After running a successful campaign to increase voter turnout in last year’s municipal election, a group of Dartmouth North residents is launching a similar effort aimed at increasing community awareness and participation in the upcoming provincial election.
A slate of weekly Speak Up. Show Up. events is planned at the Dartmouth North Community Food Centre, including an all-candidates’ meeting, speed-dating style, and culminating in a voting party on election day, Tuesday, May 30.
Monday, May 15, 11AM – 1:30 PM
Doors Open: 10AM
Dartmouth North Community Food Centre, 6 Primrose St.
The provincial edition of Speak Up. Show Up. started on May 9 with a community conversation. Participants watched a short movie on the three levels of government in Canada and then had a conversation about the provincial election and Dartmouth North.
This is the second awareness campaign organized by Noise from the North, a group of Dartmouth North residents who are volunteer peer advocates in the Community Action Program at the Dartmouth North Community Food Centre. The peer advocates connect people with services and resources and organize opportunities to act on issues that matter locally.
The group’s first campaign, held during the 2016 municipal election, attracted hundreds of participants from the neighbourhood. Voter turnout in Dartmouth North more than tripled in 2016 during that election – from 2.7% to 7.45%.
“We were thrilled with the results from our first campaign.” said Tammy Shields, the Community Action Coordinator at the community food centre. “It’s a good start. We want to continue to address some of the barriers that can keep people from voting and create opportunities to talk about why everyone’s voice matters.”
Contact: Tammy Shields, Community Action Coordinator 902-407-4610 ext. 204
*more campaign events listed below
Mon. May 15 @11:00 AM Provincials & Popcorn
Come meet the candidates and learn more about the political process, our provincial government and what you need to know for voting day.
Wed. May 24 @ 10:00 AM Speak Up. Show Up. Signmaking
To encourage voter participation and prepare for our Voting Party on May 30 we’ll make our own election signs.
Tues. May 30@1:00 PM E-Day! Voting Party & Parade
The Parade to the Polling Station will begin at 1:30 pm. Meet us outside the Dartmouth North Community Centre for voting selfies for our Facebook
.
Source: Media Release
