Windsor: featuring Jagmeet Singh

By Noah Gecelovsky

The newly-elected leader of the New Democratic Party Jagmeet Singh visited his hometown of Windsor, Ont. on Dec. 1.

Singh met with MPs Brian Masse and Tracey Ramsey and talked about both Windsor’s problems and potential. He also toured the city to see its development, since he lived here in his younger years.

The three MPs fielded questions on the corner of Indian Road and Peter Street where the demolition of abandoned houses for the new bridge has begun. The questions varied but focused mainly on concerns Windsorites experienced, as well as the future for Windsor-Essex.

Singh told reporters he sees Windsor coming around after the 2008 recession and that economic activity is looking more positive.

“I saw some of the collapse and it was a very difficult time — I saw the struggles that people [were facing] and how hard that [was],” said Singh. “Now I’m seeing a bit of a resurgence. It’s exciting to see that.”

Masse, Ramsey and Singh also spoke about multiculturalism, innovation, homelessness and the twin-span to the decaying Ambassador Bridge.

Singh emphasized “how nice” it was to see Windsor’s diversity and described Windsor as the “changing face of Canada.”

“Windsor is an incredibly diverse city,” said Singh. “Canada is a very diverse place. It’s made up of great immigration and that has built up our economy and continues to move our nation forward.”

As to why he was waiting until 2019 to run for a seat in the House of Commons, Singh said he was following the footsteps of the late Jack Layton, former leader of the NDP. Like Singh, Layton was also voted party leader on the first ballot.

“I’m confident in the team I have to deliver my message of justice and inclusivity,” said Singh. “Building a better future. I can take that message to the House and throughout the community.”

Masse said Singh’s visit was a special occasion and it reminded Masse of walking the streets of Windsor with Layton.

“This is a special opportunity for a leader to, not only pull up and see somebody come out and talk to them, but also to more importantly get a reflection of what’s important — making decisions easier later on,” said Masse. “We’ll take our leader to places so they get a chance to see and experience some of the things we’re blessed with.”

The next federal election is in October 2019. Closer to that time, Masse said Singh and the NDP will travel across Canada, with the goal of bringing the party back to what it once was under Layton.

“It’s up for people to decide,” said Masse. “Democracy is something [voters] get to exercise and empowering them to make that decision is what we should be doing in terms of electoral reform.”