Tracey Sanderson: Bonnechere Valley

1. 
If elected as Councilor in the Township of Bonnechere Valley, I would continue to advocate for marginalized communities, as I have done throughout my entire career. The meaning of the 2SLGBTQ acronym is complex to many people.  Leveraging my background in Marketing and Communications, I would lend my expertise to break down the complexities of the definition to inform the community at large what 2SLGBTQ means, offer interactive dialogue via workshops, community programing, digital strategies, and promotion of pride-related activities. Regardless of sexual orientation, all people deserve thier rights and freedoms in a democratic society. Change takes time and in smaller communities where there is a smaller population, greater attention needs to be given to 2SLGBTQ as the level of service and mental health supports are not the same as large urban centres.  In addition, as the Chair of the Bonnechere Valley Youth Action Committee, I would work with Pflag Renfrew County for 2SLGBTQ programming - whether it is counseling, creative arts, athletics or social events. 

2.
As a communications professional, I would call out the groups spreading hate speech with the goal to inform and educate.  I would publicly address ‘hate speech and false information’ with the facts – to lead by example via advocacy, accountability and transparency.  Address the issues and offer solutions, with the right partners by my side. Develop communication strategies to continually offer storytelling and raise awareness to dispel hate language in order to build an all inclusive community.

3.
​Yes, I am absolutely committed to being part of the solution for the 2SLGBTQ community.  I have a big voice and advocacy is part of my DNA.  I have three teen boys who keep me apprised of what is happening day to day with youth.  They are confused by the issues and acronym, and if they are asking questions, then I as their mom and community leader need to find solutions to effectively communicate to all concerned citizens.  I lived in the pride community in Toronto in my early 20’s; I witnessed many wrongs but was also part of a revolution that will continue for years to come and one I’m happy to be part of.