Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
VICTORIA – Young people from throughout British Columbia gained insight into the history and value of democracy and the role of government and its key institutions while in Victoria recently.
Democracy in Action youth conference was a two-day pilot project for approximately 30 youth held Oct. 27-28.
Supported by the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and B.C. Rotary Clubs, the conference was aimed at fostering a better understanding of the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship and promoting active engagement in civic duties and opportunities in home communities.
“Democracy is at the heart of our societal values,” said Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. “This program is designed to encourage future leaders to actively take part in civic duties to ensure their communities, and this province, remain vibrant and engaged.”
The 16-to-18-year-old participants explored the founding of democracy in British Columbia, the establishment of B.C. as a province and the role it played in the First World War at workshops led by experts at the Royal BC Museum. Special artifacts will be on display, including letters, uniforms and photographs from the First World War and the Douglas Commission proclamation that created the Crown Colony of British Columbia in 1858.
Conference activities included meeting Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon during a learning session at Government House, and various workshops on the electoral process and the operations of government presented by Elections BC, government leaders and senior officials.
The youth also learned about opportunities to experience democracy in action in home communities during the Nov. 15 municipal elections, such as encouraging family members to vote, attending community Remembrance Day events, or becoming involved with a youth parliament organization.