LEAF Youth Commission www.leaf.ca/youth

Expanding Boundaries Series: Youth Opinions ands Perspectives

In Your Face: Using Creativity to Take a Stand for Social Justice and Equality.

Youth Commission’s blog at: http://leafyouthcommission.wordpress.com/

Do you want to influence policy in a way that will get the attention of decision-makers and agenda-setters in Canada, as well as add a creative production to your work résumé? “Leadership starts with Learning!” So, if you are a youth between 16-25, volunteer some time to think about and answer the question: “What does social justice and equality mean to you and how does it impact you in your daily life?” Discuss and debate issues of equality while working together to express your opinion using drama, music, dance, art or any other creative work. Come prepared or create something on the spot. Bring your instruments and tools or just your voice, some art material will be provided.

Responses will be videotaped. RSVP immediately to get more information on joining one of the existing groups or create your own ad hoc gathering. All submissions must be completed by August 27, 2010. The Montreal LEAF Youth Commissioner is also available to film individual testimonials from youth, under 30, wanting to express their opinions on Social Justice & Equality Issues in Montreal and surrounding areas, outside of official gatherings, upon request before August 27^th.

Contact: diane.leclerc@gmail.com

or : Check out the Facebook page

Date and Time: Monday, August 23^rd, 2010 EVENING

Address and Location: J2K (Jeunesse 2000) 3770 Décarie St. West (between Vendôme and Villa Maria Metro)

Or

Date and Time: Wednesday, August 25^th, 2010 AFTERNOON.

Address and Location: DESTA Black Youth Network; Padua Center; 1950 St. Antoine Street West (near Georges-Vanier METRO.)

Activities could include:

World Café: Group brainstorm on equality issues or a specific question relating, but not limited to, race/ethnicity, religious diversity, linguistic diversity, aboriginal issues, sexual orientation, violence, wealth issues, immigration or women’s issues.

Transform your perspectives and voice your opinions using means of creative expression (drama, music, dance, fashion, cartoons, poetry and writing). Examples of creative activities could include:

Ø Writing and Performing a Song

Ø Use photography or produce short video clips

Ø Drawing Editorial Cartoons

Ø Using Fashion for Social Change

Ø Collaborate on a Poem, write a report or spoken word piece

Ø Write a Script and Perform ‘Invisible theatre’ or another form of short skit

Ø Dance, Cheer, Rant… Share your experiences.