WELLINGTON COUNTY – While Ontario’s next municipal elections are still a year away, organizers of three local campaign schools are encouraging community leaders to think about running now. To help diversify the candidate pool, they are hosting an online panel to talk about the challenges and rewards of running for office, especially for those who might not have thought about it before.
Curt Hammond with Campaign School Wellington County says the online forum is to encourage women, Indigenous, Black, racialized, LGBTQ2S+ and youth members of the community to run for office.
Hammond says “Are you Election Curious?” will be hosted through Zoom on Wednesday November 10/21 at 7 pm. The 4 panellists will include candidates who have won and lost elections at all levels of government.
The 90-minute session will be an opportunity for prospective candidates to listen to other leaders and reflect on their own interest in running for
office. Everyone is welcome to join and can register at MunicipalCampaignSchool.ca
Campaign School Wellington County wants to diversify the voices of elected officials in local government and school boards. This online forum is the first of three programs designed to encourage, empower and support candidates who come from the female, Indigenous, Black, racialized, LGBTQS2+ and youth communities.
In early 2022, Campaign School Wellington County will be running in-person sessions offering hands-on and practical advice around the details of running a campaign. In the spring of 2022 they hope to create a mentoring program that will connect current and past elected officials with those running for office.