Organizational Approach:
Working Groups are coordinated by the volunteer Edmonton Chapter Steering Committee. Working Groups are creative, somewhat autonomous and collaborate with allies where and when possible. Together, we create effective People Power, amplifying calls for government accountability and transparency. At our most effective, we educate the public and successfully lobby governments for improved policies/legislation for social, environmental and economic justice.
We welcome new members and even new Working Groups, within our limited capacities as volunteers. The Regional Organizer and National Staff/organization do provide some training opportunities. Indeed, the Edmonton Chapter provides some capacity building resources such as issue/Working Group specific webinars and, when possible, in person workshops and informative Town Halls.
Effective introductory activities for new volunteers include: issue/working group specific research and building connections with current and potential allies. Of course, we’re open to your suggestions as well and you’re welcome to attend our on-line monthly Steering Committee Meetings. If you’re interested, please contact us,
Current and a Few Aspirational Working Groups:
If you have any questions about our Working Groups or would like to help out in any way, please contact us
Alberta Beyond Coal: This group is really more of a coalition with a number of major Alberta environmental groups, including significant volunteer contributions from Edmonton Chapter Steering Committee members. A very active and effective initiative which has vigorously challenged Alberta Government coal policy. For more information and to get involved see: www.albertabeyondcoal.ca
Pesticide Free Edmonton Working Group: Another active and effective initiative in this case vigorously challenging municipal pesticide policies and practices. Currently focused on building citizen support and lobbying the City to implement an effective Cosmetic Pesticide Ban. For more information and to show your support, follow the link below and provide your contact information:
The Commons Edmonton:
Podcast On Civil Society and Democracy
An “arms length” podcast project, operating independently from the Edmonton Chapter and the Council of Canadians as a whole. Welcomes help with research, episode ideas and other production assistance.
https://thecommonsedmonton.org
The Onoway River Valley Conservation Association Working Group: For 20 years, this volunteer group has worked to protect the Sturgeon River watershed and, in particular, to challenge ecologically damaging sand and gravel/aggregate strip mining along the Sturgeon River just north and west of Edmonton. Web page under construction, though, much information is available here: https://thecommonsedmonton.org/pagee-1
Reclaim Alberta: Web page under construction
Building Alliances/Other Projects: This is a place for new working groups and for aspirational projects. More to come! Web page under construction.
edmontoncouncilofcanadians.ca 