I was raised in a middle class family.
My parents are immigrants from Italy and have worked hard their whole lives. My father was a boilermaker welder and my mother, a stay-at-home mom, raised four girls.
They have always been grateful to Canada for the opportunities to build a rewarding life. My parents raised me to believe that we have a responsibility to care for and help our neighbours. That’s what I strive to do and it’s a big reason behind my decision to run as a Liberal candidate.
Right now, we live in stressful times. Unemployment is increasing, wages are stagnant, and poverty and homelessness are prevalent. Many people have lost confidence in our country because they see so many of their rights and hard-earned gains being whittled away by heavy-handed legislation, more and higher taxes, funding cuts and the elimination of essential services.
I love my country and won’t stand to see its reputation as a kinder and gentler nation further diminished. We need to trust that a new government will implement much-needed change that restores our trust in democracy, creates jobs, and lifts the poor out of poverty. That is what the Liberal party and Justin Trudeau will deliver.
This Labour Day, I will pause and give thanks for the opportunity my parents gave me to live in this country and the ability to work to make it a better place.
Maria Manna
Liberal candidate