Human rights expert seeks Federal Liberal nomination in Willowdale
Former constituency assistant and expectant mom looks to join Trudeau team
TORONTO, Oct. 25, 2013 /CNW/ - A legal expert, international human rights activist and media commentator will seek the Federal Liberal nomination for the riding of Willowdale. And she is an expectant mom as well.
Lily Pourzand, a former constituency assistant to former Liberal MP, Martha Hall Findlay, has announced her decision to run for the coveted Toronto seat that had been in the Liberal fold for many years before the last election.
A long-time community activist, Ms. Pourzand said in making her announcement, "I want to put my experience to work and be part of the rejuvenation of the Liberal Party under Justin Trudeau's leadership. I have decided to step up and seek the nomination in our riding because I believe I have the right qualifications. As a soon-to-be mom who is an expert in women's issues, and as a first generation immigrant with 20 years of experience in socio-legal fields, I can offer a lot to the Liberal team for 2015 election. In addition, I live in the riding and have worked as the constituency assistant and know the challenges. This decision was made after considerable thought and many encouraging discussions with family and friends throughout Willowdale."
Ms. Pourzand received her LLM (Masters in Law) from Osgoode Hall Law School in 2010 with a specific focus on Diversity and Equality. Her Bachelor's degree is from York University in Women's and Equality Studies.
She has been interviewed at length on her human rights work by the CBC and other media outlets; As well, she has been a Huffington Post columnist on many issues.
Ms. Pourzand's father was a well-known journalist and former political prisoner in Iran. He took his own life at the age of 80 in 2011 to protest against the abuse of Human Rights in Iran. Her mother, Mehrangiz Kar, also a lawyer is the recipient of numerous Human Rights awards.
In addition to Ms. Pourzand's work as a constituency assistant to Martha Hall Findlay from 2009 to 2011, she has been part of campaign teams for former Willowdale MP Jim Peterson and current Willowdale MPP and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Zimmer for many years.
Ms. Pourzand and and her husband are expecting their first child in February.
Ms. Pourzand will kick off her campaign on Tuesday October 29th, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, at Novotel Hotel, 3 Park Home Ave, North York.
SOURCE: Lily for Willowdale
Media Contact: Lily Pourzand
Cell: 647-284-0281
[email protected]
www.lilypourzand.ca
Facebook: Lily for Willowdale
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