Margaret Atwood’s ‘voice transcends literature’

The Handmaid Tale author's sold-out show in Hamilton will raise money for Interval House’s emergency and support services for women, children experiencing violence.

Iconic author Margaret Atwood’s upcoming sold-out show in Hamilton will raise money to support women and children facing violence.

Inviting her to speak on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and the first day of the 16 Days of Activism, intentionally connects her global voice to Interval House’s mission of “violence-free lives for all women, children and communities,” says the shelter’s executive director Sue Taylor.

“Margaret Atwood’s work has profoundly shaped how we understand power, gender, and resistance. Her voice transcends literature – she has become a cultural touchstone for conversations about women’s rights and the consequences of violence and control.”

The Nov. 25 event at the Hamilton Convention Centre sold 1,500 tickets. Taylor says Atwood’s 1985 dystopian novel resonates loudly today.

“The world she imagined in The Handmaid’s Tale feels uncomfortably close to current conversations and experiences with women’s autonomy, rights, and safety. Those parallels remind us how fragile progress can be — and how urgently we must protect it. Her voice challenges complacency and inspires action, which is exactly what Nov. 25 — and our work at Interval House of Hamilton — are all about. Through her words we are reminded to “nolite te bastardes carborundorum.”

That mock-Latin phrase from the novel means "don't let the bastards grind you down.”

The event was initially going to be moderated by Hamilton-born TV journalist Steve Paikin but an unforeseen scheduling error means fellow broadcaster Ralph Benmergui has stepped in.

“We recognize the moderator plays an important role in guiding the conversation and drawing out the deeper themes from Ms. Atwood’s work,” says Taylor. “Mr. Benmergui has already visited us at our shelter to learn more about our work and the women and children we serve. Ralph brings deep insight, warmth, and has interviewed Ms. Atwood previously. He will be the perfect complement to Ms. Atwood’s voice.”

Proceeds from Atwood’s appearance will be used to directly support women, children, and gender-diverse people who are experiencing violence and accessing services. Interval House of Hamilton provides emergency shelter, safety planning and support services for women with or without children that have experienced abuse or violence.

That includes crisis and support lines, counselling, transitional housing and employment supports, and legal advisory services.

Interval House’s emergency shelter is constantly overcapacity, says Taylor.

Two rooms were recently added and the shelter has now become pet friendly. Interval House also provides mobile supports to more than 1,000 survivors across the city, including those living in rural areas of Hamilton.

“Every ticket sold helps women, children and gender-diverse people experiencing violence find safety, healing and hope.”