Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As the end of this sitting nears, we are only six to eight months away from a territorial election and with it an opportunity for concerned citizens to take a leadership role in the governance of our people, lands and resources. We have all heard criticisms, frustrations and suggestions from residents and constituents. Now is the time for individuals to consider stepping forward to provide leadership and to put their ideas into action.
As John Todd, an alumnus of this House, was fond of saying, “If you don’t like the government policies, get elected.” Politics is not a career choice; it’s a calling, a vocation. It’s an opportunity to participate in setting standards for government services.
The Legislature used to travel throughout the NWT for session, setting up shop in school gymnasiums and community halls, bringing government to the people where they lived. With the birth of this amazing building, we no longer do this, but outreach remains an essential part of our work to attract people to the political process and give them the skills to succeed.
Democracy depends on a cross-section of our society’s voices being heard. Looking around the House today, I see an uneven ratio of men and women in this Chamber. Women make up to 50 percent of our population, and as Premier McLeod says, we need more female political leaders to participate in our democratic process. Their perspective adds benefit to our governance and they must be encouraged to use their voices. Supports exist with the Status of Women, who recently hosted a well-attended forum for women interested in running for political office, and some unions provide courses on campaigning. Such supports need expansion and enhancement.
Today’s newspaper has an article highlighting a visit to the Legislative Assembly by high school students from Wekweeti and the inspiration they drew from it to enter politics. More opportunities to interact with politicians and school programs specifically aimed at encouraging political involvement are needed. I encourage families to have dinner conversations on political leadership and democracy.
Finally, I and, I’m sure, my colleagues are approachable and willing to
discuss the experience
of being a Member of the Legislative Assembly. We need experienced, thoughtful, dedicated, diverse and representative leadership to take our territory forward on a sound, evidence-based foundation. I encourage residents to give serious consideration to running in the upcoming territorial election this fall. Mahsi.