Upcoming Events
Speaker’s Series: Gender, Labour & Municipal Politics
Join GECO on October 15, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. for a panel conversation with local labour leaders. We will hear their perspectives on the municipal election and explore the questions we should be asking local candidates about gender and labour in our communities.
Speakers:
Darryl Bedford - Communications Officer in the London and District Labour Council
Darryl Bedford is the Communications Officer for the London and District Labour Council and a Steward in OPSEU/SEFPO Local 110. Darryl is a Professor in the School of Aerospace, Information, and Defence Technologies at Fanshawe College where he currently teaches courses in software development for machine learning and artificial intelligence including a focus on data science and ethics.
Patti Dalton - President London and District Labour Council - first woman President
- OSSTF Member and Teacher for 3 decades
- Masters of Education Degree - my thesis topic was Grassroots Activist Coalitions
In my work as a teacher I was part of the collective pioneering of equity policies and on the writing team for the first equity curriculum document
I have been a social justice activist for many years and I am passionate about the need to defend the gains won by the labour movement including Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and the urgency to protect democracy and public education.
Shinade Allder
Shinade Allder is a trailblazer and a powerhouse in the labour movement, making history as the first woman and first person of colour to be elected as Unifor’s Ontario Regional Council Chair. She also serves as the president of Unifor Local 6005, where she leads a diverse group of members, including those from Bell Canada Clerical and the London Cross Cultural Learner Centre.
A passionate advocate for union values, Shinade relentlessly works to inspire and empower her fellow union members, encouraging them to take these values into their communities to uplift all workers and marginalized groups. Her leadership extends beyond the union hall, as she is the Co-Founder and Steering Committee Member of the Black Education Fund, a transformative organization dedicated to helping Black students succeed through scholarships.
Her profound impact on her community has earned her numerous accolades, including the Platinum Jubilee Award, the International Woman Achievers Award, and the Leading Women Leading Girls Award.
Shinade Allder’s unwavering dedication to social justice, education, and the labour movement continues to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on both her community and the broader fight for workers' rights.
Thurs, Oct 15 2026
6:30 - 8 PM
Virtual via Zoom
GECOs Annual General Meeting
On behalf of the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO), we are pleased to invite you to our 2026 Annual General Meeting & Planting the Tree: Connect, Collaborate & Grow:
Monday, October 19, 2026
5:45 – 8:00 p.m.
CASO Station | 750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Ontario
This past year has been an important one for GECO—a year of reflection, learning, and intentional growth. Through this work, we have strengthened our foundation, clarified our direction, and deepened our commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change.
At this year’s AGM, we are excited to introduce our renewed vision, Planting the Tree—a framework for GECO’s next chapter focused on meaningful partnerships, expanded programming, stronger community connections, and systemic approaches to advancing gender equity across Ontario.
We look forward to sharing where we have been, where we are headed, and how our partners and community can help shape what comes next.
We are also honoured to welcome Selam Debs as our keynote speaker. Selam is a Black Ethiopian anti-racism coach, consultant, and trainer who has been working closely with GECO’s Board this year, challenging us to learn, unlearn, reflect, and strengthen our approach to equity and anti-racism
Light refreshments will be provided.
Please save the date and register through Eventbrite if you are able to attend. Additional event details and a reminder will be shared closer to the AGM.
More than an AGM, this evening is an opportunity for non-profit and community organizations to come together, build relationships, share ideas, and identify new opportunities for collaboration. By connecting the people and organizations doing important work across our region, we can strengthen our collective impact and work together toward a more equitable, inclusive, and connected community.
Monday, October 19, 2026
5:45 - 8:00 PM
CASO Station (750 Talbot Street), St Thomas
ConnectHer: Building Bridges for Working Women Across Canada
Register for FREE by visiting https://site.pheedloop.com/event/connecther2025/home
Location: London, Ontario - Fanshawe College, Innovation Village
Calling all tradeswomen, mentors, allies, and supporters across the province and land!
Join us May 1st to May 3rd for the 2025 ConnectHER Conference - Building Bridges for Working Women Across Canada!
We’re excited to invite you to a FREE gathering of exciting speakers and community leaders, as we celebrate workers, amplify the voices of women in the trades, and build lasting connections across industries and communities!
This powerful and inclusive conference brings together tradeswomen, industry leaders, union activists, and community advocates. We’ll spotlight lived experiences, challenge systemic barriers, and share practical strategies for creating change.
Join us for 3 days of building bridges between generations, sectors, and identities. Let’s come together, celebrate progress, and continue pushing for equity, dignity, and justice at work and beyond.
Speakers joining us will include:
Andria Barrett, Anna Lary, Ashley Rowe, Astara van der Jagt, Caroline Hossein, Dani Bartlett, Erin Davis, Dani Bartlett, Haily MacDonald, Heather Carey, Jeff Perera, Jen Slay, Jessie Jones, Jolin Joseph, Jove Nazatul, Judy Rebick, Kathryn Thomas, Laurie Millard, Leisha Toory, Lily Pourzand, Melissa Maloney, Nitya Rani Balla, PK Mutch, Robyn Schwarz, & Stephanie Allen!
Register for FREE by visiting https://site.pheedloop.com/event/connecther2025/home
stay tuned as we announce more details By following us on our Socials!
Join us in building bridges and empowering women across Canada!
Women in Trades Mix and Mingle Reception
Join us for an empowering evening at the Women in Trades Mix & Mingle Reception! Taking place on April 17, 2025, at Anderson Craft Ales in London, this event brings together tradeswomen and allies for a night of networking, community, and celebration. Enjoy nibbles, drinks, prizes, and the chance to connect with others passionate about building change in the trades. Let’s raise a glass to sisterhood and solidarity!
Sign up here if interested: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/women-in-trade-mix-and-mingle-tickets-1298641655149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Write for Rights
join the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario and the London Public Libraries for a Write for Rights Youth Event on February 19th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the CitiPlaza Library (251 Dundas Street, London, Ontario). We’ll start with a 30-minute presentation about the initiative and how you can make a difference, followed by a session on persuasive writing. After that, enjoy an hour and a half of drop-in and letter writing time where you can write, ask questions, and learn more. Never heard of Write for Rights? Write for Rights is a global campaign that uses the power of letter-writing to defend individuals who are experiencing human rights injustices around the world.
UWO Volunteer Fair
Join us The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) at this years Volunteer fair at Western University. Learn more about how to involved and answers to all your questions!
GALA
Welcome to the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario AGM! Join us for an exciting in-person event at the Goodwill Community Store. This is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about gender equality. Our annual general meeting will feature discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities. Come be a part of the conversation and help shape the future of gender equality in Ontario. We look forward to seeing you there!
Annual General Meeting - AGM
board members need to attend to hit quorum. It will take place via zoom, prior to the GALA. Message Amanda if you are having trouble finding the zoom link.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Topic TBA
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Topic TBA
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Sisters in Sync
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Gender & Inclusion of Men
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
Radical Wellness Event
Join us on Sunday February 25, 2024 for a day of radical wellness. We will host several interactive presentations around radical well-being. Many of us give to our communities and forget that we need to nurture ourselves to continue to give to others. This event will feature guest speakers, vendors, and experiences surrounding the idea that well-being and self-care is radically important. Self care is a form of radical resistance.
Addressing & Preventing Gender-Based Violence in Communities
Join Fanshawe SLLS & GECO for our Speaker Series event. Hosted at Fanshawe College! All are welcome to attend this FREE learning event.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Gender & Law
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Addressing the Crisis of Domestic Violence
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Women In Tech
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
Gathering for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
We are proud to promote a community initiative by Atlosha Family Healing Services and Deshkan Ziibiing in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Held at the Western Fair Agriplex. All are welcome.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to honor Indigenous cultures, acknowledge the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, and work towards reconciliation. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.
The Nature of Healing
The Nature of Healing
Film Screening and Q&A with Survivors of Mohawk Institute
The Western University Deans invite you to join for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and conversation in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The Faculty of Education is hosting a screening of the documentary film “The Nature of Healing”, and facilitated Q&A session with film maker, Faith Howe, and three survivors of the Mohawk Institute: Grandmother Roberta Hill, Elder John Elliot, and Elder Bud Whiteye.
Following the screening and Q&A, attendees will move to Wampum Learning Lodge for a reception with Indigenous-inspired hors d'oeuvres catered by Teykonyote Antone.
The Nature of Healing
The Nature of Healing is the spoken truth of seven Survivors of Mohawk Institute, Canada’s first and longest running residential school for Indigenous children. From victim to survivor, to activist, this is a story of resistance, resilience, and a healing path. What began as a simple conversation about the Mohawk Village Memorial Park the Survivors have been building for 10 years, became a full feature documentary. And now it needs to be a completed Park to commemorate the 15,000 children who were taken from more then 60 communities losing their families, communities, culture, identity and for some, their lives.
The 139 residential schools, operated in partnership with the Canadian Government and Churches were Canada’s sanctioned system of dehumanization; neglect, brutality, and child abuse in all its forms to obliterate the Red Nation footprint.
The Elders, Grandfathers and Grandmothers who speak out now, do so not only for themselves, but for the thousands of children across Turtle Island who never could.
Schedule:
12:00 p.m. - Doors Open
12:30 p.m. - Opening Ceremony and Smudging
1:00 p.m. - Film Screening
2:30 p.m. - Q&A
3:30 p.m. - Closing Ceremony
4:00 p.m. - Reception at Wampum Learning Lodge (next to Faculty of Education Building)
If you would like to attend this event, please register online as space is limited.
In the spirit of the making of this film, a contribution of $10.00 per attendee is strongly suggested. Proceeds from the event will be donated to directly support the completion of the Mohawk Village Memorial Park. Located on the grounds of the former Mohawk Institute at 184 Mohawk St. in Brantford, Ont., the upcoming 5-acre memorial park will consist of memorials, walking paths and decorative landscaping as well as a variety of accessible park features.
A link to the contribution form will be provided following registration. You can also access the contribution form here: Faculty of Education - Contribution to Nature of Healing Event (uwo.ca).
Contact:
hbeecrof@uwo.ca
519-661-2111 ext. 88658
YWCA Speaker Series
Join the YWCA Speaker Series talk entitled: “Opening Doors: Towards Inclusive and Affirming Gender-Based Violence Supports” - including GECO’s very own Board Member, panelist, Jolin Joseph - for the launch of their national research report as they unpack what meaningful investments in gender-based violence prevention and response should look like across Canada.
This panel discussion brings together frontline service providers and community-based organizations to discuss inclusive survivor-centered models of care and service delivery that recognize and respond to the distinct needs of every gender-based violence survivor, particularly those who face increased barriers to safety.
Featured speakers include: Nneka MacGregor (Executive Director, WomenatthecentrE) Amy FitzGerald (Executive Director, BC Society of Transition Houses) Amy Deschamps (Director of Housing and Gender-Based Violence Support Services, YWCA Hamilton) Jolin Joseph (Manager – Research, Education and Knowledge Mobilization, YWCA Canada).
This event is free.
Closed captioning and live French interpretation will be provided.
Register here!
GECO Gender Equality Gala
Join us at the beautiful Wolf Performance Hall in downtown London. This evening reception to celebrate gender equality will feature an exquisite sound bath musical experience, local spoken word poetry, a short presentation about the fifth wave of feminism, and a silent auction that will include the sale of local art. You will learn about community activism and how to become more involved in seeking gender justice for all. You will have an opportunity to network and mingle among social justice advocates in our community. This will be a night to remember!
All Women L.E.A.D. Speaker Series Event
We are beyond excited to promote this exciting speaker series event, facilitated by GECO’s very own Board Member and Advocacy Chair, Mojdeh Cox!
Join All Women L.E.A.D. on Monday at 5:00pm EST for the first event in their "Take Your Place" Series.
They will be joined by Bonnie DePaul Rachel Wells and Carolynn Conron... and faciliated by the incredible Mojdeh Cox!
Register for tickets at www.allwomenlead.ca
Community members attend for free! You can register for the community at the same link.
International Equal Pay Day
Celebrating International Equal Pay Day is a great way to raise awareness about gender pay disparities and promote gender equality in the workplace. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues, and promoting support for individuals who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.