1937 - Convention Report

              84 ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTES
The argument against increased production is not sound; idleness never
created anything. Increased production on the part of new settlers would
scarcely be felt for three years after their arrival, - and during this period they
would be a stimulus to business.
Future immigration would be carefully controlled, and the selection of
immigrants should be on their ability to take care of themselves financially and
not become public charges.
Before the war, 1912- 1913, immigration totalled 382,840; 1928- 1929, 167,723,
and last year 11,643 entered into Canada, For the six months ending June 30th,
1936, there were 912 British, 2,211 non- British, and origin not stated, 2,129, and
this statement shows a further heavy balance of non- British immigration.
Deportation figures for 1936 show 549, with 153 British, and 69 public
charges.
Twenty- nine children arrived from overseas last year and entered Fairbridge
Farm School, Vancouver Island, B. C.
These children are carefully selected from poor homes in England, while
they are still young enough to be adaptable, and in this school they are taught
farming and home- making, besides their regular education.
To the Conveners of Canadianization and Immigration, I wish to extend my
thanks and appreciation for the many reports received.
School children in all districts are receiving special attention; essays, drills,
illustrated lectures, and excellent programs are provided. One Convener reports
that the School Inspector in the district judged the essays written by the pupils
and three cash prizes were donated by this Institute. These Empire studies are
of great importance in our schools.
Major Norbury was invited by one Convener last October and he presented
an illustrated lecture on " Canadian Art" not only to the school children in the
afternoon, but also to the adults in the evening.
King George VI recently stated establishment of play centres made for the
betterment of good citizenship for the growing boys and girls.
The members of the Alberta Women's Institutes are certainly fulfilling their
duties as good Canadian citizens, attending the sick, distressed, supplying milk,
eggs, vegetables, layettes, clothing and hampers at Christmas to those in need.
The radio today plays an important part in our lives. World- wide news is
given daily, current events, lectures, debates, and educational value are derived
from these broadcasts. To the sick and those living in isolated districts the
radio is a great boon.
On coronation day, May 12th, the King will broadcast to all his subjects
throughout the Empire. Municipalities and schools in the cities, towns and rural
parts will no doubt celebrate the crowning of King George VI and Queen
Elizabeth in various ways.
The travelling library donated by Her Excellency Lady Tweedsmuir to
the women in country points of Western Canada has been a wonderful contri­bution.
These books are well received and read, and appreciation for this great
need has been expressed.
Applications for Canadian citizenship have greatly increased the last few
years. During 1934 applications in the Edmonton district totalled 864, and in
1935, 1,947 applied,
Women are now assuming public positions, and we should endeavor to secure
responsible women and give them our whole- hearted support to fill offices
whenever possible.