Members of the SJFAC Board were invited to a talk by and reception for Mia Vukojevic, Oxfam Canada’s Coordinator for Humanitarian and Emergency Response for on June 13th. It was a lovely event, held at the Lantern on Barnes Road and, despite the lure of George Street and Russell Crowe, was very well attended. Vukojevic spoke about her experiences on the ground in Sri Lanka, explaining what work Oxfam had done there before and immediately after the tsunami of December 26th, how the organization continues to help in the long-term reconstruction of the country, and what challenges remain for the people of Sri Lanka and those who strive to make their situation better. Illustrated with slides, her presentation was both informative and engaging; the lively question and answer period was equally so.

When the formal talk was finished, numerous local student, volunteer and arts organizations were acknowledged for their support of Oxfam’s work immediately following that devastating tidal wave. Erin McArthur, the SJFAC’s office manager and Festival co-ordinator, was delighted to accept a plaque on behalf of the Folk Arts Council, as thanks for the fundraising events organized in January and February of this year.

The plaque reads:

Thank you for contributing to Oxfam Canada's Indian Ocean tsunami relief and reconstruction efforts.

Oxfam Canada extends our sincere thank and gratitude to the St. John's Folk Arts Council
in recognition of the extraordinary efforts and generous contribution made towards Oxfam's relief and reconstruction work in the area devastated by the December 26, 2004 tsunami. We welcome you to the special community of Canadians who work together to help alleviate human suffering caused by natural and man-made disasters, poverty and injustice.

Signed by Richard Evans, Chair
Oxfam Canada
Board of Directors

Thanks, once again, to the many performers, artists, shops and volunteers who so eagerly participated in or donated items for both the Cabaret evening at the Majestic and the special Folk Club fundraising event. This plaque is yours as well.

The SJFAC is very happy that Oxfam representatives will be at the Festival again this summer selling Fair Trade coffee and tea. Stop by for a cup, to chat with Bill, Linda or one of their friendly volunteers and to learn more about Oxfam’s work in developing countries, their relief and rebuilding efforts in the countries affected by last year’s tsunami or their participation in the “Make Poverty History” campaign. You can also visit www.oxfam.ca to learn more about Oxfam or to continue to donate to their very important work.

(back to table of contents)