Manitoba’s next generation of politicians are optimistic for change despite global turmoil.
Members of Youth Parliament of Manitoba, a simulated government that gives youth a taste of politics, say young people need to be politically engaged now more than ever.
“It’s not productive to not be optimistic and to wallow or grieve democracy,” said Edlynne Paez, parliamentary secretary to labour. “Instead, we should be celebrating and pushing for the wins we do get.”
MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS
“It’s not productive to not be optimistic and to wallow or grieve democracy,” said Edlynne Paez, parliamentary secretary to labour.
Youth need more opportunities to get involved in politics and have face time with the government, said Paez, 17.
“We live in a digital age, and it’s so easy to find radicalized opinions and fall into a viewpoint that’s completely biased,” she said, adding that more needs to be done to encourage youngsters to question the things they see online.
Friday marked the second day of the 103rd youth parliament session, with more than 90 members, all under the age of 25.
Mathew Sévigny, minister of government services, said he sees political education shortcomings and misinformation as damaging to democracy.
“The work I do, and the work people here do in this organization is helping to build an informed community of young people that will help keep democracy alive and flourishing,” said Sévigny, 19, who’s been in youth parliament for four years.
He said more politicians are using personal attacks to win voters instead of putting policy forward and that youth are tired of slander and negativity in political strategies.
Deputy speaker Charlize Medina said youth are motivated to make change and get involved with a possible no-confidence vote on the horizon in Ottawa and Donald Trump returning to presidential office in the U.S. next year.
Medina said it’s not always easy.
“Youth feel disappointed in the state of affairs. They feel like there’s no way for them to make change because they’re so young,” said Medina, 22.
She was never interested in politics until a teacher told her about youth parliament. She said the opportunity to see how the government functioned up-close was “mind-blowing” and encourages politicians to address issues important to young people, like climate change.
Youth parliament will debate bills from Dec. 26-31 before members vote on them.
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