2024 Federal and Young Greens Council Elections

Electing the representatives of the Green Party of Canada's members

Phase 3 of 6

Campaigning 16/10/2024 - 30/10/2024

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Douglas Bruce Weaver (he/him)

Official candidate

15/10/2024 22:17

She:kon, Hello, My name is Bruce, and my Mohawk name is Tehotsienhate, meaning "His Bright Fire."

I have lived in Guelph since 1983 and am a retired teacher who discovered my Indigenous heritage in my mid-sixties. Since that time, I have met with knowledge holders and elders to learn about my culture.
I have begun to give back to my community through Fire Keeping, Kairos Blanket Exercise facilitation, and assisting in ceremonies and land-based learning.
As a teacher, I worked in northern communities (Whale Cove and Fort Providence), as well as in Mississauga, giving me experience in both Indigenous settlements and in a multicultural setting.
I have a deep passion for nature and wildlife, leading me to work with naturalist groups and participate in climate action campaigns.
I joined the Greens in 2008 and have been active in the Indigenous advisory circle.
I wish to join Federal Council to bring my voice and experience to the table in a collaborative manner.
Niawen, Thank you.

While teaching, I served on the executive of the Educational Computing Organization of Ontario for 8 years, holding a variety of roles, including President. These roles gave me insight into the operation of a volunteer board with a substantial budget, as well as experience in communicating with Ministry of Education officials.
In retirement, I was on the board of the Guelph Public Library for 8 years, serving as President for 2 years. I learned a great deal about governance models, hiring chief librarians, and engaging in visioning exercises for a new library. I was also a spokesperson for the board in both public and print.
I bring a different set of skills through my involvement with the local Indigenous community, where I have learned to facilitate sharing circles, engage in reconciliation work in the broader community, and enhance my listening skills using traditional teachings.
Having walked in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous worlds, I believe I can help the party build bridges, find common ground, and foster collaboration within the council and the party.