For anyone who has negative thoughts or doubts about the youth population today, I suggest you take a trip to Montreal and visit the A is B team. Seriously. They are a breath of fresh, inspiring air. Enjoy!
This is long overdue, but I am so glad to finally share with you a little bit of the magic that is Apathy is Boring. From the moment I stepped into their office in Montreal, I felt like one of the gang. From the executive director (Ilona) who has achieved so much good in her 31 years, to an amazing artist (Moe) who offers her artistic expertise on an (often) volunteer basis, to a lovely staff member (Devon) who doubles as a food blogger -- they were all so incredible. For anyone who has negative thoughts or doubts about the youth population today, I suggest you take a trip to Montreal and visit the A is B team. Seriously. They are a breath of fresh, inspiring air. Enjoy!
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Exactly one week ago I pulled myself out of bed in the early morning to prepare for the drive to Montreal. I logged onto Twitter to see what had happened overnight and was overwhelmed with the mass discussion of some very unfortunate news. "Jack Layton dead at 61" I was shocked. Yes, I saw him on the news during his last public appearance and noted how sick he looked. I just didn't expect that Cancer would win in this particular round, not with Jack. Although I actively participate in the democratic process, I am not one to discuss politics or my political views but I am willing to discuss the greatness that I saw in Jack Layton. He was a gem - passionate, engaging, youthful, and a dreamer. He had that crucial ability to engage 'youth' (i.e. people from my generation) like none other. He also showed a sincere respect for us and made it clear that we were valued in society, something that many other politicians (coughHarpercough) fail at. Such a damn shame. "I believe in you. Your energy, your vision, your passion for justice are exactly what this country needs today." - Jack Layton (on youth) I spent the last week volunteering with Apathy is Boring in Montreal, visiting Parliament, and partaking in the festivities at the Ottawa Folk Festival. There was so, so, so much chit chat about Jack. Everyone, regardless of political views, had great things to say. He was well loved by many and his presence will definitely be missed in Canada. "My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world." The perfect words for a heartbreaking end.
Thanks, Jack. xo Bonjour, mes amis! It's Tuesday. Around here Tuesday = music! Yep, it's time for yet another Tune-eee Tuesday. We have been featuring music from a new province each week and this week it's time for QUEBEC to step up to the plate! I have to admit that I don't know too much about the QC music scene, so I decided to stick with what I know. Sounds boring, I realize. I can assure you that the following 5 tunes are anything but.... 1) Karkwa -- Combien 2) Malajube -- Montreal -40C 3) Patrick Watson -- The Great Escape 4) Radio Radio -- Cargué dans ma chaise 5) Winter Gloves -- Plastic Sides Good, eh? As the road trip gets closer and closer I can actually visualize myself driving down the Trans-Canada listening to these tunes. Eeeee!!
Happy trails & travels, -- Becky xo Hi Friends, It's time for another (long overdue) non-profit announcement! As mentioned in a previous post, I am going to be sharing with you some of the different non-profit organizations that I will be spending time with when I am on the road! This organizations home base is in Montreal but they provide services all across Canada. Here we go... How much do you LOVE this photo? Awesome staff! What is Apathy is Boring? "Apathy is Boring's mission is to use art and technology to educate youth about democracy." What do they do? "Apathy is Boring accomplishes its goals through the following program areas: Concerts & Events that encourage youth to get involved in their communities, survey them about their democratic participation habits, and create an opportunity for dialogue between elected officials and youth. A Youth Friendly Program including workshops, tools, and resources to engage youth in decision-making and educate decision-makers about how to engage youth. Apathyisboring.com which provides youth with information, "how-to's", and support to get involved in democracy. Election Campaigns that reach out to youth and give them the information they need to make an informed vote." What are their goals? "Apathy is Boring aims to meet the following Youth in Democracy Goals: a) increase youth voting rates b) increase youth engagement in their communities c) build a sustainable dialogue between youth and elected officials" I love this organization...L-O-V-E them! I can't wait to hang out with them when I make it to Montreal.
They are too cool. Am I right?! Due to the upcoming election on May 2nd, I am certain that their office is full of that buzzing bee sensation...working hard to ensure that youth are voting! I STRONGLY advise you to check out their incredible website and make use of their Political Parties guide. It will able you to make an informed decision when you vote - and please, please, please do VOTE! Make use of your voice... it's an important one! Speaking of voting, don't forget to get your daily vote in for my Roadtrip with Reason in Pepsi Refresh Canada. Only TWO spots to go until the $5,000 grant is achieved. Amazing! Please, please, please keep up the daily vote until April 30th and spread the word. Happy trails & travels! Much Love, -- Becky xo |
What is this?Welcome! My name is Becky. I took a roadtrip across Canada, from July to November 2011. This roadtrip was a special one though, because it had reason! Tweet. Tweet.Archives
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