Upcoming 2022 Municipal Elections
Today, April 25, 2022, marks the 10 year anniversary of me becoming a Canadian Citizen. Gaining Canadian Citizen was important to me for a number of reasons, but top of the list was the ability to fully participate in the democratic electoral process. 10 years ago I legally gained the right to run for office and to vote in Canada. At that time, running for office was not on the radar but that changed in 2018. Today, I am announcing my intentions around the upcoming October 24th, 2022 elections. Please see the announcement below and the link to the KawarthaNow article.
Statement
no
is a necessary magic
no
draws a circle around you
with chalk
and says
i have given enough
– boundaries, McKayla Robbin
From a very young age, I’ve held a strong belief that the world could become a better, more equitable and fair place for all. I’ve also had an inexplicable internal force driving me to be part of that process towards positive change. That drive has been nurtured by my family and the many communities I’ve been privileged enough to live in. It is this strong belief and drive that led me to run for City Council and your faith in me that led me to be elected as the first Black, openly queer Councillor for the City of Peterborough. I thank you for your faith and trust in me.
I also strongly believe positive change can come about in a multitude of ways. It is, in part, for this reason I have decided not to seek re–election as a Councillor for the City of Peterborough. I know this announcement will come as a disappointment to some, especially those who helped me get elected and who were inspired by me being on Council. However, I am feeling the drive to pursue other approaches to creating a more just, equitable world in which all humans live a good life.
I am proud of the work and contributions I have been able to make to the City during my tenure. I will continue to work hard and strive for positive change until my final day in office.
The past 3 and a half years have taught me a lot, and though I may be leaving office as a City Councillor, I do still believe in the wonderful possibilities that exist for the future of Peterborough. I have a number of thoughts and ideas I’d like to share over the coming weeks. I will be sharing them on my website: www.kemiakapo.ca
Ese pupo, Miigwetch, Thank you, Peterborough.
Kemi Akapo