Hi! I decided to run for the Green Party in 2019, because I was deeply concerned about climate change and even more by the lack of attention to this issue by the governing party. I didn’t have any experience in politics other than making donations and sometimes taking a lawn sign during an election. I was complaining about politics one day with my husband, and he asked the fateful question: “Why don’t you just run?” Because I had retired from the military in 2018, I no longer had the easy answer of not being allowed to run due to military regulations. I thought about it for a few days, and then I decided to write Green Party headquarters in Ottawa.

I spoke with someone from the main office who explained what running as a candidate involved, and then I applied to be considered as a candidate hopeful. Several more steps were required including a run-off against another candidate hopeful in our riding, and then I became the Green Party candidate. I was the candidate again in 2021.

So what is it like? Before running, I knew it would be busy, but I know now that I didn’t realize how busy it would be. That said, as the candidate you dictate how much you will be involved, and how much time you can commit. I was able to commit more time and therefore I was busier, but everyone must make their own decision depending on work, education, family, and/or other commitments. I am a shy person and fairly introverted, so I find campaigning to be not easy: I am shy about calling people, about knocking on doors, and sometimes even speaking with people! But what makes it much easier, even for a shy introvert, is the goal in mind: we need to do much more about climate change and other key social issues. This made it easier for me to campaign, as I believe part of my role is to speak honestly about the challenges we face, and to ensure that climate change and other key issues are 1. discussed and 2. discussed honestly.

I encourage anyone to run, at any level of government. It is so important that we are engaged citizens, especially when there is so much at stake these days. Running as a candidate is an experience like no other, and it will give you a different perspective on the political process. If you have any questions or if I may be of service, please contact me.

- Jennifer Purdy, GPC candidate in Kanata-Carleton, 2019 & 2021

Want to know more? Learn about the process or contact us.