Voters in the West Vancouver-Sea to Sky region are encouraged to attend a candidate debate on nature and climate issues, set for the evening of October 7, 2024, at the Eagle Eye Community Theatre in Howe Sound Secondary School. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society is hosting the event.
Tori Ball, Conservation Director at CPAWS-BC and a Squamish resident emphasized the importance of environmental policy in the region: “Polling reaffirms that the residents of Squamish and the Sea to Sky value strong environmental policies that will expand protected areas, address climate change, and ensure sustainable management of natural resources to safeguard our shared futures.”
This non-partisan forum will feature candidates Jen Form of the BC NDP, Jeremy Valeriote of the BC Green Party, and Yuri Fulmer from the Conservative Party of BC. Each candidate will present their views on key environmental issues.
Youth involvement will play a key role in the debate, with members of CPAWS-BC’s Young Leaders in Conservation Program developing and asking questions to the candidates. The event will also include a Q&A session for the audience toward the end of the panel.
“It’s inspiring to see young people take an active interest in local elections,” said Hailey Boehner, a Young Leaders in Conservation Program participant. “Youth will bring the courage, innovation, and leadership needed to create a healthy, resilient environment for future generations.”
Ellika Cairns, another participant from Squamish, highlighted the community’s direct experience with the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, wildfires, and severe weather. “Strong environmental policies that aim to mitigate and adapt to these pressures are imperative to a healthy future for all of us,” she said.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with the event starting at 6:30 p.m. Attendees can enjoy food from Luz Tacos after the debate. Reservations are recommended via Eventbrite, as limited seating will be available for walk-ins.
