A group of community members are working together to try and strengthen local democracy and promote more civic engagement across Haliburton County.
Through the Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project the group will encourage people to get involved in their community and make a positive difference in local politics.
“Community organizations and municipal governments benefit when more people, especially
younger folks and those who haven’t traditionally been involved, become active participants
around committee and council tables,” explained Lauren Hunter, a member of the HHHDP
steering committee. “We know that local democracies are under strain, that fewer people are
voting and running for office, and that it’s harder to build connections and community. This
project is one way we can try to change that here at home in the Highlands.”
According to organizers, the project will launch this fall with the first two information sessions of a four-part series called “Voices and Votes.”
The first event, hosted by Jessica Slade, will take place at the Haliburton Legion on Sept. 16 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The second event, with former MP’s Barry Devolin and Maryam Monsef, is slated for Oct. 7 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lloyd Watson Community Centre in Wilberforce.
The final two sessions will be held in the spring of 2026, focused on what it’s like to run for office and be a municipal representative; and what a successful campaign looks like for a candidate, supporter, or voter.
“When we lower the barriers to participation—when we give people the tools, the knowledge,
and the encouragement—they don’t just get involved, they lead. And that helps build a stronger, more resilient Haliburton Highlands.” said Jessica Slade, a member of the HHHDP steering committee. “With municipal elections coming up in the Fall of 2026, we want to give as many people as possible the opportunity to get involved.”
For more information about the Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project visit hhdp.ca.
