By Anthony Joseph

The Caribbean Camera has received an overwhelming number of calls regarding the upcoming Ontario election, scheduled for February 27. It is no secret that many in the Caribbean and Black communities are not fond of winter. We endure the frigid months for our families and livelihoods, but the idea of braving the cold for an early election has left many questioning the rationale behind this decision.

The primary concern is that this election is being held 1.5 years ahead of schedule. Premier Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative government currently have a significant mandate to govern Ontario. The premier has justified this early election by citing the shifting political landscape in the United States, specifically the return of Donald Trump to power. But is Trump’s presidency truly a valid reason to call an election now, or is this simply a strategic move by the Conservatives to secure another term before an anticipated federal Conservative victory reshapes the political balance?

A historical trend in Canada has shown that when there is a Conservative government in Ottawa, Ontario tends to elect a Liberal or NDP government provincially. With Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down and federal polling indicating a potential Conservative majority, is Ford’s decision to call an early election an attempt to fortify his party’s position before the federal tides shift?

While it is true that the Ford government has made notable investments in healthcare, long-term care, youth hubs, and a host of other initiatives these accomplishments alone do not necessarily justify an early election and one in the middle of winter. The question remains: will Ontarians punish the government for forcing them to the polls in the dead of winter? That decision ultimately rests with the voters.

However, for the Black and Caribbean community, this election holds an added layer of significance. Beyond questioning the timing of the election, we must also recognize the importance of ensuring strong Black representation across all political parties.

The Black community has long been underrepresented in the political sphere. We need more individuals like Charmaine Williams, Patrice Barnes, Andrea Hazell, and David Smith—candidates willing to advocate for our needs and push for policies that reflect our interests. But this representation must extend beyond just one political party. Our voices must be heard within the Conservative, Liberal, NDP, and Green parties alike.

Political representation is not just about having a seat at the table—it is about having the power to influence decisions that impact our communities. To achieve this, we must take deliberate action. We must support Black candidates by volunteering for their campaigns, placing their signs on our lawns, donating to their campaigns, and encouraging others to get involved. Political campaigns require resources, and if we do not financially support our candidates, we cannot expect them to champion our causes effectively once in office.

Historically, the federal Liberal government has done more for the Black community than any other administration. However, if a federal Conservative government takes office, we cannot afford to be absent from their ranks. The political reality is that influence must be cultivated across party lines. We must ensure that no matter who holds power, Black voices are present, engaged, and ready to advocate for our communities.

This winter election may be inconvenient, and its timing may be suspect, but it also presents an opportunity. We must leverage this moment to strengthen Black political engagement and representation. Whether we agree with the election call or not, we must be prepared to show up and make our voices heard.

Ontario’s future is being shaped now, and we must take an active role in determining that future. By ensuring Black representation across all parties and engaging in the political process, we can position our community as a formidable force in provincial politics. The time for passive participation is over. It is time for action.

Moreover, the challenges we face are not just about election timing or party politics; they are about long-term inclusion and influence. The reality is that political systems have historically marginalized Black voices, making it imperative that we remain engaged regardless of who is in power. Systemic barriers to Black political participation persist, and it is up to us to dismantle them through active engagement and strategic voting.

We must also push for policies that directly benefit our communities. Issues such as housing affordability, job security, healthcare access, and education equity remain critical. Supporting Black candidates is not just about identity representation; it is about ensuring that policies are crafted with the needs of our community in mind. We must demand accountability from our elected officials and hold them to their promises, regardless of party affiliation.

A broader question that must be addressed is why Black political participation remains lower than that of other communities. Historical disenfranchisement, economic barriers, and systemic neglect have all contributed to voter apathy. However, we cannot afford to be disengaged. The policies crafted today will affect generations to come, and our participation is essential in shaping a more equitable future.

It is also important to note that political engagement does not end at the ballot box. Grassroots organizing, advocacy work, and community initiatives are equally vital. We must build networks that support Black leadership beyond election cycles, ensuring that our voices are continuously heard.

As we move towards this unexpected winter election, let us not simply question its timing, but also seize the opportunity to strengthen our political influence. The best way to counteract a system that has historically overlooked us is to make ourselves impossible to ignore. By ensuring a strong Black presence in politics, we are not just fighting for representation—we are fighting for power, equity, and lasting change.

The stakes are high, and the call to action is clear. Get involved, support Black candidates, and make your voice count. A winter election may not be ideal, but it is an opportunity we cannot afford to waste.

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