Manitoba Election 2016

Nahanni Fontaine - St. Johns

1. Why did you decide to run in the 2016 Manitoba election?

I decided to run in this election because, as a single mother, my children’s future must be one which affords them and all Manitobans every opportunity to succeed and contribute to a society which advocates for our most marginalized. We must continue to work to end violence against women and children, and continue to build our investments in schools, hospitals, and family services that we all depend upon. We cannot afford to let Pallister’s Conservatives and Bokhari’s Liberals undo the good work we’ve accomplished together in the Province.

As an Indigenous woman, I am proud that Manitobans continue to lead the country in listening to the perspectives of Indigenous peoples from both urban and northern regions. I wish to further my commitment as an advocate for Indigenous Manitobans, low-and-middle income families and all in the Province as we journey together on the path towards reconciliation, healing, renewal and prosperity.

2. What experience will you bring to complement your role as MLA?

I was raised in St. Johns and Point Douglas, and my family has a long history in Winnipeg’s North End that began in the 1950s. It was in St. Johns that I began my journey towards healing and spiritual growth. Through my work with the families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, I listened to and advocated on behalf of people who needed to be heard. I truly believe that everyone matters. I will listen to the people of St. Johns and ensure their concerns are heard at the Legislature.

3. Is there anything in particular you would like to change in our province? In your electoral division?

The NDP is committed to improving the lives of St. Johns’ working and middle class families, as well as people who are struggling. Our party has a proven track record of delivering highly effective social programs that are sustainable and fiscally responsible. Our commitment to increase the minimum wage by 50 cents per year will put more money in the pockets of thousands of St. Johns residents. We will continue furthering the legacy and work of Gord Mackintosh by making further investments in our Aging in Place Strategy to create safe, affordable housing for St. Johns seniors and elders. I was also pleased to join our leader in announcing the establishment of a 24/7 women’s drop-in support centre in the inner city for vulnerable women and children confronting violence.

4. What key issue(s) / topic(s) would like to stand for in your role as MLA, and why is it important to you?

What I am hearing on the doorstep is that health care and education are very important to St. Johns residents. The NDP shares these priorities and that’s reflected in the investments we’re making. The new Seven Oaks QuickCare clinic on Jefferson (opening this spring) will provide people in St. Johns convenient access to routine health services and treatment for minor ailments. The NDP will continue to invest in the training, education and skills development our young people need to get good jobs and keep Manitoba moving forward. Our Youth Job Strategy will provide more support for paid work and on-the-job training opportunities, create 200 more apprenticeship seats across the Province, and increase funding for universities and colleges.

5. What is one thing in particular that you value about the electoral division that you wish to represent?

St Johns is such a spectacularly diverse community and my experience as an organizer and advocate will help me give them the strong representation they deserve.

6. Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

The NDP remains the only party that has unwaveringly stood up for the rights and wellbeing of all Manitobans. The NDP will continue to safeguard and build sustainable frontline services and supports for improved healthcare, education, women and children’s advocacy, workers’ rights, infrastructure, and economic development. We are also the party that best embodies the values of diversity, inclusion and equality for women, Indigenous peoples, people of colour, LGBTTQ*, peoples with disabilities and our elderly.