Join us in welcoming our new Basic Needs Coordinator, Marie-Eve Lamothe-Gascon.
Tell us a bit about yourself…
I’m originally from Montreal. I spent several years there working with youth and families who are experiencing difficulties and passing through different types of crises. I began searching for new challenges, both in my professional and personal life. That motivation led me to Guatemala for eight months volunteering for a humanitarian project working to improve the quality of life of women living in really small, poor and remote communities.
What brought you to the Women’s Centre of Calgary?
After coming back from Guatemala a few months ago, I was searching for a job in a communitarian environment as well as for an opportunity to continue working and improving women’s situations.
First impression of the Women’s Centre?
I am really happy to have the chance to work in an exceptional place where women work together with open minds in an environment of tolerance, equality and respect.
What is your personal definition of ‘feminism’?
Feminism is not only a matter of standing out in the street and claiming your rights, but more a matter of working hard, day after day, to improve women’s situations. For me, it is the work done every day to reduce the social, systemic, economic and cultural inequalities that affect women and make their lives harder. It is long term work, supported by engaged people who believe in women’s rights and social equality in our society.
What is one thing you hope to learn at the Women’s Centre?
I think this is a really good opportunity to learn more about women’s issues and community development and be part of empowerment and positive change.