An Italian cultural club in southwestern Ontario that has recently come under fire for its men-only policy is expected to discuss the possibility of admitting women for the first time in its 93-year history.The Giovanni Caboto Club, in Windsor, Ont., drew criticism last week when Premier Kathleen Wynne cancelled a town-hall meeting scheduled to take place at the club, citing its policy of allowing only men of Italian descent as members.“Premier Wynne is committed to supporting a fair, competitive and prosperous Ontario for everyone,” Jennifer Beaudry, a spokeswoman for Wynne’s office said of the cancellation. “That commitment extends to working with partners who reflect these values of equality and inclusiveness, and we need to make sure everyone feels comfortable attending events.”Read more:Premier Kathleen Wynne to tour Ontario colleges and universitiesOpponent of Ontario’s sex ed curriculum enters PC leadership racePatrick Brown’s departure energizes Tories with surge of volunteers and fundraising, interim leader findsThe Caboto Club, which regularly hosts business conferences, weddings, charity fundraisers and political rallies, did not respond to multiple requests for comment. However, the club says on its website that it has an “auxiliary” group for women that operates as a separate organization with its own board.NDP MP Cheryl Hardcastle, whose riding is just steps away from the club, said several local organizations have stopped holding events there in recent years in response to the membership rules.“The Caboto is one of the last (local cultural clubs) with that archaic patriarchal approach” Hardcastle added.“I think that they’ve outgrown that, and I certainly hope they consider modernizing to better reflect their member families.”The club’s directors have said they will discuss the possibility of changing their gender restrictions at a meeting Thursday, said Winds ...
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