As the polls were starting to close in the East and numbers were pouring in fast, in Lethbridge sat Liberal candidate Mike Pyne watching the TV as his own party took an early lead in the election race.
It was exciting to watch our country form a majority government right before our eyes.
This Federal election was an important one for the First Nations community. Having to deal with discrimination from Canada’s Prime Minister is the trigger that encouraged several First Nations to want change.
It was change in the way our government handles First Nations issues and being acknowledged as indigenous people to this country. The results showed that we are taking a step in the right direction.
As a First Nations journalist, I have the option to report on these kinds of issues and ask our candidates how they will help the Aboriginal population, which happens to be heavy in the Lethbridge riding.
Considering that the Liberals won a majority government, I asked the Liberal candidate Mike Pyne, “What does this mean for the Future of First Nations?” and I got a great response.
As an aboriginal person, his response made me feel confident in our new government. This then lead into a long conversation about Pyne’s past, and how he took Aboriginal Studies in university.
It was a conversation that left me feeling happy.
Remembering that I am a journalist and that I have a duty to fulfill, I joined my classmates at Paradise Canyon where the very happy Conservative candidate Rachael Harder was celebrating her victory.
Reminding her that she has a First Nation population surrounding her also, I asked her the same question. The response I received was quick and broad. It was a response that would remind First Nations why it was so important to vote for change. Politely saying, “Thank you,” I wrapped up our interview.
Unfortunately when I was about to walk away, Harder briefly told me “This was a private event and it was by invite only, although you are welcomed to stay.” This surprised me and left me speechless by her statement, I smiled and walked away.
As a First Nations journalist, I felt discriminated against. I wanted to ask those tough questions and be a voice for my people.
Even though this unfortunate event happened, it is exactly why I chose a career in journalism. As I continue to grow as an individual, I will take this as a learning experience.
Remembering that we formed a Liberal government and the change that First Nations are working for is progress that is slowly being achieved.
It’s sad that southern Alberta has a conservative mindset, but in the words of Mike Pyne, “The liberals are here to stay,” and so is the First Nations community by walking together to continue to fight for the respect we deserve.
