Meeting young learners

St. Johns

One of the best parts of being an MLA is engaging with members of the community, especially students. I have had the pleasure of visiting many schools across the province, and sometimes they come to visit the Manitoba Legislature, and many of the students I meet are St. Johns constituents.

I recently had Grade 6 students from Edmund Partridge School visit my office. We talked about my role and responsibility as the minister of families, gender equity and accessibility. We discussed the importance of an equitable province, where everyone is considered when big decisions are made, especially in a place like the Manitoba legislature. I explained the roles of the other cabinet ministers and how all our jobs keep the province going.

I shared that out of 851 individuals elected to the Manitoba legislature throughout history, only 65 have been women and one gender-diverse person. I explained how important it is for those elected to the legislature to represent and reflect the people in the province; we need those speaking and acting on our behalf to first understand what it is like to be us.

Although I represent St. Johns constituents, I make time to engage with other residents across Manitoba. I recently welcomed some students from Gjoa Haven, Nunavut, who were taking part in a student exchange program with Pembina Trails Collegiate.

One student asked me about the pathway to politics. I explained everyone’s path is different. For me, going to university and getting my education was significant in leading me where I am today. I have also spent almost three decades in the community, with our relatives and front-line organizations advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples and fighting for gender equity.

People often refer to my colleagues and I as politicians. But our main title is public servants. I shared with the students that if they ever find themselves in politics, to always remember — the primary obligation of being in such a position is to serve the public in a good way.

Finally, I had a visit with Grade 8 students from École South Pointe School. The students were on a walking tour, with one of their stops being the Manitoba legislature grounds. I met them outside by the Louis Riel statue located on the south side, by the Assiniboine River, where I shared the major role he played in the creation of our province and as the first premier of Manitoba.

It is the great efforts of those who came before us that enable us to do the good work moving forward.

As always, my office is open to hear your questions, comments, and concerns. If you would like to get in touch, you can call us at 204-582-1550 or email nahanni.fontaine@yourmanitoba.ca.