Today marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which comes at a politically challenging time in Ontario and around the world.
The United Nations officially designated October 17th as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in 1992.
This year is the 30th anniversary of the U.N.’s Convention on the Rights of the Child so this year’s theme is “Acting together to empower children, their families and communities to end poverty.” The Convention states that every child has a right to a standard of living that nurtures their mental, physical, social, spiritual and moral development.
Ending poverty for children and their families in Ontario is an uphill battle – and that hill has become much steeper with the Ford government in power. Premier Ford has done everything within his power to make sure that Ontarians living in poverty stay that way, while his wealthy benefit at their expense.
We are going to need everyone to heed the call to action and work towards the common goal of ending poverty by listening to and helping those who are struggling, ensuring that all children have equal access to education and electing governments who really do want to work all of “the people” and not just the wealthy.
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President
Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer