Vancouver Festival Inspires People to Take Action for a Better World

You don't have to be an activist to make a difference in the world. That's the message that SEFAC Foundation is hoping conscious citizens will take from The Better World Handbook Festival. The first annual celebration of concrete actions, sustainability and music will be held March 26 at 50 East Pender Street, next to the Sun Yat-Sen Gardens.

The festival is based on The Better World Handbook (New Society Publishers) - the definitive guide to helping busy people make a positive impact on the world - without quitting their day jobs. Renowned experts will lead workshops that outline the seven foundations necessary for building a better world: Economic Fairness, Comprehensive Peace, Ecological Sustainability, Deep Democracy, Social Justice, A Culture of Simplicity, and Revitalized Community.

International speakers including Dr. Kevin Danaher, Dr. Cecile Andrews and Dr. Ellis Jones will join well-known Canadian social activists and environmental leaders such as Guy Dauncey, Julian Darley, Mike Hudema and Dr. Bill Rees to provide attendees with the essential information they need to incorporate their good intentions into everyday actions whether it's grocery shopping, banking, reading the newspaper, or working. Each participant will receive an "Action Pack" full of tools that will help them take simple steps to address the challenge of living an ethical and fulfilled life.

Multicultural music and dance performances throughout the day and evening include Moka Only, Beats Without Borders, Sirens Echo, Triple Three and Over the Influence. As well, sponsors will host a community fair featuring fun and interesting demos, games and product samplings. Creative entertainment and workshops include political puppet shows, a 'Better World Video Gaming Challenge', 'Sustainability Field Trips' and workshops ranging from Capoeira to Qi Gong.

Tickets are available in advance at Beat Street Records, 439 West Hastings, Ten Thousand Villages, 1204 Commercial Drive and Banyen Books, 3608 West 4th Avenue for $15 (general admission), $10 (students and low income) or $17/$12 at the door. The first 100 people to purchase tickets at Ten Thousand Villages receive a free copy of The Better World Handbook.

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