March 2023 Newsletter

Ward 9 is working on a new map, sharing the story of the unique and diverse voices that make our great Ward 9 neighbourhoods thrive.

So - we want to know: who in your life embodies true community spirit? Who is working tirelessly to help their neighbours? Who shows up whenever they’re needed? Who is laying the groundwork to make life better for themselves and the people in their community? Maybe that person is YOU!

We are looking to showcase a diverse group of people that live, work, and volunteer in Ward 9, including people with different cultures, abilities, backgrounds, and life experiences.

If you or someone you know feels a passionate connection to your Ward 9 community and are willing to share a little bit about yourself for an opportunity to be highlighted through our various Ward 9 communication channels, we want to hear from you!

Click the link below to find out more and fill out the intake form today!

Jane’s Walk takes place May 5, 6 + 7, 2023 - Calgarians of all ages are invited to participate in free walking tours throughout the city!

A global event inspired by and in honour of Jane Jacobs, an urbanist and activist who championed a fresh, community-based approach to city building. Jane believed that in order to properly observe how people, through their actions and interactions, create communities with a strong sense of belonging, we need to get out and walk the city.

But did you know you can also sign up to host your own Jane's Walk? Maybe you know a lot about the history of your neighbourhood, or are passionate about something a little more niche - all are welcome to share stories and possibilities of the places you know and love!

Visit Federation of Calgary Communities to find out more and submit a walking tour idea today.

Also, stay tuned - Cllr Carra has plans to host his annual walking tour ‘The Death and Life of Inglewood’ on May 6th,. We’ve also heard plans for a potential Ogden Heritage walk as well as a deep dive tour of the Music Mile!

We will share more details on all the Ward 9 Jane’s Walks as they become available.

In response to ongoing and escalating threats, intimidation, and violence aimed at the safety and freedom of our 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Calgary City Council approved the Safe and Inclusive Access Bylaw (C2023-0279). Read more about this update here.

Today, March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility, a day dedicated to recognizing the resilience and accomplishments of transgender and gender-nonconforming people. On this day, we celebrate the lives, experiences, contributions, diversity, and beauty of transgender and gender-diverse people, and commit to protecting trans voices, trans lives, trans happiness, and safety.

There will be a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall today from 5-6pm. All are welcome to come and show support and solidarity to our trans and gender-diverse friends and neighbours.

A big thank you goes out to Anna Murphy, local 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate and vice-chair of the Social Wellbeing Advisory Committee, for putting together this impactful video that includes more than 80 incredible change-makers and community builders.

Additiotnally, on Saturday, April 1, there will be a city-wide Drag Day of Solidarity. With nearly 40 local businesses hosting all-ages and 18+ events all over Calgary, there has never been a better (or easier time) to show your love and support!

There are a SO MANY awesome Ward 9 businesses participating, including: Dandy Brewing, Annex Ale Projects, Vegan Street, The Attic, Cold Garden, Jam’s Diner, High Line Brewing, Espy, Andreas Barber Co, and The Prairie Emporium with more venues being announced as this newsletter is being sent!

Check out Queer Citizens United for more information and the full list of participating performers and locations.

Earlier this month, our office received an email from a 12-year-old resident sharing their support for the GreenLine LRT.

This email sparked a further conversation with its young author, but it also reminded us of an essay of support that we shared back in June of 2020, when the future of the GreenLine was a little less clear: The GreenLine is the backbone of Calgary’s best future.

We figured now would be a great time to include an update to that original essay, and share how we can best support the GreenLine going forward.

Read the GreenLine update here.