Westcare Group’s Post

We pledge what we believe in: Acceptance. We are better when our perspective is broader, our experience more varied, and our voices heard equally. We work together to uplift our communities. https://lnkd.in/dq4YsiGF

🌍 In response to the UN Independent Expert on international solidarity’s report on civil society organizations engaging in international solidarity, IFEX’s submission highlighted the challenges faced by activists due to rising authoritarianism and repressive actions, underscoring the critical role of civil society in advocating for human rights accountability. Drawing on IFEX members' experiences, the submission reveals how repressive legislation and barriers to participation in high-level spaces at the UN have targeted and obstructed the work of civil society organizations (CSOs). IFEX’s networked approach, combining collaborative advocacy, operational support, access to resources, and other expressions of solidarity, strengthens the capacity of organisations to effectively counter authoritarian regimes and defend civic space. Check out our submission here 👉 https://lnkd.in/gXHU3TNf

As a pan-Canadian network, our commitment to inclusion as guided by our Social Justice, Indigenization & Inclusion Committee extends to Indigenous communities and other diverse intersectional identities. At ACCESS, we believe that real change requires centering, engaging, and collaborating with impacted communities - a one size-fits-all approach to clinical care, research, and policy is insufficient and unjust. Read Impact Report: bit.ly/3Tjrcvk

ICYMI: We celebrated Juneteenth with a conversation on Black Men's Health with Collin Mays and LaRon Evans, MS, MHC, LLPC who highlighted our YMCA's Boys & Young Men of Color Strategy! Watch. Share. Discuss.

Here's the update I gave at Coptic Solidarity's 12th Annual Conference regarding the organization's priorities and what we achieved in the past year. https://lnkd.in/gbctpcUr

I just signed the European Citizens' Initiative #MyVoiceMyChoice for safe and accessible #abortion in the EU. You can do it as well here: https://lnkd.in/dM2vveyt. Let's advocate for easier access to safe and legal abortion throughout all of Europe. Sign and share, it takes just one minute! We must recognise the physical, economic, and mental damage of restricted access to abortion. Hence, this #ECI asks the EU Commission for financial aid to Member States lacking comprehensive abortion services. This would enable safe termination of pregnancies for everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances, avoiding harm and inequality to millions of people. This initiative aligns with EU values of dignity and equality, upholds women's rights and creates a fairer Europe. #EuropeanCitizensInitiative #safeandlegalabortion #abortioncare #abortionrights

Tomorrow, we will pause for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We at Sohkisiwin Solutions honour the survivors, their families, and the children lost to residential schools. We stand with Indigenous communities in remembrance and reflection of the painful history that continues to shape our present. This day is not only for reflection but for action—action to continue learning, unlearning, and advocating for real change in our systems, institutions, and hearts. At Sohkisiwin, our work is dedicated to advancing meaningful Indigenous integration and strategy, creating spaces where reconciliation isn't just a conversation, but a lived practice. We are committed to elevating Indigenous voices and collaborating in ways that create sustainable, impactful change. Let’s all take time today to listen, learn, and honor the truths shared by Indigenous peoples — because only through understanding can we move forward, together. #NationalDayforTruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #TruthAndReconciliation #IndigenousVoices #IndigenousStrategy

The European citizens’ initiative “My Voice, My Choice” is waiting for your signature! The initiative wants to ensure access to safe and legal abortions in Europe. Read more and sign it here: https://lnkd.in/ed7QEQfU The lack of access to abortion in many parts of Europe not only puts women at risk of physical harm but also puts undue economic and mental stress on women and families, often on the margins of society that can afford it the least. It has been well documented that treating reproductive care as a luxury does not reduce abortions, it simply drives women to seek unsafe abortions. To change this, the initiative asks the European Commission to provide funding to Member States where abortion is safe, legal and accessible. This funding would cover the costs to help women from other Member States, where this is not the case. #myvoicemychoice #womensrights #eu #citizensinitiative

Grassroots Movements: The Heartbeat of Peacebuilding Civil society organizations and NGOs are at the heart of peacebuilding efforts. These grassroots movements mobilize communities, advocate for human rights, and provide essential services in conflict zones. Organizations like Peace Direct work directly with local peacebuilders to support their efforts in preventing violence and resolving conflicts. By empowering local communities and amplifying their voices, civil society organizations are essential in creating sustainable peace.

🕊️ Today, we observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of Indigenous children who were lost to the residential school system, as well as the survivors and their families. This day serves as a reminder of the painful history that has shaped our nation and the ongoing journey toward healing and understanding. As we reflect on this significant day, let us commit ourselves to listening, learning, and amplifying Indigenous voices. It is essential to acknowledge the injustices faced by Indigenous communities and to work towards meaningful reconciliation. Together, we can foster a future built on respect, understanding, and solidarity. We encourage everyone to take a moment today to educate themselves about Indigenous histories and cultures, support Indigenous-led initiatives, and engage in conversations that promote awareness and healing. Let us stand together in remembrance and in hope for a more inclusive tomorrow. 🧡 #TruthAndReconciliation #IndigenousVoices #Solidarity