Dear Candidate:

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Greetings to you from the Religious Social Action Coalition (RSAC) of Newfoundland and Labrador. RSAC is a voluntary, non-profit, non-partisan organization comprising of members from the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities and others. All of our faith traditions are founded on notions of social justice and a time-honoured concern that society should protect those most in need. Our priorities are elimination of poverty and reduction of the huge income disparity in our province and in Canada.

 

One of the most effective tools to eliminate poverty is a Guaranteed Livable Income (or guaranteed basic income) for all residents of Canada, which allows families and individuals to acquire adequate food, shelter, clothing, education, child care, a normal participation in social activities and to live with dignity in their communities.

 

The current minimum wages in different parts of our country and the Income Support payments are significantly below the poverty line in all parts of Canada. That is why the RSAC, together with numerous other organizations, politicians in all parties and many senators, stresses the immediate need for a Guaranteed Livable Income for all people in need in Canada. While this letter is being sent to you as a candidate seeking election in Newfoundland and Labrador, candidates in other provinces are being contacted by organizations such as The United Church of Canada and Basic Income Network Canada.

 

An effective tool to reduce income disparity is Fairness Impact Study (or Fairness Prism/Lens). This mechanism would assess the impact of all policies, programs, legislation and budgetary decisions on the levels of poverty and income disparity in our country. Such studies (similar to environmental and gender impact studies) would ensure “fairness for all” and help in effective delivery of various initiatives, programs and policies and modification, as necessary. The appointment of a federal Commissioner for Fairness would be a step in the right direction. Your public statement of committed support as you campaign for election would be extremely valuable.

 

We would appreciate your response to our proposals concerning a Guaranteed Livable Income Wage and Fairness Impact Study. We also encourage you to visit our website www.rsacnl.com. Then, click on “Pledge Now”. There we call upon all candidates seeking election to the House of Commons to pledge to eliminate poverty and create fairness and economic and social opportunities for all residents of Canada.

 

We know that running for office can involve considerable sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

 

Marion Pardy (Very Rev. Dr.), Coordinator

Religious Social Action Coalition of Newfoundland and Labrador