Raise the roof
Homelessness isn’t funny, but that doesn’t mean comics can’t step up to benefit street people. This week, organizers of a series of events deliver the proceeds to Raising the Roof, the local org that assists homeless youth. Ryan Belleville headlines a pricey night ($150) at Second City (51 Mercer) on Sunday (April 3, 416-481-1838), but for just $35 you can play Trivia and yuk it up with Adam Growe, Simon Rakoff and others at the Rivoli (332 Queen West) on Friday (April 1), or get laughs from Scott Thompson, Arthur Simeon and more at the Riv the next day. Both shows at 7:30 pm. 416-872-1212.
Take back the label
It’s true – a Toronto Police Services rep really did tell a public safety meeting at York University that women could protect themselves from attacks by not dressing “like sluts.” Yikes, more woman-blaming. Fed up with the stereotyping, a group of irate women invites everyone to a Slutwalk on Sunday (April 3). You’re welcome, organizers say, whether you want to strut, roll, holler, stomp or just plain walk. Speeches start at 1:30 pm at Queen’s Park, and the parade heads off at 2 pm, destination police HQs at 40 College. Free. slutwalktoronto.com.
Winner-take-all economy
Get ready for election policy promises to start flying thick and fast – but pay attention: some of these could help repair Canada’s growing equality gap, while others are destined to make it worse. Come hear a primer on Economics, Equality And Democracy with Armine Yalnizyan, senior economist with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives and author of The Rise Of Canada’s Richest 1%. Yalnizyan discusses the way current policy loads way too much power in way too few hands. Monday (April 4), 7 pm. Free. Gardiner Museum (111 Queen’s Park). Pre-register at reviewcanada.ca/gardiner.
