The University Women’s Club of North York (UWCNY) envisions a world where all women and girls are safe, have equal opportunities and are empowered to reach their potential. UWCNY is a member of Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW). There are over 100 clubs across Canada.
What is Advocacy?
Advocacy is an activity by an individual or group which aims to influence decisions within political, economic, and social systems and institutions. In this perspective, advocacy is a key element of democracy as it secures the voice of the voiceless in political dialogues aimed at the common good.
Why do we do it?
To promote gender equality
To express views and concerns on policies related to girls’ and women’s rights
To support actions and policies that protect girls’ and women’s rights
To promote access to education for girls and women
To bring changes that will positively transform the lives of girls and women around the world
How do we do it?
Advocacy is at the heart of UWCNY activities.
- Using our policies and resolutions to lobby the appropriate levels of government, whether municipal, provincial or federal to effect changes that will enhance the status of women and girls.
- Collaborating with community organizations.
- Raising money to provide scholarships for university and college education for girls and women.
- Sending delegates to the CFUW, Ontario Council (OC) and Toronto Caucus.
- Reviewing and proposing Resolutions: Our club submits, amends and votes on resolutions which, if agreed upon, become CFUW or OC policy. The policies are developed into action plans for the club to act upon.
- Studying and assessing emerging issues to determine if we need to advocate.