There is a movement afoot in Alberta and it is slowly gaining strength. The movement is building momentum and the outcome will affect every Albertan – every day. This important event has only happened seven times in Alberta since 1959. It will receive many column inches, tweets and Facebook plugs but the average Albertan will respond with little more than a second glance.
The 2011 Alberta Progressive Conservative leadership race is an event that should have each Albertan paying attention because it’s likely that the Alberta PCs will continue to be the ruling party in Alberta for the foreseeable future.
Paying attention is easy and voting is easier. To vote in this leadership campaign you have to be a Canadian citizen, 16 years old, have been a resident in Alberta for at least six months, a member in good standing of a Progressive Conservative constituency association and vote on Sept. 17 in your home constituency. A PC Alberta membership can be purchased for $5 online, at a local constituency office or at the polls. Participatory democracy for less than the cost of a large latte.
Even if your beliefs philosophically align with one of the other eight political parties in Alberta, the Progressive Conservative leadership election is an opportunity to have your voice heard. As political parties today are sometimes only varying shades of grey with little fundamental difference, supporting the candidate whose policies most closely represent your beliefs increases the odds that those beliefs will be a component of future policy. PC Alberta has a candidates section and good information on the leadership selection process at http://www.albertapc.ab.ca. Every candidate has a myriad of policies and there are many opportunities — in-person and public forums — available to help you get up to speed on the issues.
The true power of the leadership election is not just that every Albertan can get involved, but in the ability for youth to participate. Now is the time for future Alberta voters to have an impact on the direction of government policy. Voters 16 and older can vote for the future premier of the province. What an awesome opportunity to wield the power of youth and social media to rally and ensure their voice is heard. All young Albertans are able to message the candidates and ask tough questions that impact their daily life and their future direction. Why was a favourite teacher laid off as a result of cutbacks? Why is tuition for post-secondary education unaffordable for some?
The ability to be influential as a minor is a formidable opportunity and a great introduction to government decision-making. It is not only about what Alberta is, but what it will be with the right leader for our people and province.
Skip a latte this week and buy a PC Alberta membership. Let your voice be heard.
Tanya Doran is a community member with an affinity for all things green.
