TORONTO—The Broadbent Institute’s Progress Gala is shining the light on the issue of our time with tonight's keynote address on inequality by former Clinton Secretary of Labor Robert Reich.
Reich, professor of public policy at the University of California at Berkeley and a sought-after business commentator, is one of the North America’s most knowledgeable and persuasive thinkers about the widening inequality of income and wealth. The author of 13 books, Reich is featured in the award-winning documentary Inequality For All.
"When the Institute was thinking of choosing a distinguished guest speaker for our annual Progress Gala, Robert Reich immediately came to mind. I’m delighted he’s speaking to Canadian policy makers and leading thinkers on the issue of our time -- inequality," said Ed Broadbent, chair of the Institute’s board.
Added Reich, "The challenge of growing inequality is immense in my country, but Canada is not as different as we’d like to think. I welcome this opportunity to share lessons learned about the U.S. experience with Canadians."
Joining Reich on stage following his keynote address will be Hugh Segal, Master of Massey College at the University of Toronto. Segal will conduct a Q&A with Reich before an audience of 600.
"I'm delighted to be a part of this evening and to discuss with Professor Reich this pressing problem of inequality," said Segal.
The Progress Gala is being held at the former Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto and falls on the eve of the 25th anniversary of the unanimous passage of Broadbent’s motion in the House of Commons to end child poverty in Canada.
The evening begins at 6 pm with a reception. Hosted by actor Clara Pasieka and trade union leader Jeanne d’Arc Umurungi, dinner and speeches follow at 7 pm. Live entertainment will be provided by Juno award-winning Jazz musician Richard Underhill and Toronto’s independent rock band The Modern Hearts.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Cim Nunn, Progress Gala Communications Coordinator
416-627-7695 or cnunn [at] broadbentinstitute [dot] ca
