Ronna-Rae Leonard, – BCNDP Candidate for Courtenay-Comox

I was proud to serve as part of the first government caucus in BC that was 50% BCNDP women, with 50% of the Ministers being women.  Women need to see other women in leadership positions, who can and will reflect our lived experiences in setting policy to make a more equitable world.

I have been inspired by other women in politics to rise above the undercurrent and overt sexism that runs throughout society, to give voice to the needs of women everywhere; and I am proud to be part of Team Horgan, to seek re-election to continue the work of government to see women’s work truly valued, to recognize the struggles of families, to take care of our elders who don’t have fat pensions and often live in poverty, to move forward to make life better for everyone, not just those at the top.

We have come a long way, but there is so much more to do and I want to continue to bring my experiences of 30 years in leadership roles here in Courtenay-Comox, and reflect the voices of the people of my community in a BCNDP government in Victoria.

After so many failed years of the BC Liberal management of our healthcare system, COVID19 exposed a spot-light on the cracks in Seniors care. COVID19 has also exposed systemic inequalities for women who have suffered the most during this pandemic.

John Horgan’s BCNDP government has worked hard to make life more affordable after 16 years of BC Liberal governments that widened the income gap, kept minimum wage below a living wage, undermined the workforce of those who care for our most vulnerable seniors.

They ignored the needs of British Columbians and cut services, standing on failed trickle-down notions that tax cuts for the wealthy would eventually benefit the rest.

Over the last three years, our BCNDP government delivered balanced budgets and responsible government.

When COVID19 hit, we continued to put people first, providing supports for individuals, small businesses, and communities.

Courtenay-Comox, here on Vancouver Island, has been my home for 30 years. My husband and I raised our two children here.

I have worked with families and seniors at risk in their homes,  worked for BC’s first Ombudsman and in risk management, and been project manager and coordinator for local environmental non-profit organizations.

I have served my community and the Island in many capacities, from advisory  planning commissioner to water improvement district trustee, community organizer for resident associations, 3 term Courtenay Councillor, chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library Board, and Executive member of the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities, before being elected as the MLA for Courtenay-Comox in 2017.

Ronna-Rae Leonard,

BCNDP Candidate for Courtenay-Comox

This article was originally published in Island Woman Magazine.