In April, I moved to this riding after spending the past 40 years in Alberta. Most of those years were spent in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, so moving here seemed natural.
The last six or so years were spent in southwest Calgary due to medical reasons.
During that time, two federal elections passed. I voted Green in both elections, but they kept re-electing my MP, Stephen Harper. I voted with my heart for the big picture. As the Greens grew, my vote, combined with many others, resulted in the Green Party receiving a stronger percentage of votes nationally and allowed them to qualify for the financial return that all major parties receive based on the number of votes cast for them during any specific election. This allowed them to continue to develop well thought-out alternative policies and approaches.
A growing Green percentage and the policies that are garnering support are drawing attention of the major parties. Especially in a minority government situation, a small but expanding number of elected Green MPs are the best way to bring these issues front and centre. If you have children or grandchildren, time is an issue. I am just such a happy camper to be living in a time and riding where my Green candidate has such a strong chance of being one of those members.
However you vote, check the platforms, read their background, look them in the eye when you ask your questions. When people discuss the upcoming election, I gently remind them to vote because if they don’t, what credibility does opinion really have?
Thank you, my new neighbours, for helping shape such a fine place to live.
D’Arcy McCrea
Garibaldi Highlands
