Marigold Mioc

I have been volunteering and involved with youth activism for the past six years. I was very interested in politics from a young age, and I once drafted my own policy proposal on education for a provincial political party. Earlier this year, I created a video about the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child with 45 youth from all over the world participating. It was called “Youth Teaching Youth: The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child,” and different children from all over the world read each article.

I feel the biggest issue currently facing youth in Canada is a lack of support and lack of community. In the most recent UNICEF Report Card 16, Canada scored 30/38 overall in child well-being outcomes. This was shocking for me to see. There are 8 million youth in Canada, and we deserve to have our voices heard.

It is critical for change to happen in order for youth to feel more connected and have a sense of belonging. Poverty, lack of supports, and other factors lead to violence and high teen suicide rates. Peace building starts with having a community and a sense of belonging, having security and having your needs met. Without this foundation, Canada will not be able to provide the best opportunities for a healthy childhood in all aspects.

We need an advocate who will hold the government responsible to take action. We need to involve youth in discussions by lowering the voting age and involving youth in decision-making through youth councils and town hall meetings. The government could establish youth advocates or a National Commissioner position, and connect youth with Members of Parliament so they can share their concerns. As well, there is a mental health crisis for youth in Canada, and I believe that new policies and more targeted funding for programs are critical.