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August, 2008

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The Ola! e-newsletter is a monthly round-up of policy views and CPJ news. See our current issue and sign up here:

The Ola! e-newsletter is a monthly round-up of policy views and CPJ news. See our current issue and sign up here:

CPJ celebrates 45 years and heralds next chapter

Giving thanks for 45 years of God’s faithfulness and looking ahead to CPJ’s new presence in Ottawa characterized CPJ’s 2008 Annual General Meeting. Read more »

AGM explores tar sands and public justice

CPJ’s 2008 Annual General Meeting featured guest speaker John Hiemstra discussing the oil sands and public justice. This article briefly outlines his talk. Read more »

The world needs our voices

In this thoughtful reflection, Jennifer deGroot comments on the inspiration of two strong women who stood up for change. She notes that while most of us may not have opportunities for such forceful, vocal action, the world still needs our voices. In our everyday lives, she argues, we can live out a commitment to justice and to change. Read more »

BC electoral reform gets a second chance

In May of 2009, BC voters will get another chance to change their electoral system. Antony Hodgson advocates for the new system of Single Transferrable Vote, arguing that it will have several positive public justice implications. Read more »

Let's envision Canada without poverty

CPJ policy intern Trixie Ling goes in-depth into CPJ’s May 2008 poverty reduction workshops that were held across Canada. She highlights the honest discussions and diversity of participants, noting how the momentum for a national poverty reduction strategy is growing. Read more »

Life as a CPJ policy intern

Looking back at my year at CPJ, it is amazing to reflect on the many things I have done and learned and the friendships I have made during this time. My internship experience has helped me to better understand complex social and economic issues and to frame these issues through a public justice lens. As CPJ’s first policy intern, I worked with a great new group of young and enthusiastic staff who are passionate about integrating faith and public life. I will walk away from this wonderful unique policy experience with the tools I need to pursue further education and continue working for justice in the area of policy and advocacy. Read more »

Vision to Action: Canada without Poverty

CPJ’s pre-budget brief to the Standing Committee on Finance recommends a federal poverty reduction strategy. Read more »

Tar sands fever threatens Edmonton farmland

Cheryl Mahaffy goes in-depth into how oil upgrader plants are threatening the existence of farms around Edmonton. Talking to farmers in the area, she reveals how this unique farmland could be steamrolled by these expansive developments. Read more »

Practicing Rich Advocacy in the Age of Instant Gratification

The communication tools of our culture – email, instant messaging and the like – are often used in many advocacy campaigns. But this instant advocacy may mean we are missing out on practicing rich advocacy – delving into issues, creatively coming up with solutions, and joining with others who are passionate about the issue. Read more »

Further resources on the Oil Sands debate

Articles from CPJ, video resources, Parkland Institute Documents, Pembina Institute Studies and Resources from KAIROS Read more »

Advocacy Resources

Table of Contents [hide]

Books

Sussman, Amanda.  The Art of the Possible  McLelland and Stewart: Toronto, 2007

Milne, Glen.  Making Policy: A Guide to the Federal Government’s Policy Process.  Milne: Ottawa, 2007.  (Available at www.makingpolicy.com)

CPJ Documents

Public Justice: What does it mean for citizens, governments, and CPJ? Read more »

An example of a successful advocacy campaign - Student Loans for Refugees

Political advocacy is one of the ways CPJ promotes public justice in Canada. Below you will find an example of a successful advocacy campaign that CPJ was involved in. It will show you by example some ways to engage in effective advocacy. Read more »

Additional Resources

In this section, we have included a detailed explanation on the legislative process and how and when to step in. In addition, there is a summary of a successful advocacy campaign that CPJ has taken part in. Finally, we have included a list of advocacy resources that we have found helpful.

How to work with the media

How to do a demonstration

How to write a petition

How to meet with your MP

How to call your MP