Ottawa ACORN Members and Teachers Stand Up for Internet and Education!
Posted November 17, 2021
Posted November 17, 2021
Yesterday, November 16th, ACORN Ottawa gathered with allies and community members in front of City Hall to call for improved education province-wide and affordable internet access in Ottawa. Some notable contributors included Jeff Leiper, City Councillor for Kitchissippi Ward; Jessica and Joanis and Darby Mallory, students of the University of Ottawa and Carleton respectively; Julie Guèvremont, Secondary Vice-President of the Ottawa Catholic Teachers Union; Stephen Skoutajan, Vice-President of Ottawa-Carleton ETFO; as well as our very own storied members Pascal Kakule, Ray Noyes, Norma-Jean & Morgan Quibell.
With more than 50 people in attendance, the crowd braved the chilly evening and gathered to highlight the need for a level playing field when participating in society- and particularly in education. Speakers expanded on personal experience, whether this was wrestling with the impact of unaffordable internet as an individual, as a parent or as a teacher. ACORN members demanded a $10 municipal broadband network available for low-income families, wifi access in all public spaces, and the expansion of programs that offer free and subsidised devices through which to access the online world in the first place. With the sound system provided by PSAC and a handy gong, we certainly had our voices heard!
The fight is nowhere near done, however: sign here to let City Council and the Mayor know that we need affordable internet NOW!
Press:
Capital Current: Community members push for better internet accessibility for low-income households in Ottawa
CTV News: Calling For Affordable Internet
