Tuesday Night (Oct. 7) in Wilberforce, I had the opportunity to attend an inspiring community event hosted by the Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project (HHHDP). As part of their Voices & Votes speaker series, former MPs Barry Devolin and Maryam Monsef shared their personal insights on how and why civic engagement matters at every level of democracy.

Whether you’re a candidate, campaign volunteer, or simply a concerned voter, their message was clear: informed and active participation is the foundation of any healthy, functioning democracy. And without it, real change can’t happen.

Who’s Behind the Event?

The Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project

The HHHDP is a nonpartisan community initiative aimed at increasing awareness, participation, and representation in local government especially in the lead-up to the 2026 municipal elections.

Their goals include:

• Boosting voter turnout in Haliburton County
  
• Encouraging new and diverse candidates to run for office
  
• Supporting community education about municipal politics
  
• Breaking down barriers to political participation in rural areas
  

The Voices & Votes series is just one part of this work. These events are designed to help community members better understand how local government works and how we can all play a part.

Learn more at: HHHDP.ca

Key Takeaways from Barry Devolin & Maryam Monsef

1. Democracy Begins With Asking “Why?”

Both speakers emphasized that before deciding how to get involved, we need to first ask ourselves why. Why does this matter to me? What do I want to change in my community? What values am I standing up for?

That personal connection to purpose is what sustains engagement especially when the process gets hard.

2. There’s More Than One Way to Participate

Running for office isn’t the only path to political involvement. Here are some ways anyone can contribute:

• Vote — especially in municipal elections
  
• Join a local board or committee
  
• Support or volunteer for a candidate
  
• Attend council meetings or public consultations
  
• Share civic info with your networks
  
• Ask questions, stay informed, and hold officials accountable
  

Democracy works best when more people find a role that suits them big or small.

3. Being Informed Is a Civic Duty

Understanding how local government works from budgeting to by-laws empowers us to participate meaningfully. Civic literacy is an essential part of engagement. The more we know, the more effective our voice becomes.

4. Representation Isn’t Just About Optics

Monsef and Devolin both highlighted how important it is for councils to reflect the communities they serve. That means supporting more women, youth, newcomers, and underrepresented groups to take on leadership roles and creating a culture where they feel welcome to do so.

5. Lowering Barriers to Entry Is Key

From fear of public scrutiny to time and financial costs, there are many real challenges that prevent people especially in rural communities from getting involved in politics. Mentorship, local networks, and public education can all help lower those barriers.

Why This Matters in Haliburton County

Voter turnout in Haliburton County was only 26.6% in 2022 and 12 municipal roles were filled by acclamation (no opposition). The HHHDP is working to change that.

In an era of increasing polarization and disengagement, we can’t afford to let local politics be decided by default. Decisions made at the municipal level about housing, land use, infrastructure, and the environment directly affect our daily lives.

What’s Next?

Future events in the Voices & Votes series are planned for spring 2026 and will cover:

• Behind the scenes of municipal leadership
  
• How political campaigns work
  
• What success looks like in local democracy
  

Follow local listings or connect with the HHHDP to stay in the loop.

My Personal Commitment

This event reminded me that democracy is not just a system… it’s a relationship. One that we each have a responsibility to tend, challenge, and grow.

Here’s how I plan to stay engaged:

• Attend/ watch more local council meetings
  
• Volunteer for a civic organization or board
  
• Encourage friends and neighbours to vote
  
• Stay informed about key issues and policies
  

Keep showing up — even when it’s uncomfortable

How You Can Get Involved

Want to support the HHHDP’s work? Here’s how:

• Attend upcoming events in the Voices & Votes series
  
• Share this post and start a conversation in your community
  
• Volunteer or offer your skills — comms, logistics, admin support
  
• Run (or support someone to run) for local office
  
• Learn — read municipal plans, follow council updates, talk to your reps
  

Small actions can have big ripple effects. As last night’s discussion showed, change always starts with a few people deciding to care — and deciding to act.

Final Thoughts

Democracy only works when we work it.

Thanks to the Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project and inspiring leaders like Barry Devolin and Maryam Monsef we’re reminded that engagement is not just possible, it’s powerful.

Let’s keep showing up.