OTTAWA – Hundreds of Gen Z Canadians gathered in the capital on Friday to advocate for reduced partisanship amid increasing global polarization and uncertainty. This unique youth summit brought together participants from across the country with a shared goal of combating "hyperpartisanship" and promoting cooperation among political parties in the best interests of the nation.
Jaden Braves, a 16-year-old founder of the Young Politicians of Canada, expressed the need for the next generation to challenge the notion that party lines are a solution to political issues. He emphasized that youth should take the initiative to break free from entrenched partisanship and work towards a collaborative political environment. "The more involved we are, the stronger a message we send to not just neighboring allies, but to our government," Braves stated, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in shaping Canada’s political landscape.
The summit attracted between 500 and 1,000 participants, both virtually and in person, indicating a significant surge in political engagement among young Canadians. Braves noted that this interest is amplified by ongoing tensions with the United States, prompting youth to consider the implications for Canadian sovereignty and national identity. "Young Canadians are interested in a strong Canada," he added.
The Young Politicians of Canada, formed in early 2023, has already made strides on the international stage, recently sending a delegation to Washington, D.C. There, they received a briefing from the National Security Council at the White House. Upon returning, they presented a report to the Canadian government concerning tariffs and security strategies, demonstrating their proactive approach to addressing important issues.
Among the participants was Meilun Yu, an 18-year-old from Toronto studying at the University of Pennsylvania. Yu emphasized the necessity of youth involvement in discussions surrounding pressing issues, as the perspectives of younger individuals are frequently overlooked. Similarly, 19-year-old Leslie Iradukunda from Winnipeg, studying at the University of Ottawa, shared that her heightened involvement in politics stems from concerns surrounding Canada-U.S. relations.
The summit provided attendees with an opportunity to express their views on crucial policy issues, including climate change, online safety, and civic engagement. Participants were empowered to cast votes that would help shape the advocacy direction of the Young Politicians of Canada, promoting a dynamic and inclusive approach to political discourse.
The evening event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including ambassadors from Ukraine, Germany, and Estonia, as well as Canadian political figures such as Sen. Marilou McPhedran, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, and newly elected B.C. Liberal Jake Sawatsky, who filled in for Speaker of the House of Commons Francis Scarpaleggia. Their presence underscored the summit’s significance and the recognition of youth voices in shaping policy discussions.
Concluding the summit, Jaden Braves expressed his inspiration, highlighting the creation of a national force uniting thousands of young Canadians to collaboratively outline their expectations regarding governmental policies that impact their futures. This summit not only reflects the urgency of youth involvement in politics but also sets the stage for a more unified and effective political environment in Canada.
