The Better World: Shopping Guide

I just picked up a copy of The Better World: Shopping Guide by Ellis Jones. Pocket-sized and easy to read, it's super convenient. It ranks companies on a grade scale (A+ through F) based on their social and environmental records. All the research done for you for $10! Genius. Who knew Ben and Jerry's would be among the top 10 most socially and environmentally responsible brands?

The Big Pic

The Big Pic is a series of interactive games with International Development related issues. It is geared as an educational tool for kids but it is eye-opening for everyone. Play a game and learn a little, you're never too old.

It's Not Just the Weather that's Cooler in Canada

Kind of cool, from an American's point of view. Worth the read as Samantha Bennett points out that Canada has its priorities straight in her article from 2003.

Bridges That Unite

Bridges That Unite is an organization that travels across Canada addressing the prevailing issue of poverty. They are currently seeking individuals with an International Development Studies background to help out with their exhibit at Pier 21 in the fall. The deadline to apply is September 13, as they will be in Halifax throughout October and November. Visit their website for more information on the important work they do.

War Dance

The resilience of children is incredible. This film is a must-see, the trailer alone will captivate you.

Flow

Flow is a film about how water, a basic necessity of life, is quickly becoming another commodity. Take a look at the trailer. Scary stuff.

A Long Way Gone

Ishmael Beah is a former child soldier. He now speaks publicly and has written a novel on his past experience with war. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier is an honest and rare account of his life and the lives of many that will never be heard. The Hour held an interview with Ishmael in respect to the release of his story.

Omar Khadr

Omar Khadr is a Canadian citizen being held at Guantanamo Bay. He has been there since 2002, accused with throwing a grenade that killed a U.S. soldier. He was never proven guilty, he was also a boy of 15 at the time. Watch a clip of the honourable Romeo Dallaire fighting for the youth.

Uganda Rising

This film is extremely difficult to watch but it reveals an unbearable reality that needs to be addressed in order to change. Pick it up the next time you are at Video Difference and let it impact your life in order to impact the lives of those who are truly being affected.

CPAWS

This summer I began volunteering with an organization called Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS). So far CPAWS has been successful in conserving over 400,000 square kilometres of wildlife across Canada.

At our last meeting they gave me the position of chair for our chapter's next event. CPAWS NS will be holding a photochallenge over the coming few months and showcasing the results late fall. It's a great way to get outside, be creative with nature and get the CPAWS name out there. Check out your chapter is doing across Canada. If you're in Halifax, stay tuned for more details on how to participate in our upcoming challenge.

Children and War

Former child soldiers talk. If you are free August 27th be sure to pick up a ticket. It is for a great cause and the personal knowledge is invaluable.

Coltan

Coltan isn't in the dictionary. It's in our phones and computers. It is also killing children and forcing children to kill in Africa. Unlike diamonds, there is no way of knowing where coltan comes from - whether it is ethically mined in Australia or whether it is sustaining the Congo's civil war. You can probably bet whichever is the cheapest form businesses can get it in. I love my iPhone and my MacBook, so I hope Apple is the first to prove their coltan is ethically mined. Until then, no more new products and lots of letters to Steve Jobs. Check out what WarChild is doing in the Congo and get inspired!

Tomorrow's sun shines in our hearts, in our minds

I am doing my undergrad in International Development Studies at Dalhousie in Halifax. The challenges of my program and the love of my family inspire me to change my world. This blog is the first step towards a grassroots change for the better. Thanks for following.

xoxo Jess