Macphail: B. C. Won't Accept Axworthy Agenda

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Newspaper Septern her 19941 I Volume I Issue 6 End Legislated Poverty's MacPhail: B. c. won't accept Axworthy agenda

The B. C. government "is not waiting for [social policy] changes from the feds. We're proceeding with the clear understanding that we'll have less money," Social Services Minister Joy MacPhail told an End Legislated Poverty delegation at a meeting on August 19th. "If the feds try to impose rules regarding giving less to people or forcing people to do something, we will carry on with our commitment to public programs," MacPhail promised. ELP had set up the meeting to Diane LeClaire, Jim Pence, and Shari Nelson (left to right) discuss the crucial social policy [larticiphte in ELP presentation to Joy MacPhail on Aug. 19th. review that the federal government is doing. Leaked plans from the Shari Nelson of the Tri Cities government show that Human people offUI if someone in Anti-Poverty Group asked if Resources Minister Lloyd their family is working, on welfare and MacPhail supported making single Social Services Minister Joy Axworthy is actively considering • force people to work, parents on welfare "emplovable." ELP delegation plans to UI to take training or MacPhail meets Federal changes to the Child , • drastically cut UI and to • privatize higher education, on Au 19th in Vancouver. be designed to torce • abolish the Canada Assistance Benefit could wage Plan, single mothers to take low didn't give a - • use money that is now spent work. MacPhail Help Terrace Anti-Poverty on welfare for wage specific answer. asked supplements (welfare for Michelle Des Lauriers would employers who pay low MacPhail if the government Group get its grant Rights Act to wages). change the Human scared by give people the protections in CAP Victoria, the grants they had ELP is appalled and By Dave Jaffe plans (continued on page 2) applied for. MacPhail said she'd these federal government because they mean that the The Terrace Anti-Poverty Group look into it. to help poor will get poorer. More people may have to shut down unless we Here's what you can do will be forced to work for low help save it. save advocacy in northwest B. c.: C()ntents to your local MLA wages. ELP wanted MacPhail to "We cover the whole northwest Phone or write Page 2-- letters MacPhail, the Minister of make a commitment to fight the of B. c., providing advocacy and and Joy Page 3--8. C. Poverty News Her address is _~hange~. __ information to over 1200 people a Social Services. New trade deal Buildings, Victoria, B. month," says Gerry King, the Parliament Page 4--0rganizing around C. V8V 1X4. Tell them that these advocate at the Terrace Anti Take Back the province-Victoria two groups need their grants and Women, Poverty Group. King advises corporate agenda workshop we need their services. Q Q Q people on welfare, UI, WCB, the Night Page 5--Around the world pensions, and writing resumes, U. S. to cut addicts off among other things. August didn't disappear welfare The Ministry of Social Services Yes this is the September Page 6 & 7--Stop the attack July was recently turned down T APG's issue of The Long Haul. Thursday, September 22, on our social programs The This Long Haul has application for $31,000. the last issue. 7:30 pm Page 8 & 9--FlAWline-Appeal by October date because it is office will be closed the September review; social condition in the grant. to the end of each Gather at Vancouver unless the group gets distributed close the Human Rights Act End want people to On August 19th, at month. We don't Art Gallery, Georgia and Page 10-- Billionaire list with an old paper. Legislated Poverty's meeting think they are getting Howe St. grows Rose Brown made to Karen Shillington for Joy MacPhail, Thanks Page 11 & 12--ElP help for an eloquent statement urging the the idea. Q 0 0 Child care provided. low income people-legal Minister to give T APG as well as For info, phone 872-8212 Services not on strike Together Against Poverty in MacPhail meeting important. and Aboriginal people," she said. delegation included Antoinette continued from page 1) "We have said no at every ELP gave the Minister a leaked Saleh, Diane LeClaire, Jim Pence, opportunity [to Axworthy's federal document <,m Axworthy's Paul Taylor, David Goodwin, agenda], " said MacPhail. The plan, the federal propaganda Joanne Shaw, Jean Swanson, Gael if CAP is abolished. MacPhail said purpose of the Premier's Forum, strategy on the plan, and a copy of Marriotte, Tim Heisler, Mable she hadn't considered this but she said, is ~o set out our agenda. Unfair Shares, the list of Elmore, and Paul Leighton. would. (The Premier's Fonlm is a group corporations that owe billions in Next month: what people at the As a survivor of the psychiatric ofabout 30 people from business, deferred taxes. Apparently meeting thought about meeting system who had been coerced into academia, labour, and community MacPhail's staff did not have with the Minister of Social programs, Dave Ross said, "I'm groups, with no rep from anti copies of these documents. Services. 000 really concerned about the talk poverty groups). Additional members of the ELP that people will have to participate "If we aren't successful [in in training programs. I don't want stopping Axworthy's agenda]," the whole public to live with what Subscribe to The Long Haul said MacPhail, "it doesn't mean I've had to live with." Would that British Columbians will be MacPhail support the part of CAP If you would like The Long Haul mailed to you every month, please fill worse off, if we are government." that forbids workfare? MacPhail out this form. Don't fill it out if the paper is already mailed to you. MacPhail said that she sees said she supports the rights in The Long Haul is free to low income people. If you can afford to pay herself as an advocate of low CAP. for a subscription, $30 per year would help ELP meet its printing and income people, but "funding Barb Sutherland asked if the distribution costs. comes from taxpayers so I try to government would create training Please fill out this form and sent to ELF: respect their commitment too." programs for teens that led to jobs Yes, I want to subscribe to The Long Haul. Enclosed is $ to help She talked about how the . with decent wages. MacPhail said cover your costs. (Remember, The Long Haul is free to low mcome government was creating so many the government would work with people). jobs that people were coming from Mynameis,______ELP on that. other provinces to get them, so the Myaddress______Rose Brown asked MacPhail if unemployment rate doesn't go the government would make a Postal code______down. The government "needs to commitment to learn more about expand this to include job creation classism and offered to help. Send to The Long Haul, ELP #211 - 456 W. Broadway, Vancouver, B. for women, people on low income MacPhail agreed this was C. V5Y 1R3.

Thanks for The Long down reform). I'm sick and tired Sarah A (Walsh) Sharpe Editor responds: Try calling the Tenants Rights Coalition at 255- Haul of hungry babies and slum housing. 0546. Maybe they can help you I would like to thank you for Unhappy about photo A practical suggestion: let's force the landlord to clean up his sending us The Long Haul. We I was very unhappy when I saw have some debate in The Long appreciate it very much. my photograph published without Haul as to how we can go on the my permission in the June edition offensive against capitalism as a Betty Wood, Tappen, B. C. of The Long Haul. When I was social movement, rather than fight asked at the ELP offices to have defensive battles to preserve my picture taken I thought it was We need to go on the welfare programs. If we do stay in for use as a personal photograph, offensive such a defensive posture, reacting not for publication in the Published monthly by: In your last, typically excellent to whatever the rightlbusiness do newspaper. End Legislated Poverty #211,456 West Broadway issue , a reader asked in the letters to us, they will always win. Vancouver, BC V5Y lR3 section, "Why are the rich getting The last will be the first, provided Deborah March richer and the poor poorer? What we stop thinking and acting like Vancouver (604) 879-1209 has gone wrong?" we are last. fax line (604) 879-1229 Editor responds: I'm very sorry Surrey (604) 583-7363 I don't think anything has "gone that I wasn't clear about what the wrong." Our system is wrong, but Kevin McNamee-Annett, LIFT picture was for. I've learned by ELP is a coalition of Be groups it isn't the case that it isn't Port Alberni lesson and won't do it again. that want governments to reduce "working properly." Capitalism is and end poverty. supposed to make the rich richer Long Haul used in Slum dwelling makes life Editors: and poor poorer, since it exists to Jean Swanson literacy program Joanne Shaw profit those who own capital. We miserable Participants and staff at the (FLAWline) (the majority) work to produce R. E. A. D. Y Centre are enjoying Layout & Design wealth for the capitalists, and their Thank you for sending the Jean Swanson reading your newsletter, The Long political pimps. There will always newsletter. Eventually I guess I Joanne Shaw Haul. I think the layout, design be poverty under this system. shall be moving from here. The Dave Ross and content are excellent. Regular contributors: "The poor" are the result of ceiling leaks and there is no heater. We are currently using your David Jaffe capitalism's normal operating. This is the second year and the newsletter as general interest Anne Miles What's the point of trying to patch landlord makes no move to William Kay reading in our Level I Literacy up the system? Better to end it! improve the place. Rodents have Sandra Asiegbu Program, and I may add we could Sorry if I'm preaching. It seems actually touched me while I lay Sandy Cameron use a couple of extra copies for Cartoons: to me we won't realize our dreams sleeping. I had to stop sleeping on our program. Maureen Davis of "justice not charity" this side of a mattress. I am on a couch now. Thanks for putting us on your David Jaffe socialism (true socialism, not the The landlord knows but ignores mailing list and we look forward to Mike Harcourt variety of top my complaints. Printed in a union shop. receiving additional copies in the The Long Haul, Sept., future. Keep up the good work. Gloria Louie e:gg~~ 1994--page 2 Women Goodbye, Margaret want action By Gisele Guay their respects to a friend. I was able to let Margaret go I said goodbye to a dear friend with a full heart. She will be to improve today. When I attended my first remembered deeply by many. She fapg Annual General Meeting in also left clear goals for us to social Naramata in the summer of 1981, continue to strive for: our leaders Margaret wasn't there--physically. need support, families must be I was a single parent of two preserved and we must be united programs toddlers and I was feeling very in our voice against oppression of inadequate. I knew nothing of any kind. Thank you Delegates to the Women and legislation, government or even Margaret. 0 0 0 Social Policy Review conference social assistance itself People on July 22,23, and 24th want to be were so freindly and welcoming, Editor's note: Margaret Mitchell and time after time I heard active in working to get better steady, piercing gaze as she was the president of the Margaret's name mentioned. Her social programs. The conference reminded us that we had all just Vancouver and District Public name seemed to be synonymous approved workshop suggestions taken part in electing the president Housing Tenants' Association, on with wisdom, strength and respect. to and if we felt she couldn't the executive of the federated anti I had to meet this woman. protest against the provincial represent us, then why did we poverty groups of be, and a long When I did meet Margaret, I government for excluding elect her? I felt petty and time worker against poverty. was struck by her down to earth representatives from women's ashamed. We needed to remember wisdom. She spoke clearly and to and anti-poverty groups from to stand behind the people we the point. I had found a teacher. its special committee on social choose. That was the beginning of More lunch I remember one AGM when we policy an important time oflearning. had just completed our elections become an active, on going When I arrived at Margaret's money for and heard of an important coalition and expand funeral my heart was heavy. We workshop that would be coming membership all felt such a great sense of loss. B. C. schools up in Ottawa. A small group of us hold a day of action in late As I listened to the service and to October, with banners, gathered outside to discuss who the people who stood and spoke of Over 300 B. C. schools will be leafleting, a march and cultural we should nominate to attend this how Margaret touched their lives, getting $11 .6 million in provincial night or dance workshop. We felt that a certain I realized Margaret left us each funds for universal school lunch For more information on the person would be best suited something to carry on. programs this year. This will conference, see pages 6 and 7. because she was knowledgeable in There were about 145 people at include funding for 35 more For information on how women anti-poverty issues, another was the service--from the very poor to schools than last year. End and women's groups can get more articulate, another would the management ofB. C. Housing Legislated Poverty lobbied for 5 involved in the Women and Social write a better report. The -each one's life had been affected years to get this funding for discussion was becoming quite Policy Review Coalition, call by Margaret. At the close of the schools in low income heated. Miche at 255-6554.000 service, her casket was re-opened. areas.OOO Margaret came outside and I looked around in confusion, as suggested that we leave the we had all seen her before the decision to the president. There service. From the foyer came a was general murmuring about how procession of young men, each we hadn't decided yet. I will wearing the patch of "Hell's always remember Margaret's Angels." They too came to show Trade agreement threatens jobs and wages

By Dave Jaffe -Canada Free Trade Agreement. person or government challenging "It's hard to see where the ITA Then came NAFTA, the U. S., it," writes Scott Sinclair about one might lead, but there's no doubt "It's no big deal," said B. C. Canada, Mexico Free Trade of the ITA's major drawbacks. that the agreement is set up to Premier Mike Harcourt when he Agreement in 1993" Another downside to the ITA is constrain governments from recently signed the Internal Trade "The ITA is the next logical that it may forbid any government meeting the needs of their Agreement or ITA. step." putting conditions or requirements citizens," said Shniad. 0 0 0 Supposedly the IT A forces all Organizations like the Business on people who invest in B. C. ten provinces to tear down the Council on National Issues that "These requirements," Sinclair obstacles that prevent free trade pushed for the first two trade deals points out, "can be important for between the provinces. In fact, the were driving forces behind this consumer protection and can ITA could tie the hands of any deal too. protect jobs. " NAfrA government in B. C. if, for This agreement gives business The IT A is a huge agreement instance, it wanted to improve the right to challenge government that totals hundreds of pages. "It's working conditions and wages. policies and projects such as B. C. a massively complex document," DOESN'T "The agreement will definitely 21 which provides for hiring says Shniad. "So I can't tell you limit the B. C. government's ability workers at union rates to build the for sure all of its long term HAFTA'tI to intervene in the economy." says Island Highway. The ITA allows effects." Sid Shniad, research director of non union firms to challenge this But its' possible, he says, that B. the Telecommunications Workers fair wage policy and bid to build C.'s higher welfare rates compared Union. the highway at lower wages. to Alberta's rates could be claimed The agreement, says Shniad, is "The ITA places the onus of by an Albertan company doing the next stage in the free trade proof on the government enacting business in B. C. as an unfair The Long Haul, Sept., agreements. i'First came the U. S. the measure rather than on the labour cost. 1994--page 3 I Organizing around the province The Fourth Encounter ELP is working toward having regional training By William Kay previous three. Moreover, the There was definitely a consensus schools for people on much bally-hooed attendance list that more meetings like this need Captain's Logue, Stardate: July crisis has been resolved effectively; to beheld. For details about the welfare, VI or working 21, 1994 much brimming the prospects for next Commercial Drive meeting, for low wages, and their future growth. call ELP at 879-1209.000 allies who want to fight End Legislated Poverty's fourth The discussion rocked. Virtually meeting on Commercial Drive was every one in attendance for justice. Is your group held on the above date at the participated in an open debate that interested? If so, call Britannia Centre. There were 16 ranged from handicapped welfare Rose or Linda at 879- in attendance, but lest morale slip, benefits to teenage prostitution to I hasten to add that we had the subliminal advertising, to the 1209 with your ideas. highest number of new people at virtues of "fun food; " DDD this meeting when compared to the The advocacy dilemma Tri City group working to ByAnne Miles course, because welfare is an easy Manager chooses to bend the rules • ride, but because the economy is in to accommodate need, then they Increase We won a tribunal last month. It trouble). I think they'd rather have may be in for criticism from their was the first time I'd done a tribunal of three citizens decide superiors. Many times they know membership advocacy at a tribunal and I have that yes, the client is entitled, even their clients need advocates, but to admit, winning was rush! though he or she may not be an advocacy becomes just another Shari Nelson of the Tri-Cities Sometimes I feel resentful that exact fit into any of their one of those tasks done largely by Anti-Poverty Coalition reports that we're helping people on a categories. If the FAW or even women--unpaid and unappreciated their group is working on building volunteer basis, when it seems that the District Supervisor or Area by most of society. It's a their membership. They have the paid workers at MSS ought to dilemma. DO 0 recruited Gus Long to talk on be helping folks get what they welfare rights, postered the need from the system. It says right community, and made community in their own policy manual that announcements about the event, they are supposed to "help: the scheduled for August 23rd. clients get what they are entitled After the membership drive Shari to." is hoping the group can develop a On the other hand, I appreciate project together, and perhaps get the dilemma workers find funding for it. themselves in. They are under The group wants people to pressure not to payout too much become aware of their rights and money at a time when their what's available to them. 0 0 0 caselo:;.ds are growing (not, of ELP gives a corporate agenda workshop in Victoria

By Rose Brown couldn't afford to go to the Here's some that people came up corporations have lobbied for for opening ceremonies where their with: years," I said. It was 7 on a sunny Monday daughter is performing. Who are layoffs The workshop was being morning on July 18th. I left home these games for? And what are NAFTA videotaped, and at one point some to go to Victoria to do a workshop these games for? It seems to me women's low wages and of the group members spoke into on the corporate agenda. At 9 am that they support the competition discrimination the camera about their lives and I got on the new super ferry of wealth! A lot of really wealthy Canadian economy is not self how the social security review docked at Tsawassen for the trip folds will get to fly in and a lot of sufficient could hurt them. We will use this to Swartz Bay. money will be spent to entertain Western American culture portion in ELP's video submission Three hours later I was in the them while ordinary folks will be inequitable distribution of to the government's review. Together Against Poverty office. left on the sidelines once again. wealth The workshop lasted for about Nine of us attended the workshop. When we started, I asked people Just as I expected, there was no four hours. "We learned a lot and Before getting started we had as part of introductions to answer need to talk about the blame the appreciated the change to do the some snacks together and chatted. the question: why do we do this victim reasons as to why people video," said Debbie. We talked about the up-coming work, whether paid or volunteer. " are poor. Low income anti On the way back I ended up on Commonwealth Games. "These Eileen Henry said, "I've been a poverty workers know what the the same super ferry. Final time games haven't benefited low or member of TAPS for two years real reasons are. From this home? Nine at night. It had been middle income people at all" said and I care deeply about poverty. beginning we say how a long but worthwhile day. Debbie Beach. "I was told that a Our work is really valuable." Two corporations set the agenda that A big thank you to all who came man on welfare wanted to be a members said they had got started governments follow. The social and took part, and to Joanne volunteer at the games, but he was in anti-poverty work by first being security review that the Liberals Smids, the Volunteer Co-ordinator denied a bus pass by MSS. helped with a problem they were are not carrying out with "slashing who invited me. Together Against Because he could not travel back having. Dorothy Livingston social programs, ending universal Poverty will be saying a sad good and forth, he would be left out. " believes community action causes family allowances, and the possible bye to Joanne as the ministry Someone else spoke about a change. loss of the Canada Assistance Plan funding for her work was not working family that isn't poor, but To start the corporate agenda are part of the review. This is granted. DO 0 workshop off we made a list of heading us toward the cheap The Long Haul, Sept., what are the causes of poverty. labour agenda which is what 1994--page 4 Quebec Deficit doesn't haunt the PQ

By David Jaffe purchasing policy requiring government to buy products from The Parti Quebecois that may Quebec based companies. win the Quebec election seems to This last policy, Salutin points be the only mainstream political out, "probably contradicts both the party in Canada that isn't gripped Canada U. S. free trade deal and by the mania of deficit reduction. NAFTA." According to a recent column by The PQ has usually supported Rick Salutin, the PQ finds deficit the Quebec Liberal government's reduction "desirable" but "not tough approach to welfare something to be achieved blindly at recipients. Yet its program on the price of all of the PQ's past social issues has what one achievements. " MacLean's columnist calls "a The PQ's official programs also leftist tilt. "000 include free drugs for seniors, free Source: Globe and Mail. August eye exams, free dental care for 12, 1994. kids, lots of daycare and a

Hong Kong Seniors may get pensions

By David Jaffe The Chinese government, which will take over the colony in 1997, Some seniors in East Asian hammered the idea too. countries may get pensions soon. "Following inflation, contributions In Hong Kong, Governor Chris needed by the scheme will be Patten recently announced a plan bigger and bigger," said one paper that would go into effect in 1997. from the People's Republic of The proposal would payout a China. Other people who argue pension of about $409 (Canadian) against pensions in Hong Kong say a month. that Chinese children always Patten's proposals were attacked support their parents and so from all sides. Hong Kong's pensions aren't needed. business people fear that the In Taiwan in June thousands of crown colony will go down the seniors marched to ask for supposedly destructive road of the pensions by age 65.000

,\ welfare state. Source: Vancouver Sun, July 20, So whet! I qet out, I've 1994 PEl USA Insurance fraud artist hired to check welfare fraud Government to the objective we have is to help people need jobs, including people A man who went to jail for three people who are in particular who get out ofjail. But the cut addicts on month for defrauding PEl circumstances. A person might government should create good insurance companies of almost have some experience or have jobs, not jobs that force people to welfare off $70,000 has been hired by the PEl some particular skill sets or confront the poorest people in the Health and Community Services expertise in certain areas. " country.OOO Agency to investigate welfare Now all we need is ajob creation Source: PEl Guardian, June 18, The U.S. government is planning fraud. According to Wayne program where people who have 1994 (Thanks to Valerie to cut people who are addicted to Hooper, regional manager of been convicted of welfare fraud Lapointe) drugs or alcohol off of their $446 a Queen's Region of Health and are given jobs to investigate month social security benefit if Community Services, " ... part of insurance or corporate fraud. All they don't get addiction treatment within three years. Congress has passed a new law Newfoundland that requires the Social Security Administration to find out who the Wells' world of corporate tax holidays addicts are, and tell them that they have three years to get treatment. Even Senator William Cohen, a By David Jaffe "We've got to generate terms of decent wages or supporter of the new law, admits economic activity," says Wells, in environmental protection. Many that treatment will not be available If a business wants to escape offering firms who fit the above businesses were lured to parts of for all the people who want it. taxes, then it should head straight rules a ten year rebate on all Atlantic Canada by tax breaks but A quarter of a million people for Newfoundland. That's provincial taxes. haven't produced a lot of who are addicted to drugs or Newfoundland Premier Clyde Wells' message fits the new permanent jobs. alcohol could be involved. 0 0 0 Well's message to those companies economic message in NAFTA and Wells' ten year tax break goes Source: Seattle Times, August 14, who want to invest $500,000 in the Inter provincial Trade way beyond past practices. It will 1994 the province and show the Agreement. Many U. S. states be made into law this fall in the potential of selling goods worth offer tax free holidays for business. Newfoundland legislature. 0 0 0 about $1 million. But Wells seems to require Source: Vancouver Sun, July 6, The Long Haul, Sept., nothing from the companies in 1994 1994--page 5 Conference report Stop the attack on our social programs

Over 200 women, mostly from B. C., got together on July 22, 23, and 24 to share their understanding of what's happening to Canada's social programs and to figure out how to fight to make them better. The conference, Stop the Attack on Our Social Programs, was'sponsored by the Women's' Social Policy Review Coalition and held in Vancouver at the Masonic Hall. A report from the conference will be sent to the Parliamentary Committee that is expected to be holding hearings on changes to Canada's social policy. The voices and experiences of the 200 women at the conference made it clear that women want social prqgrams that end poverty and meet the needs of women for education, health, and services. We don't want programs changed to promote discrimination and hatred on ihe basis of race, class, sexual orientation or Alberta is Canadian testing ground anything else. We want programs that respect the Anne McGrath works with end the Alberta Human Rights contributions and needs of all people in Canada. We Oxfam in Calgary. She said that Commisssion. Attacks on gays want our interests served, not just corporate interests. her role at the conference was to and lesbians, people of colour, alert people to what is happening immigrants, people with Policies in Alberta where programs are disabilities, and young offenders Look at each being slashed and redesigned. have scapegoated the victims of shouldn't divide "Alberta is a testing ground," she programs cuts. otb.er as human said, and if the Alberta government While Premier Ralph Klein is still can get away with trashing popular with most people, beings parents from programs, then other governments community groups and labour are will know that it will be easier for building a Common Front to fight Rosalee Tizja, who is with the their children them to do it. Social program cuts the changes. McGrath says a shift Royal Commission on Aboriginal in Alberta include in popular opinion is beginning. Affairs, and has a long history of Antionette Saleh of End *$239 million cut from The Common Front is trying to working for Aboriginal People, Legislated Poverty described her education. This means there will connect the economic and social said that the root of Canadian experiences having to be a "bionic" be no kindergarten in Edmonton. agenda and beginning to organize social policy is in English colonial woman on welfare with 3 *$734 million cut from health action teams to resist Klein's times. The goals of the people children. "The government should means that 3 city hospitals will devastation. who designed social policy in be taking from the rich--making close. those days was to get Canadian them pay higher wages, and higher *One third of social assistance resources. Rosalee said that taxes. Then we wouldn't have to recipients have been completely Who is the Women 97,000 English children were have any poor. I don't like the cut off and all disability benefits shipped to Canada and abused. idea of taking money from the are being reviewed. and Social Policy "People victimize and blame parents on welfare to give to the While these programs are being Review Coalition? themselves. We are the subjects of children. Welfare has enough cut, said McGrath, 40 new power over our children now. dysfunctional policies created by millionaires were created in Members of the coalition include dysfunctional people," she Parents have to be respected. Calgary last year. Women and Work, Vancouver explained. "Policy makers who Governments shouldn't divide Programs are also being Status of Women, South Asian don't know their own history think parents from children by saying redesigned to promote that the money is for the children, Women's Network, Women for that what they do is right. " privatization. In education, Better Wages, End Legislated not the parent, and the parent "Politicians have to understand Charter Schools are opening. Tax Poverty, Women's Employment should work at a low wage job. why there is so much anger and money is going directly to the and Training Coalition, Aboriginal Some parents might want to stay hurt in people," said Rosalee. government while responsibility Women's Council, Vancouver home with their kids. It might be "The real solution is to set all of for what happens in local schools Committee for Domestic Workers best for their families. We parents that aside and look at each other goes to local parent councils. The and Caregivers Rights, Women to should have that right and a decent as human beings--healthy human same method is being used to Women Global Strategies, Indian income too. Raising children is beings." introduce privatization into the Homemakers Association and real work too. health field. several women's centres in the The Long Haul, Sept., While the cuts are being made, Lower Mainland ofB. C. 1994--page 6 the government has also tried to Conference report

History of social policy review (JR-N.qDI ~N GOrlERNMENT We can afford DEeT \.l'1 Cheap labour is government's goal 0 ~ ~ good social programs will create jobs (S,HU"ce: {: The government's current ideas gtaCs t!an~) ~ Using the deficit as an excuse ~ x programs on social change come from the Q- to cut programs 'l old MacDonald Commission on ~ (\> C)- (\> I/)~ We can afford good social the economy, said Jean Swanson ~ (\) Don't let the ti- programs. That was the message of End Legislated Poverty. ~o o [-t- of Leah Vosko and Lynne MacDonald wanted free trade r.. which gives corporations the right government set ~ Bueckert of Women to Women to move to where wages and taxes Global Strategies. At the end of are low. He also wanted to us up against ~ World War II, Canada was in ~ twice as much debt as it is now, change social programs so they I each other !l) they said. But the Bank of Canada would top up low wages in ~ ~ created more money for the Canada as part of the free trade ,_{O~ .. (\ Social programs are a key part government to borrow at near zero arrangement. MacDonald came up ~ ~ of women's equality, said Sunera c ~ interest rates. Now governments with a big business version of a ~ - ~. ~ guaranteed annual income that has Thobani, president of the National ~ borrow from private banks at high four parts: destroy existing social Action Committee on the Status of - ~ interest rates. That's a major ~ reason for the deficit. (You can programs, keep the GAl very low, Women. When social programs (/) J read more about this in The Deficit keep minimum wage low, and use are cut, women end up doing the ~ ~ work and paying the costs. ~ :::s Made Me Do It, a booklet from the GAl as a wage top up. The (I) ~..... :::to the Canadian Centre for Policy government has already Women have a key role to play in ~ implemented phase I of the review of social programs Alternatives. If you'd like a copy, MacDonald's recommendation by because women's poverty is call ELP at 879-1209). ' jestroying the family allowance increasing, because women have The government could create md child tax credit and creating networks of women's centres 600,000 childcare spaces or :he Child Benefit. The leaked across the country as well as the OtZJ.u:uLUzn dd1t is not: dae ta 64,000 social housing units just :"iberal discussion paper shows expertise to put forward an '--____S_~e,._I_a/_~..:....'f1_eh_dt__=i1.5':!...,,~/ ___.....l with the tax money that Imperial hat the present government is alternate vision of good social Oil has "deferred" and will ;ontinuing with MacDonald's programs. probably never pay. ·ecommendations. They are Sun era said that when women People with We can't afford not to have :onsidering drastically cut UI, end fight for better social programs, social programs, Lynne said. he Canada Assistance Plan which they are labeled a "special interest disabilities want There are other deficits besides )rovides money and rights for group." Meanwhile the "interests money. Not having social programs will create deficits of )oor people, forcing people to of capital and business are being a separate poverty, homelessness, sickness, vork for welfare or VI, wage put above the interest of people." • and despair. :uplements, and even a "GAl for "Training for what" is a good penSIon ~ds." question, said Sunera. Immigrants have training when they enter the The whole focus of this strategy, Freda Mac Lellan of the B. C. country. They don't want to be ;aid Jean, is promoting cheap Coalition of People with Women at the slotted in the lowest paying jobs in abour. This fits in nicely with a Disabilities reported that the conference attended the economy. The government is 'ecent report on jobs from a group disability organizations targeting people of colour with its workshops that made a )f rich nations called the want a separate immigration review, and gorgeous banner, I )rganization for Economic Co pension/assistance plan for immigrants are being blamed for )peration and Development. It people with disabilities to take discussed "acts of fraud. We need to put these, ~alled for trashing social programs them out of provincial welfare pieces together to understand how subversion,", and came md keeping minimum wage low, plans all the reviews impact on each lS well as training programs and favour a definition of up with recommendations brcing unemployed people to do other, Sunera said. "They're handicapped where for more actions to fight· setting us up against each other, ob searches in order to create employability is not a factor for better social : 'wage moderation" or cheap the deserving and the are opposed to a guaranteed abour. Jean ended with a list of undeserving. " annual income because it's programs. The Women's Ideologically, there is a shift :hings that people should watch meaning has been taken over Social Policy Review mt for in the social policy debate: from citizens with rights to by corporations. consumers with choice, Sunera Coalition plans to Language that blames the Women with disabilities are in all explained. This sets us up for victim, not the system sectors of society, Mac LeHan continue and to work on privatization and things like Dividing workers against said. actions that alert people e cation chers. workers, parents against to social policy issues in children, deserving against "People of colour have always "undeserving", people on been treated as people without the fall. DOD welfare and UI against rights. Now this is being expanded I to include the rest of the people. " workers, immigrants against '- If you'd like a copy of The 0 y groups that want social others; all to keep us from the Women and Social seeing that the rich are too rich program cuts, Sunera noted, were and should be made to share business groups. All the others Policy Review overview by increasing the wages and want improvements. Business is on social program the only group that hasn't been taxes they pay changes, call ELP at Policies that require taking targeted in the review. We need a from the poor to give to the united front to fight for our vision 879-1209 and we'll mail poor, not taking from the rich of social programs. you one. No real job creation, instead implying that training, reduced For conference The Long Haul, Sept., minimum wage and cut social actions: see page 3 1994--page 7 ELP asks for "Social Condition" in Human Rights Act

- by Joanne Shaw BC added "social condition" to its Some common situations where ELP wants the government to HRA, we could automatically be people are discriminated against make efforts to end classism the End Legilsated Poverty able to use Quebec winnings as for being in poverty (or perceived same way it has started to make and FLAW have been legal precedents to protect BC this way) are being refused efforts to end other forms of participating in the BC welfare recipients. housing even when one could pay discrimination. Other people Human Rights Review over for it, not being considered for often determine the fate of low income individuals - in a climat the past few months to try "If BC added "social employment where qualified, and being refused services such as that basically seems to hate them. to ensure protection condition" to its HRA, we bank accounts and police And all this is perfectly legal against discrimination for could automatically be able protection. since there is not yet any relevant low-income people. The to use Quebec winnings as protection in the HRA. Let's reyiew, headed by Bill Black, legal precedents, to protect "Other people often hope this changes soon. Bill Black will present his Special Advisor, has involved a BC welfare recipients." determine the fate of low wide variety of groups with recommendations to the income individuals - in a government. We'll let you know regard to all aspects ofBC's "Many groups have been asking climate that basically what happens. Human Rights Act (HRA). On that "social condition" be seems to hate them. And 000 August 18th, ELP met with Paul included, said Paul. The August Winn, Assistant of The Special 18th meeting was set up for him all this is perfectly legal Advisor to recommend that to get further clarity on what since there is not yet any "social condition" be added as a "social condition" would cover relevant protection in BC's protected category in the HRA. that "source of income" would Human Rights Act." Five week month Quebec's HRA has had "social not. condition" for years. This has Peter Beaudin and Susan still a problem been used to protect welfare O'Donnel of the BC Human recipients from discrimination. If Rights Coalition described "social FLAW member and advocate, condition" as broader than Karen Spears started a letter Cull for submissions "source of income" and so would writing campaign to Joy MacPhai cover more areas of poverty, and asking to get a proportionate allow better protection where amount of support money added tl I know you advocates are busy, multiple discriminations are welfare checques during 5 week but I sure would like to hear from present. Susan also said that it JInyone receiving VI months. "Since our income you. Anyone who would like to would cover situations where assistance rates are already way submit an article for FLA Wline either temporary poverty or long or wages tfiat are [ess below the" poverty line, it is can mail or fax it to me. term poverty is a factor. absolutely impossible to stretch Joanne Shaw Examples the group gave were: tfian tfie welfare this little amount to last over 5 #211,456 West Broadway • Being employed and poor. rates, can get tfieir weeks," she writes. Vancouver, BC • Being perceived as having a Karen used the example of a V5Y lR3 lack of class status. single unemployable person fax 879-1229 income topped up 6y • Having a lack of education. getting $271 support per month, Please use simple language to • Being born or living in an area welfare. We need a which works out ot $67.75 per make it accessible. No jargon. that is known for a high week for a 4 week month. For a : Nothing larger than 4 syllables. poverty rate. fiigfier minimum week month, $67.75 should be Thanks. • Having dress, mannerisms or wage. added automatically onto the dialects that may be cheque, or sent out a week before associated with working class. cheque issue date. If you would like to join Karen in her campaign, please write Joy THE@lAW MacPhail about this issue, or Tribunal nominees needed phone Karen at the Downtown FOUNDATION Eastside Women's Centre at 681- OF BRlllSH COLUMBIA The Downtown Granville Tenants' Association needs people with knowledge of the GAIN Act and Regulations (or a willingness to 4786 for more information. The Law Foundation of learn) and a familiarity with the Ministry of Social Services to appear You can write: British Columbia funds the at tribunals as client nominees. A nominee should be reliable, accountable and have an ability to Joy MacPhail FLA Wline section of The Minister ofSocial Services Long Haul. assess needs of the individual who has appointed them. If you believe you have these abilities and would like to be a nominee, please contact Parliament Buildings our office at 683-5048 or drop in at 1-1067 Granville Street. We look Victoria, Be The Long Haul, Sept., forward to having your help. V8V lX4 1994--page 8 000 Legal Services Society's reform means more services for those in poverty

- by Joanne Shaw million in 1993/94 on an annual the full service, or an equal level which are handled by Legal budget of $90 million. Without of service to the poor in BC," says Services staff will then be Legal Services has plans reform that deficit is calculated to Margaret Cissell, Chair of Legal performed more economically than to change its structure grow to $60 million by the year Services Society (LSS). The before with more paralegal hired to which will lead to increased 2000, according to a press release society, which served over do some of the work. from Legal Services Society, 100,000 clients in 1993, maintains services around poverty, August 17. The new system will its principal that everyone has the "The result of the reform, family and immigration law relieve these financial pressures right and the access to legal which was passed and legal education. while improving services. counsel. The new system is aimed The reform program was to improve services, equalize unanimously by the board, announced in February 1994, after "Without reform that access to legal aid throughout BC, will be a balance between a 10 month consultation with 55 deficit is calculated to grow and control costs. poverty, family, criminal BC communities, four government and immigration law, reviews and on-going discussions to $60 million by the year Currently, 15% of cases are increased public legal with the legal profession. 2000." handled by LSS staff and 85% are The provincial government has contracted out to private lawyers .. education, and ensured froze the society's funding. As "Although we are paying out a The internal lawyers are paid a access regardless of well, the society spent $10.9 lot of money we are not delivering fixed salary which is often cheaper geography, culture and than the fees (tariffs) that the language." contracted lawyers are paid. The Welfare appeal process seems safe split will remain, but the The contracted lawyers proportions will shift, with half of generally specialize in criminal the cases to be handled internally, law and not family, poverty, or - by Joanne Shaw She said that she initiated the and half contracted out. The cases immigration law. The staff review because the appeal process lawyers typically handle these BC has one of the best welfare doesn't work as well as it once did. appeal processes in Canada. It's She described it as inconsistent, Joan Smallwood cases, so when the portion of staff cheap. It's fair. It's quick. It's unfairly disadvantaged to those in lawyers increases from 15% to community based and FLAW rural areas, with frequent is attending a 50%, so will the portion of members told consultant, Marylee violations of the GAIN regulations services in these areas of law. Stephenson, that we'd like to keep (although she described these FLAW meeting The result of the reform, which ;t that way. Stephenson was hired decisions as just). She suggested was passed unanimously by the .... ,..,. • 1 r-. board. will hE" ~ h.,I"' .... ,..~ L_L_ Ten original General Motors ways to profit skyrockets General Motors Corp. reported a profit of $1.9 billion in just 3 handle stress months (April, May, and June, 1994). In the previous three 1. Jam tiny marshmallows up your months they made a mere $889.1 nose and try to sneeze them out. million. 0 0 0 2. Pop some popcorn without putting the lid on. This months' 3. When someone says "Have a nice day!" tell them you've got other plans. thanks 4. During your next meeting, sneeze, and then loudly suck the Thanks to the following phlegm back down your throat. volunteers at End Legislated 5. Make a list of things you have Poverty this month: Lynne already done. Melcombe, Bill Den Hertog, Billionaire list grows 6. Dance naked in front of your Barbara Sutherland, Sandra pets. Pronteau, Denise Brown, Teckla 7. Go shopping. Buy lots of Henderson, Maureen Davis, obscenely clothes; sweat in them; return them William Kay, David Jaffe, Dave the next day. Ross, Antoinette Saleh, Pauline While children and adults around the old Expo site in Vancouver. 8. Drive to work in reverse. Silverwood, Pat Gibbs, Irene the world die of preventable Charles Bronfman, heir to the 9. Read the dictionary backwards Schmidt and the Hospital causes, while even Canadians go Seagram fortune is on the list from and look for subliminal messages. Employees Union.OOO hungry and homeless, the world Canada.OOO 10. Bill your doctor for the time gained 47 billionaires last year. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ you spend in his/her waiting The new total number of room.OOO Coal Town billionaires is 358. Together they ELP'$ Here the death rate for women have about $765 billion worth of Thanks to CAlM is the highest wealth. Here we die younger/older faster The richest of all is the Walton billionaire than anywhere else in this country. family, owner of the sameWal It is the stress they say, Mart stores that are being pushed contest not the water, not the air quality in TV commercials right now, and but stress; entering Canada for the first time. If all the 358 billionaires in the Stress of birth, death, separation The Walton family is worth $23.6 and poverty, always poverty. billion. world were reduced to having a mere million each, that would The worry of how to pay the rent The U. S. has 120 of the the bills, buy the food--thefood·, billionaires, Latin America has 42 , leave $764.4 billion worth of wealth. If you could decide, how don't eat too much, its gotta last. with 24 of them in Mexico. Asia Lasting, everything hangs upon would you use it? Write in to The has 46 billionaires outside of Japan the balance at the end Long Haul with your suggestions. inclu~ing Li Ka-shing who bought of the month. We'll print some of them in the Months lasting into years next issue. 0 0 0 $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ the years of my child's life. Cheryl Ashley Legal Services not on strike They want private Legal Aid offices are not on Lawyers, which represents system. to provide half of the strike. Some private lawyers 500 private bar lawyers, are lawyers and legal aid staff who take legal aid clients are refusing to accept new legal services to provide the other on strike. But people who aid business. But Legal lawyers Legal aid plans to hire a need legal aid should still be Services has a list of over half. lawyers to work Thanks to the Legal Services it from the Legal 2500 private lawyers who lot more staff able to get for funding for pages 11 legal aid cases. in community law offices Society Services Society. accept Long Haul. the province. 000 and 12 of The "The Legal Services Some private lawyers are around accept legal aid Services Society is refusing to Unemployable by reason of what? continuing to provide service cases. They are protesting through a number of in-house against changes in the way Tapping his pen, the doctor pondered lawyers and paralegals," the Legal Services Society You say you're crazy, i see explained Margaret Cissell, delivers legal services. In the Well, anyone crazy enough to walk in here of the Legal Services past about 90% of legal Chair Claiming to be crazy, must be Society Board. services were provided by Real Crazy so i better write you Some members of the private lawyers. Legal A note for Social Services stating Association of Legal Aid Services wants to change that That in my medical opinion You are crazy. 'W~ lip: Don't go to your welfare Need any pills today?

office without it Tapping his pen, the worker wondered This note says you're crazy so You can now get the latest • extra benefits that you You must be, a doctor says so, after all get booklet on Welfare Rights might be able to But only for a year, then we'll review and GAIN. It's free! The • how to appeal if you think Just how crazy you are booklet gives people decisions are unfair You may need another letter infonnation on • how to apply for welfare in plain • how much welfare you The book is written Tapping his pen, the doctor pondered ... can get language. It is published by the Legal Services Society. It R. Loewen is a very useful book to have before you apply for welfare and before you ask your worker for something extra. Legal aid changes policies To get the booklet, ask your received local MSS office, or fill out By Carol McEown indictable offenses met the the order fonn below and legal aid if they send to the Legal Services The Legal Services Society financial test for qualifying Society. If you can't get the has changed its policy about for legal aid. (Indictable serious, booklet at your MSS office, giving legal aid to people offenses are more and give ELP a call at 879- charged with criminal with higher penalties court 1209.000 offenses. In the past, all more complicated people charged with cases). Now, legal aid will be granted to someone with a crime only ------Legal Services Society Order Form charged when there is a reasonable To order, please send tlie form Welfare Rights and GAIN the person will go on the right to: chance that Revised 1994 she is Publications Clerk to jail ifhe or Legal Services Society of B.C. convicted. A person turned #300 - 1140 W. Pender Street down for legal aid can appeal Vancouver, B.C. chief V6E 4Gl Please send ___ copies of Welfare Rights and GAIN to: the decision to the FAX: 660-9578 Executive Officer, Legal. Name Services Society, Suite 300, Organization 1140 W. Pender St., Address Vancouver. B. C. V6E 4Gl. code Postal If you have questions, contact Telephone your legal aid office.OOO The Long Haul, Sept., 1994--page 11 ELP HELPS - information for low income people

Get help with welfare problems from these groups

Federated Anti-Poverty Greenwood: Boundary These groups have Groups of BC. Phone 533- Creek Fighting Against advocates who will help you 4818 for information and Poverty Advocacy Society. with legal and other referral. Advocacy, information and problems. The advocates referrals on human rights and are people who will stick up Battered Women's Support income assistance issues. for you. They are not Services. Crisis line is 687- Call 445-6726. but they have lawyers, 1867. Support groups, legal getting people experience advocacy, counseling. Terrace: Terrace Anti their rights. Poverty Group. Drop in to Langley Legal Assistance Room 200, 4721 Lazelle Ave. In the Lower Mainland Centre. Phone 530-5811. Welfare, UI, tenant, etc. Appointments preferred. Phone 635-4631. Downtown Eastside Drop-ins welcome. Welfare, E. Residents Association. 9 landlord-tenant, small claims, Hastings, Vancouver. Phone wills, etc. #204 2018956th 682-0931. Open Monday Ave., Langley. through Friday. United Native Nations. First United Church. 320 Phone 688-1821. E. Hastings. Come on DON'T KNEEL: AfPEAL:! Appointments preferred. Monday through Friday, 9 to Help Aboriginal People apply 11:30 am. Phone 681-8365. preferred. for status, get documents, Gibsons: Sunshine Coast Appointments welfare, UI, tenant medical services. Help with Advocacy Action Group. Help with B. C. Coalition of People Public education welfare, child apprehension, Welfare, UI, and other problems. with Disabilities. #204 456 organizing on poverty etc. advocacy and education about and W. Broadway, Vancouver. poverty. Phone 886-2425. Issues. 872-1278. Open 9 to 5 Phone Welfare and Handicapped Open Monday and Powell River: Legal Monday through Friday. Persons Rights. Welfare, Wednesday 10:30 to 12:30. Services. Legal info, UI, CPP, etc. Call 852-3744 assistance with welfare, Students Legal Advice Law for appointment or drop in at Smithers: Bulkley Valley pensions, small claims, For help with a Program. #61 2800 Allwood St., Anti-Poverty Group. For landlord-tenant problems, etc. wide variety of legal Clearbrook. welfare advocacy. Contact 4746 Joyce Ave. Ca1l485- problems. Locations Ruth Milne at 847-2840 or 9871. Lower throughout the Downtown Granville Vince or Diana at 847-8959. Mainland. Call 822-5791. Tenants' Association. Penticton: Legal Services. Tenant, CPP, UI, welfare Pt. Alberni: Pt. Albemi Legal info, assistance with Tenant's Rights Coalition rights. Drop in at 1067 Women's Resource Society. welfare, pensions, small Hotline. Phone 255-0546. Granville, Vancouver. Open Call 724-7111. Prefer claims, etc. # 103 304 Martin 9 to 5 Monday through appointments. Help with St. Phone 493-0210. Legal Services Society. 191 Friday. family court, women and Alexander St., Vancouver. children's counseling, Prince George: Active Open 9 to 3:30 weekdays Outside the Lower Mainland transition house. Support Against Poverty. except Wednesday. Open Phone 562-6112. Welfare, 12:30 to 3:30 on Wednesday. Grand Forks: Boundary Nelson: The Advocacy resumes, filling out forms. F or help with welfare, serious Family and Individual Centre. Phone 352-5777. Tenant drop in clinic. Free criminal problems or urgent Services Society. Counseling Prefer appointments. Open clothing. family problems related to the and legal support services for Monday through Thursday 9 law. women, families, and youth. to 4 at #4 560 Baker St., Tenant's Coalition Hotline: Call 442-5355. Nelson. Welfare, 1-800-665-1185. handicapped, custody and Grand Forks: Women's access, separation and B. C. Coalition of People Support Services. Advocacy, divorce, child apprehension, with Disabilities Hotline: 1- counseling, support groups sexual abuse, wife assault, 800-663-1278. and referrals for women who etc. have experienced verbal, If your group would like to emotional, sexual, childhood be listed in this section, call Victoria: Together Against or financial abuse. Ca1l442- ELP at 879-1209. P~ONE TODAY! 361-3521. 5355. Poverty. Phone