SFPIRG

Open House and AGM 2019
2019-02-27 13:30 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Join SFPIRG for our 2019 Annual General Meeting and Open House!
Come and join SFPIRG for our Annual General Meeting to review our work and financial statements from 2017-2018. This is a great opportunity to find out more about what’s been happening at SFPIRG, and meet with the Board of Directors!
The AGM is also our Open House – an opportunity to visit the space, meet the team, and learn about the services and resources available to you! We’ll have some light snacks and refreshments – please send us an email at admin@sfpirg.ca with any allergies before February 13th, 2019.
All SFU students are members of SFPIRG, and are invited to come and take part!
Agenda

Welcome & Acknowledgement of Unceded Coast Salish Territories
Introduction to Board of Directors and Staff
Accessibility Needs
Norms for the Meeting
Presentation and Adoption of the Agenda
Approval of the 2018 SFPIRG AGM Minutes
Presentation and consideration of the 2017-2018 Annual Report
Presentation and consideration of the 2017-2018 Financial Statements
(Andrea Knorr, CGA from W. Bruce & Associates Ltd.)

Adjournment of AGM Business

Board Nominations 2019
2019-02-25 - 2019-03-11 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Want to make a difference? Join SFPIRG’s Board of Directors!
Nomination period is February 25th to March 11th, 2019
Nominations info session is February 28th from 12:30-2:30pm @ SFPIRG, TC 326 in the Rotunda
Get active in social and environmental justice!
Gain valuable experience in leading a non-profit organization!
Learn about governance, finances, HR, visioning and more!
Help support a vibrant student organization!
Interested? Want to learn more? Attend the nominations info session or email our Independent Electoral Officer at eo@sfpirg.ca. The 2019 nomination packages will be available during the nomination period to download from this page, by emailing eo@sfpirg.ca or by visiting the SFPIRG offices at TC 326 in the Rotunda.
We encourage those from under-represented groups on campus, as well as those with a strong intersectional analysis, to put forth a nomination. We are looking for between 3 and 9 candidates. If we receive more than 9 nominations, we will hold elections.

download the 2019 Board Elections Nomination package

Town Hall for Student Space
2019-02-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Halpern Centre 126, SFU Burnaby, SFU Burnaby Halpern Centre, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Town Hall for Student Space – Learn the truth about the SUB
The Town Hall for Student Space is your opportunity to hear directly from the student groups who are at risk of losing space on campus. You’ll get to hear how the loss of space will impact their ability to continue serving students, and why they need to be housed on campus. You’ll also get to ask questions of the panelists, and learn the truth about what’s happening on campus.
The event will include a short presentation on the importance of space for student organizations, presentations from four panelists, a moderated discussion between the panelists, and a Q&A session with the audience!
Panelists
The four panelists are as follows:

Maisaloon Al-Ashkar (SFPIRG Board Member)
Maisaloon/ميسلون is a 22-year-old Muslim woman whose ancestors of Palestinian farmers, liberation struggles and refugees inform her unapologetic diligence to disrupt all systems of oppression. As an immigrant-settler, she’s committed to solidarities that actively work to support Indigenous sovereignties on their own terms. Maisaloon has been involved with SFPIRG for the past four years as a volunteer and then as a board member, through which she initiated the Racialized Resistance and Healing Action Group to facilitate a safer space on campus that’s led by, with and for IBPOC students. A recipient of the Rosemary Brown Undergraduate Award in Social Justice as well as the Robert C. Brown Award for outstanding academic achievement and leadership at SFU, she graduated with a double major in First Nations Studies and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies. Maisaloon currently works as a research assistant and women’s centre coordinator.
Giovanni HoSang (SOCA President)
Giovanni HoSang is a 3rd Year Computer Science Student hailing out of Spanish Town Jamaica. Giovanni came to Canada after finishing one year of University at the University of the West Indies and transferred to Simon Fraser University where he is taking part in a myriad of groups, initiatives and activities. Giovanni is the current President of the SFU Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry and sees himself as one that brings unity among a multitude of people. His passion is to bring people closer together and using tech and social mobilization to make a change in society. He believes that many of the issues we face that divides us as a people are all based on semantics and if we all stay focused on the overarching goal, we will be successful in our efforts.
Kathleen Yang (former SFU Women’s Centre Collective member and former SFSS VP External Relations)
Kathleen Yang is a former Simon Fraser Student Society Board Member who served as the Vice-President External Relations during the 2015/16 term, which was the year the Board secured a 85% vote in favour of obtaining 60 million dollar loan for the purpose of constructing a Student Union Building. She served on the Build SFU working group and was for a short while part of sublease negotiations with SFPIRG. Prior to joining the SFSS Board, Kathleen was Collective member of the SFU Women’s Centre, Rotunda community and the SFSS Advocacy committee. It was through her experiences at the SFU Women’s Centre and SFPIRG that she first began to learn about anti-oppressive social justice, anti-violence work and the importance of student organizing.
Steven Hall (current SFU student, former Langara student)

The panel will be moderated by:

Jesse Wentzloff (CJSF Public Affairs Coordinator)
Jesse Wentzloff is an SFU Alumnus and the Public Affairs & Talk Coordinator at CJSF 90.1FM, the campus & community radio station at SFU’s Burnaby Campus. His work at CJSF is to fulfill the station’s motto of “Diverse, Independent, Yours” by centering and raising community voices, and helping them to share their stories with listeners across the lower mainland.

Accessibility Information
ASL Interpretation
ASL interpretation was booked for this event with a January 29th request deadline. No emails requesting ASL were received by January 29th, and so ASL interpretation has been cancelled.
Scent-Reduction
We would like to emphasize that SFPIRG prioritizes creating a scent-reduced space for all participants. While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space.
If you do wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into the space, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space.
We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
More info here:
http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html
http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15
http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html
Tree Nut and Peanut Allergies
All workshops and events are nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event spaces in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like coconut oil, coconut milk, pine nuts, and peanut butter.
Gender-Inclusive Washrooms
There are gendered washrooms in the Halpern Centre building. The nearest gender-inclusive washrooms are a short distance away in the AQ, next to the Menchie’s. We are looking into whether the Halpern Centre’s washrooms can be designated as gender-inclusive for the duration of the event.
Event Location and Wheelchair Access
Halpern Centre is located pretty well in the middle of the SFU Burnaby campus, nestled between the Library, Convocation Mall and the Academic Quadrangle (AQ). There are stairs and a ramp both providing access to the centre. Due to extensive construction on campus, especially in Convocation Mall, we encourage folks to arrive early with extra time to navigate the campus. The event space is wheelchair and scooter accessible, but will require extra navigation due to the construction. If you have questions or concerns about how to reach Halpern Centre, please email us at info@sfpirg.ca before February 13th.
Electromagnetic Frequencies
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in the Town Hall event space. The Town Hall is also in a room equipped with fluorescent lighting. We ask that folks turn off cellphones if possible to help reduce EMF exposure, recognizing that some folks will need to keep their cellphones on (for work, emergency contacts, etc.).

Putting Your Values Into Practice - Workshop
2019-01-30 13:30 - 17:30 | Library 2020, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
Putting Your Values Into Practice – a governance workshop for student leaders and board members
Are you a student leader at SFU? Are you currently on the Board of Directors of a student society, or are you considering running for election? Then this workshop is for you!
Come and join other student leaders who care about putting their values into practice – through governance! Explore what it means to be a leader who governs with integrity, and who implements policies and practices that reflect both organizational and personal values.
Capacity for this exciting workshop is limited, and registration is required! Register today!
Please note that the ASL registration deadline was January 15th. No registrations requesting ASL were received by this date, so ASL interpretation has been cancelled.

Fee Refunds - Spring 2019
2019-01-28 12:00 - 2019-01-31 16:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
SFPIRG is a student-funded non-profit organization, autonomous from both the University and the Student Society. We receive $3 each semester from each full time student and $1.50 from each part time student. Therefore, after paying their student fees, all students are members of SFPIRG and can use the resources available through our centre. Non-students can also become associate members of SFPIRG and get involved with us.
We realize that not everyone shares SFPIRG’s values, so each semester we offer students the ability to revoke their membership. If you would like to opt-out, bring your student card, proof of payment & registration for the semester some time during the dates and times listed below. Once you opt-out, you are no longer a member of SFPIRG and will not be eligible to use the organization’s resources and services.

Monday, January 28th – 12-4pm
Tuesday, January 29th – 12-4pm
Wednesday, January 30th – 12-4pm
Thursday, January 31st – 12-4pm

Volunteer Orientations - Spring 2019
2019-01-21 11:30 - 2019-01-23 12:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Interested in getting involved with SFPIRG? Excited to meet other students interested in social and environmental justice? Want to join SFPIRG’s campaign to secure long-term space on campus?
Volunteer with SFPIRG!
Attend a Volunteer Orientation session to find out more about our volunteer program, and get all of the knowledge and skills you’ll need to be part of our volunteer team this semester!
Jan 21 | Jan 22 | Jan 23
11:30am-12:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge – TC 326 in the Rotunda
Registration is required – register below!

Body Size Diversity Workshop
2018-11-17 10:30 - 17:30 | Library 7200, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
Check out the Body Size Diversity workshop to learn more about issues surrounding body-shaming, weight and dieting, and how we can unlearn destructive notions about our bodies and move toward love, respect, and inclusion for ALL bodies!
In this full-day workshop we will explore what fatness has come to mean in our society, and how fat oppression, in conjunction with many other patterns of injustice, works to shape our day to day lives, including our relationships with other people and our own bodies. We will consider some of the abundant myths about fat health and take a tour through some of the research relating to fatness and mortality/longevity, all while turning a critical eye on the role that healthism plays in shaping these discussions.
Fat oppression targets those of us who are considered ‘too fat.’ But every one of us, no matter what our body size, is impacted by this form of injustice, and each of us can play a role in tearing it down. Let’s work together to create a world in which no one is taught to hate their own or anyone else’s body.

Accessibility Info:
*UPDATE* Because no RSVPs were received before November 7th at noon, ASL interpretation has been cancelled.
The event space is wheelchair/scooter accessible with access to an accessible washroom nearby.
A gender-neutral washroom is available just down the hall from the event space.
In order to enable people to attend without experiencing hardship, Compass tickets and money for dependent care (this can include childcare, eldercare, etc.) are available upon request. Please email admin@sfpirg.ca with inquiries.
While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space. If you do so, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space. If you find yourself being impacted by someone’s use of scented products during the conference, speak with any one of the organizers. We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
(More info here: http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html,http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15, http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html)
The event is nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event space in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, coconuts, walnuts, coconut oil, coconut milk, and peanut butter.
If you have any other allergies or sensitivities that we need to know about so that you can participate fully and safely, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca.
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in theevent space. In order to reduce EMF exposure, we will strive to minimize fluorescent light usage and utilize natural lighting whenever possible.
If there is any other way we can make this event more accessible for you, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca!

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Workshop
2018-10-20 10:30 - 17:30 | Library 7200, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
Take part in a day of facilitated discussion and practical skills building to gain a better understanding of oppression and ways to stand up for yourself and others when you see it playing out in daily life. This workshop will take a “no blame, no shame” approach to the issues. People of all levels of familiarity with anti-oppression work are welcome.
Explore questions like:

What is oppression?
What forms of oppression exist?
Is there such a thing as “reverse oppression”?
What do terms like intersectionality and privilege mean?
Where do I fit into all of this?
How can I work for change?

Accessibility Info:
*UPDATE* ASL interpretation is booked and confirmed for this event, and will be provided by Lisz and Larissa.
The event space is wheelchair/scooter accessible with access to an accessible washroom nearby.
A gender-neutral washroom is available just down the hall from the event space.
In order to enable people to attend without experiencing hardship, Compass tickets and money for dependent care (this can include childcare, eldercare, etc.) are available upon request. Please email admin@sfpirg.ca with inquiries.
While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space. If you do so, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space. If you find yourself being impacted by someone’s use of scented products during the conference, speak with any one of the organizers. We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
(More info here: http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html,http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15, http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html)
The event is nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event space in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, coconuts, walnuts, coconut oil, coconut milk, and peanut butter.
If you have any other allergies or sensitivities that we need to know about so that you can participate fully and safely, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca.
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in theevent space. In order to reduce EMF exposure, we will strive to minimize fluorescent light usage and utilize natural lighting whenever possible.
If there is any other way we can make this event more accessible for you, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca!

FREE Soup Days
2018-10-03 11:30 - 13:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Interested in visiting the SFPIRG space and seeing what resources are available? Want to grab a hot bowl of vegan & gluten-free soup? FREE Soup Days are the perfect time to visit SFPIRG for the first time! Come meet other like-minded students, become acquainted with the work of SFPIRG, and hang out in our lounge!
Wednesdays in October 2018
October 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th
11:30am-1:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge, TC 326 in the Rotunda
Questions? Reach us at info@sfpirg.ca!

Open House - Fall 2018
2018-10-03 11:30 - 13:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Interested in visiting the SFPIRG space and seeing what resources are available? Want to grab a hot bowl of vegan & gluten-free soup? Our Open House is the perfect time to visit SFPIRG for the first time! Come meet other like-minded students, become acquainted with the work of SFPIRG, and hang out in our lounge!
Wednesday, October 3rd, 2018
11:30am-1:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge, TC 326 in the Rotunda
Questions? Reach us at info@sfpirg.ca!

Fee Refunds - Fall 2018
2018-09-24 12:00 - 16:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
SFPIRG is a student-funded non-profit organization, autonomous from both the University and the Student Society. We receive $3 each semester from each full time student and $1.50 from each part time student. Therefore, after paying their student fees, all students are members of SFPIRG and can use the resources available through our centre. Non-students can also become associate members of SFPIRG and get involved with us.
We realize that not everyone shares SFPIRG’s values, so each semester we offer students the ability to revoke their membership. If you would like to opt-out, bring your student card, proof of payment & registration for the semester some time during the dates and times listed below. Once you opt-out, you are no longer a member of SFPIRG and will not be eligible to use the organization’s resources and services.

Monday, September 24th – 12-4pm
Tuesday, September 25th – 12-4pm
Wednesday, September 26th – 12-4pm
Thursday, September 27th – 12-4pm

Volunteer Training Day - Fall 2018
2018-09-22 13:00 - 17:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Feel lost at sea? Volunteer with SFPIRG!
Help save student activism on campus, find community, build campaign skills, and volunteer with SFPIRG! Come to Volunteer Training Day to get all the knowledge and skills you’ll need to be part of our team this semester! All volunteers should attend both one Orientation session AND Volunteer Training Day.
Sept 22
1-5pm
SFPIRG Lounge – TC 326 in the Rotunda
Register below! And don’t forget to register here for a Volunteer Orientation Session on September 18th, 19th or 20th!

Volunteer Orientations - Fall 2018
2018-09-18 12:30 - 13:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Feel lost at sea? Volunteer with SFPIRG!
Help save student activism on campus, find community, build campaign skills, and volunteer with SFPIRG! Learn more about how you can get involved during one of our volunteer orientation sessions! All volunteers should attend both one Orientation session AND Volunteer Training Day.
Sept 18 | Sept 19 | Sept 20
12:30-1:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge – TC 326 in the Rotunda
Register below! And don’t forget to register here for Volunteer Training Day on September 22nd!

Board Nominations By-Election Info Session
2018-07-04 12:30 - 14:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Want to make a difference? Join SFPIRG’s Board of Directors!
Get active in social and environmental justice!
Gain valuable experience in leading a non-profit organization!
Learn about governance, finances, HR, visioning and more!
Help support a vibrant student organization!
Interested? Want to learn more? Drop in at any time during this nominations info session or email our Independent Electoral Officer at eo@sfpirg.ca. Nomination packages will be available online during the nomination period, by emailing eo@sfpirg.ca, or by visiting the SFPIRG offices at TC 326 in the Rotunda.
We encourage those from under-represented groups on campus, as well as those with a strong intersectional analysis, to put forth a nomination. There are currently up to 7 available seats on the Board of Directors. If we receive more than 7 nominations, we will hold elections.

Board Nominations 2018: By-Election
2018-07-02 - 2018-07-16 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Want to make a difference? Join SFPIRG’s Board of Directors!
By-Election Nomination period is July 2nd to July 16th, 2018
By-Election Nominations info session is July 4th from 12:30-2:30pm @ SFPIRG, TC 326 in the Rotunda
Get active in social and environmental justice!
Gain valuable experience in leading a non-profit organization!
Learn about governance, finances, HR, visioning and more!
Help support a vibrant student organization!
Interested? Want to learn more? Attend the nominations info session or email our Independent Electoral Officer at eo@sfpirg.ca. Nomination packages can be downloaded below, by emailing eo@sfpirg.ca or by visiting the SFPIRG offices at TC 326 in the Rotunda.
We encourage those from under-represented groups on campus, as well as those with a strong intersectional analysis, to put forth a nomination. There are currently up to 7 available seats on the Board of Directors. If we receive more than 7 nominations, we will hold elections.

download the nominations package

Volunteer Orientations - Summer 2018
2018-05-22 14:30 - 15:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Feel lost at sea? Volunteer with SFPIRG!
Help save student activism on campus, find community, build campaign skills, and volunteer with SFPIRG! Learn more about how you can get involved during one of our volunteer orientation sessions!
May 22 | May 23 | May 24
2:30-3:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge – TC 326 in the Rotunda
Register below or drop-in at any session!
Regular volunteer meetings start May 31, every Thursday from 12:30-1:30pm

Community, Art & Student Space
2018-04-10 11:00 - 14:00 | Convo Mall, SFU Burnaby, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Join SFPIRG in celebrating community and student space at SFU! Put on your creative hats and contribute to a mural visualizing the world you’d like to see – and enjoy some free food at the same time!
Tuesday, April 10th
Convo Mall, SFU Burnaby
11am-2pm
#ineedSFPIRG #SFUneedsSFPIRG #SFU

Usamah Ansari Creative Justice Award Deadline
2018-02-22 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Usamah Ansari Creative Justice Award – $500 grant for a creative resistance project
In memory of SFPIRG volunteer Usamah Ansari, this annual award supports creative social justice work including art, poetry, music and writing. Individuals or groups can apply. Priority given to SFU students with a fully realizable creative resistance project in support of student activism and social justice on campus.
Deadline to apply: February 22nd, 2018!
For application forms and grant information and criteria, visit our grants page!

Board Nominations Info Session
2018-02-21 12:30 - 14:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Want to make a difference? Join SFPIRG’s Board of Directors!
Get active in social and environmental justice!
Gain valuable experience in leading a non-profit organization!
Learn about governance, finances, HR, visioning and more!
Help support a vibrant student organization!
Interested? Want to learn more? Attend thIS nominations info session or email our Independent Electoral Officer at eo@sfpirg.ca. Nomination packages will be available online during the nomination period, by emailing eo@sfpirg.ca, or by visiting the SFPIRG offices at TC 326 in the Rotunda.
We encourage those from under-represented groups on campus, as well as those with a strong intersectional analysis, to put forth a nomination. We are looking for between 3 and 9 candidates. If we receive more than 9 nominations, we will hold elections.

Board Nominations 2018
2018-02-19 - 2018-03-05 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Want to make a difference? Join SFPIRG’s Board of Directors!
Nomination period is February 19th to March 5th, 2018
Nominations info session is February 21st from 12:30-2:30pm @ SFPIRG, TC 326 in the Rotunda
Get active in social and environmental justice!
Gain valuable experience in leading a non-profit organization!
Learn about governance, finances, HR, visioning and more!
Help support a vibrant student organization!
Interested? Want to learn more? Attend the nominations info session or email our Independent Electoral Officer at eo@sfpirg.ca. Nomination packages can be downloaded here, by emailing eo@sfpirg.ca or by visiting the SFPIRG offices at TC 326 in the Rotunda.
We encourage those from under-represented groups on campus, as well as those with a strong intersectional analysis, to put forth a nomination. We are looking for between 3 and 9 candidates. If we receive more than 9 nominations, we will hold elections.

download the nominations package

Fee Refunds - Spring 2018
2018-01-29 12:00 - 16:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
SFPIRG is a student-funded non-profit organization, autonomous from both the University and the Student Society. We receive $3 each semester from each full time student and $1.50 from each part time student. Therefore, after paying their student fees, all students are members of SFPIRG and can use the resources available through our centre. Non-students can also become associate members of SFPIRG and get involved with us.
We realize that not everyone shares SFPIRG’s values, so each semester we offer students the ability to revoke their membership. If you would like to opt-out, bring your student card, proof of payment & registration for the semester some time during the dates and times listed below. Once you opt-out, you are no longer a member of SFPIRG and will not be eligible to use the organization’s resources and services.

Monday, January 29th – 12-4pm
Tuesday, January 30th – 12-4pm
Wednesday, January 31st – 12-4pm
Thursday, February 1st – 12-4pm

Volunteer Orientations - Spring 2018
2018-01-23 12:30 - 13:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Feel lost at sea? Volunteer with SFPIRG!
Help save student activism on campus, find community, build campaign skills, and volunteer with SFPIRG! Learn more about how you can get involved during one of our volunteer orientation sessions!
JAN 23 | JAN 24 | JAN 25
12:30-1:30pm
SFPIRG Lounge – TC 326 in the Rotunda
Register below or drop-in at any session!

Power in Our Words: Talking about sexual violence
2017-11-17 11:00 - 18:00 | Library 7200, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
In a society enmeshed in rape culture, it is vital that we empower and equip ourselves and each other to support survivors of sexual violence. The words we use to talk about sexual violence are powerful – they can perpetuate harm, or they can cultivate healing.
Open to everyone, this workshop is especially designed for all students, staff and faculty who are actively working to support survivors, to build safer spaces on campus, and to create a world free of sexual violence.
Through this workshop, we will:

Explore the systemic nature of sexual violence
Screen the documentary “It Was Rape”
Use the documentary as a starting point to unpack truths, myths and stories of sexual violence
Discuss the legal framework used here in Canada to address sexual violence
Deepen our vocabulary and revisit how we talk about sexual violence

Active listeners will be present to support anyone who is triggered during this event.

Accessibility Info:
ASL is booked for this event. Please register by November 2nd at 9am to request ASL. If no requests for ASL are received by November 2nd at 9am, ASL interpretation will be cancelled.
The event space is wheelchair/scooter accessible with access to an accessible washroom nearby.
A gender-neutral washroom is available just down the hall from the event space.
In order to enable people to attend without experiencing hardship, Compass tickets and money for dependent care (this can include childcare, eldercare, etc.) are available upon request. Please email admin@sfpirg.ca with inquiries.
While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space. If you do so, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space. If you find yourself being impacted by someone’s use of scented products during the conference, speak with any one of the organizers. We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
(More info here: http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html,http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15, http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html)
The event is nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event space in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, coconuts, walnuts, coconut oil, coconut milk, and peanut butter.
If you have any other allergies or sensitivities that we need to know about so that you can participate fully and safely, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca.
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in theevent space. In order to reduce EMF exposure, we will strive to minimize fluorescent light usage and utilize natural lighting whenever possible.
If there is any other way we can make this event more accessible for you, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca!

Excessive Demands: A critical look at section 38(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
2017-11-01 13:30 - 16:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Part of Disability Awareness Week 2017, brought to you by the Committee To End Ableism!

While Canada champions itself as an open and welcoming country for immigrants and refugees from around the world, oppressive and discriminatory clauses in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act explicitly exclude people with disabilities.
Join us for a critical discussion of the “Protection” Act, including a screening of the short film Safar (Journey) by Mariam Zaidi, and learn more about the importance of disability justice in the wider context of body sovereignty and diversity.

About the film and filmmaker:
Safar (journey) is a film about Mariam Zaidi’s sister, Rabab, who has cerebral palsy. As part of the UAE’s expatriate population, Zaidi’s family is one of many that has no access to government healthcare and no option for permanent residency. Contrasting the opulence of Dubai with its absence of social benefits, Safar examines the lack of security felt by the UAE’s expatriate population. The film focuses on Zaidi’s family’s attempt to migrate from the UAE to Canada, and its subsequent rejection based on the “excessive burden” clause of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
With challenges from Canadian immigration, Zaidi attempts to embark on an alternate route by applying for citizenship alone, in the hopes of sponsoring Rabab as her dependent. The film addresses the loss of support the filmmaker’s family has felt in her absence. Questioning rigid Canadian immigration policies that do not consider the nuances of each family situation, Safar challenges the way we look at people with disabilities in and outside of Canada as a “burden.”

For more information about Disability Awareness Week 2017, including registration and accessibility info for all events, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/146130325964599/

Accessibility Info:
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide ASL interpretation for this event. ASL interpretation has been booked for another one of our events this semester, Power In Our Words: Talking About Sexual Violence. Please note the November 2nd deadline for registering and requesting ASL interpretation for that event.
The event space is wheelchair/scooter accessible with access to an accessible washroom nearby.
A gender-neutral washroom is available just outside and around the corner from the event space.
While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space. If you do so, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space. If you find yourself being impacted by someone’s use of scented products during the conference, speak with any one of the organizers. We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
(More info here: http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html,http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15, http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html)
The event is nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event space in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, coconuts, walnuts, coconut oil, coconut milk, and peanut butter.
If you have any other allergies or sensitivities that we need to know about so that you can participate fully and safely, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca.
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in theevent space. In order to reduce EMF exposure, we will strive to minimize fluorescent light usage and utilize natural lighting whenever possible.
If there is any other way we can make this event more accessible for you, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca!

Ripples From the Past: First Nations 101
2017-10-24 17:00 - 21:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
Everyone is welcome to join this workshop that aims to break down the shadows of the past and how they influence today’s Indigenous communities!
Drop ins are welcome!
For more information, please visit the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1928084540535354/

No Blame, No Shame! Intersectional Anti-Oppression 101
2017-10-14 10:30 - 17:30 | Library 7200, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
Take part in a day of facilitated discussion and practical skills building to gain a better understanding of oppression and ways to stand up for yourself and others when you see it playing out in daily life. This workshop will take a “no blame, no shame” approach to the issues. People of all levels of familiarity with anti-oppression work are welcome.
Explore questions like:

What is oppression?
What forms of oppression exist?
Is there such a thing as “reverse oppression”?
What do terms like intersectionality and privilege mean?
Where do I fit into all of this?
How can I work for change?

Accessibility Info:
ASL is booked for this event.
The event space is wheelchair/scooter accessible with access to an accessible washroom nearby.
A gender-neutral washroom is available just down the hall from the event space.
In order to enable people to attend without experiencing hardship, Compass tickets and money for dependent care (this can include childcare, eldercare, etc.) are available upon request. Please email admin@sfpirg.ca with inquiries.
While we cannot ensure a fully scent-free event in this setting, we’re aiming to create a scent-reduced environment by not bringing additional scents into the space. Exposure to laundry products, colognes, hairspray, and many other scented products can trigger serious health reactions in individuals with asthma, allergies, migraines, and/or chemical sensitivities. We ask that you not wear/ apply/ or bring any scented products into this space. If you do so, we may need to ask you to leave so others can safely stay in the space. If you find yourself being impacted by someone’s use of scented products during the conference, speak with any one of the organizers. We know that this can be a big step for many people. As Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha says in Fragrance Free Femme of Colour Realness, “Cutting out scents may seem like a pain in the ass, but it means that awesome, ass-kicking community members you love can attend events you’re at and make out with you without having seizures, throwing up or otherwise getting really sick.” Please, bring your amazing self, and keep the scents at home!
(More info here: http://thinkbeforeyoustink.com/howtogofragrancefree.html,http://www.brownstargirl.org/blog/fragrance-free-femme-of-colour-realness-draft-15, http://eastbaymeditation.org/accessibility/scentfree.html)
The event is nut-free and peanut-free. Absolutely no nuts or peanuts will be permitted within the event space in order to create an allergen-free environment for all participants. This includes (but is not limited to) products like hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, coconuts, walnuts, coconut oil, coconut milk, and peanut butter.
If you have any other allergies or sensitivities that we need to know about so that you can participate fully and safely, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca.
Some folks are sensitive and/or get sick from electromagnetic frequency radiation (EMF). This can include radiation from cell phones, Wi-Fi, fluorescent lights, and more. SFU Burnaby has Wi-Fi set up throughout its campus, including in theevent space. In order to reduce EMF exposure, we will strive to minimize fluorescent light usage and utilize natural lighting whenever possible.
If there is any other way we can make this event more accessible for you, please let us know at admin@sfpirg.ca!

Letters For The Inside Volunteer Orientation - Fall 2017
2017-10-03 11:30 - 12:30 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
In most Canadian prisons, prisoners do not have access to the Internet or to sufficient library resources. SFPIRG’s Letters For The Inside project enables SFU students to make use of the amazing access to information we have, and support prisoners’ continual learning by researching their requests for information.
Become a volunteer researcher and respond to specific requests for information!
Contact letters@sfpirg.ca to learn more or drop by the SFPIRG lounge on the dates below for an orientation! All training is provided.

Tuesday, October 3rd – 11:30am-12:30pm
Wednesday, October 4th – 1:30pm-2:30pm
Thursday, October 12th – 3:30pm-4:30pm

Boards, Societies, & Governance: Equipping student leaders for success! (Cancelled)
2017-09-29 10:30 - 17:30 | Library 7200, SFU Burnaby, SFU Library, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada
CANCELLED: Ironically, due to scheduling conflicts with another SFU student society’s essential governance practices, we have been forced to cancel this workshop. We will be running this workshop again in early May 2018 for all students occupying seats on Boards of Directors at SFU, as well as any students who are interested in learning more about Boards, societies, and governance. If you and your Board are interested in scheduling this workshop for your Society, before May 2018, please contact us at info@sfpirg.ca.

Workshop Description:
Have you recently joined a non-profit society’s Board of Directors?
Are you considering running for election to a non-profit society Board, but not sure what a Board of Directors actually does?
Join other campus student leaders for some free, hands-on governance training and come away with a better understanding of non-profit societies, Boards of Directors, and your own role in campus society governance!
Explore questions like:

What is a “non-profit society”? How does it function?
Who are “members”? What role do they play?
What are the duties and powers of a Board of Directors?
What are Constitutions and Bylaws?
Why is good governance a vital part of successful leadership?

Fee Refunds - Fall 2017
2017-09-25 12:00 - 16:00 | TC 326, SFPIRG Lounge, Transportation Centre, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
SFPIRG is a student-funded non-profit organization, autonomous from both the University and the Student Society. We receive $3 each semester from each full time student and $1.50 from each part time student. Therefore, after paying their student fees, all students are members of SFPIRG and can use the resources available through our centre. Non-students can also become associate members of SFPIRG and get involved with us.
We realize that not everyone shares SFPIRG’s values, so each semester we offer students the ability to revoke their membership. If you would like to opt-out, bring your student card, proof of payment & registration for the semester some time during the dates and times listed below. Once you opt-out, you are no longer a member of SFPIRG and will not be eligible to use the organization’s resources and services.

Monday, September 25th – 12-4pm
Tuesday, September 26th – 12-4pm
Wednesday, September 27th – 12-4pm
Thursday, September 28th – 12-4pm

Fat Camp 2017
2017-08-12 10:30 - 17:30 | BC
Building Fat Resistance!
Building Fat Capacity!
Building Fat Community!
REGISTRATION LINK: Coming soon!

Join Fat Panic! Vancouver, SFPIRG and PeerNet for a day of dreaming, scheming and organizing as we explore possible healing and resistance strategies that we can enact, as individuals and with others. What can we create that will support fat people in our community to not only survive, but heal and thrive? What actions can we take, collectively and/or as individuals, to push back against the forces of anti-fat evil? How can we gather and share resources – energy, time and money – to support these efforts?
Please note that as part of the work of this day, Fat Panic! will be seeking donations. We ask that folks with sufficient income, who want to see more fat organizing and community building, donate what you can; given our social reality, these things can’t really happen without funds. We also ask that people who are struggling financially, especially fat working class and poor people, consider saving your resources to support your own well-being, though we respect that people from working class and poor backgrounds often are the ones who contribute a disproportionate amount to grassroots community organizing.
We hope to obtain funds that will allow us to A) provide some form of honoraria to Fat Camp organizers who are not already being paid for their time, and B) to build a fund that would be available to support one or more of the project ideas that come out of this day, with priority going to ensuring that these projects have the necessary funds to ensure maximum accessibility.
Further event details to come!
ACCESSIBILITY INFO
ASL is being booked for this event. Please register by July 27th at noon to confirm your attendance. If no confirmations are received by July 27th at noon, ASL interpretation will be cancelled.
More access info to be posted soon!
