GREG DAHMS

No I have not advocated for the LGBTQ+ community, but that does not mean that I do not support who they are.  I have been to 2 pride parades, one I attended to support a friend of my wife’s and the other I covered for a local newspaper.

From what I have seen and read on the government web site as well as what my children have commented on inclusion in their schools I feel the government is on the right path.  That’s not to say it could not be improved but it is a great start.

It is not just the LGBTQ community that faces bullying and harassment, its also immigrants, refugees and people of other ethnicities.  Bullying and harassment of any kind is wrong and I will always advocate for equality and safety for everyone.

Mental health and addiction issues is a problem that every community across BC is facing.  I would try to band together with other communities to pressure  the provincial government to bring back facilities that can deal with this epidemic.

I believe the reason is simple.  Some of our youth will stay as they have a strong family connection, church and most likely never having had much experience with travel.  Others who are more worldly and open minded seek change and opportunity.  This happens all over the planet.  So we will always have young people that will leave for education, work or life experiences.  Some will return most likely to start a family of their own.  The great part about this is that new people will seek out Kelowna for its environment and reputation.  We can retain more of our youth by offering them facilities for a good education and by fostering strong business growth in Kelowna in order to offer them opportunities when they leave university.

Inclusion and acceptance.