Welcome to our wrap-up of A Provincial Affair, which took place this spring, to help citizens be informed and define the critical agenda that our provincial government should prioritize in the next year.
We believe that effective governance is not just about making promises but about embracing a vision that encompasses the aspirations of every citizen, regardless of their background or circumstances. So, we asked our attendees at the end of the evening to answer the following question on a Post-It: “What issue should the provincial government prioritize within the first year of being elected?”
Surprise! There is just not one issue that matters to Edmontonians. We have themed the Post-Its below.
Affordability and Jobs
Sustainable economic growth and ensuring affordability
Inflation (groceries, housing, essentials, gas, electricity, etc.)
People-first approaches and community building
Minimum living wages
A better plan for minimum living wage instead of minimum wage
Improved public housing
Government-controlled rent
Building community and supporting the local economy
Job affordability
Affordable housing
Poverty and economic inequality
Ending tax breaks for oil and gas and returning control of resources according to treaty rights
Interest rates
Job creation and investment in emerging industries
Post-pandemic economy
Homelessness, supporting housing, and harm reduction
Planning for the future, not repeating the past
Free post-secondary education
Healthcare
Status of healthcare
Drugs and addiction policies and resources
Investing in primary prevention
Providing genuine support for mental health in children and adults
Affordable healthcare and increased mental health awareness
Reconciliation and Anti-Oppression
Indigenous people and reconciliation efforts
People-first approach
Community-focused approach to governing
Reconciliation and Indigenous autonomy
Amplifying the voices of citizens
Equity for all
Education on how social programs reduce social costs
Commitment to better integration and support for new immigrants and refugees, particularly facilitating the employment of internationally educated individuals, especially in healthcare
Climate Action
Environmental crisis
Climate change
This blog has shown that we have a very engaged community that has a lot to say about what the provincial government should focus on! Thank you to all of our attendees, speakers, and volunteers who created a safe and dynamic space.
If you missed A Provincial Affair and are looking for other ways to connect with the Edmonton community, we recommend that you get involved with our upcoming mentorship program launching on August 23. The program will focus on women, trans, and gender-diverse volunteer mentors. Check out www.intervivos.ca/mentorship to find out more or send us an email at connect@intervivos.ca.