asking students whether we were for another exclusive contract with coca-cola. Campus Choice advocated against its exclusivity and won by 300 votes. There were many challenges to our victory, at first many students were afraid to take a stance on such a controversial issue, however soon we gained momentum and achieved majority of the vote. With the help of OPIRG especially in booking tables and rooms for our events it made our campaign much easier. Currently we are working on getting alternative local and/or organic beverages on campus, we are researching beverage companies in the Hamilton and GTA area and making a list to be submitted to the university administration.
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Community Volunteer Action List of Meetings 36 Facilitator Training Meetings Events Weekly Volunteer Groups (Total approximately 350 weekly volunteers and 35 facilitators) Placement
Description
Day/Time
**Afterschool program (Eva Rothwell Community Centre)
Help out where needed with new community center: tutor and play games with ages 8-13, clothing exchange program help, etc.
Tues. 4-6:15pm
**Kids Kan Productions Afterschool Family Program (St. Paul’s, Westdale)
Empower children 6yrs + to explore global issues through the arts: music, theatre, dance, writing, production, etc. Develop and facilitate activities for all ages (children and parents); activities connect to themes of social interest such as: world hunger, climate change, etc.
Thurs. 2:306:00pm
**Benetto Public School
Help teacher in classroom, working 1-1 or in groups. May also choose to help with class prep and admin.
Tues. 9:0012:15am
Thurs.4-6:15pm
- 2 groups
**Dr. Davey Breakfast Program (Beasley Community Centre)
Wed. 4-6:15pm
Fri. 9:0012:15am Engage children in positive conversation during breakfast, teaching respect, playing games, helping with cooking and clean up
Mon. 8:00 – 10:30am Tues. 8:00 – 10:30am Wed. 8:00 – 10:30am Thurs. 8:00 – 10:30am Fri. 8:00 – 10:30am
**Conway
Interact with people living with developmental
OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
Wed. or 2Page 19
Opportunity Homes
disabilities
4:15pm
Inasmuch Women’s Shelter
Facilitate crafts, games, and movies for infants and children
Mon. 6-8:15pm
**LAF(Learning and Fun)
Work with at risk kids in small groups and one-onone using creative and fun tools to teach academics
Mon: Gr. 1-4
after school program
Choose from Mon-Thurs (3pm–5:30pm)
Tues: Gr. 5-8 Wed: Gr. 1-4 Thurs: Gr. 5-8
(Welcome Inn) - 4 groups **Community Kitchen (ON March of Dimes)
Assist adults with physical disabilities in a community cooking group
Mon. 1-3:15pm
**Homework Help Club (SISO)
Help new immigrant youth with homework
Mon. 3:305:45pm
Mon. 3:305:45pm
Tues. 3:305:45pm Wed. 3:305:45pm **Pathways to Education (North Hamilton Community Health Centre)
Provide academic tutoring/role-modeling to Gr. 9 students in a group environment where learning (through homework, projects, and other avenues) is preserved and appreciated.
Tues. 5:008:15pm
Peer Support Program (ON March of Dimes)
Assist adults with physical disabilities (using augmentative and alternative communication devices), help plan guest speakers
Thurs. 1:005:15pm
Family Night (Eva Rothwell Community Centre)
Play games, engage in crafts or sports, provide movie and snacks for the whole family
Mon. 6:158:30pm
Terryberry
Help students with homework, in small groups or 1-
Mon.
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Library Homework
on-1.
4-6pm Thurs.
Club
4-6pm
**Support Workers (Salvation Army)
Help individuals with developmental disabilities in all areas of their lives.
Tbd- letting me know by 31st
Saturday Youth Drop-in (SISO)
Mentor new immigrant youth, engage them with games, and take them on field trips
Sat, 1:00-5:15pm
Wesley Centre Soup Kitchen
Prepare and serve food to homeless people at a drop-in; Fri. group - organize movie night
Fri. 5:30 8:45pm Sat. 6:30- 9:15 am
Hungry for Change Dinner (planned in collaboration with other student groups at McMaster): 80 Attendees 4 Volunteer Fairs (1 in collaboration with other campus services): 100-150 attendees at each Peace Hike with Open Circle (September): 15 attendees Volunteer Event at Plan B Organic Farm (October): 20 attendees Volunteer Dinner – guest speaker from Volunteer Hamilton (October): 25 Attendees Volunteer-a-thon (March): 25 Attendees - This was a day of volunteering in groups at 5 agencies followed by a reflection session at Skydragon centre. Volunteer Apprecation Event – 40 Attendees to thank all CVA volunteers
Peace Hike
Volunteer group at Eva Rothwell Resource Center
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Hungry for Change
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Creativity Circle Clubsfest – September and January. Attendees: 50 Intro to Creativity Circle - September. A 2 hour edition designed to give prospective creativity “circlers” a good idea of the group and a chance to meet new people. Attendees: 12 Creativity Circle Weekly Discussion Group. These took place once a week during any week in which classes were running and always involved a different activity. People gathered to write, draw, meditate and discuss on topics about self realization, spirituality, social justice, deeper meaning and anything that’s on their mind. Attendees: 4-14 Art Show – Image Meets Spirit. This took place at First Unitarian church where Creativity Circle participant’s art was displayed for 2 months. The group also created a collaborative piece for the show. The opening drew in students and community members. Attendees: 50 + exposure to art for people using the building at other times Meditating with Mandalas - January. Guided meditation exercise and the chance to create your own Mandalas. An intro to the group for the second term and a reliever of the winter blahs. Attendees:6 Image Meets Spirit Art Show
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The Dominican Republic Self-Help Working Group For the last three years, The Dominican Republic Self-Help Working Group has been involved in the McMaster Community through OPIRG, to raise awareness about creating social change and sustainability for those living in extreme poverty in the Dominican Republic. This working group was created to broaden awareness opportunities and get more people involved with the need for social justice in the Dominican Republic. Our working group is a branch off of a local Hamilton group, The Dominican Republic Faith Experience (DRFE), which has taken participants to the Dominican Republic to analyze the root causes of poverty for the last 20 years. The DRFE works in solidarity with Dominicans, their communities, and experiences to assist in developing projects with goals of creating sustainability. The Dominican Republic Self-Help working group has been an outlet to enable more people in the community to become aware and involved about these issues and self-help projects. One of our most recent projects includes a Garden Project, among several others. This project was started by Juan Rivas, the head coordinator of the DRFE in the Dominican Republic, with motives to create employment opportunities, and food sources by enabling Dominicans living on sugar cane bateyes to develop or further develop skills to produce and maintain gardens. These gardens create goods they can both sell and use to feed their families. In addition this project further assists in developing and teaching techniques on raising livestock for additional food and sources of employment and sustainability. In January of 2010, the DR Self-Help Working Group participated in PIRGtopia, and had an amazing opportunity to talk to many individuals about our group, our projects, and our two week experience that is offered every summer. Members of our group felt strongly that this was an excellent way to raise awareness about our group in the community. In addition, it enabled our group and its members to interchange ideas and experiences with individuals who visited our display. Two years ago, OPIRG and the DR Self-Help Working Group organized a film night that invited people in the Hamilton community to a film titled “The Price of Sugar,� that documented the realities of poverty in the Dominican Republic in sugar cane bateyes. This evening was a great success, and is something that our group hopes to be able to do again in the near-future. This is the third year that our group has been involved with OPIRG McMaster, and hope and plan to continue our work through OPIRG in the future. For this group, we feel that OPIRG has been an outlet to raise awareness and involve members of the community to learn about the root causes of poverty in the Dominican, and work together to create social change and sustainability in solidarity with our friends in the Dominican.
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FreeSkool Hamilton FreeSkool is built upon a small body of organizers (a position open to anyone who expresses an interest and is willing to attend meetings and conduct themselves at meetings and as FreeSkool representatives in accordance with the anti-oppression and consensus decision making values of the organizing body), as well as a number of autonomous classes facilitated by community members. To follow is a brief summary of organizer activities, including the number of organizers, organizer attendance at events on behalf of FreeSkool, events conducted by FreeSkool organizers, and a summary of the ideas and outcomes of the bi-weekly organizer meetings that have occurred from September 2010 to present. I will also include a brief summary of classes that have occurred with as much detail as we, as organizers, know about how classes are conducted, attendance, location, etc. From September 2010 to present, the number of active FreeSkool organizers has ranged from 5 to 7. Organizers attend bi-weekly meetings to envision ways to promote FreeSkool and classes, to make it as inclusive, accessible and egalitarian as possible, to find ways to encourage participation from community members, and to plan and organize events to promote FreeSkool or events for the purpose of educating the community on topics of importance to members of the organizing body and/or FreeSkool community. Some of the ideas that have emerged from meetings over this past semester that have been put into action, or are in the process of being put into action include: ensuring organizers and facilitators are educated about and comfortable with anti-oppression and consensus decision making; encouraging them to ensure that class participants are aware of these core FreeSkool values with the use of informative handbills helping provide facilitators with spaces to conduct their classes that are free and accessible, including physically accessible â—Ś we are also hoping to find a way to ensure that child care is available at classes (when needed) for interested participants who might not otherwise be able to attend classes due to caring for their children; this is particularly important because of the inclusivity that FreeSkool strives for increasing awareness of FreeSkool through the use of posters, buttons, stickers, web advertising, and presence at community and school events
In addition to bi-weekly meetings, some of the events that FreeSkool has attended over the past two semesters include: James St. North Art Crawl, December 2009 PIRGTopia, January 2010 May Day festival, May 2010
Events organized by FreeSkool over the past two semesters include: Two movie nights: â—Ś Free to Learn, a documentary about a Free School in Albany, November 2009 â—Ś Five Ring Circus, a documentary about the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, December 2009 OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
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FreeSkool 1st Birthday Celebrations, January 2010 â—Ś A week-long celebration that included workshops, a old-school film fest, pot-luck and fundraising concert at the Sky Dragon Centre Spring Reveille, March 2010 â—Ś A pot-luck to welcome spring and the new FreeSkool term followed by workshops on spinning poi, support, and miniature terrarium building
FreeSkool has been well-supported by the community, but in particular, OPIRG McMaster and the Jamesville Community Centre, where a number of classes and events have taken place. We have also been able to use space at the Sky Dragon Centre for free or inexpensively for classes and events. There have been many classes and workshops that occurred over the past two semesters. Each class and workshop is facilitated by individuals, many of whom are not part of the FreeSkool organizing committee. Though we attempt to maintain regular contact with facilitators, the information we have regarding frequency of classes and attendance is based on rough estimates and generalizations. To follow is a list of classes that have occurred with as much information as we can reasonably include: French Talkin' is a French conversation group and FreeSkool's longest running class. It has continued weekly throughout 2009/10 on Thursdays at Jamesville Community Centre. Attendance varies from 5 to 15 individuals per week. It has recently switched to a bi-weekly class. Dinner and Theory was mostly active during the Fall semester. Classes included a free vegan dinner, followed by discussion of an article or chapter previously read by attendants (provided for free using FreeSkool resource funding). These classes were well-attended. Decolonizing Practical Solidarity was a weekly class on Wednesday evenings that focused on practical ways to build solidarity with First Nations communities. Attendance began to dwindle in the winter term and this class is currently on hiatus. Other Classes and Workshops: Spanish, Qi Gong, Circus/Poi Skillshare, Arts and Creativity, Winter Wondering.
This summarizes the events and activities of Hamilton FreeSkool during the 2009/2010 school year. FreeSkool will also be active throughout the summer, promoting approximately 10 classes thus far and attending events such as the Hamilton Anarchist Bookfair.
Guatemalan Working Group Event: Resistance to Honduran Military Coup in Honduras Sept. 09 - Event on campus: -with guest speaker, Karen Spring on a Rights Action (www.rightsaction.org) tour. On June 28, the Honduran military, in collusion with Honduran economic and political elites, the hierarchy of the Catholic Church and the media, violently overthrew the democratically elected government of President Mel Zelaya. Since that date, a massive movement of the Honduran people has come together to peacefully and courageously restore democracy to their country.
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Event: Land Reform, Justice & Beyond Fair-trade… Wednesday. November. 18 at 7pm Hamilton welcomes back Lesbia Morales Sican, member of the National Executive of the Campesino Committee of the Highlands - a Guatemalan movement that has fought tirelessly for over 25 years for the rights of rural population and highland Maya of Guatemala. Lesbia also coordinates CCDA projects focusing on alternative development, works with women's commissions and small cooperative businesses in various communities.
Event: Activism in Rural Guatemala: 3 Decades of Struggle for the Campesino Committee of the Highlands Tuesday, March 30, 2010 @ 7pm, Skydragon Centre - an evening with Leocadio Juracan, Director, CCDA -Campesino Committee of the Highlands – Guatemala. The CCDA is a Committee of farmers and rural Guatemalans which emerged during the peak of Guatemala's civil war in 1982. As an Indigenous organization, the CCDA assists families to access land, defend human rights and Mayan cultural identity, as well as promote responsible agricultural development and meaningful political participation.
Cafe Justicia Alert: In February of this year, the CCDA’s coffee warehouse was robbed of a significant portion of their 2009 harvest - shortly thereafter several death-threats were issued against Leocadio and his family. It is believed that the co-op is being targeted because of the mission: to empower the people, and create social, political and economic change On-going … Alongside this public event, the Guatemalan Working Group took part a Canada-wide campaign to raise funds for the CCDA as well as urgent action letter writing campaign. We also organized highschool school visits with CCDA representatives in November 2009 (Lesbia Morales) and March 2010 (Leocadio Juracan). Throughout 2009/10 we have sold (and will continue to sell) Café Justicia, which permits the CCDA to meet some of the most basic needs for rural families and permits the CCDA carryout social and political work in rural Guatemala. Our solidarity efforts have worked in conjunction with other Guatemalan networks in Hamilton, Canada and Guatemala.
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The Hamilton Vegetarian Society Information booths: The HVS held seven informational booths at the University of McMaster, both in the student center and at Bridges, Mac's only vegetarian cafe. Pamphlets, contact information, and educative material were handed out and displayed as part of our tabling procedures. We collected emails and contact information for people looking to get involved. Radio Play: HVS group leader Beau Caza was on air with McMaster's CFMU 93.3 for ten (10) one hour sessions between January and March of 2010. During this time, Beau spoke about the importance of environmentalism and ecological consumption pertaining to our eating habits. He also brought attention to events held by OPIRG as well as other community related happenings. The show itself was called "Green Sense" which details human ecological impacts and solutions. Bake Sales: The HVS held four successful bake sales in the McMaster student center with a total profit of approximately $200 for their group budget. One bake sale in particular was featured in the Hamilton Spectator's "Community Free Press" which is printed and delivered to over 50,000 residences in the city of Hamilton. As a promotional and artistic effort, a video was produced highlighting the HVS bake sales at McMaster, explaining the various health ingredients used to make delicious yet nutritious baked goods. The video was posted on the HVS youtube site and has over 200 views. Winter Solstice Party: The HVS held a winter solstice party at the Freeway Cafe, a non-profit coffee house on 333 King St. East in Hamilton during the month of December. A total of 50 guests showed up to enjoy music, food, and a performance by vegan activist, comedian, and entertainer John Sakars. Cost of food was provided and donated by HVS group leader, Beau Caza. 7th Annual Peace Conference: The HVS group attended the 7th Annual Peace Conference hosted in part by OPIRG and other nonprofit groups. HVS group leader Beau Caza held a workshop for 6 students during the event, explaining the importance of eating ecologically as well as eating healthy. Movie Nights: The HVS group held three (3) movie nights held at the Skydragon Community Center on 27 King William Street in Hamilton. Movies screened included Food Inc., The World According to Monsanto, and The Corporation. Prizes were donated by Barbara Maccaroni of Blove for the events and were distributed to the lucky participants who won some delicious raw food treats.
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Website: The HVS working group has a beautiful website designed to enhance appeal to our group while offering people sound nutritional advice. The website consists of recipes, local restaurants, event details, environmental tips on becoming green and more. The website can be seen at www.hamiltonveg.ca. Email List: Through all our community interaction, we have accrued over 300 consenting individuals' emails which we use to broadcast our upcoming events, newly discovered recipes, and any other necessary updates. Summary: This has been a brief summary of some of the accomplishments performed by the HVS working group, which could not have taken place without the support of OPIRG, it's coordinators and volunteers. The HVS looks forwards to a great year ahead in the 2010-2011 school year.
MCMaster First Nations Student Association (MFNSA) Weekly Meetings MFNSA’s meetings for first term were on Thursdays. However, after having more students join, meetings were then scheduled for Fridays to accommodate new members. During second term, meetings were held every Tuesday. Approximately 15-20 students attended each weekly meeting. These meetings allow MFNSA members to work together to plan events, discuss issues and have an open dialogue in an inviting atmosphere. Meetings are also a time for members to relax and catch up with each other or get to know other members better. But perhaps the best part of our meetings are the meals prepared by the Indigenous Studies Program’s (ISP) Elder-in-Residence, Bertha Skye. Mrs. Skye comes to MFNSA’s lounge once a week. She is available to students for cultural support, to share stories and laughs, along her keen knowledge and advice. Mrs. Skye is also on hand to teach students how to make beaded earrings, metal/wire jewelry, and medicine pouches, etc. whenever students have free time.
Events and Activities for 2009-2010 ClubsFest, September 9, 2009; approximately 50 attendees Seven MFNSA members attended this event to help recruit students to MFNSA and/or OPIRG and to encourage them to take some ISP courses.
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Welcoming Powwow, September 25, 2009; approximately 200 attendees This social gathering was to celebrate the 20th anniversary of MFNSA as a group at McMaster University. This was also an opportunity to educate the McMaster community on Anishinaabe culture. CHCH news, McMaster Daily News and catholic news reported on this event. Lecture Series, “Sacrificing the Maya,” October 15, 2009; approximately 15 attendees This “film night” was an opportunity to examine the issues of representation for Indigenous peoples in Mel Gibson’s film, Apocalypto. It also provided an area for open discussion on the repercussions of such a film. The discussion panel included Fernando Hernandez, a Tzotzil Maya from Chiapas, who was also one of the stars of the film. Bolivia in Transition, October 29, 2009;approximately 15 attendees The Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS) co-hosted with MFNSA the presentation of the film, Bolivia in Transition, an independent grassroots video about the country’s constitutional referendum. Filmmakers Raul Burbano and Sara Korosi, members of the Toronto Bolivia Solidarity Network, shot the film in Bolivia during their visit in January 2009 as official international observers of the referendum and were also present for discussion after the video. OLAS wanted to host this event with MFNSA to bring awareness of the Indigenous uprising occurring in Latin America and to build solidarity with Indigenous struggles here in Canada. MFNSA’s Annual Christmas Toy Drive At the end of October, 2009, MFNSA sent an email requesting participants for our toy drive. The Departments of Sociology, History, and Philosophy, the Faculty of Engineering (Dean’s Office), OLAS, and OPIRG helped contribute to make this year’s toy drive a success. Compass was also contacted and was contracted by MFNSA to collect donations. All current MFNSA members helped with the Christmas Toy Drive. Students dropped off boxes at the various departments across campus to collect new and unused toys as well as money. Once collected the toys were donated to the Native Women’s Centre, who distributed them to underprivileged Indigenous families in Hamilton. World Religions Day, November 12, 2009; approximately 30 attendees Diversity Services invited MFNSA to be part of the World Religions Day event. Our group had a booth with general information about the dominant Indigenous group beliefs in southern Ontario, the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. Luke Jeffries provided a brief overview of Indigenous Cosmology to be used in the slideshow explaining each religion. OPIRG Open House, November 18, 2009
First Nations drummers and singers from MFNSA’s Welcoming Powwow
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MFNSA helped to promote this event. We encouraged many of our members to attend and also distributed information through our emailing list. OPIRG Board Member, Jessica Bonilla-Damptey, advised MFNSA that funds raised at the open house would be donated to MFNSA’s Toy Drive. Our group was very grateful of all the assistance provided by OPIRG through Jessica. Dulce Navidad, November 26, 2009 (OLAS event) Although this was not a MFNSA event, our group helped promote event and some of our members attended. OLAS asked that admission be the donation of toy or school supplies. OLAS and MFNSA member, Jessica Bonilla-Damptey, informed us that any donated toys would be given to MFNSA’s Toy Drive. Canadian Aboriginal Festival, November 27-29, 2009; approximately 100 attendees Ten MFNSA members assisted with this recruitment event. The Aboriginal Students Health Science (ASHS) office sponsored the admission costs. The goal was to recruit new students and promote ASHS, ISP and MFNSA. It was a great event and many of our members had lots of fun talking about our experiences at university and networking with interested students. ISP and MFNSA Christmas Potluck, December 8, 2009; approximately 25 attendees ISP staff and faculty, along with MFNSA and other community members, hosted a Christmas lunch. It was just before final exams and was a good opportunity for students to take a break from studying. PIRGtopia, January 13, 2010; approximately 20 attendees MFNSA, as an OPIRG working group, had a table for the PIRGtopia event. Five members of MFNSA volunteered for the day, talking to passersby and helping to recruit students to the group. Film Night Series, January 18 to March 22, 2010; approximately 15 to 40 attendees (varied) This ISP film series was assisted by MFNSA. Our members helped to promote, set up and clean up the room as well as attend each night. Over the course of second term ISP screened the following films: Club Native, Five Ring Circus, Mothers of Our Nations, and Ten Canoes. Discussions were held afterwards and were led by ISP faculty. Bake Sale Table, January 19, 2010; approximately 30 attendees MFNSA booked a table through OPIRG and hosted a bake sale table in MUSC. All the proceeds were donated to help with the Haiti relief effort. Moccasin Making Workshop (part one), February 12, 2010; approximately 15 attendees This was an educational and cultural event to teach our First Nations and non-First Nations members how to make traditional moccasins. Dianne Sault, an Ojibwe from the New Credit First Nation, was the instructor for this workshop.
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Don Burnstick Workshops, March 5, 2010; approximately 20 attendees ISP sponsored MFNSA to allow our group to bring in First Nations facilitator and comedian, Don Burnstick. Don conducted two workshops with our members. The first was based on team building initiatives and the second was regarding the development of aboriginal youth leadership. Along with MFNSA members, we had three participants from Six Nations Polytechnic. This was a great opportunity for our members to laugh and learn from the experiences Don had to share.
(L-R): Binoy Dave; David Wolfman, chef; Kelly Fisher, MFNSA Secretary.
Don Burnstick Family Comedy Night, March 5, 2010; approximately 200 attendees Our group was also able to secure Don to host a family comedy show on campus. We asked that admission be a monetary donation and all funds raised were donated to the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota, who had been hit by severe winter storms leaving most community members without heat and electricity. Traditional Foods, March 6, (L-R): ISP Elder-in-Residence, Bertha Skye; Don Burnstick, Comedian 2010; approximately 15 attendees First Nations chef, David Wolfman, came in to teach our members how to prepare a variety of dishes including: bannock, wild rice, braised bison, and mackerel fish cakes. The students learned a lot from David, who also hosts APTN’s, Cooking with the Wolfman, and teaches at George Brown College. Campus Tours for Secondary School Students, March 9, 2010; approximately 40 attendees Approximately 10 MFNSA students gave campus tours to surrounding Secondary School students. The goal was to encourage First Nations students to attend McMaster University and to show students that they would have a First Nations student group for support.
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Paddle Song, March 11-12, 2010; approximately 50 attendees each night Paddle Song: The Life and Adventures of E. Pauline Johnson, a musical, was written by Dinah Christie and directed by Pamela Matthews. Starring Cheri Maracle, the play showcases the life and adventures of Mohawk poetess Pauline Johnson. ISP covered the production costs and MFNSA assisted with admissions. We asked that patrons make a donation to benefit the Native Women's Centre. Moccasin Making Workshop (part two), March 13, 2010; approximately 10 attendees Dianne Sault returned to help students complete their moccasins. The original workshop was not long enough for most students to finish even one side of their pair. Guest Lecturer Dr. Chantelle Richmond, March 18, 2010; approximately 30 attendees MFNSA helped to promote this ISP event. Dr Richmond, an Anishinaabe from Pic River, lectured on: Exploring the Social Determinants of Food Choice of First Nations in Southwestern Ontario: Results from a Community-based Study. Guest Lecturer Dr. Jolene Rickard, March 19, 2010; approximately 50 attendees This was not a MFNSA event, but our group helped promote and attend the talk. The McMaster University’s Women’s Studies and Indigenous Studies Programs and the McMaster Museum of Art hosted Dr Rickard, a Tuscarora curator, photographer, and scholar. Dr Rickard is also the Chair for the Department of Art, an Associate Professor, of Art History/American Indian Studies/Department of Art at Cornell University. She is an artist, curator and historian concentrating on the aesthetic practice of First Nations and Indigenous peoples within a global context. This talk was held in conjunction with the exhibition "Fierce: Women's Hot-Blooded Film/Video" at the McMaster Museum of Art. Kissed by Lightening, March 29, 2010; approximately 40 attendees This was the last film night of the series hosted by ISP. MFNSA again helped to promote and attend this event as well as assist with set up and clean up of the room. Kissed by Lightening was directed by Shelley Niro, a Mohawk from Six Nations. Discussions with Shelly followed after the presentation. Year-End Social, April 5, 2010; approximately 75 attendees This was MFNSA’s last event for the year. Singers and dancers from Six Nations came to share their knowledge of Haudenosaunee culture to help educate attendees. We also had guests from Oklahoma demonstrate Cherokee versions of social dances and sones that are very similar in style to Haudenosaunee ones.
(L-R): Rick Monture, Acting Academic Director of ISP; Dinah Christie, writer of Paddle Song; Tom Hill, Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre
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Migrant Workers Family Resource Centre This year, we were able to get an office space at 350 Kenilworth Ave. N. where local 1005 is located. With this new public space we were able to serve more migrant workers from Colombia, Guatemala, Philippines and Kenya. We received minimum of 25-30 people on the weekly basis with the heavy concentration on the weekend. We hold our annual dinner and dance on Nov 25, 2009 and we are grateful for the support of OPIRG in sponsoring the event close to 100 attended the event. We are supporting three humanitarian and compassionate applications of caregivers under the Live-in caregiver program. We assist migrant workers with their unpaid wages through the Ministry of Labour and several cases are being process at this time. Our spring annual conference held at McMaster University on April 24th 2010; it was another enjoyable time for everyone and this year we were able to witness the first public appearance of the MWFRC dance troop both adult and children performing Filipino folkdances. We have around 100 people on attendance with the people coming and going. We had several volunteers from CUPE 3906, member of OPIRG and migrant workers themselves. Participants of the conference come from the academics, community service providers and migrant workers.
Save More Students SMS was founded in September 2009 by Shahed Al-Rifai and Sabrena Ibied through OPIRG. When the two of us started our venture and initially decided to create a working group, we had no idea what our future held. All we knew is that we were dedicated to the topic of bullying and the negative effects it has on the youth all over the world. Being that we can not take on the global issue just yet, we choose to start out with schools within our neighborhood. The goals of SMS were to tackle the issue of bullying, by presenting to classrooms the effects and seriousness of bullying. We set out to achieve our goals with great aspirations in mind. We planned to attend as many different schools, and youth groups as possible and get our name out there. This being our first year, SMS had to introduce ourselves as upand-coming human rights, working group. In general, our main objective is to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for students while receiving an education. As students who have seen first-hand the consequences of bullying, we want to make a difference. School can be hard enough without the additional stress of a bully, students should not have to feel alone, and SMS wants to create a anonymous haven for students to reach out to, we will also provide help and encouragement to students to help them in there journey through school.
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Meetings Date & Time
Attendance
Event
Thu. 11/19
4 volunteer members as well as Shahed and Sabrena
Group Meeting
Tue. 11/24
Sabrena & Shahed
Group Meeting
11:30 AM
Also 5 second year students
Discussion topics:
11:30 AM
Short meeting where we discussed the progress of SMS and the future of our group. New members were always welcomed.
progress set-backs feedback how to change our group for the better Thurs. 2/11
All members of SMS (roughly 8-10)
This was a general meeting held at the Turner Park YMCA library to introduce new members of SMS and we looked over the process that our group has made.
11:00 AM
Tue. 2/16
Shahed & Sabrena
10:00 AM
Fri. 2/19 1:00 PM
Meeting
Touching Base
We went to various schools, to set up meetings to present to students in the following months to come. Shahed, Sabrena and Monika (a fellow SMS member)
Secondary Schools
We met up with teachers at Highschools in the area; we had a few short meetings to introduce ourselves.
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Thu. 3/4 6:00 PM
Tue. 3/9 10:00 AM
Wed. 3/17 11:00 AM
Fri. 3/26 10:00 AM
Shahed, Sabrena, and Monika, presented to a group of 15 girls aged 8-11
Presentation to Youth Group
Sabrena, Shahed and Monika presented to 2 classes of grade 5 students who participate in the Peer Mediating program at their school.
Pauline Johnson School
Shahed & Sabrena and around 10 girls at each school.
Highschool Presentations
Shahed & Sabrena met up with Mr. Cooke of McNab Secondary School
Improving SMS!
Reaching out to the youth of our community is very important to SMS! On this day we presented to an Arab Youth Group at 6pm at the Fortino's near LimeRidge Mall
We presented to a group of Peer Mediators at Pauline Johnson.
Met up with 3 groups of students at local highschools to have a general discussion about bullying and how they can make a difference. Met with a teacher from McNab Secondary School, to help us with our presentation skills.
This information can also be found on our website, here is the link: http://savemorestudents.webs.com/apps/calendar/showAgenda?calID=3864891&showPreviousEvents=1
Events/Presentations SMS is a group that focuses on presentations in schools, given that this is our main goal, rather than holding public events for purposes such as fundraising.
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1) Advertisement o SMS was featured in the 93.3 CFMU McMaster radio station website. They requested a small advertisement of our working group, and we submitted the following banner. This banner was featured on the website in cycle with other advertisements.
2) Elementary School Presentation o We made an appearance at Pauline Johnson Elementary School, on March 9th, 2010. During our presentation not only did we enjoy talking to the students about bullying, we also sensed that SMS was being recognized by the public for all the work that we have put in. o This picture was taken with one of the teachers (Mrs. Steinbock) because the students were not given permission to be photographed.
3)
High school Group Presentations o On March 17th we met up with a group of high school girls and we brainstormed ways to prevent bullying and get involved, these girls are members of a humanitarian club at Barton Secondary School.
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4) High School Group Meeting o On March 17th, 2010 we met up with a group of high school girls that are involved in the Multicultural club at Hill Park Secondary School, and we encouraged them to embrace their differences and ways to avoid the pressure of bullying.
5) High School Presentation at McNab Secondary School o During lunch we met up with Spanish club that was having their weekly meetings, we took 10 minutes to inform them about our group, how they can join, and ways they can help out in their school and community by leading by example. We took a picture with their supervisor, Mr. Cordero.
Uniqueness of Save More Students Our group is an interactive, informative, public interest group. We offer presentation on ways to prevent bullying, and are dedicated to changing the negative atmosphere in current education systems. SMS is different than other working groups, because we focus on interacting with students face-to-face and making them feel comfortable and safe to reach out to us for information OPIRG McMaster Working Group Year End Report 2009-2010
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and encouragement. We educate students about bullying by presenting slideshows, and informative skits that keep the students engaged and interested in the topic. SMS can proudly say that we met the goals that we set out with in the beginning of the year. We are grateful that we were given the opportunity to become an active group in our community through OPIRG. We are looking forward to continue our journey with OPIRG and hopefully our group will expand and develop further in the coming years. If we can Save one More Student, we will feel that our main objective has been achieved. We would like to thank all members of OPIRG for providing and encouraging us to pursue achieving our aspirations, and hopefully one day they will not simply be dreams, but actual achievements. We greatly appreciate the positive attitudes and atmosphere at OPIRG and are looking forward to working with the team in the future.
www.savemorestudents.webs.com. sms.opirg@hotmail.com http://twitter.com/savestudents.
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APPENDIX COMMENTS FROM WORKING GROUP ONLINE SURVEY Feel free to list any things you liked or disliked about being an OPIRG McMaster Working Group. PIRGtopia, was AWESOME! I think that many groups would agree that this event brought a lot of attention to McMaster students about OPIRG, and allowed for OPIRG working group members to meet, discuss their gorups and motives, and to help one another with ideas. It was a great day, and I hope that it is something that OPIRG will continue to do. all the resources available for borrowing, photocopying budget, button maker, consensus & anti-oppression workshops (these were all very helpful to freeskool) Love being an OPIRG Working group! Always friendly, helpful and understanding :) I really like the opportunity to hold conference in campus facilitated by OPIRG. I wish OPIRG can also be open during weekend for other members of our group to be able to come and enjoy the library etc.. in the office. Publicity support is Great. Using office computer/printer, really helpful. Friendly people, the best! Thank you for all your help and support, We greatly appreciate all the contributions and enthusiasm from the OPIRG community! wonderful network of resources and people interested in these issues great support for our goals It has always been such a pleasure to work with OPIRG McMaster; I hope to keep in touch! LIKE: -the atmosphere of OPIRG. eg having vegan and homemade food at gatherings, random resource sharing that occurs through spontaneous conversations at the office, the respectful environment, hanging out with individuals who are similarly doing things to push for nonconventional ideas. -financial support -administrative support around room bookings -social networking support: in getting news of working group events out to the entire OPIRG membership population The staff have been veeery wonderful and supportive =) What could OPIRG McMaster do to improve your Working Group experience? keep doing the same thing Not sure... I think MFNSA could be more organized for the Fall term. I hope over the summer to get a workplan done ahead of time so things aren't so hectic during the school year. It would be wonderful if OPIRG McMaster staff can also participate in some of our group activities... I don't know about what OPIRG could have done, but I think on our part, we could have been better at participating in the anti-O and the consensus workshops. -right now communication between working groups is very limited by everyone's different schedules. i wonder if we could have an OPIRG forum (in addition to the blog) where working
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group members and general members can support each other better in terms of pooling resources and bouncing ideas of each other
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thanks to all the working group volunteers for their dedication to creating a better world through their actions, and especially to the working group contact people who made communication between the office and the working groups possible. Thanks to OPIRG permanent part-time staff Cecilia and Shelley for their office support on behalf of working group in the realm of finances, room booking and other administrative tasks, and for their enthusiasm for the work of students and community members. Thank you to the board of OPIRG for their role in interviewing and selecting working group applicants, and for their ongoing support for student research and activism.
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