This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter.
HerCampus is a politically independent magazine: in no way does this feature reflect the political affiliations of the author or the publication. This article series only serves to showcase some of the University of Toronto alumni that have gone on into politics.
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On October 4th, prominent political leader and current mayoral candidate, Olivia Chow, attended Omid Foundation’s Evening of Hope in support of disadvantaged and vulnerable young girls in Iran. The memorable night was attended by art lovers, businessmen, educators, politicians and city leaders, as they all gathered to celebrate art for a good cause by making generous donations and providing their support on an international level.
Chow has been named “one of the top 25 Canadian immigrants in Canada” by the Canadian Immigrant Magazine, received the “Toronto Sun Readers’ Choice Gold Award for being a Top Torontonian,” and was named “Canada’s Woman of the Year” by Consumer Choice.
Upon Chow’s arrival at the art exhibition, the crowd responded with a huge welcome completed with hugs and photographs. Despite many of them engaging her in long discussions about her plans for our city, she managed to catch enough time to look around the gallery, showcasing beautiful art work done in support of impoverished Iranian girls.
I managed to engage Chow in a discussion during the exhibition and asked if she would be open to doing an interview with us as an U of T alumnus, to inform and inspire current students with where a degree from U of T can bring them. Whether it’s her love and appreciation for the arts, her memorable time studying philosophy of religion as a student at U of T, or her entrance into the world of politics, we’ve discussed it all.
“A reasonable target is 5,000 new apprenticeships and jobs for young people over four years” – Olivia Chow
Why did you enter politics? What sparked your interest in this field?
I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and bring about change. I was originally interested in the fine arts but I wanted to make change in the world as my interests shifted.
How did you distinguish yourself from the other people in your riding when you first started off in your political career?
I worked very hard and canvassed every house. I had a very clear platform on education. By the time I started my first campaign in 1985, that’s when I got elected, I had already spent 4 years working in the parliament. I had worked on 3 to 4 campaigns and I did a lot of things for the people that needed help in the nation, so I also worked at MP offices. I also worked on a lot of boards as a volunteer, so I was quite prepared by the time I ran for my first election.
In your opinion, what makes for an effective leader?
It’s the value placed on wanting to make a difference in people’s lives and the commitment to making the change. The other part of it is being able to listen and working with others to come up with ideas because it’s important to bring people together. It’s never just one person working for the other person, it’s more like working with people, for the people, that is the main point.
Give me one reason as to why the younger generation should vote for you this upcoming election? How does your platform reach out to the youth?
I want a complete change in direction not status quo. If we continue at our current rate, our city will fail to make any effective progress. Also, I believe young people want change and I have a precise and detailed platform on ways to get young people engaged so we can make change together. I’m the only candidate who is focusing on the youth by producing plans to create more jobs. As well, I have an effective plan that focuses on increasing transit service immediately.
What advice can you give to UofT students interested in pursuing a career in politics?
They should know when they want change, and they should be clear about the kind of change they want to see. Afterward, they just need to get involved.
How did your interests in the arts shift to politics? It’s a relatively big jump so what was the inspiration behind that big change?
I was never interested in politics, only in the arts. One time, one day I went to a rally and I had witnessed the number of people who are in need of help and support in Canada. Then, I got involved in the campaign, it was called Operation Lifeline. It opened many doors for thousands and thousands of refugees, and I discovered how much change we can make when we come together.
Do you still do some visual arts or poetry writing?
Unfortunately not as much as before. I don’t have the time anymore.
What’s your fondest memory of UofT?
My fondest memory would be studying for one of my classes about the philosophy of religion. I did an essay on the topic of God’s existence and contemplated if God is a loving and powerful being, why does he/she allow such immense suffering in the world? If man has free will, then what is our relationship with this supreme being? I got really interested in that subject.
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I was fortunate enough to celebrate art and express my support for young girls on the other side of the world, while being accompanied by an incredible woman who truly exudes self-empowerment, independence, and strength – all of which are the transformational objectives of the girls supported by the held fundraiser.
Whether you’re concerned about school kids and after-school recreation programs, youth unemployment, affordable housing, investing in the arts, the environment or transit, Chow’s mayoral platform has something to offer to everyone.
A common belief held by the elders of our city is that the younger generation is not politically engaged and indifferent toward voting. So this October, let’s prove them wrong! U of T has one of the largest student bodies, so with a little bit of effort and time we can definitely change the current statistics that prove our embarrassingly low voter turnout.
Advance polls are open from October 14 -19. Voting early will make a great difference in this tight and heavility anticipated mayoral race. If you think you don’t have the time to vote, remember that there are thousands of people around the world who are being imprisoned on a daily basis for expressing their opinions on their nationa’s political affairs. Take advatnage of your rights as a Canadian citizen living in a democratic society by voting in the upcoming the election and contributing to our city affairs.
Election day is on Monday, October 27th!
If you’re interested in Olivia Chow’s candidacy, check out her official website for more details on her platform.
Image Sources:
https://www.facebook.com/OliviaChowTO/photos/a.10151589323135142.843234.15535160141/10154671185495142/?type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/OliviaChowTO/photos/a.10151589323135142.843234.15535160141/10154506709220142/?type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/OliviaChowTO/photos/a.10150301715370142.555617.15535160141/10154445848935142/?type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/OliviaChowTO/photos/pb.15535160141.-2207520000.1413491642./10154642832345142/?type=3&theater
