Income inequality has been described as the “defining issue of our time”, leading to stagnant economic growth, increased health problems, social dissension and a loss of hope. Presenting the keynote address of the 2014 Atlantic Summer Institute, Canadian Senator Art Eggleton hopes to raise awareness and offer solutions to this issue on August 19th in Charlottetown.
Sen. Eggleton’s keynote, “The Great Divergence” will open the 8th Atlantic Summer Institute on Healthy and Safe Communities. The theme of ASI 2014 is Renewing Democracy through Social Justice: Adding New Voices and organizers are excited to have such an important player in Canadian politics adding his voice to the dialogue on democracy and healthy communities. The keynote event is free and open to the public, taking place at 6:30 pm at the Canada Pavilion of the PEI Celebration Zone.
“With decades of experience in municipal and federal politics in Canada, Senator Eggleton brings his unique perspective on issues of income inequality, poverty, and health”, says ASI Coordinator Patsy Beattie-Huggan. “We anticipate the keynote will raise awareness and motivate citizens, community leaders, policy makers and government officials across sectors to take steps towards equality, and ultimately, healthier communities.”
The Atlantic Summer Institute runs August 19-21, and offers two four-part workshops: “Building and Using Evidence for Social Justice” and “Gender, Diversity and Community Leadership”. These curriculum-based workshops are accompanied by additional sessions on democratic citizen engagement, Indigenous forms of governance, and a participant forum to turn inspiration into action. The events at ASI 2014 will encourage discussion on the influence of social justice and democracy on health and safety.
Several events at the Atlantic Summer Institute are open to the public. Prior to the keynote event, the Storytellers Circle gathers storytellers from across the Atlantic Region to share their stories of advocacy for social justice. This event takes place in the CAST Building at Holland College from 1:30-3:30 pm on August 19. The Atlantic Community Showcase profiles innovative community efforts and initiatives from across the Atlantic Region. Interactive presentations and displays will be presented on August 20 and 21 from 12:00-1:30 pm at Holland College, and the public is welcome to attend and learn more. Fun and thrills can be found at the Social Circus, hosted by Halifax circus artist and Director of the Halifax Circus School, Mike Hirschbach. The Social Circus will introduce participants to a variety of circus arts in a free, fun and accessible setting, from 6 – 8 pm on August 20 at the Canada Pavilion of the PEI 2014 Celebration Zone.