How we act when our basic, inalienable rights are disregarded is a question faced by generations upon generations, and one that stokes civil rights leaders across the globe. In June this year, women across the United States were left with fewer rights than their grandparents with the overturning of Roe v. Wade. These writers offer solace and insight in the face of the ruling, and underscore—once again— the importance of access to safe, legal, shame-free abortion. Aimee Wall’s We, Jane takes its title from the underground Jane network of abortion providers in 60s Chicago, but explores relationships and resistance in rural Newfoundland. Heather Marshall’s page turning novel, Looking for Jane, also explores this secret network of women fighting for the right to choose. Wall (in-person) and Marshall (virtual) will speak with journalist Elizabeth Renzetti, whose recent, final column for The Globe and Mail spoke to this essential right.

This will be a hybrid event, with Heather Marshall joining virtually. The event takes place in a theatre.

Event Participants:

Heather Marshall

HEATHER MARSHALL lives with her family near Toronto. She completed master’s degrees in Canadian history and political science, and worked in politics and communications before turning her attention to her true passion: storytelling. Looking for Jane is her debut novel. (ONTARIO) Heather Marshall will join the Festival virtually.

Elizabeth Renzetti

ELIZABETH RENZETTI is a former columnist and feature writer for The Globe and Mail, and the author of two books: Based on a True Story, a national bestseller, and Shrewed, a collection of original essays, both published by House of Anansi Press. (ONTARIO)

Aimee Wall

AIMEE WALL is a writer and translator from Newfoundland. Her essays, short fiction, and criticism have appeared in numerous publications. Her translations include Vickie Gendreau’s Testament and Drama Queens, and Jean-Philippe Baril Guérard’s Sports and Pastimes. Her debut novel, We, Jane, has been nominated for nine literary prizes. (QUEBEC)