Caring for our Environment Manitoba holiday celebration and call for action

by Ann Evangelista

Caring for Our Environment Manitoba (CEM) held its Holiday Celebration on December 13, 2025, at the Salvation Army in Winnipeg, bringing together members, families, partners, and friends for an evening of reflection, learning, and community connection. The event highlighted CEM’s commitment to environmental sustainability, grassroots leadership, and collective responsibility, creating space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and intergenerational engagement.

With the theme Local Voices, Global Impact: Mobilizing Communities for a Sustainable Future, the program opened with a land acknowledgment and prayer by board member at-large Mariciel Nuyda, followed by remarks from CEM president, Ramon Sales, who emphasized that meaningful environmental action begins within local communities and grows through shared purpose.

Keynote speaker James Beddome, executive director of the Manitoba Eco-Network, underscored the importance of grassroots leadership in addressing environmental challenges. He noted that informed and organized communities can influence policy, protect ecosystems, and inspire broader change.

The celebration included interactive activities, a shared meal, and musical performances by members and families, showcasing community talent and reinforcing CEM’s focus on cultural and intergenerational engagement. Door prizes and a 50/50 raffle added to the festive atmosphere while supporting ongoing initiatives.

Youth leadership was highlighted by Chris Clacio, head of the Youth Engagement Committee, who emphasized that young people are already climate leaders capable of inspiring meaningful action when empowered with knowledge and opportunity. Chris also led overall event coordination, supported by CEM officers, volunteers, and committee members.

In closing remarks, Ann Evangelista encouraged attendees to turn shared learning into sustained action, reminding everyone that environmental stewardship extends into daily life, workplaces, and communities.

CEM expressed gratitude to donors, sponsors, and supporters, including the Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association (CBCRA) – Recycle Everywhere; Carolina Legaspi; Gina Gabriel; Rizalina Cortez; Edwin Yazon and Alma May Sales. Their contributions help advance environmental education and community empowerment across Manitoba.

As the year concludes, CEM urges community members and partners to move from reflection to action by volunteering, strengthening partnerships, and supporting community-led environmental initiatives.

Ann Evangelista is the head of CEM’s Information and Communication Committee