Early yesterday morning, at Apple Annie’s in Orillia, before a band of Green supporters eager to hear Mike Schreiner address them as he stopped in for coffee and to announce that Simcoe North has it’s candidate in Krystal Brooks. With Orillia Mayor Clarke in attendance, Mike and Krystal had an opportunity to address the crowd, answering questions about the upcoming election and noting how Greens have always “punched above their weight”. Without pretense, Mike spoke frankly about all the things he and his team had managed to accomplish in Queen’s Park for the people of Ontario. He noted that was what just one Green had accomplished, “Imagine we had two” applauding Simcoe North’s choice in Krystal, describing her as an “excellent candidate.”
This will be Krystal’s second time putting her name on the ballot having run for the Federal Greens in last summer’s election. This year, she takes on provincial issues with her own brand of graceful tenacity. Mike is right, we’re lucky to have her. Below are some words Krystal has put together for the occasion:
Aaniin/ Hello,
My name is Krystal Brooks. My Anishnaabemowin name is Biiwaabik Nibi Kwe, which means Still Water Woman. I am 29 years old and from Rama First Nation. As a survivor of the child welfare system and human trafficking, a recovering addict/alcoholic and someone who’s faced mental health challenges associated with intergenerational trauma and homelessness, I believe what I bring to the table is unique. My understanding of the circumstances many Canadians are currently facing, including members of my own community and other Indigenous communities across Turtle Island is unique and can speak to the needs of so many people in this country who do not see themselves or their interests represented by any political party. It is in this capacity that I hope to be of value to the constituents of Simcoe North and Ontario’s parliamentary system. It is my hope that my ability to be reflective and understanding of issues that many may have blind spots to as we try to foster a more diverse and pluralistic parliament in the future would be an asset to Queens Park in my efforts to represent the voices of all Ontarian’s. I believe incorporating an Indigenous perspective to Environmental Justice and Social Justice is fundamental in how we, as a public servants, as like- minded people can better face the climate emergency we are currently experiencing. Incorporating current and traditional Indigenous outlooks is an important way we can proceed in revitalizing our government’s commitment to participatory democracy.
Miigwetch/ Thank you.
Krystal
The 2022 Ontario Provincial election is scheduled for June 2nd.