While a final decision has not yet been announced, there has been considerable speculation that Oxfam Canada will be shutting down its St. John’s office in the very near future.
“Oxfam has played a vital role in working with community and labour groups, including NAPE, to address inequality, poverty and human rights issues in Newfoundland and Labrador and around the world,” said Furlong. “The St. John’s Oxfam office has been a focal point of organizing, education and action on a wide array of social justice issues in our communities and globally for over 30 years. It is crucial that it stay open to continue this legacy.”
From anti-apartheid efforts, to working with women in Namibia, to contributing to the Haiti post-earthquake relief efforts, NAPE has worked with Oxfam Canada on a myriad of issues via the St. John’s office for many years. In addition to international social justice and relief efforts, the St. John’s office has been a hub for local organizing, particularly via the work of the Social Justice Committee which tackles important issues here in Newfoundland and Labrador.
“NAPE and a variety of other local organizations have a long and successful history of working together to address social justice, poverty and equality issues locally and abroad,” continued Furlong. “We want to make sure that Mr. Fox and the rest of the Oxfam Canada board of directors understand the importance of the St. John’s office as a high-profile and effective hub for the social justice movement in this province.”
Oxfam Canada Executive Director Robert Fox is visiting the province this week to participate in a public meeting regarding the future of the St. John’s office and staff. The meeting is being held tonight at 7:00 pm at The Lantern located at 35 Barnes Road in St. John’s.
For further information please contact:
Keith Dunne, NAPE Campaigns and Communications Coordinator
(phone) 709.570.2501 (cell) 709.631.9737 (e-mail) kdunne@nape.nf.ca
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