An upcoming presentation by South Rock Social Justice sets out to expose how years of corporate malfeasance have conspired to keep workers at '"survival" wages.
But according to the makers of the 2010 documentary Poor No More – to be screened Friday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at White Rock Community Centre – there is a way out of this predicament.
Directed by Canadian filmmakers Bert Deveaux and Suzanne Babin, and hosted by popular comedian and actor Mary Walsh (This Hour Has 22 Minutes), the hour-long film has been described as offering "an engaging look at Canadians stuck in low-paying jobs with no security and no future."
By following the challenges faced by two working Canadians, Durval Terceira and Liquor Control Board of Ontario employee Vicki Baier, the film presents a narrative that will be relatable to many.
Walsh then takes viewers on a journey to Ireland and Sweden for a first-hand look at how how these countries have tackled poverty while actually strengthening their economies.
Accompanying her, Terceira – once an undocumented immigrant, who subsequently became active in the labour movement – and Baier – a cancer patient and single mom struggling to support a teen daughter – have an opportunity to compare their standard of living with that of average people in both countries.
The film demonstrates Canada's need for better social services in regards to unemployment insurance, universal health care, pensions, and full-time union-protected jobs.
Viewers see, for example, how in Sweden, the labour movement works hand-in-hand with corporate entities to ensure a stronger social safety net, offering universal child care, income and training systems for the unemployed.
By showing how other countries have succeeded with different approaches, Poor No More offers intriguing solutions for Canada's working poor; and, ultimately a message of hope for those who have to work two jobs a day to survive – and to those who cannot even find a single job.
Admission is by donation; doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the screening (to be followed by a question and answer session) starts at 7 p.m.
The centre is located at 15154 Russell Ave. (Miramar Village) and parking is free for participants.
For more information, visit southrocksocialjustice.ca
