As the long warm days of summer cool to autumn and we inevitably complain about the cold, it’s not just winter that is comin’; it’s also election season here in BC! There are many things to consider and decide about when selecting which candidate and which party to vote for – we sincerely hope that the All Candidates Forum that the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted this past Wednesday helped clarify and answer questions.
For the first time this election, I am struck by the reality that as an individual and (mostly) functional member of society that the long-time belief I had that voting is the only way to have my voice heard and affect the way that I am governed on a municipal, provincial and federal level is to vote. Don’t get me wrong – voting is vitally important; but so is advocacy.
As a member of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the BC Chamber of Commerce, the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce has a voice at the table at the provincial and federal level, and I think that can often be overlooked as a voice that matters! Chambers are focused and dedicated to making sure that the voice of business is heard in the political realm, regardless of which party is in power or in opposition, and they have the opportunity to put forward the issues that matter to our community.
That being said, just like voting, your voice is heard when you speak – being involved and investing your time and energy into the issues that are important to your business are the best way to move those giant cogs of government slowly and surely in the right direction! The monthly Chamber Connections networking events are a great way to interact casually with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce board members and chat about what matters to you and your business. The next Chamber Connections will be at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort on November 12th.
The BC Election is on October 19th and you can vote from 8am to 8pm. For the closest polling location and information on advance voting, please check out the Elections BC website. They’ve even got a map!
Deanna Berrington