I’m a married mother of three and grandmother of two. I grew up in Point Douglas, and co-founded Drag the Red initiative and the Coalition of Families of Missing and Murdered Women in Manitoba in honour of my Sister Claudette Osborne-Tyo, who went missing from Point Douglas in 2008. I am extremely happy and take great pride in serving the amazing people of Point Douglas.
I’m a married mother of three and grandmother of two. I grew up in Point Douglas, and co-founded Drag the Red initiative and the Coalition of Families of Missing and Murdered Women in Manitoba in honour of my Sister Claudette Osborne-Tyo, who went missing from Point Douglas in 2008. I am extremely happy and take great pride in serving the amazing people of Point Douglas.
Age: 45
Profession: Before being elected in 2017 in a byelection, I was an educator in Seven Oaks School division and at Marymound School for over 20 years.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education
About You
What is the biggest issue facing your community, and how would you address it?
In Point Douglas many people are struggling with poverty.
Social housing has been boarded up and safe, affordable housing is becoming more difficult for those who are struggling. Many seniors are on a fixed income and living in poverty; it’s disheartening to see those who have worked so hard for us suffering financially.
Meth use has fuelled violence and crime in Point Douglas, and we’ve seen crime increase while police are overworked and understaffed. More harm reduction supports are needed, while Brian Pallister's cuts and inaction has only made the situation worse.
Many children are still being apprehended due to poverty and this is a practice that needs to change. Families need supports in their homes to keep them together.
Why did you decide to run for office?
I ran to be the MLA for Point Douglas to inspire others who came or found themselves stuck in poverty to aspire to be their best selves. I wanted to be the change we wish to see in the world and I truly believe that we all can make a difference.
Manitoba is marking its 150th anniversary next year. Suggest one way we can make it a memorable occasion.
By building a better health care system that is accessible for all of us, especially in Point Douglas. That means focusing on prevention and listening to front line workers, while re-opening the emergency room at Seven Oaks Hospital.
Tell us something about yourself that voters might find surprising.
I love spending time In the community and it fuels my energy. In my spare time, I enjoy four wheeling, snowmobiling and fishing, and spending time with my children and two grand daughters.
Find out more about Bernadette Smith, New Democratic Party, Point Douglas:
https://www.mbndp.ca/bernadettesmith
www.twitter.com/bsmithmb
https://www.facebook.com/BernadetteSmithMB/
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