TORONTO, Aug. 17, 2004 – The Catholic Civil Rights League today announced the appointment of Joanne McGarry as executive director. She will develop and implement strategies for CCRL’s continued growth and expansion to help promote Catholic principles in the public sphere.

“Joanne’s background in public relations and journalism will help the league raise its profile and strengthen its membership base,” says Thomas Langan, president of CCRL. “Her skilled leadership will help us speak with a stronger voice in our work with the media and with government bodies, especially on marriage and freedom of conscience issues.”

Ms. McGarry is an experienced consultant in public relations and marketing communications. Prior to her appointment, she was senior partner with JM Associates, Toronto-based corporate marketing specialists. Earlier in her career, she was managing editor of The Catholic Register, Canada’s national Catholic newspaper, and editor of Jewellery World and JW/Plus. Before founding JM Associates she was public relations manager of Speedware Corporation, a global provider of application development and business intelligence software based in Montreal.

“The league has done an excellent job of promoting Catholic teachings and countering bias and defamation in the media,” says Ms. McGarry. “It’s time to build on this foundation to reach a wider audience and do our best to have an impact on public policy.”

For further information: Joanne McGarry
416-466-8244
joanne.mcgarry@ccrl.ca