September 17, 2009 11:23 AM
Francophone students at four high schools will have the opportunity to get more involved in municipal politics and provide input on local issues this year.
Part of the province's Accent on Youth strategy, this new youth initiative, developed by the Office of Francophone Affairs through a partnership with the Association française des municipalités de l'Ontario (AFMO), is being piloted at schools in communities with large Francophone populations. It will help students develop awareness about the issues encountered by municipalities and the way city councillors resolve them.
Students will participate in activities such as:
"In order to ensure that Francophone communities remain vibrant and dynamic, it is essential that our youth be engaged socially and politically at the local level. Our young people will soon be in charge of shaping Franco-Ontarian society and this initiative will give them the tools to carry this mission forward."
– Madeleine Meilleur
Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs
"This innovative initiative confirms that municipalities are a prime place for young people to get involved if they want to make a real difference in their communities."
– Jim Watson
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
"This program will allow our youth to follow city councillors in their activities, observe decision-making processes and brainstorm ideas to improve their municipalities."
– Lorraine Dicaire
President of Ontario Association of Francophone Municipalities (AFMO)