WTC In Action

This month we launched a 4-workshop cohort with with 30 community members of Marpole to build civic and community organizing skills. We are excited to see the progression of their learning over the course of 4 workshops!

WTC collaborated with Adler University, MOSAIC, and Kickstand to deliver workshops on topics such as Intersectionality and Tips on Speaking to City Council. Folks had LOTS of questions about engaging with their communities and are eager to participate where they can!

WTC Board Member Sadie Gilker spoke at a City Council meeting about the city's decision to allow natural gas in new home construction. Congratulations to everyone who showed up to the rally, wrote letters, or spoke up at city hall —You made your voices heard on climate, health, and equity!⁠

Our members joined partner organizations to stand in solidarity with parents and kids demanding city council keep our homes safe for future generations. Following the rally we watched the meeting livestream and supported folks speaking to council.⁠  The proposal to add gas back into buildings for heating failed, thanks to the principled, evidence-based decision made by five city councillors.

WTC Civic Engagement Manager, Clara Prager, spoke to media about a vote at City Hall that would allow natural gas for heating and hot water in new construction.

The report tracks Vancouver Mayor and Council actions over the last year on their equity commitments to create a city where we all belong.⁠ ⁠⁠ We are deeply grateful for the residents, WTC members, volunteers, community leaders, and grassroots organizations who have shaped the HPPC policy asks.⁠

Earlier this year, WTC spoke with Watch Council participants on what they found valuable about the program. WTC launched Watch Council’s new vision and activities with many ways for members to participate in community. This includes drop-in sessions, field trips, member learning series, a dedicated Slack channel, Watch Council alerts, and civic engagement resources!

WTC presented a workshop on how to speak to council to engage and influence local government. We shared best practices on engaging and influencing city councillors, and practiced speaking using a writing template!