How to Change the World 

Vote for the Future You Want
Canadians have fought and died to protect the right to vote. It's our right and responsibility. We have the power. (Well, most Canadians still do in spite of efforts to stop us.) 

In this election, Canadians are turning out in record numbers. Vote for the future you want. Vote for democracy. 

Remember to Vote: Monday October 19 from 7 am to 7 pm is the time.  Make a plan, talk it up, take your friends, find a babysitter, but be sure to get there before 7 pm.  Vote before work, at noon, on your way home from work, but make sure your voice is heard and your vote is counted. 

Every Green MP elected will help Canada. Send Elizabeth May back to Ottawa with a caucus of Green MPs to work together for the future we want. You can help by phoning voters: sign up here.

To rebuild our democracy, we need the best minds at the table and more than three voices in parliament. Greens in Parliament will be your local champions! Please meet some of the many amazing, accomplished people running for the Green Party: 

Claire Martin, Green candidate for North Vancouver, meteorologist, wants to see democracy restored and science unfettered. Claire wants you to have a representative you can trust, work with and feel proud to have working for YOU in Ottawa.

Lynne Quarmby, Green candidate for Burnaby North-Seymour, a dedicated scientist has taken a strong stand against the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion in Burnaby. Lynne wants our beautiful natural environment protected.

Who we choose to represent us in parliament directly affects our lives and the future of our country and the planet. 

Green values are the Canadian values of trust, responsibility, respect, and compassion. Greens respect diversity and embrace discussion across the political spectrum.

It's a close race on Vancouver Island - every vote counts. It's telling that all three 'main' party leaders are campaigning in BC this last weekend before the election. 

“The only wasted vote is the one not cast.”  Elizabeth May

Another Vancouver Island Green candidate, Glenn Sollitt, for Courtenay-Alberni, is a successful entrepreneur. Glenn wants to see federal science and monitoring restored to protect our oceans and rivers. 

Many businesses in Canada rely on our natural resources. Protecting the natural world we live in and rely on only makes sense. 

We were happy to see the large crowd of supporters cheering for him and Elizabeth May as she tours Vancouver Island this weekend in the Green Island Bus tour.

Vote Green - The Party for the Future is the Best Choice Now

Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi, Green candidate for the new riding of Cowichan-Malahat-Langford, is a successful entrepreneur and respected First Nations leader with extensive experience working for the community.

In the Green Party’s six founding principles: ecological wisdom, non-violence, social justice, sustainability, participatory democracy, and respect for diversity, Fran has found a philosophy similar to that of her heritage in the Kwakiutl/Quatsino First Nations 

Hope for the future!

Vote for a party that respects democracy - Green candidates support Canadian rights and freedoms including the right to have MPs that work for the people of Canada first and foremost.

Marilyn Venturi of Cobble Hill points out "You can't get what you want if you don't vote for it".

The Green Party supports unions and small business; environmental protection, fiscal responsibility and economic development; human rights, free speech, and justice.

"The only thing to fear, is fear itself" Winston Churchill 

Celebrate with us at the Election Night Party! It will be a Great Green Rally on 19th October, 7 pm at the Convention Centre in Victoria. More information here.Thank you!

Re-Elect Elizabeth May Team 

We are in the home stretch. The Green message of hope, pragmatic solutions, and a positive vision for Canada needs to be heard loud and clear.  

Please share this message with five (5) friends that can help spread the word that #Greens4Canada has amazing candidates all across Canada that are committed to working for you! It's an easy choice. 

1. Voting for a Representative - Your Vote, Your Voice Matter!
Andy Shadrack of Kaslo stated it well: "You have a choice to make about what kind of Canada you want, what kind of MP you want to represent you, and what role you want Elizabeth May and the Green Party to play in your future.

Vote for your local Green candidate - Help Elizabeth May return to Ottawa with a Green caucus to help her help Canada.

2. Read, Listen, Watch and Share: 

Bold, visionary leadership:

Elizabeth May: Paying Everyone A Basic Income Will End Poverty AND Save Money

Elizabeth May wouldn't keep Stephen Harper in power for 'a nanosecond longer'

And only one poll really matters:

Elizabeth comments on 2011 poll that said she couldn't be elected dogcatcher


More great videos here on the Saanich Gulf Islands SGI Youtube channel

3. Messages to Share on on Facebook and Twitter 
The Green Party doesn't have the big advertising budgets that the 'main' parties do and corporate media is not catching on. We have people power to get the message out about Green platforms, policies and positions. 

Sample tweets/posts to use, share, and modify are listed below. Please include #elxn42 and #VoteGreen and/or #Greens4Canada in Tweets and FB posts, so we can find one another's posts and share or retweet. 

These suggestions are all less than or equal to the 140 character limit on Twitter, including the hashtags:

We're the only party talking about the most important issues this #elxn42. Don't compromise.On Oct 19 vote Green #Greens4Canada #votegreen

"A Green MP will be the hardest working you have ever had. Because their boss isn't me. It's you"@ElizabethMay #Greens4Canada #votegreen

The time is now. Let’s get this done. RT and talk to your friends about voting Green. Canada is worth it. #Greens4Canada #elxn42#votegreen

Big ideas have to come from big ambition. Vote for the future you want. Vote to end poverty in Canada. Vote Green. #elxn42 #votegreen

Bold vision comes from putting Canada before party. Vote for Canada. Vote Green. #Greens4Canada #elxn42 #votegreen

You don't have to compromise your values. Vote for what you want. #gpc #cdnpoli #Greens4Canada #elxn42 #votegreen

When voter turn-out is high, Greens do well! Go Canada! #VoteGreen #elxn42 #Greens4Canada @CanadianGreens @ElizabethMay

Canada can't wait. The climate can't wait. RT and talk to your friends about voting Green.@JoAnnRobertsYYJ #cop21 #elxn42 #VoteGreen

It's incredible what @ElizabethMay has done in just 4 years. Think of what more Greens could do in Parliament http://t.co/dLVG6pQj4L #Greens4Canada #elxn42

Are these issues important to you? Congratulations you're a @CanadianGreens supporter too! http://t.co/04ipxAkKzx #cdnpolihttp://t.co/OlxOjAw1du

Thank you!

Re-Elect Elizabeth May Team 

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Only You Can Re-Elect Elizabeth May

This weekend, when most of us are gathering with friends and family to enjoy Thanksgiving, the Advance Polls open from noon to 8 pm every day, Friday to Monday, October 9, 10, 11, and 12.  

We all know how important it is to re-elect Elizabeth May with a strong mandate to continue her remarkable work representing us and the best of Canada. She needs our votes! 

Saanich-Gulf Islands had an amazing voter turnout in 2011. Let's break that record and show Elizabeth how much we appreciate her hard work for us, for democracy and for our little blue planet.

Please plan to take time during this weekend to do your part to help Elizabeth and our country by voting. Bring family and friends. Bring someone who didn't vote last time: bring a first time voter. We don't want another bad government elected by good people who didn't vote... So much is possible with good government and so much is at risk! 

Please vote at one of the Advance Polls if you haven't voted yet, and, especially if you are volunteering for Election Day. Avoid the rush on E-Day. Be certain you have the correct identification. Poll locations are on your Voter's Card and at Elections Canada.

Make a plan to vote.  If you don't have a drivers license or other current government photo ID with your address, check Elections Canada for information on other identification that can be used.  You can phone Elections Canada at 1-866-546-7620, and of course phone us if you need a ride 778-351-3335.

If You Have Voted: Thank you for supporting Canadian democracy.

Please click the 'I Voted !' button here to let us know that you did. Help build the momentum for Elizabeth. Once you have clicked the button, you can enter our contest for A Lunch with Elizabeth May. 

Support Our Local Food Banks:
Please bring donations of non-perishable food or cheques for the Thanksgiving food drives by the Sidney Lions Food Bank and the Mustard Seed Church to the Sidney or Saanich Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign Offices.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign Offices:

Sidney Office, 2355 James White Blvd
Open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm;
Saturday and Sunday 12 pm to 4 pm 
778-351-3335 

Saanich Office, 3550 Saanich Rd, Unit 106 (Munro Centre behind Save-On Foods)
Open Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm
Sunday 10 am to 4 pm
778-817-1010

Salt Spring Office, 374 Lower Ganges Road, Unit #364, Salt Spring Island
Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm
250-931-4733

Note: Open times for the offices change, please email us at [email protected] to check the current times. 

Please this with anyone who might like to read the newsletters. All past newsletters are also available on our website here.

In this edition:

• Ways to Volunteer for the Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign
• Diversity, Dissent and Debate
• Thank You for Supporting Canadian Democracy!
• Upcoming Events 

Ways to Volunteer for the Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign

With only three weeks left until the election, volunteers are urgently needed for foot canvassing, phone canvassing, Green traffic waves, to help at events, and to support our media campaigns. Please sign up here to volunteer.  If you would like to join our volunteer Green Media Team, please contact [email protected] 

Plus many more volunteers are needed for the Green Party Rally in Victoria on October 4th (more details in Events).

Hundreds of volunteers are needed for the Advance Polls and Election Day - to scrutineer during voting, scrutineer the vote count, and help with data entry, and phone calling. Please sign up here to volunteer.

If you requested a lawn sign, thank you for asking. If we have not delivered it yet, please sign up again on request a lawn sign here or call our office at 778-351-3335. Thank you for your patience! 

We have more lawn signs available. Please request a lawn sign here or come into one of the campaign offices to pick one up. 

Thank you for reporting missing, damaged or obscured lawn or billboard signs. We respect all parties and candidates. 

Diversity, Dissent and Debate  

The way Canadians embrace and celebrate our many different cultures and perspectives is a point of pride; however, our parliament does not reflect this. Women as a group and First Nations, Metis and Inuit are underrepresented.  Women's issues and First Nation interests have been rarely mentioned in any of the 2015 leaders' debates. 

Diversity, free speech, the right to hold dissenting opinions and to discuss different perspectives are key to a thriving democracy. We face a serious challenge to these rights and freedoms because hyper partisan politics have been allowed to dictate the number, type, venue and participants for all candidate meetings. The Green Party has had to take action seeking inclusion of Elizabeth May in the next leaders' debate on September 28 because Mr. Harper and Mr. Mulcair continue to undermine her participation in this election. The English language consortium debate is very likely to be cancelled.

Elizabeth's thoughtful comments in Le Grand Debat hosted by Radio-Canada this week were in stark contrast to the party lines repeated by the other candidates. These inadequately moderated shouting matches may well be a new form of voter suppression. Saanich Gulf Island constituents are fortunate to be able to re-elect a true leader that calmly and eloquently speaks to the issues that matter to Canadians. Plus, she does it all with grace and humour.

All Canadians deserve to hear from all of the party leaders and from the MP candidates in our ridings so we can make informed choices. We vote for MPs, not party leaders, unless of course you live in Elizabeth May's riding in Saanich Gulf Islands, Mr. Harper's in Calgary Heritage, Mr. Mulcair's in Outremont, or Mr. Trudeau's riding of Papineau. Every leaders' debate and every all candidates' meeting matters. The freedom of the public and the media to ask challenging questions are important for a strong Canadian democracy. 

Show your support for Elizabeth by joining us at the next all candidates debate. For the current meeting schedule look here. Please share your opinions online, by letters to the editor and on social media. 

Thank You For Supporting Canadian Democracy

Elizabeth May has been lauded for her authenticity, her candour, and persistence in speaking out. A recent editorial, commented on the importance of Elizabeth's efforts to encourage parliamentarians:

"to collaborate, to recognize each other's good ideas, to stand up to an overly powerful prime minister's office, are of the utmost importance, not only in terms of democracy but in delivering good, practical, responsive government. Indeed, fighting for the right to be a good MP may be Elizabeth May's best bet for electing more Green ones." 

We need more MPs that can represent their communities without fear of reprisal from their party. All Green Party candidates are determined to counter the destructive partisanship that has crept into our parliament. Elizabeth May is leading by example; she will participate in 15 all candidate meetings in Saanich Gulf Islands. Watch the video of the first local all candidates' meeting (Elizabeth's opening remarks start at 19:26).  

Across Canada, Green candidates are giving voters the opportunity to vote for a candidate and for a positive, forward-thinking vision for Canada. The Green Party 2015 platform is available here for everyone to read and discuss. 

Please support Elizabeth's campaign with a donation. Consider volunteering for Elizabeth's campaign or for your local Green candidate. 

A vote for a Green MP is a vote for an individual that puts the needs of their constituents and Canada first. A Green voice is your voice.

To ensure you continue receiving the Saanich-Gulf Island Newsletters, please add us [email protected] to your address book. 

Please feel free to forward this email to anyone who might like to read the newsletters. Our newsletters are also available on our website here.

In this edition:

• Elizabeth May in Leaders' Debate Virtually, via Twitter
• Green Party Continues to Roll Out Their Election Platform - Youth and Education
• Supporting Canadian Democracy
• Upcoming Events

Elizabeth May in Leaders' Debate Virtually, via Twitter

Despite many petitions, letters to the editor, and multiple polls that demonstrate that a majority of Canadians want to hear Elizabeth's perspectives, the Globe and Mail refused to invite Elizabeth May to the debate Thursday in Calgary. 

Recognizing that Elizabeth has much to contribute to a debate on the economy, Twitter Canada helped Elizabeth attend virtually. Elizabeth pointed out that live tweeting her responses is “the best we can do, but it’s far from being a fair debate.” 

Elizabeth live tweeted her answers and, in brief Twitter video snapshots, she posted responses and commentary on what wasn't being said. For example, her fact check on Stephen Harper's comment that Canada is investing heavily in green technology was clear - it's simply not true. Her closing remarks were a succinct description of the many important economic challenges that were missed in the debate such as pay inequality for women and the poverty of many First Nations. 

See the Green platform on a sustainable economy here.

There was a full house at the viewing party in Victoria, watching the debate in Calgary on one screen and Elizabeth's responses on another. Many more people watched via a live Twitter video feed - with over 1.7 million Twitter impressions and 14,000 retweets of her comments. 

A sample  of the deluge of commentary online, "So the good old boys club strikes again, they have actually shot themselves in the foot by not including the only woman candidate running because it appears they do not want the women's vote,....big mistake, huge....". 

Media outlets were astonished with her contribution and commented that she "dominated the debate".

This successful social media work-around shows how people power can stop Stephen Harper from rigging the game. He continues to try to control all messages - the audience, social media, the questions at his own campaign events, and even telling Conservative candidates to avoid all candidates meetings. This will not stop Canadians from getting the information they seek for an informed vote in 2015. 

Elizabeth stated, “Canadians rejected Stephen Harper’s bogus corporate debate strategy. Debates are about Canadians. It’s not about me, the Green Party, or Harper’s strategy. Canadians deserve the opportunity to hear from all party leaders. It is critical that the English National Television Broadcasters’ Debate on October 8 goes forward as planned." 

Many Canadians are urging Thomas Mulcair to re-commit to attending the National Broadcasters' English debate, so the majority of Canadians can watch their leaders’ discuss issues that affect them. It is an important part of the election process in a democracy.  

Please participate as you can to discuss the issues that matter most to you by phone, commenting online, signing petitions and on social media. Without the Twitter debate success, the media would have only discussed the three leaders and not Elizabeth or the Green Party. 

If you would like to join our volunteer Green Media Team, please contact [email protected] 

Green Party Continues to Roll Out Their Election Platform - Youth and Education 

The Green Party of Canada was the first federal party to release a full election platform with the goal of Building a Canada That Works. Together. The ideas are bold, visionary and fully costed. 

The Green Party's approach to fostering the success of Canadian youth is to invest in young people. We can build the Canada we want by:

Abolishing tuition fees for college, university and skills training over the next five years. Expansion of public education system to include post-secondary education increases prosperity, equality, productivity, and economic competitiveness.The proposed Guaranteed Livable Income will also give students the financial security needed to pursue an education. 

Dealing with student debt. Total student debt owed to federal and provincial governments is $15 billion. The average indebted student owes more than $25,000. This burden has multiple negative effects on the Canadian economy. For example, it limits the ability of upcoming generations to buy homes or start businesses. Another solution posed by the Green Party is to forgive existing federal student debts so no student owes more than $10,000.

Addressing youth unemployment. Youth unemployment is twice the national average. The Green Party vision is to create a national Community and Environment Service Corps. This will provide $1 billion/year to municipalities to hire Canadian youth to do work that needs to be done. This improves communities and provides valuable work experience.

Investing in sustainable jobs. We need innovative jobs to replace those that are disappearing in the resource extraction. The Green Party wants to help Canada move to a 21st century knowledge-based economy that adds value to our resources before they are exported. Elizabeth says, “Canada has the potential to capitalize on the single-biggest business opportunity in human history — the shift to a green economy through cleantech and green infrastructure investments”.

Canada's success depends on an educated, employed population. The problems with student debt, high levels of youth unemployment and underemployment affect all Canadians. We can do better. Join us by supporting the progressive, visionary ideas of the Green Party. Volunteer for Elizabeth's campaign or your local Green candidate. 

Supporting Canadian Democracy - Check That You Are Registered to Vote

Please share our newsletter with your friends and colleagues and remember to vote, the most important act every Canadian of voting age can do to support democracy. Voting has been made more difficult, so we urge you to please check the Elections Canada website here to ensure that you are registered to vote.  Please consider pledging your vote to Elizabeth.

Examples of the added challenges voters may face: 
*  After living in the same location for over 40 years and voting in every federal election, a resident of Salt Spring Island was shocked to discover that she was no longer on the voters list. 
*  Couples in Saanich Gulf-Islands have been surprised to discover one spouse, was registered but their partner was not. 

You can vote now at an Elections Canada office near you. In Saanich-Gulf Islands, the office is at 1851 Keating Cross Road, Suite 102, Saanichton, BC. See a map here.

The Federal Election Advance Polls are October 9, 10, 11, 12, from noon to 8 pm. Please contact one of the SGI offices, or email us for more information.

Hundreds of volunteers are needed for the Advanced Polls and Election Day - to scrutineer during voting, scrutineer the vote count, and help with data entry, and phone calling.  Please sign up here.

Upcoming Events

The list of all candidate events is becoming really long, so please click here for current information on local meetings. 

The next all candidates meeting is: All Candidates Meeting: Pender Island, Saturday 26th September, 1 to 3 pm, Pender Island

When: Saturday 26th September, 1-3 pm
Where: Pender Island School Gymnasium, 5714 Canal Rd, Pender Island

Salt Spring Fall Fair, Saturday 19th to Sunday 20th September, Ganges
Elizabeth will join the crowds at the annual Fall Fair on Sunday 20th September.
When: Saturday and Sunday September 19th to 20th
Where: Farmer's Institute - 351 Rainbow Road, Ganges, Salt Spring

Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign Office Locations and Hours:

Sidney Office, 2355 James White Blvd
Open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm; Saturday 12 pm to 4 pm
778-351-3335

Saanich Office, 3550 Saanich Rd, Unit 106
Open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm
778-817-1010

Salt Spring Office, 374 Lower Ganges Road, Unit #364, Salt Spring Island
Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm
250-931-4733

Note: Open times for the offices keep increasing, call the office number to check the current times

In this edition:

• Supporting Seniors in Canada - A National Strategy
• Women's Issues Matter
• Greens at Work - Defending our Home
• Thank You Campaign Supporters!
• Green Party Launches TV Ad Campaign
• Paid Opportunities to Work with Elections Canada
• Upcoming Events

Supporting Seniors in Canada - A National Strategy

Carolyn, a retiree, is concerned about the financial insecurity that her many fellow seniors face. She feels not enough is being done to ensure seniors can stay in their homes and communities and not be forced to move into long term care before they wish to do so.  

This is why Carolyn strongly supports the Green Party’s comprehensive National Seniors’ Strategy announced by Elizabeth May in Fredricton, NB this week. The plan includes improvements to national pension plans, development of a seniors’ housing strategy, and approaches that ensure compassionate, respectful end of life care.

As Carolyn says, “having a national plan will ensure that home support could be providing that added dimension of care, enabling people to stay in their homes and communities”. 

Groups including the Canadian Medical Association and the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) welcome such a strategy. 

Elizabeth May, and all other Green Party candidates, will champion a national approach to support seniors. Please help the progressive, principled voices of the Green Party. Donate to Elizabeth's campaign or support your local Green candidate.

Women's Issues Matter 

In what some are calling a snub to women in particular and to democracy in general, Thomas Mulcair reneged on his commitment to participate in the leaders' forum on women's issues. This is raising the ire of many who claim the NDP is all but ignoring women’s issues during this election while claiming to be the party that champions women. 

Up For Debate, an alliance of 175 organizations, will now use another format with each leader (except for Stephen Harper who has yet to commit). Each leader will answer questions in one-one interviews to will be aired in September. And yet, without a full leaders’ debate, women’s issues are not receiving the long overdue attention they need in this election

Elizabeth May Excluded from Debates

The cancellation of the live, televised debate on women’s issues has another serious consequence: there will now be no other national leaders’ debate in English that includes Elizabeth May. The two private debates hosted by Munk Debates and Globe and Mail do not include Elizabeth, who proved the value she adds during the Maclean's debate bringing attention to climate change and the increased bitumen tanker traffic on the Pacific Coast. 

If you haven't already, please sign our petition asking for Elizabeth's participation in future leaders' debates and email the Globe and Mail and Munk Debates to let them know that Canadians want to hear from Elizabeth. 

The national broadcasters consortium invited Elizabeth to both English and French debates. Shockingly, Stephen Harper refused these debates in favour of private corporate debates. He relented for the French debate, but the national English debate may be cancelled. This is in large part due to Mr. Mulcair’s position that he will not debate without Mr. Harper. In the interest of democracy and more clarity on the options before Canadians, Mr. Mulcair should be encouraged to debate, with or without the Conservative leader.

Greens At Work - Defending Our Home

Brenda Sayer, the Green Party candidate for North Island Powell River, exemplifies women’s leadership. On behalf of the Hupacasath First Nation and all people of Canada, Brenda led the only court challenge to the ratification of the Canada-China Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA) – a dangerous treaty that puts Canadian democracy, resource rights, Aboriginal treaty rights, and environmental protection at risk for the next 31 years. 

As a Green Party candidate, Brenda now vows to "continue fighting for your rights, and the rights of future generations to freedom, clean air and water, and verdant soil." 

In a recent town hall in Powell River, award-winning scientist and prominent environmental advocate David Suzuki praised Brenda's efforts, calling her a hero for her incredible contribution to increasing Canadian awareness of the significant, negative consequences FIPA will have on environmental protection in Canada.

The Green Party was the first to raise the alarm about the dangers of Stephen Harper’s unprecedented move to ratify FIPA without any public consultation or debate. It is a “sellout to China” that significantly undermines Canadian sovereignty and will “never benefit Canadians” 

More on investor state treaties is available here.

Please support the Party truly and consistently committed to protecting our land into the future. Help Elizabeth by supporting Brenda's campaign. 

Thank You Campaign Supporters! 

In Saanich-Gulf Islands, over 1,400 lawn signs were distributed over the first few weeks of the campaign. More signs have just arrived and our volunteer delivery team is working hard to deliver them. For those still waiting for signs, thank you for your patience! 

As the election progresses, the number of polls, call-in talk shows and social media efforts are growing. Please participate in:

* The Dogwood Initiative's Pledge to Vote,
* Online polls for each riding in BC, and
* Their next phone poll on September 7th.

If you are not already on our volunteer list and would like to help with social media, letters to the editor or to write pieces for this newsletter or the website, please contact us. We meet every Monday night at 7 pm at the Sidney office.

Green Party of Canada Launches TV Ad Campaign 

The Green Party of Canada has just launched its first television ad campaign. 

A big thank you to all the donors that made this possible!  

Claire Martin is the star of the first tv ad. You can see a sneak preview here on Youtube.

Paid Opportunities to work with Elections Canada

We provide recommendations to Elections Canada for Registration Officers, for Election Day (October 19),and for the four-day period of the Advance Polls (October 8, 9, 10, 11). We need 200 Deputy Returning Officers for election day, 20 people on the registrations, and 20 Deputy Returning Officers for the advance polls.

We encourage GPC members and supporters to apply for these positions. We are committed to a fair vote and a high voter engagement. We will be pleased to recommend anyone who is committed to carrying out these important duties in a non-partisan manner, in accordance with Election Canada’s regulations. If you are a Canadian Citizen, and live and are eligible to vote in Saanich-Gulf Islands, please contact the SGI office, or email us for more information.

Upcoming Events

2015 Saanich Fall Fair, Saturday 5th September, Saanichton, BC
See Elizabeth and other Green candidates at the Green Party corner in the Marketplace at the Fair! Eiizabeth will be there all day Saturday.
When: September 5th, 9am-5pm
Where: Saanich Fair Grounds, Saanichton

Salt Spring 11th Annual Pride Parade, Saturday 12th September, 1 pm, Ganges
Walk with Elizabeth May in the always amazing Pride Parade through Ganges. For details, look here.
When: September 12th, 1 pm
Where: Meet at 12:15pm at Mahon Hall, 114 Rainbow Road (just north of town centre), Ganges

Volunteer Appreciation Tea with Elizabeth, Sunday 13th September, 1 pm, Saanich
Please join Elizabeth for a special event to thank volunteers for all their efforts. Please RSVP and consider bringing a volunteer-to be and treats for tea.
When: September 13, 1-3 pm
Where: Sayward area in Saanich, please RSVP for details

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce All Candidates Meeting, Monday 14th September, 7 pm, North Saanich
The Peninsula Chamber and Peninsula News Review will host an all candidates forum.
When: September 14, 7 pm
Where: Parkland Secondary School, 10640 McDOnald Park Rd., North Saanich

Salt Spring Fall Fair, Saturday 19th to 20th September, Ganges
Elizabeth will join the crowds at the annual Fall Fair.
When: September 19 -20 September
Where: Farmer's Institute - 351 Rainbow Road, Ganges, Salt Spring

All Candidates Meeting: Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP), Tuesday 29th September, 2 to 4 pm, Sidney
CARP will host an all candidates forum. 
When: Tuesday 29th September, 2-4 pm
Where: Shoal Centre, 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney

2015 All Candidates Meeting Tuesday 29th September, 7 to 10 pm, Victoria
This all candidates forum will be hosted by three community associations in the riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands
When: Tuesday 29th September, 7-10 pm
Where: Lochside Elementary School, 1145 Royal Oak Drive, Victoria

Virtual All Candidates Forum: Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Wednesday 30th September, noon to 1 pm, online
Moderated by the Chamber’s CEO, Bruce Carter, the virtual forums are free-of-charge, and can be viewed on any web-enabled platform of your choice.
When: online
Where: September 30, noon to 1 pm

All Candidates Forum on CFAX Radio, Thursday 1st October, 10 am, CFAX
CFAX Radio 1070 will host an all candidates debate. 
When: Thursday 1 October, 10 am
Where: Listen to CFAX Radio 1070 or listen online

BCSEA All-Candidates Meeting, Friday 2nd October, Sidney, 6:30-9:00 pm
BC Sustainable Energy Association (BCSEA) will host five federal candidates' meetings dedicated exclusively to climate change and sustainable energy. Sooke (Sept. 16), Victoria (Sept. 21), Langford (Sept. 24), Esquimalt (Sept. 29) and Sidney (Oct. 2). The Sidney meeting will be moderated by Maggie Ziegler. Find more information here.
When: Friday 2nd October, 6:30 - 9:00 pm 
Where: St. Paul’s United Church, 2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney

All Candidates Meeting: Salt Spring Forum, Monday 5th October, 2  to 5 pm, Salt Spring
The Salt Spring Forum will host an all-candidates meeting. Please contact the Forum for more information. 
When: Monday 5th October, Doors open at 2 pm. Debate from 2:30- 5 pm
Where: Gulf Islands Secondary School, Salt Spring Island

All Candidates Meeting: Mayne Island Community Chamber of Commerce All Candidates, Tuesday 6th October, 1 pm, Mayne Island
The Mayne Island Community Chamber of Commerce will host an all candidates meeting 
When: October 6th, 1 pm
Where: Mayne Island Community Chamber of Commerce

All Candidates Meeting: University of Victoria Student Society, Wednesday 7th October, 3 pm, University of Victoria
The UVic Student Society will host an all candidates debate. 
When: Wednesday 7th October, 3 pm
Where: Location to be announced


2015 Federal Election Advance Polls, October 9, 10, 11, 12, from noon to 8 pm
It is so important to vote in this election. Please ensure that you are registered to vote and have the necessary ID. 
Please contact one of the SGI offices, or email us for more information.


Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign Office Locations and Hours:

Sidney Office, 2355 James White Blvd
Open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm; Saturday 12 pm to 4 pm
778-351-3335

Saanich Office, 3550 Saanich Rd, Unit 106
Open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm
778-817-1010

Salt Spring Office, 374 Lower Ganges Road, Unit #364, Salt Spring Island
Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm
250-931-4733

Note: Open times for the offices keep increasing, call the office number to check the current times

In this edition:

• Pipelines and Tankers 
• Vote for Your Future
• Greens at Work - A Long Term Vision
• You Can Help Keep Our Election Fair
• Upcoming Events

Pipelines and Tankers 

The Green Party announced their comprehensive pipelines and energy security policy this week in Victoria. The Greens are the only party to oppose new bitumen pipelines and increased tanker traffic on our coast. 

Greens believe that the environmental, social and economic impact of increasing the number of crude oil tankers on the coast simply outweighs any of the economic benefits.

As Elizabeth May pointed out, "one accident could cripple the entire billion-dollar fisheries and tourism industry upon which our coastal communities depend. It is time to think like a country again and develop a national approach to a diversified energy strategy."

Many share this perspective. The Conservatives and Liberals support pipeline development, but Mulcair has not taken a position against tankers or Kinder Morgan. He wants a thorough review process before accepting Kinder Morgan, but that does not exhibit an understanding that the project is flawed from the bottom up. 

Plans for a new floating LNG processing facility were announced yesterday for the Bamberton site in Saanich Inlet, in spite of evidence that more LNG plants don't make economic sense, let alone environmental sense. 

We need leaders in Canada who will halt the expansion of the tar sands and end the massive subsidies to this primarily American-owned sector. We need leaders who will protect our coasts. Elizabeth May, and all other Green Party candidates will defend our coast by stopping more pipeline development and supertanker traffic. Please help the progressive, principled voices of the Green Party. Donate to Elizabeth's campaign or support your local Green candidate.

Vote for Your Future

Negative, fear-mongering attacks by the three main parties continue. However voters are starting to push back and plan to vote with the future in mind. To rid Canada of one 'elected dictatorship' only to replace it with another is an opportunity lost.

You may have heard comments that voting Green will help re-elect a Harper government. In fact, voting Green is the best way to prevent this because Greens will work with Liberals and the NDP to make sure Stephen Harper never holds power in Canada again. Only Greens can bring these parties, who have no history of cooperating, together to stop Harper. 

Elizabeth defeated a Conservative MP in Saanich Gulf-Islands, a riding that had previously elected Conservatives for 14 years. 

Elizabeth says, "If it were true that Greens running were a plus for the Conservatives, Stephen Harper would be plugging me to be in every single debate and we know he’s doing the opposite.”

Show your support for Elizabeth May by reserving a lawn sign.

Greens At Work - A Long Term Vision

Whistler is not experiencing the same level of water restrictions as the rest of the province in this dry, hot, fire-filled summer. Why? The former mayor of Whistler, Ken Melamed, planned for the future of the Whistler water supply. Ken says, 

"It is true. We invested significant funds to ensure safety, redundancy and storage capacity in our water supply... we took a lesson when Tofino ran out of water in 2006. Additional water reservoirs were built, groundwater wells drilled and all water systems were linked throughout the municipality.

Water conservation programs were added and encouraged, especially in the hotel sector, as part of our Integrated Sustainable Community Plan."

Ken is now the Green Party candidate for the West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, and the Green Party of Canada Financial Critic.

The Green choice is a strong voice for the future of baby Sam, seen here enjoying a water-conserving bath in the sink, and his sister Isabel (in the mirror). Please support the Party focused on preserving our resources into the future. Help Elizabeth by supporting your local Green candidate.

You Can Help Keep Our Election Fair and Non-Partisan - SGI Greens Recruiting for Paid Work with Elections Canada!

Elections Canada recruits Deputy Returning Officers from a list provided by the party which placed first in each riding in the previous election. In Saanich-Gulf Islands, that is the Green Party. We are also asked to provide recommendations for Registration Officers and Revising Agent positions.  Positions are available for Election Day (October 19), or for the four-day period of the Advance Polls (October 8, 9, 10, 11).  Revising Agents work for approximately 33 days prior to the election, updating the voter list, beginning around September 17.

We encourage GPC members and supporters to apply for these positions. We are committed to a fair vote and a high voter engagement. We will be pleased to recommend anyone who is committed to carrying out these important duties in a non-partisan manner, in accordance with Election Canada’s regulations.

If you are a Canadian Citizen, and live and are eligible to vote in Saanich-Gulf Islands, please contact the SGI office, or email us for more information.
 

Upcoming Events

Elizabeth May is Featured Guest on Shaw TV show - CVV TV, Monday 24 August, Victoria, 8 pm

Salt Spring Pride Festival, Saturday 12 to Sunday 13 September, Ganges
Many great Pride events and an amazing Pride Parade through Ganges. For details look here.

When: Saturday 12  to Sunday 13 September
Where: Ganges, BC


2015 Saanich Fall Fair, Saturday 5th to 7th September, Saanichton, BC
Please visit Elizabeth and other candidates at the Green Party corner in the Marketplace at the Fair!

When: September 5-7, 2015
Where: Saanich Fair Grounds, Saanichton


BCSEA All-Candidates Debate, Friday 2nd October, Sidney, 6:30-9:00 pm
BC Sustainable Energy Association (BCSEA) will host five federal candidates' debates dedicated exclusively to climate change and sustainable energy. Sooke (Sept. 16), Victoria (Sept. 21), Langford (Sept. 24), Esquimalt (Sept. 29) and Sidney (Oct. 2). 
The Sidney debate will be moderated by Maggie Ziegler. Find more information here.

When: Friday 2nd October, 6:30 - 9:00 pm 
Where: St. Paul’s United Church, 2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney

Re-Elect Elizabeth May Campaign Office Locations and Hours:
Sidney Office, 2355 James White Blvd
Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm
778-351-3335

Saanich Office, 3550 Saanich Rd, Unit 106
Open Tuesday to Friday, 2 to 6 pm 
778-817-1010

Salt Spring Office, 374 Lower Ganges Road, Unit #364, Salt Spring Island
Open 10 am to 7 pm Monday to Saturday
250-931-4733

In this issue...

• Elizabeth May is Needed in All of the 2015 Leaders' Debates
• Elizabeth Receives Standing Ovation from First Nations Leaders
• Where There is Smoke, There is Climate Change
• And What About Our Health?
• Celebrating Pride
• Upcoming Events

Elizabeth May is Needed in All of the 2015 Leaders' Debates

More than 80% of Canadians want to hear Elizabeth May in the 2015 election leadership debates. Yet Justin Trudeau is the only party leader so far who agrees Elizabeth should be in all of the debates. Thomas Mulcair remains mute and Harper continues to evade any discussion of it. 

Harper has refused to participate in the traditional debate hosted by the media consortium (CBC News, ICI Radio-Canada Télé, CTV News and Global News). This is the debate likely to have the greatest reach across Canada, including remote communities across the country, because live-streaming and social media broadcasts are also included. In 2011, 14 million Canadians watched. 

Instead, Harper is negotiating directly with other potential debate hosts. This means he can define the format and dictate who participates. The debates to be hosted by Munk Debates and the Globe and Mail are deliberately excluding Elizabeth May.

The first and, so far, the only debate with all four party leaders will be hosted by Maclean's/Rogers on August 6th (details below). 

Canadians deserve to hear Elizabeth's voice in all the leaders' debates. Canadians, the business community, and other MPs recognize her strengths. 

So, the big question is why exclude the 2012 Parliamentarian of the Year, the 2013 Hardest Working MP and the 2014 Best Orator? The Green Party has two MPs in the House, will be running candidates in all ridings across Canada, has more than 5% of popular support, and the majority of Canadians want to hear Elizabeth May in the leaders' debates. 

Central Saanich resident Scott suggests, "Harper's afraid of debating such a skilled speaker with her knowledge and experience. And Mulcair thinks he won't shine as brightly if she is there. It's just cynical cowardice."

Help get the message to the Harper Conservatives and to the NDP: Sign our petition to include Elizabeth in all of the leaders' debates in the 2015 election. Is it more 'who's afraid of Elizabeth May' because she will outshine the others? Have the NDP made an agreement with the Harper Conservatives? 

Elizabeth Receives Standing Ovation from First Nations Leaders

On July 8^th, Elizabeth's spoke at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Annual General Assembly in Montreal. The Assembly themes were energy development, climate change and human rights. 

Elizabeth's talk highlighted the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, what needs to happen now, and how we need to learn from FN peoples to have stronger respect for people and our environment. 

The Green vision for reconciliation begins with the formal recognition of the cultural genocide from the residential school system and its ongoing consequences. The second step is the creation of a new system for decision-making in partnership. Elizabeth described this as a better version of the council of the first ministers. The new council would have representation from federal, First Nations, provincial, territorial and municipal governments. Its mandate would be to work together, in respect, to collectively address the pressing challenges facing us all.  

See Elizabeth's compelling presentation at the First Nations Assembly here. 

Help to make her vision of reconciliation a reality, please pledge your vote.  For more information on the Green Party platform, see Vision Green. 

A 'Stunning Disrespect for our Democracy'

Before winning a majority government in 2011, Harper's contempt for democracy was clear (see resources below), including prorogation of parliament, suppression of research, and attack ads adopted as political standard.  

Since 2011, the assault on democracy by this administration has accelerated. The budget omnibus bills alone, pushed through with little debate, provide ample proof of the decline of democracy in Canada. We even have legislation designed to discourage dissent and make Canadians less likely to vote. 

One example: A Salt Spring Island resident, who spoke briefly at Elizabeth May's Birthday Party June 6th in Fulford Hall, expressed the problem with a few riveting words. He could only give his first name because he is eligible for citizenship in another country, which means under newly passed Bill C-24, his Canadian passport could be taken away. He cannot exercise his right to free speech, to speak against the current administration because of this threat. Is this really Canada?

Party of One author Michael Harris reiterates in a recent interview how serious the threat to our democracy has become - having attained absolute power, Harper has abused it absolutely. It is urgent to change course now. Ottawa must be more than a democracy theme park.

Canadian democracy needs you more than ever. Pledge your vote to a leader that does represent us, Elizabeth. Support your local Green Party candidate.

Voting is a Right and a Responsibility

The only way to restore real democracy is for Canadians to vote for a party that respects democracy. Canadians have fought and died to protect the right to vote. Worldwide, not everyone has it and few take it for granted. The 2015 election is an opportunity for Canadians to defend our democracy by turning out in record numbers. 

“The only wasted vote is the one not cast.”  (Elizabeth May)

Why did 40% of Canadians not vote in 2011? Researchers say non-voters are disillusioned and cynical about politics. Non-voters believe it's irrelevant or no one worth voting for is running. 

Only 39% of young Canadians eligible to vote do so. If they don't start, they are less likely to vote, ever.  Young Canadians could have prevented Harper's majority and put issues such as student loan debt and youth unemployment on the national agenda. More youth and more First Nation voters will have significant impact in 2015.

Some non-voters consider not voting an act of resistance. This shows a misunderstanding of how our country works. The performance of our MPs has a major impact on our social, economic, and environmental conditions. We are touched every day by their decisions. Federal laws, policies, and programs affect us in our homes and on the world stage: How much tax do I pay? How is that money used? How many and what kind of jobs are being created? How accessible is quality health care? How much tax do businesses, small and large, pay? Is the environment being protected? How much scientific research is being done? Is innovation encouraged? Where, when, and why does Canada go to war?

Together we can fix our government - Pledge your vote.  

When asked 'why vote?', young Brentwood Bay resident Ali responded, "Because I want to be represented!". But MPs in the three official parties cannot vote to represent their constituents' wishes – they are compelled to follow their leader. That's why noted NDP environmentalists may have to hold their noses and vote for more pipelines. The power of the party leaders of the Conservatives, NDP and Liberals is such that three white men now shape every aspect of our lives.  

Voting just makes sense and voting Green makes even more sense. Greens lead, cooperate and encourage cross-party collaboration. Politics can be done with integrity, transparency, collaboration, and a commitment to act for constituents. 

Elizabeth May has proven what one Green MP can accomplish. It's worth noting that whenever Green candidates run in Canada, whether municipal, provincial or federal, voter turnout increases. 

Potential Green Party candidates must sign a pledge before they are accepted to run in the 2015 election:  

The Green Party is attracting the best minds of our country to run in 2015. Green MPs vote freely and conscientiously to create policies and laws that protect our values and shape a positive future. You can help: 
Donate to Elizabeth's re-election campaign. Volunteer.

There is a lot you can do. 

People who are politically engaged can inform their friends, family, neighbours, and co-workers about the importance of voting. 

Higher voter turnout will affect the success of Canada as a democracy. We can hold politicians accountable. We can vote for people with integrity who will represent us in parliament. 

It is especially important right now to make sure that you and everyone you know is ready to vote. 

In this issue...

• Truth and Reconciliation
• Information Manipulation
• Green Rallies 'Round Our Communities
• EM at Work for Small Business
• Upcoming Events

Truth and Reconciliation

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) report on the ongoing trauma from the residential school system was released last week. The Harper administration’s participation was marked by its virtual silence. 

This sad chapter of Canadian history must be fully heard. The consequences continue to reverberate. We cannot say 'we didn't know'. 

Truth telling begins the process of healing. Reconciliation needs much more. It has never been so important for Canadians to work together for social justice. We can create a diverse Canadian culture of respect, acceptance and understanding, a Canada where all children are valued and treated with compassion.

In Elizabeth's words: "Reconciliation means forging new relationships in the light of this history - extending the respect and equality to First Nations that has been withheld for generations. These recommendations give us the means to work with aboriginal communities to begin to overcome the historical and ongoing injustices of brutal colonialism and cultural genocide. We can, and must, all take action to redress the legacy of residential schools."