I need to admit that there have been times when our national politics has sucked the hope right out of me. The nasty, scorched earth brand of ruling perfected by the current government in Ottawa makes our democracy distasteful and diminishes us all.

But then I remember that at its best, our politics can actually be a hopeful conversation about what we want to do together, what we aspire to as a people. It’s an expression of who we are, and as such is bigger than any one Prime Minister or political party.

Ultimately, it’s up to us as citizens to take part in this conversation and to take it where we think it needs to go. It’s our avenue to express our hopes for the future, and to find leaders who share our vision. This election is our opportunity to do just that.

Today One Cowichan is launching our election campaign, and we’d love you to be a part of it. We have two goals:

1. Boost the number of voters who want change in Ottawa going to the polls
2. Help local voters articulate the type of positive change they want to see

How are we going to do this? By talking to people.

That may sound simple, and in some ways it is, but studies show the most effective way to turn out a new voter is to talk to her or him face to face. The challenge is to do this at scale.

So, we are organizing teams of volunteers to go out and have conversations with people on the doorstep, to ask what kind of positive change they want to see in Ottawa, and collecting those answers to send to the candidates.

We’ll also get back to those people shortly before election day with information on how and where to vote. The additional numbers of progressive voters going to the polls will ensure that Cowichan-Malahat-Langford sends an MP to Ottawa who shares our values and priorities.

How can you help?

If you are keen on a specific candidate or party in this riding you think will bring positive change to Ottawa, you may want to volunteer or donate to one of those directly. One Cowichan will be working for change in Ottawa this election, but won’t endorse.

Otherwise, you can participate in the campaign in these ways:

1. Sign up to get out there and talk to people as part of a local team. We’ll provide materials and training, and promise to make it fun.
2. Donate to help cover materials costs. Our print run for handouts will cost about $1,350. (Any donations over $200, we’ll need to disclose the name to Elections Canada).

We heard during our recent election survey that many people think this is one of Canada’s most important election campaigns ever. The outcome is too important to be left to the parties alone, so let’s engage as citizens to get the positive outcome we want.

Best wishes,

Matt Price

Director, One Cowichan