Articles in Healing Gaia

Nestlé Selling North American Water Bottling to an Private Equity Firm
Wellington County, Ontario will be particularly hard-hit by this pending sale, since Nestle currently owns three wells in the area that supply its Aberfoyle bottling plant.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 23, 2021 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Province Rams Through Glass Factory in Stratford
The Province used a Minister's Zoning Order, normally used for emergencies, to approve a polluting manufacturing facility over the objections of local residents.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 21, 2020 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

July 1 An Opportunity to Reflect on Canada's Unreconciled Genocidal Legacy
On July 1, take time to reflect on how Canada can move forward from its racist and exclusionary past to create an inclusive, caring country.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 30, 2020 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Sovereign Soil
Sovereign Soil looks at life and death, seasonal cycles, notions of time, and how people are living custodially, in relative equilibrium with nature.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 13, 2020 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

The Whale and The Raven
Mirjam Leuze's hauntingly beautiful documentary illuminates the divergent interests and issues that unite Kitimat, BC and the whales that thrive in its fjords.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 04, 2020 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Ford's Education Cuts Impacting Supply Teachers
Normally, occasional teachers would eventually move into long-term occasional positions before being considered for a permanent contract. But that's not happening any more.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 07, 2020 in Healing Gaia (9 comments)

Art Gallery of Hamilton: 2020 AGH Film Series
The Art Gallery of Hamilton Film Series runs on select Wednesdays and Thursdays until May.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 02, 2020 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Time for a National Basic Income
During this federal election, ask representatives where they stand on Universal Basic Income and tell them it's time to extend this hand-up to all Canadians.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 16, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Art Gallery of Hamilton Film Festival
This year has an amazing array of eclectic films to choose from and many include post-film talks with directors, guest speakers, panelists, and film experts.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 16, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Book Review: My Year of Living Spiritually by Anne Bokma
Making use of her eagerness to find answers to life's questions yet relying on her reporter's skepticism to remain objective, Bokma invites readers to vicariously experience her 12-month sampling of spirituality.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 25, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Kanesatake Crisis Still Unresolved 29 Years Later
In 1990, Canadians paid $155 million to terrorize Mohawk men, women and children defending their unceded land and protecting their sacred burial ground from development. Their land claim remains unresolved to this day.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 25, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

No Easy Resolution to Burlington's Naturalized Garden Controversy
Burlington's by-laws and enforcement culture have not yet caught up with the supportive rhetoric coming from the city's political leadership.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 10, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Landscaping By-Law Threatening Naturalized Yards
Burlington residents are abusing the lot maintenance by-law to harass and bully neighbours embracing ecological landscaping to create naturalized areas.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 09, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Suzanne Carte Changing Art Gallery of Burlington One Inclusive Show at a Time
The AGB is determined to be vigilant and visible in their support of 2SLGBTQIAP by placing critical conversations on gender diversity back into the public education sphere.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 05, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Road to the Lemon Grove
This new feature film, co-written by Charly Chiarelli, is a delightful story made up of a surprising number of layers.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 03, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Now is the Time and Jordan River Anderson: The Messenger
This year's TIFF will be premiering two incredible stories of First Nations courage, perseverance and ultimately success.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 27, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Standing on the Line: On Being Gay and Lesbian in Amateur and Professional Sports
This film takes a fresh, often moving look at a variety of lesbian and gay athletes who are working to overcome the stereotypes and prejudices in order to improve life for all athletes.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 26, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Another Burlington Pollinator Paradise Threatened by Anti-Environmental By-Law
It's time for the City of Burlington to stop destroying naturalized landscapes and to devise a plan to educate residents on the benefits of getting rid of their outdated, high-maintenance, grass-covered yards.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 16, 2019 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

City of Burlington Threatens Naturalized Pollinator Paradise
Despite declaring a climate emergency, the City of Burlington continues to threaten a property that has been naturalized to sequester carbon and support local widlife threatened with extinction.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 15, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Citizens Unite to Protect Water and Naturalized Space
From water extraction in Wellington County to quarrying in Milton, citizens are standing up to corporate interests and demanding legislation to protect our natural shared assets.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 25, 2019 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

The Promised Land: Steinbeck Through Song
Promised Land takes audiences on a journey across America, utilizing novelist John Steinbeck's artistic and personal musings on the struggle to realize the American dream.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 20, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Un/Tied Shoes: Expressing Identity Outside the Mainstream
Society has grown more accepting of trans and non-binary people, but the issues they face are still often neglected or misunderstood.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 19, 2019 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Take Time to Learn About Indigenous Culture
This year I encourage Canadians to spend the next 17 days exploring and understanding Indigenous life in Canada.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 27, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Yes, Canada is Guilty of Genocide
The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls report simply summed up the obvious by using the most truthful word.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 10, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Take a Walk on the Wild Side
Weeds are simply flowering plants growing where they're not wanted. Many are not only beautiful to look at, but also delicious to eat.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 23, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up
This film should be shown in high school civics, law and history classes across the country to eradicate the belief that First Nations peoples are disposable.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 16, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Documenting a Theory of Assholes
A new documentary film by John Walker unpacks the thesis of the book Assholes: A Theory by Aaron James.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 22, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Ontario Community Joins Global Resistance to Water Privatization
From Vittel, France to São Lourenco, Brazil and Wellington County, Ontario, grassroots organizations are working together to stand up against efforts by Nestlé to privatize their access to water.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 09, 2019 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

2019 Wish List: Reinstate the Basic Income Pilot
With precarious employment the norm these days, social safety nets like BI provide the financial stability parents need to plan for the future and to raise their children out of poverty.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 31, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month in Ontario
Shine a purple light on gendered violence to make it impossible to hide.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 06, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Protect Groundwater from New Bottled Water Permits
Water is a basic human right but, with a new provincial government that believes Ontario is open for business, access to water for the common person just became that much more precarious.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 02, 2018 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Premier Ford Secretly Meets Company Trying to Access Guelph-Eramosa Aquifer
Xinyi wants to extract 1.6 million litres of water a day from the aquifer under Guelph-Eramosa Township, which has experienced water shortages in recent years.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 19, 2018 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

What is Democracy? at TIFF
Instead of providing easy answers, What Is Democracy? reminds us that wrestling with ideas is central to the ongoing struggle to rule ourselves.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 10, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Aldershot Candidate Promotes Sustainable Community Development
Doreen Nicoll sat down with Burlington Ward 1 candidate Vince Fiorito to discuss his platform and vision for Aldershot and the city.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 06, 2018 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Guelph Says No to Canadian Climate Hypocrisy
The Canadian Government has no business buying an aging oil pipeline from Kinder Morgan.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 14, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Free Public Workshops at Urquhart Butterfly Garden
Throughout the summer, the Urquhart Butterfly Garden runs a series of free one-hour public workshops each Saturday from August 4 to September 8, starting at 11:00 AM sharp.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 25, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Important Victory in Campaign to Keep Water Public
Guelph-Eramosa Council voted to reject an application to build a groundwater extraction and bottling facility outside Guelph.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 19, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Call for Proposals for imagineNATIVE Digital Project
The NFB and imagineNATIVE selection committee are hosting a webinar today to provide tips and creative insight for Indigenous media artists considering submitting a proposal.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 19, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Support Wellington Water Watchers' Water for Life Campaign
Water is a basic human right, but water in Ontario is in danger of being sold off for private corporate profits.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 11, 2018 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

The Monarchs Thank you
The City of Burlington has updated their Lot Maintenance By-Law to protect milkweed, a native plant that is imperative to the lifecycle of monarch butterflies.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 10, 2018 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Burlington Should Legalize Native Flower Species
The City of Burlington is insisting that residents destroy a native plant that is imperative to the lifecycle of monarch butterflies.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 03, 2018 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Toward Meaningful Reconciliation with the Founding Nations in Canada
Canada is a nation of treaties. These legally-binding agreements between sovereign nations have no expiry date and are just as valid today as when they were originally signed.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 30, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Human Rights for All - No Exceptions
Please Join us on Tuesday, July 3 from 7 to 9:00 PM at Mississauga Central Library to learn more about what Amnesty International is doing to promote universal human rights.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 29, 2018 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Metamorphosis: Climate Change Documentary Chronicles Ingenuity and Hope
From the deep ecological connection humans share, a radical form of optimism emerges. These stories of creative, flexible, versatile and systemic solutions offer hope of a livable future.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 04, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Speaking Out Against Non-State Torture: Linda MacDonald and Jeanne Sarson
Using NST language is imperative because naming perpetrators as torturers conveys the true gravity and irrefutable brutality of their crimes.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 30, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Bush Lady by Alanis Obomsawin to be Re-Issued
The rare, long out-of-print album has been remastered and is being released on 180-gram vinyl and CD with updated artwork and liner notes on June 15
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 29, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Self-Defence Program for Women with Lived Experience of Abuse
Jujitsu program to enable women who have experienced trauma to learn how to defend themselves and feel empowered.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 17, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Skewed Media Coverage of Intimate Partner Violence
In addition to sensationalizing the murder while downplaying the fact that it involved an intimate partner, the woman who has been slain is often lost in the reporting.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 19, 2018 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Petition to Acknowledge Indigenous History in Canadian Citizenship
A new petition calls on the Federal Government to redesign the Canadian Citizenship study guide to acknowledge Indigenous treaty rights and to education new Canadians on the effects of colonialism.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 12, 2017 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

December 6 is National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
This should be the day Canadians remind politicians at every level of government that in order to eradicate gendered violence, we need true equality for all women and girls.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 04, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Matt Nethersole: Acha Bacha
Nethersole acknowledges we're living in hyper-racialized times and that makes it imperative to humanize all people, including those with different gender identities, through theatre and art.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 30, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

An Evening of Discussion on Violence Against Women
The Women's Centre of Halton and Grandmothers Advocacy Network are hosting three short films followed by discussion on Thursday, November 30.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 27, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

I AM Affected Campaign Follow-up
The hope is to undertake the process of healing settler and Indigenous relationships through public sharing, apology, and commemoration that acknowledge and redress past harms.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 17, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

I AM Affected Campaign Launch
To help settlers understand the ongoing effects of the Residential School System on survivors, their families, their communities and Canadian society, Hamilton Community Legal Services is launching the I AM Affected Campaign.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 13, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Water Blessing: Reconnecting with History and Responsibility
An hour-long celebration organized by Wellington Water Watchers and the Unitarian Congregation of Guelph had me seeing water in an entirely new light.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 10, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Ontario NDP Leader Introduces Bill to Protect Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence
Bill will make it easier for women to leave abusive situations because it safeguards their financial independence while providing much needed time to access services needed to help enhance their well-being and safety.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 05, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Tell the Government to Ratify Bill 26
Add your voice to the parliamentary committee reviewing the Domestic and Sexual Violence Workplace Leave, Accommodation and Training Act to help improve it and save a woman's life.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 20, 2017 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Interview with Alanis Obomsawin
Obomsawin's documentaries are a bridge to creating truthful reconciliation between our settler Nation and First Nations, Metis and Inuit Nations.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 04, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Give Us Something to Celebrate
It's time to not only become an ally of the first inhabitants of this great land, but to work towards meaningful reconciliation with the true founding nations of this land. Then we will have something to celebrate.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 29, 2017 in Healing Gaia (5 comments)

Ghostkeeper: Spiritual Explorer and Benevolent Warrior
This is a loving Metis family to be reckoned with. Hear their message and spread the Ghostkeeper word.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 28, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

A Better Man
This remarkable documentary explores the damage caused to both the abused woman and her abusive partner by his acts of violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 08, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Josh Weresch: Singer-Songwriter a Voice for Those who Need Their Stories Told
Josh wants people to acknowledge their connectedness and to understand they are allowed to care for each other. He believes reviving a sense of the arts will give people a chance to be honest about their situations and their feelings.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 25, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Aabiziingwashi: Wide Awake to the Power of Indigenous Cinema
Stories told by First Nations, Metis and Inuit filmmakers from across the country are guaranteed to change your view of Canada's colonial history forever.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 10, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Stop Line 10 Pipeline
Stand in solidarity with Todd Williams in his peaceful protest against Enbridge. Show your support for Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination. Stand up for your community and your environment.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 24, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Ontarians Want to Protect Fresh Water
Mark World Water Day by taking steps to protect Canada's fresh water from corporate bottled-water exploitation.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 22, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Canada 150: What's for Indigenous People to Celebrate, Exactly?
Canadians tend to overlook the fact that this country was born out of treaties with Indigenous peoples - legally binding agreements the Canadian government has failed to live up to.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 02, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Liberal Government Disappoints on Justice for Women, First Nations
Trudeau's election was a beacon of hope, but that light is quickly dimming as he backpedals from his campaign promises.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 15, 2017 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Interview with Martha Barranger of The Women's Centre
The Executive Director of the Centre discusses its history and ongoing role in opening doors for women in Halton Region.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 02, 2017 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Educating Girls to Achieve Equality
Because we know educated girls grow into empowered women, ONE is asking you to join them to help get every girl into school and to make sure she gets a quality education once she's there.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 26, 2017 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Christmas 2016 Wish List
onsider for one moment how differently things could have played out for Nuseiba Hasan and Elana Fric-Shamji, and her three children, if just one person had spoken up in time.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 24, 2016 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Remembering the Montreal Massacre
It's time to share the story with all of our children so they know the truth and so that history does not repeat itself.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 07, 2016 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

The Theatre of Life
In a world where 1.3 billion tons of food are thrown away annually, Theatre of Life raises awareness about the enormous environmental and human impacts of food waste.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 02, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Woman Abuse Prevention Month and the Good Men in My Life
Thank you to all of the wonderful men in my life who are taking a stand to eradicate violence against women and girls.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 02, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

UN is Telling Canada to Improve Gender Equality
This week the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women called on the federal, provincial and territorial governments to establish a comprehensive National Gender Equality Plan addressing the barriers to women's equity in
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 28, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Orange the World: 16 Glowing Nights to Mark Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
In order to make meaningful, lasting changes, everyone needs to understand that gender equality is a basic human right.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 25, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Orange the World to End Violence Against Women and Girls
This Friday marks the start of the United Nations 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, from International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25 to Human Rights Day on December 10.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 23, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Ontario Government Initiatives Supporting Women and Children to Leave Abuse
It's crucial for the government to get input from survivors of gendered violence. The information collected should then be incorporated into the design and execution of new policy or policy changes.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 17, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Movies and Books that Explore and Illustrate Woman Abuse
Let's discuss some documentaries, movies, plays and books that illustrate the complexities of woman abuse, which really hinges on an abuser's need to maintain power and control over their intimate partner.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 08, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Aboriginal Women and Woman Abuse Prevention Month
Aboriginal people believe it takes five generations to fix mistakes. There's no time like the present to acknowledge Canada's role in creating a country that often sees women, and especially Aboriginal women, as disposable and less than deserving.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 04, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Woman Abuse Prevention Month 2016
On Friday, November 25, show your support for Woman Abuse Prevention Month by wearing purple.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 31, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Parliament Votes on Election Candidate Gender Equity Bill
Bill C-237 will be voted on today. Unfortunately, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called on his government to vote against adopting Kennedy Stewart's private member's bill.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 19, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Support Bill to Give Domestic Violence Victims Time Off Work
Every member of the provincial legislature should vote in favour of Bill 26 because it moves women in Ontario closer to the goal of being able to live without the fear of violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 18, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

World Food Day: Climate is Changing
World Food Day is a stark reminder that simply producing more food, or wasting less of what we produce, will never get food into the mouths and bellies of those who desperately need it yet can't afford to grow or buy it.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 14, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

We Are Still Making the Same Mistake With First Nations Children
As a nation we have the opportunity and obligation to put an end to the discrimination that keeps on reserve children and youth from receiving the services available to all other children all across Canada.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 13, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

1inFour Receives HCF Funding to Help Women in Hamilton Heal from Domestic Violence
Thanks to community funding, 1inFour is building bridges between services and clients in Hamilton with the long-term goal of taking their website province-wide.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 28, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

We Can't Make the Same Mistake Twice
Alanis Obomsawin's latest project documents the nine-year legal saga that pitted Indigenous Canadians against the Harper government over the deplorable quality of services provided to children and youth on reserve.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 26, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

FoodShare: Bite-Sized Servings of Social Justice
FoodShare is a food hub that advocates for establishing sustainable, healthy, inclusive and resilient communities with equitable access to nutritious and culturally appropriate vegetables and fruits.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 23, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Review: The Witness
Before she was made into an icon for bystander apathy, Kitty Genovese was a colourful, vivacious, multifaceted human being.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 16, 2016 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Concerns About Effectiveness of Partner Assault Response (PAR) Program
A mere 24 hours of counselling is hardly sufficient to unlearn a lifetime of violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 17, 2016 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Review: The Apology
The Apology offers insightful glimpses into the lives of "comfort women" who were systematically abducted, tortured and raped by the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 06, 2016 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Sexual Assault and the Neurobiology of Trauma
The information presented by Diana Tikasz should be mandatory for all police officers, lawyers, and judges throughout Canada.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 24, 2016 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Domestic Violence in the Workplace
Compassionate leave is one way for government, employers, co-workers and society to support those living with, and leaving, abuse. Ongoing education, advocacy and support in workplaces is another important piece.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 23, 2016 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

The War at Home
Let's have uncomfortable conversations about the hidden wars being waged in our homes and let abusive men know that this war is coming to an end.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 17, 2016 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women National Inquiry Recommendations
This inquiry provides Canada the opportunity to remedy one more atrocity endured by generations of Indigenous peoples. It's time to listen to those with lived experience, because we only have one chance to make amends.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 26, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Redressing Ontario's Historic Treatment of People with Developmental Disabilities
While individuals with developmental disabilities have made huge strides to reclaim their human rights, the dark chapter of institutionalization remains unresolved because the province refuses to admit the abuses that took place.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 24, 2016 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Unintended Consequences of Mandatory Charging for Domestic Abuse
Domestic violence is not as straightforward as the statistics lead you to believe, especially when abusive men manipulate a variety of systems put in place to safeguard their victims.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 03, 2016 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Women Wrongfully Charged With Partner Assault
The policy of mandatory police charging in domestic abuse, which was put in place to protect women, is now often being used against them.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 19, 2016 in Healing Gaia (10 comments)

Issue Two Health Cards for Children of Divorced parents
Premier Kathleen Wynne espouses values of conciliation and inclusiveness. Here's the chance to put those beliefs into practice to ensure a better future for all of our children.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 07, 2016 in Healing Gaia (6 comments)

Child Support Recalculation Process Should Hold Payors Accountable
Abusive non-custodial parents can manipulate the Family Responsibility Office and Family Court system to continue financially and emotionally abusing custodial parents and their children.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 06, 2016 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Providing a Brighter Future for All Ontario Children
Child support is the right of the child. A parent can't contract out of a child's support with the other parent. Likewise, the provincial government should not be allowed to take this money from children whose custodial parent receives social assistance.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 04, 2016 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Christmas Wish List: End Child Poverty in Canada
Ending child poverty means ending poverty in Canada. To be effective, the entire family needs to live well enough above an established poverty line in order to be able to afford the necessities of life, have a cushion for emergencies and a few treats once
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 14, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Starts with Pre-Inquiry
This first step is essential to ensuring that the inquiry will accomplish its mandate as well as have the human power and funding to implement and monitor all recommendations.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 10, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

OAITH and Yellow Brick House Launch 'The Window Project'
This new campaign in Toronto will raise public awareness and generate funds for women and families impacted by domestic violence in Canada.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 07, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Time to Close the Gender Pay Gap
April 20, 2015 was last year's Equal Pay Day for Ontario. This illustrates how far into the current year women must work in order to earn the same amount men earned the previous calendar year.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 26, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Colour My World Orange!
Today is the official launch of the United Nation's Orange the World Campaign to end violence against women.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 25, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Decent Work Hard to Find in Non-Profit Sector
Non-profit agencies provide the critical services so vital to creating an equitable society. Because of the role they play, non-profit workers deserve special attention.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 23, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Nirbhaya! Raise Your Hand and be Silent No More
Nirbhaya was inspired by a brutal gang rape in India but it also draws extensively from the lived experiences of the extraordinary cast putting faces and voices to this global human rights issue.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 19, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Canada Must Hold an Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
By refusing to hold a national inquiry and enact the recommendations in a timely manner, Canada is currently violating international law.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 06, 2015 in Healing Gaia (5 comments)

Support Post-Secondary Education for Indigenous Women
The goal of Moc Walk is to raise $10,000 to establish an education fund, with awards distributed based on financial need.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 04, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month in Ontario
The purple scarf is symbolic of the courage it takes for a woman leave her abuser.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 02, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

This Monday, Vote for Positive Change
Canada has become a very different country under Stephen Harper. It's no longer the country we knew and loved. But together we can change this.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 16, 2015 in Healing Gaia (19 comments)

Time is Right for a Guaranteed Livable Income
A guaranteed annual income for all Canadians is an affordable and highly cost-effective way to ensure a basic quality of life for all Canadians.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 08, 2015 in Healing Gaia (7 comments)

Walking to the Mailbox Will Not Replace the Need for Pharmacare
Conditions that used to be treated in hospital are now treated at home, thanks in part to drug therapy. But drug therapy only works if you can afford the drugs.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 06, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Fighting Against Alberta's Child Support Clawbacks
It's outrageous to expect a beneficiary to repay a lump-sum debt on child support which should never have been clawed back in the first place.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 02, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Amnesty International's Global Day of Action to Decriminalize Abortion
Every woman and girl has the right to make decisions regarding her body, health, education, sexuality and reproductive life without fear of coercion, criminalization or discrimination by their religious organization, government, community, or family.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 28, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Up For Debate Interviews Put Violence Against Women on Electoral Agenda
The Conservative Party still refuses to join this national discussion about the human rights of Canadian women and girls.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 24, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Class Action Suit Will Raise Children Out Of Poverty
On September 4, 2015, human rights lawyer Eric Letts filed a class proceeding against the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services to ensure lone custody parents on social assistance will receive their child support payments.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 18, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Post-Secondary Education A Crucial Election Issue
Postsecondary education and skills training is essential to Canada's long-term economic, environmental and social health. That's why it's imperative that we have a federal government that's willing to assume a leadership role and demand progressive change
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 15, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Upending the Language of Abuse and Belittlement in Ottawa
On October 19, vote for a Canada that respects and values all of its citizens regardless of gender.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 10, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Canadians Need a National Housing Strategy
York University's Homeless Hub estimates an investment of $44 billion, or $2.04 per person per week, over the next decade would not only end homelessness in Canada, but make more affordable housing available to more Canadians.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published September 01, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

This October, Vote for Food Security
Without a national food policy, the federal government cannot adequately address health, education, economic and environmental issues as they pertain to food insecurity, hunger, unhealthy diets, poverty, unsustainable food production, and climate change.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 26, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Vote to End Misogyny in Canada
The International Women's Rights Project has created a voters guide on women's issues for the 2015 Federal election in Canada.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 24, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

An Easy Change to Protect Child Support Recipients from Uncooperative Payors
When child support payors blatantly manipulate the legal system, it's time for the federal government to protect these families from ongoing abuse.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 12, 2015 in Healing Gaia (36 comments)

Put Food in the Budget and a Living Wage on the Table
As precarious low-wage part-time and contract positions become a way of life for Canadians, more of us will experience food insecurity.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published August 05, 2015 in Healing Gaia (11 comments)

Good Food Isn't Cheap, Cheap Food Isn't Good
We benefit from low-priced food today at the expense of our food security tomorrow. A country that cannot feed itself risks losing self-determination.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 29, 2015 in Healing Gaia (9 comments)

Community Supported Agriculture Feeds a Caring Society
CSAs help create the sense of stewardship in consumers that is needed to protect rural lands and farm families.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 23, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Harper Government Rejects National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women
When casting your vote this October, choose a candidate who supports a violence-free life for all Canadians.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published July 03, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Women's Shelters and Transitional Housing Need More Support
Canadians deserve better funding of emergency and second stage shelter services. They also deserve a national housing policy to address affordable and safe housing for all Canadians. The icing on the cake would be a national action plan on violence agains
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 22, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Ontario Should Adopt Child Support Provision from British Columbia
The time is overdue for the Ontario Liberal government to divert child support payments from the tax coffers to the pockets of custodial parents receiving social assistance.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 17, 2015 in Healing Gaia (10 comments)

Yes, Canada Did Commit Cultural Genocide
Victors write the history books, but they forget that memories are long and passed from generation to generation.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 11, 2015 in Healing Gaia (7 comments)

Time to Face the Uncomfortable Truth About Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Canadians often wonder how we have become a nation with 1,181 cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. All we have to do is look to our history.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published June 03, 2015 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Who Will You Help?
Changing our culture of patriarchy and misogyny will require education paired with new laws and more stringent enforcement of existing policies.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 29, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

This is What a Feminist Looks Like
There has always been a segment of the male population that has openly supported and promoted gender equity. What's needed now is wholesale buy-in.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 27, 2015 in Healing Gaia (15 comments)

Native Women's Voices Silenced by Federal Government
It's not only time for an inquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women, it's also time for an enquiry into why services benefiting this marginalized segment of society are being cut.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 21, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Power and Control: Sexual Assault Reflects Social Norms
Men who rape are not mentally ill or sexually depraved but rather ordinary men with a desire to exert power and control.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 20, 2015 in Healing Gaia (9 comments)

No Means No
Not all men are rapists. However, there is a pervasive culture of gendered violence that is acceptable among some men.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 11, 2015 in Healing Gaia (21 comments)

One Is Too Many!
In 80 percent of sexual assaults, the perpetrator is someone the survivor knew and trusted. This can lead to self-doubt, questioning of judgment and self-blame by the survivor.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 04, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Part 2
This gender-based violence is rooted in an inherent imbalance of power.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 01, 2015 in Healing Gaia (14 comments)

No One Asks For It!
Acknowledging that sexual assault happens is a first step toward addressing this issue.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 28, 2015 in Healing Gaia (70 comments)

Get Dirty This Earth Day
Getting rid of your grass may seem insignificant, but the ripple of improved soil health, reduced water, air and noise pollution along with expanded genetic diversity will have far reaching effects.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 20, 2015 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Charity Begins at Home and Ends with Government Policy
Charity is no replacement for good policy. Canadians deserve a government that will invest to improve lives.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 13, 2015 in Healing Gaia (8 comments)

Confronting Sexual Abuse by Health Care Professionals
It's time to establish an independent body to oversee the implementation of recommendations from the 2015 Sexual Abuse Task Force.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 01, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Community Supported Agriculture in Hamilton
CSAs are a partnership. Consumers support the local men and women who feed us every day by sharing the risks as well as celebrating the times of plenty.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 30, 2015 in Healing Gaia (5 comments)

Celebrate World Water Day
Canada is home to 7 percent of the world's fresh water, yet we have few laws to protect it.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 19, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

India's Daughters and Canada's Daughters
The gang-rape and murder of Jyoti Singh has provoked global outrage over the failure of police and judicial systems to protect women and ensure their human rights.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 11, 2015 in Healing Gaia (4 comments)

International Women's Day 2015
On March 8, do something special for all of the women and girls in your life. Make sure the issues affecting 52 percent of Canadians are up for debate.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 27, 2015 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Canada Learning Bonds Help Pay for Postsecondary Education
The Canada Learning Bond is available to families receiving the National Child Benefit Supplement with children born on or after January 1, 2004.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 23, 2015 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Campus Concerns: Confronting Sexual Assault in Canadian Postsecondary Schools
The fact that a handful of universities are openly admitting that they had higher numbers of reported sexual assaults tells me that these institutions are acknowledging that rape happens.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 17, 2015 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Have a Heart on Family Day
The intention behind the ODSP was admirable. Unfortunately, it has evolved into a system that penalizes recipients and makes it extremely difficult to form long term relationships or support families.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 12, 2015 in Healing Gaia (5 comments)

Breaking the Link Between Sports Events and Domestic Violence
Super Bowl Sunday was a weekend of heightened vigilance for many women and children.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 09, 2015 in Healing Gaia (4 comments)

Killed Puppy Part of a Common Pattern
Intimate partners and ex-partners will use any means to exert power and control over their victims. Children and pets are not immune from the violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 04, 2015 in Healing Gaia (4 comments)

Confronting the Challenges of Elder Abuse
The situation of a rapidly aging population brings with it a whole new set of challenges for individuals, their families and society.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 03, 2015 in Healing Gaia (5 comments)

Movies that Foster Gender Equity, Part 2
Women have a wealth of knowledge and life experience. Telling their stories through movies is one way to help foster positive attitudes of gender equality.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 22, 2015 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Movies that Foster Gender Equity
These movies help move us closer to breaking down female stereotypes while creating a much more equitable image of women.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 15, 2015 in Healing Gaia (4 comments)

If a Change is Gonna Come, We Have to Work For It
The struggles of the civil rights movement epitomized by Selma, the treatment of Indigenous women in Canada, and the plight of millions of women worldwide are intersecting at the point of inherent patriarchal power and control.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published January 13, 2015 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

A New Year's Resolution for Social Inclusion
This New Year, resolve to help make Canada a country that takes care of all its citizens.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 31, 2014 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Time for Action on Violence Against Women
We deserve a government that values of all of its citizens.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 09, 2014 in Healing Gaia (0 comments)

Support Food Banks, but Also Support Making Them Obsolete
Food banks were meant to be a short-term support but have become the mainstay for too many of our neighbours living below the poverty line.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 08, 2014 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women
Women's rights are human rights. This simple idea needs acknowledgement here at home and globally if we are ever going to eradicate gendered violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published December 01, 2014 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

On November 25, Wear Purple to Mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Whether you're a man or a woman, you can show your solidarity to eradicate all forms of gendered violence.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published November 19, 2014 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

November is Woman Abuse Awareness Month
Most men are not abusive, but we need to get all young boys and men involved if we're going to be successful in eliminating woman abuse.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published October 28, 2014 in Healing Gaia (7 comments)

OW/ODSP Clawbacks Hurt Abused Women
It's election time. Which candidates are willing to help the most vulnerable members of our society by implementing necessary changes to our social assistance programs?
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 28, 2014 in Healing Gaia (10 comments)

Overcoming Abuse and Trauma
This remarkable young woman is putting a face and a very strong voice to the issues of abuse and trauma.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published May 16, 2014 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Make Tax Returns Available to Family Responsibility Office
A solution to the dilemma of child support payors who blatantly disregard court orders by refusing to share tax returns.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published April 22, 2014 in Healing Gaia (8 comments)

World Water Day on Saturday, March 22
World Water Day reminds us that water, food, energy and sustainability are all interconnected.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 20, 2014 in Healing Gaia (1 comment)

Inspiring Celebrations of International Women's Day
International Women's Day may be over for 2014, but I'm looking forward to the time when women and men will sit together at the table with no one sitting apart or behind.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published March 11, 2014 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

Help End Honour Based Violence
Honour-based violence and killings differ from domestic violence because the community knows and supports it.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 27, 2014 in Healing Gaia (3 comments)

Celebrate International Women's Day
Women at the Centre invites everyone to join the campaign to eradicate violence against women.
by Doreen Nicoll
Published February 26, 2014 in Healing Gaia (2 comments)

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