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Armstrong to speak at CSAW fundraiser Oct. 17 by John Bkila Oakville Beaver Staff 11 | Wednesday, October 2, 2013 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Journalist, human rights activist and author Sally Armstrong will speak at an Oct. 17 fundraiser hosted by St. John's United Church and Canadians in Support of Afghan Women (CSAW). Armstrong will speak at the 252 Randall St. church on the topic of a new wave of change and the empowerment of women. "I became a human rights activist as a young woman, when I realized that fairness, justice and safety were eluding women simply because of their gender," said Armstrong, who notes the status of women started to significantly shift approximately three years ago. "It happened mostly because the economists started saying the status of women and the economy are directly related -- where one is flourishing, so is the other; where one's in the ditch, so is the other," she said. "That kind of talk got traction and made change, but it was women themselves who moved the issue forward. Women have claimed their own space, at home, work and in the public square." Author of Ascent of Women, Armstrong has covered stories in conflict zones around the world and is a former member of the International Women's Commission at the United Nations and a member of the Order of Canada. Doors open to the fundraising event at 7 p.m., the not-for-profit Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan. Armstrong says she has supported CSAW events since the organization began its work for Afghan women. "When (CSAW) started... hardly anyone could have found Afghanistan on a map," she said. "The world was looking the other way while a human rights catastrophe took place. This group has done incredible work with women in Afghanistan and have helped enormously to propel Afghan women forward." For information, or to purchase tickets, email info@canadianssupportafghanwomen.ca, or contact Daniela at 905-338-0416 or email at dmj3070@gmail.com. Shhhh... Oakville's Best Kept Secret. Sally Armstrong | submitted photo White gold eternity ring, 3ct., SI1-SI2, 17 round brilliant cut diamonds, FGH, (Gemscan Replacement Value $8,600) You can have this one only, for $4,900* One more left at this price! followed by Armstrong at 7:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served and Afghan goods will be for sale along with Armstrong's book -- only cash or cheques will be accepted. Tickets cost $25, or $15 for students, and proceeds will go to the Lantern Fund, organized by The Highest Quality, The Lowest Price. Guaranteed. 309 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville 905.339.7604 · www.omnijewelcrafters.com *Subject to prior sale and may be terminated at any time. RECYCLE RECYCLE MORE Recycle empty rigid food, beverage and household household plastic plastic containers containers and packaging packaging. Visit your municipal website for more information. REGION Available in an accessible format.