CED approaches with a strong commitment to democratic processes create the most relevant, resilient, adaptive, equitable, and effective strategies for communities to benefit and thrive.  Similarly, democracy at a macro level puts power in the hands of people, fostering policies and decision-making that are more relevant to our communities and our lives.

We can – and should – engage in our democracy between elections.  But, election periods provide an opportunity to remind politicians that we are here, we have a voice, and we’re going to use it!

Take Action, Get Involved

• Listen to your local candidates, party leaders, and the election discourse.  Who supports sustainable, inclusive local economies?  Watch for commitments and language that are consistent with CCEDNet’s national policy priorities, such as:
  • Reconciliation, nation-to-nation dialogue with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples
  • Leadership of Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, and other equity-seeking groups; dismantling institutional racism, sexism, and other forms of systemic oppression
  • Just transition towards an ecologically viable, low-carbon future
  • Social economy, social enterprise, social innovation, social finance
  • Social procurement
  • Community investment funds
  • Community-based ownership of local businesses
  • Community-based broadband / high speed Internet
  • Workforce development, particularly for vulnerable and underrepresented groups
  • Decent work

• Ask questions.  When candidates come knocking at your door, or you find yourself at an all-candidates debate, be ready to ask them their views on the things you care about!   For inspiration, here are the questions that CCEDNet has sent to all the parties.

• Read about the parties’ commitments.  We’ve compiled a list of platform commitments that prioritize community economies.  Three parties responded to our survey: NDP response, Liberal response, Bloc Québecois response (only available in French).  If you have a bit more time, check out the full platforms which can be found on each party’s website.

• Vote!  For information on where and how to vote, see Elections Canada’s website.

• Support these relevant campaigns:
  • Basic Income Now
  • Climate Emergency Alliance
  • Eat Think Vote
  • Federal Party Leaders Must Commit to Living Wages & Increased Social Assistance Rates - The Stop
  • One Earth One Vote
  • Up for Debate: The Alliance for Women's Rights and Gender Justice
  • Vote for Every Child
  • Vote for Gender Equity
  • Vote Housing