Second Annual Poverty Olympics: February 8, 2009

The Second Annual Poverty Olympics was held on February 8, 2009, 1:00-3:00pm at the Japanese Language School, 487 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC.

Photos from the 2009 Poverty Olympics

Wendy Pedersen’s speech at the 2009 Poverty Olympics

News articles:

• Game Changer: Recession Recasts Olympic Spending
  Wall Street Journal – February 10, 2009
  
• ‘Poverty Olympics’ ridicule Games
  Vancouver Sun – February 9, 2009
• Poverty Olympics spotlight Downtown Eastside
  Globe and Mail, Canada – February 9, 2009

The free family-friendly event includes:

• Torch Parade (starts at 380 E. Hastings at 12:30–come and join!)
• mascots Creepy the Cockroach, Itchy the Bedbug, and Chewy the Rat
• Opening and Closing Ceremonies
• events like Skating around Poverty and the Housing Hurdles
• a special appearance by Mr. Con Dough.

Cockroach Cake will be served. Everyone welcome!

Download the poster here (PDF)

Sponsored by Raise the Rates, Carnegie Community Action Project, Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users, Power to Women, Streams of Justice, BC PWA, Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House.