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Speak Out For Children!
The National Children's Alliance's Community Action Guide
WHO WE ARE: The National Children's Alliance is a group of sixty national organizations committed to the
well being of all children and youth in Canada. Together, the member groups of the Alliance represent hundreds
of thousands of people who work with children and families in the fields of social services, education and health,
as professionals and as volunteers. National organizations conducting research and promoting improved economic
and social security are also members of the Alliance.
OUR VISION: All children have the right to reach their full potential. The Alliance seeks to develop
Canadian policy that sustains families, builds healthy children, families and communities, and remains accountable
to Canada and the world.
Speak out for Children!
Canadians are concerned about the future of this country’s social fabric. The erosion
of once cherished social programs is deeply worrisome. In particular, Canadians want to
preserve programs and initiatives, which help children to realize their full potential.
Families in Canada are facing difficult times. Challenged by economic insecurity, unemployment and
a disintegrating system of social services and supports, many parents are struggling to meet the needs of their children.
It’s time to re-invest in our social programs. In the past 10 years, the federal government has
cut $3.35 billion for social services funding while health spending has increased by $1.29 billion.
Social programs are the foundation of ensuring the health of the people of Canada. It’s time to restore the balance.
As a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Canadian government has an
obligation to ensure that every child and family has access to the health, educational and social services they need
to develop as individuals and as members of a larger community. The federal government must take a leadership role
in fulfilling this responsibility.
It’s time for Canada to live up to its promises, including:
-
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
- National Children’s Agenda
- Social Union Framework Agreement
- Early Childhood Development Initiative
- Multi-Lateral Framework Agreement on Child Care
Every Canadian has a critical role to play in assuring that the federal
government meets its obligations. It is up to you. Get involved, speak out
and take action for the children of Canada. Together, we can make a difference.
Moving Into Action
The purpose of this Action Guide is to: -
provide a base of information to support informed debate about the health
and well being of children and their families in Canada;
- mobilize individuals and groups to engage in public discussions;
- raise public awareness of the many challenges facing children and families;
- provide tools and resources for affecting change; and
- encourage increased participation in the democratic process.
Faced with the challenges of an insecure labour market
and deep cuts to social programs, many families are struggling to meet the needs of their children.
Each of us must take every opportunity to voice our concerns and hold the government
accountable and responsible to the children and families of Canada.
You possess a unique knowledge of these needs and concerns. Be sure to influence public
policy by expressing your opinions, seeking answers to difficult questions, attending meetings, and
participating in the democratic process.
It’s up to us to keep children on the national agenda . You have a
role to play in ensuring that this debate is informed and relevant. By participating in the process,
you can help to create the Canada our children need today and tomorrow.
What are the Issues?
The National Children’s Alliance has identified five areas on which
to focus its advocacy at this time Obviously, there are many issues to be pursued. You and
your organization will, undoubtedly, create your own list of priorities
for your network to consider.
Meeting Basic Needs
Reaching Potential
Supporting Aboriginal Children and Youth
Promoting Healthy Active Living
Ensuring Public Accountability
Conclusion
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