In celebration of International Women’s Day, the LCBO’s Spirit of Sustainability platform is furthering our commitment to helping Ontario thrive with a new initiative focused on equality. Our goal is to create a province where all individuals have equal access to essential resources needed to live happy, healthy lives—regardless of gender, race, age, class, religion, ability, sexual orientation, or identity. So, we’re working with our partners towards our shared goal of supporting equitable access to healthcare, resources, and economic opportunities in Ontario. Together, let’s ensure everyone’s glass is overflowing with possibilities.
We’re pleased to announce that together, we raised nearly $2.1 million for Women’s College Hospital in support of their mission to revolutionize healthcare and provide equitable access for women and marginalized groups. This includes programs like the Women’s College Research Institute, which is closing health gaps in diagnosis and clinical treatment for women across the province, and their Substance Use Service, which is improving access to treatment and support for those struggling with substance use in over 55 clinics across the province. Thank you for supporting us in creating a more equitable Ontario.
Introducing the Spirit of Inclusion Initiative, a bold step forward in combating the lack of equal representation in the beverage alcohol industry. This initiative will support women and marginalized groups who are looking to begin or advance their training in the winery, brewery, and distillery fields. Working with the Canadian Women’s Foundation, Ontario universities and colleges, and established community partners, we’ll pilot mentorships, bursaries, and continuing education for women and diverse communities.
Check back for more details in the Spring
About the Artist
We are proud to be working with Toronto-based illustrator, Rachel Joanis. As a female artist, she understands the importance of representation, and the significance of seeing yourself reflected in art and media. The majority of her work focuses around women, and promoting different ethnicities and body types, to help further inclusivity and promote equal representation.
Learn more about Rachel Joanis and shop her illustrations
Here’s to our Good Partners, who are lifting up Ontario too.
Jackson Triggs has partnered with Canadian R&B artist Emmanuel to help increase BIPOC representation in Canada. They’re also making a $10,000 donation to Nia Centre for the Arts, Canada’s first professional arts centre dedicated to Black art.
Crown Royal is highlighting Joanna Zanin Scandella, their Master Whiskey Blender with over 25 years of experience, and a desire to continue pushing boundaries for the next generation. Together, they’re sharing advice and wisdom to inspire female makers and doers, giving Craftswomen everywhere a reason to raise a glass in support of one another.
Throughout Johnnie Walker’s rich history, the brand has strived to stretch boundaries and championed forward-looking progress. Through global innovation projects like Blenders Batch, Johnnie Walker has brought greater visibility to the female blenders on the team, namely Emma Walker and Aimee Gibson. Emma led the Triple Grain blend and Aimee Gibson the wine cask blend. Johnnie Walker is committed to continued support of equality in the industry with funding, mentorship, and education.
In honour of International Women’s Day, Collective Arts has partnered with the Pink Boots Society, an organization created to assist, inspire, and encourage women in the beer industry, to brew IPA No. 16. Collective Arts will also be making donations to The Canadian Women’s Foundation and American Women Artists.