Thu Sep 12 21:56:00 UTC 2024: ## Tanille Johnston Enters Federal Race, Vowing to Amplify Community Voice
**Campbell River, BC** – Tanille Johnston, a current Campbell River city councillor and the first-ever First Nations person to hold that position, announced her candidacy for the New Democratic Party (NDP) in the North Island-Powell River riding for the upcoming federal election.
Johnston, who was born and raised in the riding, emphasizes her deep connection to the territory and her commitment to representing the diverse communities within it. She highlights her background as a social worker and policy advocate as key assets in tackling pressing issues like healthcare, climate change, and Indigenous rights.
“It’s not about my agenda,” Johnston stated, “it’s about the individuals that make up the communities within this riding and the priorities that they elevate.”
Johnston’s platform focuses on:
* **Improving Healthcare:** She champions the NDP’s plans for dental and pharmacare, advocating for comprehensive national coverage of diabetes as a crucial step towards better health outcomes.
* **Supporting Indigenous Self-Determination:** Johnston promises to champion the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.
* **Addressing Mental Health Crisis:** Johnston emphasizes the need for fair compensation for mental health professionals and a streamlined immigration process to utilize the expertise of new Canadians.
* **Fighting Climate Change:** Johnston supports initiatives for alternative transportation, net-zero electricity by 2030, and a ban on single-use plastics.
Johnston emphasizes her strong relationships with Indigenous communities in the riding and her dedication to serving their needs. She also stresses her commitment to accountability and accessibility, promising regular community meetings and open communication with constituents.
With a clear focus on representing the voices of the people, Tanille Johnston hopes to bring a fresh perspective and strong advocacy to the federal stage.
First Piper 