The Simcoe County Elementary Teachers Federation represents approximately 2,300 members and is one of the largest employee groups in Simcoe County. Over the years, our members have frequently asked their federation for information about local political issues that affect them. In addition, our members have requested that we play a role in furthering public awareness about education issues. To that end, we have begun a campaign to ask the public to consider education a priority at the ballot box.

Our activities and participation in local campaigns are part of a broad labour commitment to play a positive role in politics. In the past, SCETF and other local labour groups have endorsed candidates. This is not a new practice. Our process began in the spring of 2006 and included written surveys to trustee candidates as well as interviews and telephone conferences with the multitude of municipal candidates who were referred or actively sought the endorsement of labour groups.

The criteria used to endorse candidates was based on the broader range of labour issues rather than specific local election content.

And why are labour groups across Ontario getting involved in local municipal elections? Because we recognize that city councils are often the training ground for provincial and federal politics and it is important that labour has an equitable voice in those political arenas. Today's councilor might very well one day become tomorrow's minister of education, health, or even premier or prime minister.

Of course teachers have an interest and want to be informed about local issues. We are voters, taxpayers and citizens in our communities. Our members are savvy enough to know that while our federation is merely shining a spotlight on pro-labour candidates who may not otherwise come to their attention, they will each make their own choices when standing in the ballot box on Nov. 13.

S. Birch Bayley, Political Action Chair, Simcoe County Elementary

Teachers Federation