Book lounge: Come hell or high water, we won't stop...
community organising
Meatless Monday
How many times do folks say "oh, I'd love to be vegan but I can't give up _____!" Whether it's chocolate, mayo or a particular salad dressing, people have their vices they use as an excuse to not take any action. But what if folks gave up meat just one day a week? It's not a huge commitment, but it's enough to make a difference - that's the philosophy of Meatless Monday.
History
The first Meatless Monday was in the United States during the First World War, when citizens were encouraged to give up meat once a week to support the war effort. The same practice was adopted in the Second World War. Meatless Monday has since been picked up as a way to support sustainable eating.
Host a seed swap
Seed exchanges are events where local seeds are shared within the community. They act as great opportunities for education, community building and encouraging biodiversity. But actually hosting a seed exchange is another matter altogether. Like any event, it takes some advance planning, dedication and motivated activists. This guide will cover:
Why host
What seeds to exchange
Basic organizing
Why host
Dig in!
The Canadian Biotechnology Action Network has come up with this great workshop guide (just follow the links on their site to download the documents). Their commitment to public education has led them to craft a downloadable kit, full of tips for hosting the workshop and a variety of activities. The average workshop last about an hour and a half, but it can be lengthened or shortened depending on the number of activities used.
Conducting a food sovereignty assessment
Food sovereignty is the assertion that all communities have the right to access safe, nutritious, culturally appropriate food and agriculture so that they can be self-sufficient. Rather than depending on commercial systems dictated by industry, community members can sustain themselves.
This guide from indigenous food systems breaks down how to do a food sovereignty assessment. Though aimed at indigenous communities, the manual can help any community figure out their priorities and options. The guide contains
Freedom to Read Week
Freedom to Read Week will run from February 24 until March 2. It's organized nationally by the Book and Periodical Council but celebrated across Canada and around the world. PEN Canada, a group that assists writers facing censorship and persecution, also supports the week. Individual events are held at independent bookstores and libraries to draw attention to the issue of censorship, specifically banned books.