Updates from Libby

Dec 20, 2011

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year! And welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin.

We have made a slight revision to our bulletin, from bi-monthly to quarterly so please note the submission deadline if you wish to submit your blurb for inclusion in our next – April to June 2012 Community Links Bulletin. If you wish to make a submission or receive the bulletin, please leave us a message by email at libby.davie@parl.gc.ca. You can also view the bulletin on my website at www.libbydavies.ca

I wish good health, social justice, equality, and prosperity to all!

Best Wishes,

Libby

Dec 15, 2011

Dear friends,

Thank you for your support of our Christmas Food and Clothing Appeal. All donations received have been forwarded to the Hastings Elementary School to support students and families in need of assistance.

Thank you and have a safe and happy holiday season!

Libby

Dec 12, 2011

Dear Friends,

I know many of you have been deeply moved and are still very concerned about the situation in Attawapiskat. To find out more about what the NDP is doing, check out this video:

http://www.ndp.ca/video/all/V6UXsLwzTRs

Sincerely,

Libby

Nov 24, 2011

Dear Friends,

I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Bob Rosen. Below you will find a link to the wonderful article by Charlie Smith in the Georgia Straight, chronicling his legacy:

http://www.straight.com/article-545571/vancouver/activist-and-teacher-bo...

I have shared my thoughts on his death on their site as well. All of us who knew, loved and worked with Bob feel a tremendous loss. Bob always worked for justice, human rights and care for all people. Oh, we will miss him so. He and Eva worked on many East Van campaigns, and I will always remember his commitment, support, and passion.

Sincerely,

Libby

Nov 9, 2011

Dear Friends,

On the upcoming Day of Remembrance on November 11th, we remember the profound sacrifice of the brave men and women in the armed forces who have fought, and died, so that we could live in peace and in freedom.

We are forever grateful for their efforts, courage and ultimate sacrifice. They have reminded us of our common humanity, a universal wish for a true and lasting peace - and an end to armed conflict. With every incalculable loss, we are reminded of this goal. We are forever indebted to them.

We shall always remember the fallen, the survivors, and their loved ones – indeed, all victims of war. And we will honour them by striving for justice, dignity and respect for all. This is our commitment, and it will be embedded in our hearts and in our minds.

Lest we forget.

Yours Sincerely,

Libby

Nov 1, 2011

Dear Friends,

I recently heard about a new organization, Stop the Violence BC, dedicated to addressing the links between the drug laws related to marijuana and its relation to gangs and increasing violence in BC. I have written the editors of the Vancouver Sun and Georgia Straight in support of Stop of Violence BC and their efforts.

Dear Editor,

Stop the Violence BC is a bold initiative for an honest and frank assessment of the need for drug policy reform as it relates to marijuana.

If we are to avoid further harm and chaos in our communities, we must make the links between gang violence, social harms, community safety, and continuing marijuana prohibition.

Oct 26, 2011

Dear friends,

Welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin!

Since Parliament reconvened, it’s been pretty busy! As the Official Opposition, my NDP colleagues and I are working hard to hold the Conservative government to account, whether it's on the mega Omnibus Crime Bill, economy and jobs, health care and affordable prescription medications, or support for small businesses.

Oct 18, 2011

LIBBY'S TRAVELLING COMMUNITY OFFICE

Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 10am – 12:00pm
Frog Hollow Neigbhbourhood House
2131 Renfrew (at East 5th Avenue)

Drop by for an informal, one-on-one personal chat and tell me your concerns about federal matters. I’m also available to hear your situation about Immigration, Employment Insurance, Canada Revenue, Canada Student Loans or any other federal issue.

And bring the kids!

Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House is hosting its 11th Annual Pumpkin Patch in the City, Saturday, October 22 from 10am to 4pm. Everyone is welcome to join us for a day of spooktacular fun: Pumpkin patch, bouncy castles, face painting, Halloween story time, community resources including: Hastings North Community Police info booth and a visit from a Fire Hall 14 fire truck will make this a great event for families.

Sep 23, 2011

Check out photos from the event here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/libbydavies/sets/72157627877519294/

Dear friends,

I'd like to invite you to a very special event to help RODNEY WATSON who is approaching his two year anniversary in sanctuary at the First United Church.

I'd like to invite you to share Thanksgiving with Rodney on:
Date: Monday, October 10th
Time: 2pm - 4pm (drop in)
Place: First United Church, 320 East Hasting Street at Gore
** Please RSVP by October 5th, 2011 as space is limited

I and my good friends are cooking a turkey dinner with all the fixings to show our support for Rodney and to encourage support in the community for this brave young man, who, as a matter of conscience, refused to participate in the illegal war on Iraq.

Aug 28, 2011

Dear friends,

Welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin! I hope you had a great summer! Now it’s back to school for students and back to Ottawa for me!

Parliament resumes September 19th and I expect it to a busy session. As the official opposition, my NDP colleagues and I will be working hard to hold the Conservative government to account, whether it's on health care, housing, or the protection of our environment. The first thing we expect is the mega Omnibus Crime Bill. It’s a Bill we will oppose vigorously, both for its content and process.

Aug 26, 2011

Dear friends,

I would like to let you know that arrangements have been made so you can gather to watch the state funeral for the Honourable Jack Layton on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at the following two locations in downtown Vancouver.

Jul 29, 2011

Dear friends,

Last month I wrote to wish Gladys Radek and all the Walk4Justice participants well on the 4th Walk4Justice , an annual walk from Vancouver to Ottawa in memory of missing and murdered women. They are currently in Saskatchewan and have been working tirelessly to raise awareness not only about the murdered and missing women and their families, but also about women and girls who have gone missing since then. Sadly, this list continues to grow.

Walk4Justice’s journey this year continues until September 19, 2011 and need ongoing funds to continue their work. If you are able to contribute to them, please do so by sending a donation to the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, Pivot Legal Society, or Hope in Shadows Inc.

Jul 26, 2011

Dear Friends,

Many people have sent support and good wishes to Jack Layton and I thank you for your goodness and care. No doubt this is a difficult time as Jack faces new health challenges and I, like many others, have the deepest respect and support for him and Olivia who are going through this. I know no-one who works as hard as Jack, and his optimism and hope - as he expressed in his press conference Monday - is so much part of who he is, both personally and politically, that it inspiring to see. I will do everything I can to support our caucus and party, both of which are strong and dedicated, to continue to represent the issues that Jack has championed on behalf of Canadians.

From the many constituents that I have heard from, we wish you well Jack - you are in our thoughts.

Libby

Jul 25, 2011

Dear Friends,

Happy Pride Week!

I wish to take this opportunity to give greetings and solidarity with all LGBTTQ Canadians as the City of Vancouver welcomes athletes from all over the continent to attend the 2nd Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association (GLISA) North America Outgames and Human Rights Conference from July 25th to 31st. This year’s Pride Parade on July 31st is guaranteed to be bigger, more colourful and fun.

Jul 22, 2011

Dear Friends,

I recently met with the citizen engagement organization OpenMedia.ca to discuss growing concerns with out of control Internet and mobile phone fees. Our meeting reinforced what I have heard from many residents of East Van, small businesses, and innovators – that they are being crushed by excessive fees for Internet use.

And if that isn’t bad enough, big phone and cable companies now want to also put pay meters on your Internet use. This means we could be looking at a future where these corporations charge per byte for Internet use, the way they do with smart phones.

Jul 1, 2011

Happy Canada Day everyone! Let's take this day to celebrate the history, diversity and strength of our community.

Check out Libby's Canada Day message at: http://www.youtube.com/user/LibbyDaviesMP?ob=5#p/a/u/2/pjoltNwqnPk

Jun 28, 2011

Dear friends,

Welcome back to the Community Links Bulletin! This is our first edition since the federal election and I hope you will find it informative.

Jun 23, 2011

Dear Friends,

Today marks the 26th anniversary of the Air India bombing, a painfully sad day for thousands of Canadian families.

On June 23rd, 1985, 329 people lost their lives in one of Canada’s greatest tragedies as Air India Flight 182 crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. Although a Canadian inquiry was launched and completed, many questions remain unanswered. Relatives still struggle to understand how it happened.

Today our hearts go out to each and every one of them. I urge all Canadians to take a moment today to reflect on one of Canada’s most horrendous acts of violence, and join the families in support and solidarity, as they continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones.

Sincerely,

Libby

Jun 21, 2011

Dear Friends,

I just wanted to take the opportunity to wish Gladys Radek and all the Walk4Justice participants all the best as they set out on the 4th Walk4Justice today. You are all amazing women and you inspire us all with your determination and courage to never forget the missing and murdered women. I will be thinking of you all, as you embark on the continuation of this journey for truth and justice.

Take care, Gladys, and all who walk with you.

With respect, and support,

Libby

Jun 20, 2011

Check out Libby's comments on the 2nd phase of medicare at the NDP Convention:

http://www.youtube.com/user/LibbyDaviesMP?blend=9&ob=5#p/a/u/1/HmvwVmlTujU

Jun 13, 2011

Dear Friends,

I was very pleased to attend the Community Health Centres 2011 Conference on "Acting Today, Shaping Tomorrow" and lay out some of the key issues on healthcare in Canada. Community Health Centres are an excellent model for community based, primary health care, and I hope to emphasize the important role that they play.

Also at the same conference were thought provoking remarks by Roy Romanow, former Premier of Saskatechewan, and the Head of the the Royal Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada.

To find out more about the conference and check out my speech, go to:

http://actingtodayshapingtomorrow.posterous.com/ndp-deputy-leader-and-he...

Sincerely,

Libby

Jun 3, 2011

Dear Friends,

I'm really excited about my new role as Health critic in the Official Opposition, as announced by Jack Layton. I also remain as Deputy Leader of the NDP.

This new challenge comes at a time when the Canada Health Accord is looming on the horizon for renewal, and Medicare is under scrutiny and attack by the powerful lobbies for for-profit and privatized health care, which grows ever more threatening, despite overwhelming support by Canadians for a public health care system that works (see press release below).

Jun 1, 2011

Attorney General
Honourable Barry Penner
PO Box 9044 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, BC
V8W 9E2

May 31, 2011

Dear Mr. Penner,

I am writing to ask you to reconsider your recent decision that you will not be funding legal counsel for the 13 applicants from the Downtown Eastside community granted legal standing at the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry. This inquiry is of great importance to the Vancouver East residents, as our community was deeply affected by the tragedy of many women going missing and being murdered. The Inquiry presented a chance for those affected to talk about what happened in their community and why it happened.

May 30, 2011

Dear Friends,

I continue to be concerned about the CRTC’s approval of Usage Based Billing for internet services and the future of net neutrality in Canada. I showed my support for reform of internet usage billing policies by signing the openmedia.ca petition last Fall and continue to speak out for policies which allow free and open access to the internet in Canada. I was happy to see Openmedia.ca 's digital action plan with their concrete and sustainable proposals for Canada’s digital policies. Check out the plan at: http://openmedia.ca/plan.

My NDP colleagues and I will continue to carefully follow this issue and I am confident we will be following up on this issue when Parliament resumes.

Sincerely,

Libby

Mar 25, 2011

Dear Friends,

I was disappointed to see that in all 352 pages of Tuesday’s budget, the Conservative government failed to include any provisions for affordable housing.

It seems incredible with such a housing crisis in many communities across Canada, that there would be nothing in the budget for housing. Despite the fact that the average cost of a house is rapidly rising in Canada’s cities, the Conservative government plans to cut funding to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation and affordable housing programs by $1.2 billion in the next year. These cuts include vital funding for supported housing, as well as funding for renovation and retrofit of housing, for seniors, persons with disabilities, and Aboriginal Canadians.

Mar 11, 2011

I offer my sincere condolences to the people of Japan as they experience the loss and devastation resulting from the earthquake.

This is a time when all people, governments, and communities must come together to show our compassion and support to the people of Japan and Japanese Canadians. I urge our federal government to be swift and generous in its support.

I offer my sympathy and support to Japanese Canadians in our local community, and will support all efforts to help the people, families, and communities that have been so devastated.

Libby Davies
MP Vancouver East

STATEMENT BY NEW DEMOCRAT LEADER JACK LAYTON ON THE EARTHQUAKE IN JAPAN AND THE TSUNAMI IN THE PACIFIC

I was shocked and saddened this morning to hear of the devastating earthquake that hit Japan overnight.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan, and to Canadians who are still trying to reach their loved ones in that country.

As the Tsunami makes its way across the Pacific, our thoughts are also on the safety of those living along coastal areas, including Canada’s Pacific Coast.

It will be days before we understand the full effects of this disaster, but we know Canadians stand ready and willing to help in the days ahead.
We will strongly support efforts by the government to provide aid and relief to those affected and do what we can, in their time of great need.

For those with family in Japan, Foreign Affairs has released two phone numbers you can call to get more information, 613-943-1055 or toll free at 1-800-387-3124.

Mar 10, 2011

March 10, 2011
C-304 Update

Dear Friends,

I’m pleased to provide you with a quick update on Bill C-304, my National Housing Strategy Bill.

On Tuesday the Human Resources and Skills Development Canada committee approved the jurisdictional amendment to C-304, passed with support from the Liberals, Bloc, and NDP members of the committee. We are now working to bring it back into Parliament for its final vote as soon as possible.

Thank you to everyone who continues to show their support for Bill C-304 – your efforts have helped us get the closest that Canada has ever been to a National Housing Strategy!

Sincerely,

Libby

Feb 26, 2011

Dear friends,

Welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin!

There are plenty of celebrations happening in our community! For example, the activities surrounding the 100th Anniversary of the International Women’s Day, Vancouver’s 125th Birthday, CelticFest, and more. These and other great events are listed in the Community Link Bulletin.

I’d also like to draw to your attention a great service to help people without telephones. The Community Voice Mail program, provided by Lu'ma Native Housing Society is helping many people gain better access to phone services and information. If you like to find out more, please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt0jCMbCQ-k.

I wish you, and your family and friends all the very best of Spring!

Feb 18, 2011

I, along with Shane Simpson (MLA, Vancouver-Hastings), am hosting a community meeting about the placement of cell phone towers in residential neighbourhoods, on:

Date: Sunday, February 20th

Time: 1:00pm

Place: Kiwassa Neighbourhood House, 2425 Oxford (at Nanaimo).

Special guest speakers included. For more information contact 604 775 5800.

Feb 7, 2011

I am co-hosting a couple of events this February, and I hope you will be able to come out and join me - please bring your comments and concerns!

Libby Davies (MP, Vancouver East) and Shane Simpson (MLA, Vancouver-Hastings) are hosting a community meeting about the placement of cell phone towers in residential neighbourhoods.

When: Sunday, February 20th at 1:00pm.
Where: Kiwassa Neighbourhood House; 2425 Oxford (at Nanaimo).
Featuring special guest speakers.
For more information contact 604 775 5800.

Libby’s Travelling Community Office is Coming to a Location Near You!

When: Saturday, February 26th from 10:00am – 12:00 noon.
Where: Thunderbird Community Centre; 2311 Cassiar (between East 6th and East 8th).

Drop by for an informal, one-on-one personal chat and tell me your concerns about federal matters.
I’m also available to hear your situation about Immigration, Employment Insurance, Canada Revenue, Canada Student Loans or any other federal issue.

*Shane Simpson, MLA for Vancouver Hastings, will also be in attendance at Thunderbird to hear your provincial concerns*.

Hope to see you there!

Feb 2, 2011

Hi Friends,

Please check out this great video from my federal NDP colleague Niki Ashton, MP for Churchill. The video documents her community’s struggle to save over 600 jobs at a nickel smelter and refinery in Thompson, Manitoba. It is a bid not just to save these jobs, but also heart of their community, and to take a stand for so many communities like theirs in Canada. My federal NDP colleagues and I stand alongside them.

Check it out at: http://nikiashton.ndp.ca/node/184

Jan 31, 2011

I offer my sincere condolences and sympathy to the family, friends, and supporters of David Kato, who was brutally murdered in his home on January 26, 2011.

David Kato embodied the GLBTT rights movement in Uganda through his work with the group, Sexual Minorities Uganda. His work led to the Uganda Human Rights Commission's October 2010 statement on the unconstitutionality of Uganda's draft "anti-homosexuality bill" and the Ugandan High Court's January 3 ruling safeguarding all Ugandans' right to privacy and the preservation of human dignity which prevents the “outing” of GLBTT persons.

His action on behalf of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered community remind us all that GLBTT rights are human rights that should be recognized by all people. His courage stands as a testament to the international struggle for human rights that continues still to this day.

David Kato strived to create a Uganda that recognized the equality, freedom and dignity of all people, and for that he will be remembered. Kato’s activism in the face of threats to his personal safety highlight that we as Canadians cannot stand by and watch the violence against and persecution of Uganda’s GLBTT community. We must speak out.

Dec 23, 2010

Dear friends,

Happy New Year! And welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin! The bulletin’s priority is to inform residents and community organizations in East Van about the activities and services carried out in our community.

Nov 26, 2010

Dear Friends,

Just a quick update on Bill C-304.

The Bill has enjoyed strong support from all three opposition parties and on November 24th, the Bloc and the Liberals helped us to send it back to committee for further work on a key amendment relating to the provincial jurisdiction of the Bill.

We are currently working to get it on the HRSDC agenda as soon as possible, so as to bring it back to the house for its final reading and vote in a timely manner.

The willingness of these parties to move this Bill forward was made possible thanks to the incredible work of all the organizations and citizens who keep this issue in the forefront and who continue to contact their Members of Parliament and rally support for the Bill. Thanks again for all your hard work.

Sincerely,

Libby

Nov 8, 2010

Dear Friends,

On Remembrance Day, Canadians will pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of our veterans and those currently serving in military operations. We will remember the fallen men and women, and honour the living.

Veterans have shaped the future of our country and have solidified our reputation on the world stage as a nation that upholds human rights, and stands globally to protect the most vulnerable.

Those who have served our country so bravely must be remembered and must be mourned, as they have paid the ultimate price to ensure peace, justice and freedom in our world. So, too, must we remember those amongst us today who fight for these causes still. They have my deepest gratitude, and their honour, loyalty and sacrifice must never be forgotten.

This year marks a number of significant milestones in Canada’s military history. It is the 100th anniversary of the Canadian navy, the 65th anniversary of VE-Day, and the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War. As well, this year marked the passing of Canada’s last First World War Veteran, John Babcock.

Part of our commemoration must include a commitment to ensure that veterans, and their families, are well cared for, and receive all the services and support they are entitled to. Please be assured that I will work hard with my colleagues to implement key reforms for programs and services that will improve their lives. It is the very least we can do. We shall always remember.

Yours Sincerely,

Libby

Oct 25, 2010

Dear friends,

Welcome to the latest issue of the Community Links Bulletin, a listing of events, opportunities and information of interest to people who work and live in East Vancouver.

Oct 15, 2010

Bill C-304 calling for a National Housing Strategy

Bill C-304, an Act to ensure secure, adequate, accessible and affordable housing for Canadians, will be in the House of Commons for final debate on Wednesday, October 20th – and there has been a big push for its support during Homelessness Action Week.

NATIONAL HOMELESSNESS ACTION WEEK
There have been so many great events this week! While I was handing out postcards at the Broadway SkyTrain station in Vancouver, in support of a national housing strategy, the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition was collecting signatures for Bill C-304 in Whitehorse. In Halifax this week, there are workshops and coffee houses to share ideas and discuss the latest housing initiatives for Halifax Housing Week.

A big thank you to all the volunteers across Canada who have made these events happen.

CANADIAN DAY OF ACTION
There are a lot of people gearing up for the Canadian Day of Action!
On October 19th, the Red Tent Campaign is holding a Day of Action for a National Housing Strategy on Parliament Hill. As they say on their website (www.redtents.org) - Parliament Hill will be awash with red tents as advocates from across unite in the call for “Housing for All!”
Everyone is invited: Tuesday, October 19, at 9:30 am on Parliament Hill!

Oct 13, 2010

VESTA will be holding a STAND FOR HOUSING in support of Bill C-304, Libby's bill that calls on the Federal government to develop a national housing strategy.

It will be this Friday, October 15th, from 4:00-5:30 at the corner of Broadway and Commercial. We will have a banner and will be giving out leaflets asking people to contact their MPs regarding their support for Bill C-304. Please join us!

organized by VESTA - Vancouver Elementary School teachers Association

Sep 23, 2010

September, 2010
Fall Update on C-304

Dear Friends,

I’m pleased to provide you with a quick update on what’s happening across Canada to support Bill C-304, calling for a National Housing Strategy.

Over 60 major organizations, municipalities, societies and chambers of commerce have endorsed Bill C-304 since it was first tabled in the House of Commons in February 2009

The most recent letters of endorsement have come from (in the order we received them):

• The City of Calgary and Mayor Dave Bronconnier
• Ontario Human Rights Commission – providing leadership for the promotion, protection and advancement of human rights
• Metro Vancouver – representing 21 municipalities and delivering regional services, planning and political leadership on behalf of a total of 24 local authorities (www.metrovancouver.org)
• Canadian Federation of University Women – a women’s equality-seeking organization representing thousands of women graduates, students and associate members in clubs across Canada (www.cfuw.org)
• Canadian Medical Association - a national association of physicians (www.cma.ca)