A voluntary exit program at Presbyterian-supported Kairos means three people have resigned as of Oct. 4. Jim Davis, Julie Graham and Adiat Junaid left the organization in response to financial shortfalls. Another colleague, Emily Wilson, resigned prior to the voluntary exit program.
“Each of these individuals has made a tremendous contribution to the life and work of Kairos,” notes a statement on their website. “While we wish them the best in their future endeavours, we will be very sad to see them leave the staff team.”
Kairos—an ecumenical social justice initiative based in Toronto—has been faced with decreasing resources in the last few years. According to the Kairos website, cuts in member contributions, volatile investment income, and the controversial defunding by CIDA have all made it difficult for the organization to continue operating as it has in the past.
Adiat Junaid, who stepped down as coordinator of the communications program, told the Record: “What I’ll miss most are the people. Through the years I met many brilliant and courageous people from across a wide spectrum all dedicated to human rights and social justice. I continue to be truly inspired by them.”
Jim Davis was Kairos’ Africa Partnerships Coordinator. Julie Graham was the Education and Campaigns Coordinator for Dignity and Rights. Kairos says the three departments that have now lost staff doesn’t mean work in those areas will cease; duties are simply shifting and changing, and in most cases, will be handled by other employees. —AM and Kairos
