Woody Guthrie documented the struggles of working class people and his body of work, which contains more than 3000 songs, is unparalleled. This year, Guthrie becomes the first artist to receive the Songwriters Hall of Fame Pioneer Award which honours the career of a historic musician that has influenced generations of songwriters. The concert on May 17 at the West End Cultural Centre (WECC) will feature his best known songs and most memorable stories and recitations performed by Winnipeg’s own working class heroes; musicians who share Guthrie’s passion for truth, fairness, and justice for all.

The centennial celebration presents a performance by acoustic five-piece The Magnificent Sevens who fuse punk rock roots with bluegrass instruments. Familiar with the nomadic lifestyle of Woody Guthrie, their strong work ethic keeps them on the road touring Canada and beyond. The band released their second album, All Kinds of Mean, in December of 2011. Sharing the stage is roots trio Sweet Alibi who return home from their west coast tour to celebrate Guthrie by weaving their sweet harmonies over ukulele, banjo, and guitar.

Also on the bill are well known singer-songwriter JD Edwards and multi-instrumentalist Leonard Podolak. JD has been captivating crowds with the JD Edwards Band while fans are most familiar with Leonard’s alt-Celtic roots band, The Duhks. In addition to their solo projects and collaborations, Edwards and Podolak have been touring internationally with Nathan Rogers as a trio, Dry Bones. They can be seen this summer at the Winnipeg and Edmonton folk festivals, as well as Summerfolk in Owen Sound, Ontario.

The birthday bash includes sets by Lindsay Jane, a solo acoustic act who has been on regular rotation on SIRIUS/XM the Coffee House music channel since 2009, and Hugo Torres Cereceda brings a world-beat and Latin influence to the evening with pan flute and classical guitar. Winnipeg’s most sought after bluegrass banjo player, and founding member of Home Routes, Tim Osmond will also strum tunes in honour of Guthrie.

The concert is held at the West End Cultural Centre, a popular venue known for bringing in local and larger touring acts, while serving the community through programming music lessons, workshops, and family friendly events. The venue also relies on the hard work of volunteers who help with various duties at each event. The WECC was recently awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Certification for their efforts in building an environmentally sustainable venue.

The 2012 MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts is a multi-disciplinary festival that focuses on the relationship between working class issues and their artistic expression in song, poetry, photography, dance, drama or art. The festival runs from April 27 – June 2 at venues throughout the city.

Join some of Winnipeg’s finest folk musicians in celebrating the Songs & Music of Woody Guthrie for his 100th birthday at the West End Cultural Centre on May 17 at 8:00 pm. Tickets are $20, available at West End Cultural Centre, Organic Planet, and Mondragon. Full festival details available at mayworks.org.

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Media Contact: Nat Felicitas | 998-4748 | mayworksmedia@gmail.com

Marie Gravoso, 17, from the Maples Collegiate Amnesty International club, was asked to speak about this year’s SAFE Workers of Tomorrow Leaders’ Walk theme — the connection between human rights and worker safety.

“There are many people who are dying and being injured because they don’t know they have the right to ask questions,” said Gravoso.

The walk is the largest Day of Mourning event in Manitoba. About 300 people, including 170 students, took part this year. They did so to remind us not only of those who’ve died or been injured on the job, but also of the work that still needs to be done.

People need to realize injuries are not inevitable, the walkers stated.”

By: Kelly Graham, Winnipeg Free Press, April 27, 2012

Winnipeg – The MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts launches this Friday, April 27 with a youth-led march, hosted by SAFE Workers of Tomorrow , in honour of the National Day of Mourning. The march departs at 12:00 PM from the Manitoba Federation of Labour Union Centre at 275 Broadway.

Celebrated nationally on April 28, the day serves to remember workers killed or injured on the job and aims to publicly renew the commitment to making workplaces safer for everyone. On April 28, the Manitoba Federation of Labour will host a candlelight vigil, also in conjunction with the festival and the National Day of Mourning, at 6:00 PM in Room 2C, Union Centre at 275 Broadway.

In 2010, workplace deaths in Canada were reported at 1014*, an increase from 939 the previous year. This represents more than 2.78 deaths every day. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Nova Scotia Westray Mine Disaster, which claimed the lives of 26 workers and prompted an amendment to the Criminal Code of Canada. On March 31, 2004, the legislation of the Westray bill passed and established new legal duties for workplace health and safety.

SAFE Workers of Tomorrow organizes their efforts to bring public awareness, education, and training in workplace safety and health. The Manitoba Federation of Labour is the province’s central labour body and represents the interests of CLC affiliated unions in Manitoba.
The 2012 theme for MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts is “Change the World”. The multi-disciplinary festival focuses on the relationship between working class issues and their artistic expression in song, poetry, photography, dance, drama or art. Join us in changing the world and celebrating the struggle for worker rights from April 27 to June 2 at venues throughout the city!

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Media Contact: Nat Felicitas | 998-4748 | mayworksmedia@gmail.com

*Fatalities accepted in 2010 according to “Number of Fatalities, by Jurisdiction 1993-2010″ summary table, statistics from the Association of Workers Compensation Boards of Canada.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 18, 2012

WINNIPEG: Amidst announcements of new federal and provincial budgets, job cuts, and increasing costs of living, the MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts joins festivals across the country to honour working class culture through song, dance, film, and stories. The 2012 festival theme, “Change the World”, invites the community to be the change they want to see by participating in a medley of events, taking place from April 27- June 2. Unionized and non-unionized workers, co-ops, and artists will gather in solidarity to honour the struggles for the rights and freedoms of working people.

MayWorks “Change the World” presents local artists from all disciplines that not only interpret and preserve the history of social movements, but lead and inspire social change. Events are presented by host organizations at venues throughout the city, launching on April 27 with a youth-led march hosted by SAFE Workers of Tomorrow. The march honours the National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job. The annual May Day March on May 1, organized by the Winnipeg Labour Council in recognition of International Working Class Day, comes as the drive for austerity takes its toll on social programs, workers livelihoods, and pensions. Also on May 1, co-operatively owned Mondragon Bookstore and Coffeehouse hosts a live videofeed talk with activist Noam Chomsky. Woody Guthrie’s 100th Birthday Party is the festival highlight on May 17. Presented by MayWorks and the West End Cultural Centre, the songs and stories by the working class hero will be performed by Winnipeg’s brilliant folk music artists The Magnificent Sevens, Sweet Alibi, Nathan Rogers, JD Edwards and Leonard Podolak.

Change the world with MayWorks at various cultural events including plays by Bruce Sarbit, Dale Lakevold, a tour led by Danny Schur highlighting events from the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike, poetry readings, a May Day Banquet, documentary film screenings, and the Festival of Mandolins at the Ukrainian Labour Temple. These events and more comprise an exciting festival showcase of working class culture in Winnipeg.

MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts is a multi-disciplinary festival that focuses on working class themes. It is held in Winnipeg every year to honour and promote the many positive contributions of unions and working people. Full festival details at www.mayworks.org.

- 30-

Media Contact:
Nat Felicitas | 998-4748 | mayworksmedia@gmail.com

Host Organization: SAFE Workers

A youth-led march to honour the National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job. This year’s march will head to the site of the Museum for Human Rights at the Forks.

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Date: April 28th, 10:00 am
Title: National Day of Mourning- MFL Candlelight Service
Location: Room 2C, Union Centre, 275 Broadway
FREE event

Host Organization: Manitoba Federation of Labour

A candlelight service to remember those who have lost their lives earning a living, and those who have become disabled from work.

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Date: April 29th, 2:00 pm
Title: TO LIFE! A celebration of Ukrainian and Jewish songs and dances
Location: Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard and McGregor
$15 Tickets can be purchased at 595 Pritchard (call first 589-4397)

Host Organization: Association of United Ukrainian Canadians

This concert is a celebration of common heritage of two groups who immigrated from the ‘Old Country’ (Eastern Europe) to the ‘New World’ (Canada). It features the Festival Ukrainian Folk Choir, the North End Jewish Folk Choir, Prystuk Dancers and others.

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Date: May 1st. Meet at 5:30, March at 6:00pm
Title: May Day March
Location: Assemble at City Hall
FREE event

Host Organization: Winnipeg Labour Council (942-0522)

The annual May Day March is organized by the Winnipeg Labour Council in recognition of International Working Class Day. This year’s march comes as the drive for austerity takes its toll on social programs, workers livelihoods and pensions. Come and be part of May Day. Join together to say: “We Are Entitled to Prosperity Not Austerity”.

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Date: May 1st, 2:00 pm
Title: An afternoon with Noam
Location: A-Zone Co-op, 91 Albert Street

Host Organizations: Mondragon Bookstore & Coffeehouse, Rudolf Rocker Cultural Centre & CKUW 95.9 FM

Get your May Day started right, with Legendary activist, professor, writer & all round outstanding citizen or the world Noam Chomsky. Via the interweb & video Noam will inspire Winnipeg activists with this May Day lecture.

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Date: Wednesday, May 2nd, 7:00pm
Title: Six Poets in Search of a New Literary Movement
Location: McNally Robinson Booksellers (in the atrium), 1120 Grant Avenue
FREE event
A unique event combining theatre and poetry: new and selected work from the New Festival Theory group of poets of Ron Romanowski’s Big Book of Canadian Poetry as performed by the author with Nurit Drory, John H. Baillie, Cheryl Kives, Liliana Romanowski and Stan Rossowski

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Date: May 4th, Cocktails at 6:00pm, Dinner at 7:00 pm
Title: Mayday Banquet
Location: The Fort Garry Hotel
$30 To reserve tickets call Ken at 479-8089

Dinner and a political/cultural programme and dance. Cash Bar.

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Date: May 12th, 8:00 pm
Title: Festival of Mandolins
Location: Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard and McGregor
$15 call 589-4397

Host Organization: Association of United Ukrainian Canadians

The Winnipeg Mandolin Orchestra of the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians celebrated its 90th Anniversary in 2011. Manitoba’s oldest orchestra, predating the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, performs at the Ukrainian Labour Temple under the direction of Annis Kozub. The ensemble will present “Festival of Mandolins” an evening of music set in the historic Ukrainian Labour Temple.

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Date: May 13th, 2:00 pm
Title: Spring Concert
Location: Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard and McGregor
$15 call 589-4397

Host Organization: Association of United Ukrainian Canadians

The AUUC’s spring concert features the Festival Choir, Winnipeg Mandolin
Orchestra, the AUUC School of Folk Dance and the Yunist Dancers in their
final concert of the year.

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Date: May 17th, 8:00 pm
Title: Woody Guthrie’s 100th Birthday Party
Location: West End Cultural Centre

Host Organization: MayWorks

The songs and stories of America’s tuning fork Woodrow Wilson Guthrie as presented by leading and less know lights of Winnipeg’s brilliant folk music community including The Magnificent Sevens, Sweet Alibi, Dry Bones (ft.Nathan Rogers, JD Edwards and Leonard Podolak). Woody Guthrie documented the struggles of working class people and his body of work is unparalleled. The concert will feature his best known and most lyrically and musically beautiful songs and some of his best stories and recitations.

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Date: May 20th, 8:00-11:00pm
Title: Winnipeg Worker Co-op Video Series Premiere
Location: Park Theatre, 698 Osborne Street
$10 tickets available at Mondragon, Organic Planet and cvwc@rocketmail.com

Host Organization: Co-op Ventures Worker Co-op
Financial support provided by Assiniboine Credit Union

The Winnipeg Worker Co-op Video Series features seven co-ops, their members and their reasons for choosing this model to explore and promote workplace democracy.

What are the joys and challenges of being a worker/owner? How were they let down by traditional workplace structures? How can this alternative business ownership model change the world? Videos include Organic Planet, Natural Cycle Courier, Mondragon, ANAK, Ram Wools, Urban Eatin’ and Enviro-Safe Cleaning.The evening will also feature performances by longtime folksinger Bobby Stahr and other local musicians.

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Date: May 25th, 5:30 pm doors, 6:00 pm dinner
Title: Victoria Park Fundraiser Cabaret
Location: Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard and McGregor
$35/person or $20/student. Table prices available by request.
Contact Sandra Gessler (770-9298), or Glenn Michalchuk (479-7026)
Mondragon (91 Albert) or the Social Planning Council at 207 Donald

Host Organization: Friends of Victoria Park

This 1900 style cabaret reminiscent of the Winnipeg General Strike era will feature a buffet supper and entertainment by magician Joe Kaufert and The Lindsay White Band. The evening will also feature an update on the progress to create a heritage site. Student projects from the Faculty of Architecture exploring what a heritage site might look like will also be on display. This exciting event is part of building a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Strike in 2019. Proceeds go to establishing a heritage site to commemorate the Strike, its importance, the early laborers and the park where they rallied.

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Date: Fri & Sat May 25,26 (9pm) , May 27 (2pm, 7pm), May 31 (9pm) (97 min)
Title: PINK RIBBONS INC.
Location: Cinematheque, Artspace Building

Host Organization: Cinematheque

Breast cancer has become the poster child of cause-related marketing campaigns. Countless people walk, run and shop for the cure. Each year, millions of dollars are raised in the name of breast cancer, but where does this money go and what does it actually achieve? Directed by Léa Pool and produced by Ravida Din, Pink Ribbons, Inc. is a feature documentary that shows how the devastating reality of breast cancer, which marketing experts have labeled a “dream cause,” has become obfuscated by a shiny, pink story of success.

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Date: May 26th, 12:00-4:00 pm
Title: Mayworks Picnic for inner city youth
Location: Freight House Park
FREE event

Host Organization: Winnipeg Labour Council (942-0522 or wpglbr@mts.net)

Come join the Winnipeg Labour Council celebrate May at Freight House Park for a free picnic. All children who attend will be given a draw ticket for a chance to win a new bike.

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Date: Sat May 26th, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM & 4 PM
Title: “MIKE’S BLOODY SATURDAY” General Strike Documentary Film
Location: Cinematheque, 100 Arthur Street
FREE EVENT

Hosted by: Danny Schur

Join award-winning playwright Danny Schur (the musical Srike@) for the screening of his documentary film “Mike’s Bloody Saturday” a film about the Winnipeg General Strike at Cinematheque.

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Date: Sun, May 27th, 12 PM & 3 PM
Title: “MIKE’S BLOODY SATURDAY” Walking Tour
Location: City Hall Courtyard, 510 Main StreetFREE EVENT. Registration is mandatory by calling 227-1167

Hosted by: Danny Schur

Join award-winning playwright Danny Schur (the musical Strike!) as he leads you on a walking tour that examines the contradictory evidence surrounding the death of Ukrainian immigrant Mike Sokolowski on Bloody Saturday during the Winnipeg General Strike.

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Date: May 30th & May 31st 8:00 pm, June 2nd 1:00pm.
Title: All or Nothing a play by Bruce Sarbit
Location: Rudolf Rocker Cultural Centre. 91 Albert Street.
$12 at the door or in advance (204) 867-3908,

Host Organization: Root Sky Productions

Description: All or Nothing dramatizes the last days of Spanish philosopher, novelist, and poet Miguel de Unamuno during the period of his house arrest in Salamanca in 1936 under the fascist Franco regime. A Winnipeg Fringe Festival hit in 20ll. Remounted with Harry Nelken as Unamuno.

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Date: June 1st & 2nd 8:00pm. June 2nd 3:00pm.
Title: Aleta Dey: A Rehearsal a play by Dale Lakevold
Location: Rudolf Rocker Cultural Centre. 91 Albert Street.
$12 at the door or in advance (204) 867-3908, lakevold@hotmail.com

Host Organization: Root Sky Productions

The moving story of a fiercely independent young woman standing up for what she believes in: women’s rights and an end to war. Adapted from the 1919 autobiographical novel Aleta Dey by Manitoba writer and activist Francis Marion Beynon. Featuring Tracy Penner.

MayWorks is a multi-disciplinary festival that focuses on the relationship between working class issues and their artistic expression in song, poetry, photography, dance, drama or art.

The theme for MayWorks 2012 is “Culture to Change the World” inspired by the many examples of art – historical and contemporary – that has been produced in response to social movements, the working class experience and the struggle for social change.

We invite you to contact MayWorks if you are interested in making a proposal for an event. The deadline for submissions is Friday, January 27, 2012. For a submission form or more information contact MayWorks at info@mayworks.org

National Day of Mourning – SAFE Workers of Tomorrow Annual Leaders’ Walk
11:45am, April 28, 2011
Depart from Union Centre entrance, 275 Broadway, Winnipeg

Join labour and community leaders in the Annual Leaders’ Walk to the Legislature to honour the National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job.
Contact: Allan Beach, SAFE Workers of Tomorrow, 992-2988.

National Day of Mourning – MFL Candlelight Service
6:00pm, April 28, 2011
Room 2C, Union Centre, 275 Broadway, Winnipeg

A candlelight service to remember those who have lost their lives earning a living, and those who have become disabled from work.
Contact: Jean-Guy Bourgeois, Manitoba Federation of Labour, 953-2563

Sunday, May 1

MayWorks MAIL ART
All of May
Millennium Library, 251 Donald Street
Free Admission

The MAYWORKS MAIL ART exhibit is part of the world’s largest collection featuring the theme of work. MAIL ART is a worldwide cultural movement started in the 1960′s. The idea behind the movement is to bypass the elitist gallery/museum system of art. There are no hierarchies, no rules, all participants work is shown to the public. MAIL ART is non commercial, no entry fees, no sales and the yearly call is universal.

May Day March
Assemble at 12:30pm – March at 1:00pm, May 1, 2011
City Hall, 510 Main Street

Celebrate International Working Class Day.
The annual May Day March organized by Winnipeg Labour Council takes place in recognition of International Working Class Day. Come and be part of May Day and the struggle for Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities and Progress for All.
For more information contact Winnipeg Labour Council at 942-0522

Monday, May 2

Music From the Ghetto
7:00pm, May 2, 2011
Chevra Mishnayes Synagogue, 700 Jefferson Avenue
Free Admission

The United Jewish People’s Order (UJPO) will explore Music from the
Ghetto at its annual Holocaust Commemoration. Musicologist Jane Enkin will
speak about music that was written during that dark time and will sing
selected pieces. The UJPO choir-The North End Jewish folk Choir- will also
perform.

Tuesday, May 3

A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights
7:00pm – 9:00pm, May 3, 2011
Carol Shields Auditorium, Millennium Library, 251 Donald Street
Suggested donation $5.00

Mayworks, Canadian Dimension Magazine and Cliff (labour) film festival with the Support of the Millennium Public Library proudly present A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights.
A selection of features and shorts from the 2010 Cliff film festival will be featured, in addition to other notable films from 2010. Featured films will be screened on May 3, May 16 and May 24.
Featured Film:
Beneath Black Skies
In 1902, Australia’s largest industrial disaster killed 96 men and boys and left 120 children fatherless. This labour history tracks how Australia’s first mineral export, coal, shaped the men and women who lived the mining life… beneath black skies.
Hosted by David Camfield

Wednesday, May 4

The Big Book of Canadian Poetry
Music at 7:30pm ~ Reading at 8:00pm, May 4, 2011
McNally Robinson Booksellers Grant Park, 1120 Grant Avenue
Free Admission

The new book of poetry by the New Festival crew: Ron Romanowski, June Summer-Jones, John G. Carmody, Marina Stepanova, Ruth Rachel Cyprian and Siegfried Jerusalem.
Hosted by Nurit Drory and music by Sam Knacker on harmonica.
For more information contact

Thursday, May 5

Canadian Labour in Crisis: Reinventing the Workers’ Movement Book Launch
8:00pm, May 5, 2011
Mondragon Bookstore & Coffeehouse, 91 Albert Street
Free Admission

Though many of us think of ourselves as middle class, most of us are, in fact, working class: we work for a wage. And though many of us are members of unions, most people do not understand themselves to be part of this movement. Canadian Labour in Crisis asks why this is so. Through an analysis of the contemporary Canadian working-class movement and its historical development, Camfield offers an explanation for its current state and argues that reform within the movement is not enough.
Please see more information about the book at: http://www.fernwoodpublishing.ca/Canadian-Labour-in-Crisis/

Saturday, May 7

May Day Banquet
Cocktails at 6:00pm, Dinner at 7:00pm, May 1, 2011
Hotel Fort Garry
Tickets: $30.00

Dinner and a political/ cultural programme and dance. Cash bar.
For reservations and tickets contact Ken at 479-8089

Sunday, May 8

1919 Historical Bus Tour and Memorial Service for Mike Sokolowski
1:00pm, May 8, 2011
Union Centre, 275 Broadway
Tickets $10.00
Free admission for mothers who are accompanied by children of any age

Join our knowledgeable tour guides on a chartered bus as they share details and answer questions about the sites of interest that have a direct connection to the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. Learn about the life of Mike Sokolowski, the Ukrainian immigrant who was killed during the culmination of the strike on “Bloody Saturday”, June 15, 1919. The tour begins at the Union Centre and makes its way to the Vulcan Iron Works when it all began. You will also visit Hell’s Alley where many of the marchers were beaten on that fateful day. Before returning to the Union Centre, you will also bear witness to a memorial graveside service for Mike Sokolowski at 2:00pm at Brookside Cemetary.
For tickets contact: the Worker’s Organizing Resource Centre, Mezzanine – 280 Smith Street, 947-2220; Mondragon Bookstore and Coffeehouse, 91 Albert Street and The Park Theatre Cafe, 698 Osborne Street.

Saturday, May 14

Building the A-Zone Co-op: 24 hour Marathon Fundraiser
3:00pm, May 14 – 3:00pm, May 15
Mondragon, 91 Albert
A-Zone Co-op pledges accepted at 1-204-942-6994

MayWorks and CKUW 95.9 fm present the 2nd Annual “Building the A-Zone Co-op” 24hour Marathon Fundraiser.
Come and enjoy nonstop live entertainment for 24 hours with a webcast live at www.a-zone.org
Please support co-op ownership of this unique heritage building!

Festival of Mandolins
8:00pm, May 14, 2011
Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard & McGregor
Tickets: $15
The Winnipeg Mandolin Orchestra of the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians celebrates its 90th Anniversary in 2011.
The Mandolin Orchestra, one of Manitoba’s artistic treasures, performs at the Ukrainian Labour Temple as part of MayWorks. The Mandolin Orchestra is Manitoba’s oldest orchestra – it pre-dates the Winnipeg Symphony – and the oldest one of its kind in Canada. The Mandolin Orchestra, under the direction of Annis Kozub, will present “Festival of Mandolins” an evening of music that should not be missed.
For more information contact: Ukrainian Labour Temple at 582-9269

Sunday, May 15

AUUC Spring Concert
2:00pm, May 15, 2011
Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard & McGregor
Tickets: $10

The Association of United Ukrainian Canadians celebrates the arrival of spring in dance and song with AUUC School of Folk Dance, Yunist Dance Ensemble, the new adult dance group and the Festival Choir under the direction of Vasilina Streltsov with music by the Mandolin Orchestra.
For more information contact: Ukrainian Labour Temple at 582-9269

Monday, May 16

A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights
7:00pm – 9:00pm, May 16, 2011
Carol Shields Auditorium, Millennium Library, 251 Donald Street
Suggested donation per evening is $5.00

Mayworks, Canadian Dimension Magazine and Cliff (labour) film festival with the Support of the Millennium Public Library proudly present A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights.
A selection of features and shorts from the 2010 Cliff film festival will be featured, in addition to other notable films from 2010. Featured films will be screened on May 3, May 16 and May 24.
Featured Film:
Home Safe Toronto
This film examines the threat and reality of homelessness facing the working poor, in the context of economic and job insecurity that has eroded the manufacturing sector.
Hosted By Shauna MacKinnon

Tuesday, May 17

UJPO Meeting, “Jewish Radicalism: The Role of Women in the Struggle”
7:30pm, May 17, 2011
Aqua Books, 274 Garry Street
Free Admission

In honour of the 100th Anniversary of International Women’s Day the
United Jewish People’s Order (UJPO) will be holding a meeting on “Jewish
Radicalism: The Role of Women in the Struggle”. UJPO President, Roz
Usiskin, will examine the lives and work of two important Winnipeg activists, Freda Coodin and Kitty Harris and their role in the labour struggles of the 1920′s and 30′s.

Wednesday, May 18

Making Connections: Communities and Labour

May 18, 2011
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Carol Shields Auditorium, 2nd Floor, Millennium Library

The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives with the support of the Joseph Zuken Memorial Association present:

Together We Have CLOUT
A CCPA-MB film by Carole O’Brien about the uncommon working methods of an inner-city coalition. CLOUT is a unique coalition of nine community-based organizations who tell a different story of Winnipeg’s north end and inner city. The 15 minute film will be followed by a panel discussion with representatives from CLOUT, CCPA and the labour movement.

25 Years Later – Remembering Joe
A presentation to celebrate of the legacy of Joe Zuken

For more information please contact Jill at CCPA. 927-3200 ccpamb@policyalternatives.ca

Thursday, May 19

Victoria Park 1919 Cabaret
7:00pm, May 19, 2011
Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard & McGregor
Tickets: $28

Hosted by Friends of Victoria Park this 1900’s style cabaret reminiscent of the Winnipeg General Strike era will take place in the Ukrainian Labour Temple one of Winnipeg’s National Historic Sites. It will feature a variety show and a buffet supper. This exciting event kicks off an 8 year count down to the 100th anniversary of the General Strike in 2019. Proceeds go to establishing a heritage site to commemorate the national historic significance of the Winnipeg General Strike, the early laborers and the Park where they rallied. With comedian and emcee Paul Rabliauskas, magician Joe Kaufert and music by Dan Frechette, Emma Cloney, What’s Left and Three Blind Mice.

For tickets: Glenn Michalchuk 479-7026 or Sandra Gessler 770-9298. Tickets are also available at Winnipeg Labour Council 942-0522, Workers Organizing Resource Centre 947-2220 or Mondragon Bookstore and Coffeehouse, 91 Albert.

Friday, May 20, 21, 22, 25

Film Screening: There but for Fortune
Friday, May 20 to Sunday, May 22 – 7:00 PM
Also Playing: Wednesday, May 25 – 7:00 PM
Winnipeg Film Group’s CINEMATHEQUE, 100 Arthur Street (Arthur and Bannatyne in the Artspace Building)
Tickets: www.winnipegcinematheque.com | Box Office line 925-3457

PHIL OCHS: THERE BUT FOR FORTUNE By Kenneth Bowser (2011) (98 MIN)

In conjunction with Mayworks, The WFG Cinematheque presents “Phil Ochs:
There But For Fortune” – a superbly researched new documentary about Phil
Ochs, a forgotten folk singing legend from the United States and a friendly
rival of Bob Dylan. Wielding only a battered guitar, a clear voice and some
razor sharp songs, he tirelessly fought the “good fight” for peace and
justice throughout his short life. Standing up for worker’s rights and
resisting the war he wrote political songs like “Draft Dodger’s Rag” and “I
Ain’t Marching Anymore and traveled afar including a visit to Chile during
the time of president Salvador Allende to meet Chilean singer Victor Jara.
Featuring rare archival concert footage and interviews with Billy Bragg,
Pete Seeger, Tom Hayden, Christopher Hitchens and Joan Baez the film is also
an exciting illumination of the political movement of the US in the 1960′s.
His life ended tragically when he committed suicide in 1976 at the age of
35.

“A poignant portrait of an uncompromising artist. Ochs’ songs spoke
forcefully and directly to racial injustice, political oppression and the
horror of war, to the struggles of striking miners and beleaguered unions.”
Hollywood Reporter

“An ESSENTIAL PORTRAIT of an artist who ought to be far better known.
Filmmaker Kenneth Bowser does an admirable job of conveying why Ochs’ music
continues to mean so much to his fans. A MUST-SEE.” -Simon Vozick-Levinson,
Entertainment Weekly

This screening of Phil Ochs: There But For Fortune is generously sponsored
by MayWorks.

Saturday, May 21

Pie in the Sky: Songs of the People
8:00pm, May 21, 2010
The Park Theatre Cafe, 698 Osborne Street
Tickets $10.00

May works Proudly Presents “PIE IN THE SKY” Songs of the People with Greg Crowe and the Scarlett Union and Ian La Rue.

Tuesday, May 24

A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights
7:00pm – 9:00pm, May 24, 2011
Carol Shields Auditorium, Millennium Library, 251 Donald Street
Suggested donation per evening is $5.00

Mayworks, Canadian Dimension Magazine and Cliff (labour) film festival with the Support of the Millennium Public Library proudly present A Film Festival: Struggles – Justice – Rights.
A selection of features and shorts from the 2010 Cliff film festival will be featured, in addition to other notable films from 2010. Featured films will be screened on May 3, May 16 and May 24.

Will the Real Terrorist Please Stand Up?
A film about terrorism against Cuba, produced and directed by US academic Saul Landau, is being presented at the 32nd International New Latin-American Film Festival. Will the Real Terrorist Please Stand Up? is one of the 515 competing in the event and premiers at the Charles Chaplin Movie Theater on December 11th, 2011.
The film deals with 50 years of terrorism against the Caribbean island and presents the case of the Five Cuban anti-terrorists who tried to prevent subversive actions against their country and have been unjustly locked in US jails for 12 years. The documentary includes interviews with renowned terrorists Luis Posada Carriles, Orlando Bosch, José Basulto and others, who freely walk down the streets of Miami, supported and protected by the government of the United States.
A writer, journalist, documentary maker and academic, Landau has received awards such as the Emmy, George Polk, First Amendment, Letelier-Moffit and Bernardo O Higgings.
Hosted by Cuba Solidarity.

Saturday, May 28

Winnipeg Labour Council MayWorks Picnic
12:00noon – 4:00pm, May 28, 2011
Freight House Park, Isabel St. at Ross Ave.

The Winnipeg Labour Council hosts their annual family picnic with complimentary hot dogs and drinks for the kids, inflatable rides, games and fun for the whole family!
For more information please call the Winnipeg Labour Council at 942-0522 or email info@winnipeglabour.ca.

Sunday, May 29

Ukrainian Labour Temple – Doors Open Festival
10:00am – 4:00pm, May 29, 2011
Ukrainian Labour Temple, Pritchard & McGregor
Free Admission

On May 29, the Ukrainian Labour Temple – designated a National Historic Site in 2009 – will open its doors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of the Doors Open Festival. Tours will take place on the hour so please make sure to arrive about 10 minutes before the following times: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. with last tour at 3 p.m. Consult the Doors Open programme for more information.
For more information contact: Ukrainian Labour Temple at 582-9269

We shall not give up the fight,
We have only started …
Together we’ll have victory,
Hand holding hand …
Never ever put to flight,
We are bound to win …
We shall not give up the fight,
We have only started.
“We Shall Not Give Up the Fight” (South African Freedom Song)

From this well known song of the struggle against apartheid MayWorks takes the theme for its 2011 Festival of Labour and the Arts.

Resistance to unjust conditions and the struggle to change the world has inspired generations of artist/activists to create art that represents the times they live in. MayWorks invites artists to explore the issues and struggles of today using the theme “We shall not give up the fight, we have only started”.

MayWorks is a multi-disciplinary festival that focuses on working class themes. Founded in 1994 on the 75th Anniversary of the Winnipeg General Strike MayWorks is now in its 17th year of representing working class art. Festival events will take place in the month of May 2011. We would like you to be part of this year’s MayWorks Festival of Labour and the Arts.

Please submit an outline (50 to 75 words in length) of the proposed project to MayWorks by the February 11, 2011 deadline. The proposal also needs to include information concerning date, time and venue for the project/event.

Proposals will be reviewed by the MayWorks Board and artists will be contacted if their submission is accepted for inclusion in the 2011 programme.

Submissions may be submitted by email to info@mayworks.org

Aqua Books has been a favourite hangout spot for me since I started Creative Communications last fall. Its combination of books and food fulfills pretty much every basic need, and its proximity to campus means I’m never more than a ten minute walk from a wealth of creativity. The bookstore also hosts over 200 events each year, and tonight I witnessed one of them. In celebration of the May Works 2010 Festival, I spent the evening listening to epic poetry and foot-tapping, head-bobbing music. Watching the performances gave me a much needed boost to continue writing the collection of short stories I have been slaving over for the past month. Sometimes the best way to find one’s inner creativity is through the celebration of another person’s creativity, and the “Bread and Roses” artistic evening gave me exactly what I needed.

Poet Ron Romanowski kicked off the evening with readings from two of his books, including Insurrection, a collection of poetry about the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. I purchased this book from McNally Robinson a few months ago, and it’s definitely worth a read. What drew me to this collection in particular was the historical aspect. I am currently in the research stage of my IPP, and most of the stories are set in Winnipeg. I was curious to see how another Winnipegger approached writing about the city, and was not disappointed. Romanowski also read a few new pieces, which will be published next spring. His delivery was honest, straightforward, and heartfelt, and I believe words on a page really come alive when they are read aloud by the person who has written them.

Following Romanowski’s poetry reading was a musical performance from Liliana Romanowski – Ron’s wife – and Ferruccio Moscarda – Liliana’s father. They performed a collection of songs together, and brought the audience through both the “bread” and “roses” aspects of the evening. Liliana’s vocals were very impressive, and she is currently training with an opera singer at the University of Manitoba. Moscarda accompanied her on guitar. After listening to him, I wanted nothing more than to run home and play my own guitar. Which I will. After writing this blog. My favourite part of the performance was when father and daughter sang an Italian love song together. There is something about song in foreign languages that simply can’t compare to English. Maybe that’s why I love the opera.

Finally, John Baillie read his poetry, and this man is absolutely hilarious. His poetry is great, but his delivery is simply superb. I have not laughed that hard in a long time, and he seems like the kind of interesting, animated individual you would want to buy a beer and talk to for hours. Writing is definitely an art, and the way Baillie constructs sentences to be both humorous and informative is artistry at its finest. I could learn a thing or two from this man.

The evening was fantastic, and I am impressed by how confidently and gracefully each of the presenters took the stage and shared their passions. I will strive to be able to present my work with such flair, and hopefully one day it will be me who has both the microphone and attention of an entire room. Watching fellow Winnipeggers do what they love is the perfect way to spend an evening.

(WINNIPEG) April 26, -International Workers Day is celebrated around the world on May 1st including Winnipeg. Join us at City Hall this Saturday, May 1st at 12:30pm for the opening ceremonies of this year’s May Day March and its theme of “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities, Progress for all.”

This year’s march will also highlight the struggle for Women’s Rights and Opportunities and will include speakers:

Kevin Rebeck, President Manitoba Federation of Labour,
Denis Lemelin, National President Canadian Union of Postal Workers,
Cathy Woods, Chair Aboriginal Workers Council, Manitoba Federation of Labour,
Marianne Cerelli, Community Activist and RRC Instructor and the
FemRev Collective (young feminist group)

“May Day is an important historic day for all workers to remember and celebrate the struggle of workers for respect, justice and equality”, says Denis Lemelin, National President Canadian Union of Postal Workers.

“The notion that women could work alongside men in the paid workforce as equals has become a reality in our time. Equal access to training and education, to child care, safe workplace standards, equal pay for work of equal value, paid holidays, paid maternity leave and the right to not be fired when pregnant come to mind are economic rights that are still not secure for everyone. We have come a long way but are still working towards these securities for everyone. Until that security is real for everyone we work for bread and roses too”, says Marianne Cerilli, Community Activist and Former MLA.

From there we will take it to the streets celebrating this year’s May Day theme of “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities, Progress for All. It is Time!” The route ends up at Old Market Square where the Buffalo Gals Drum Group, Hugo Torres-Cereceda and others will be there to celebrate working people everywhere!

The celebration of May Day is followed by another celebration; The Mayworks Festival of Labour and the Arts which is a multi-disciplinary festival that focuses on working class themes.

For more information please contact:

Chris Albi ∙Publicist ∙Mayworks Festival∙204-229-9660∙www.mayworks.org