ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Markiel
WHERE I COME FROM
My name is Markiel Simpson. I'm a 26-year-old bi-racial Black man who was born in Montreal, raised in subsidized housing in East Vancouver, and have lived in North Burnaby for the last 4 years. My origin story is different from many who enter politics, which allows me to bring a fresh perspective to the decision-making process and help improve our democracy.
I grew up as a high-level athlete. By age 10 I was a national level gymnast and since then I've had the opportunity to win a provincial championship with the men's volleyball team at Capilano University on the North Shore, where I studied political science and philosophy. In 2019 I also had the opportunity to compete at the international level in beach volleyball. These experiences have taught me the values of hard work, dedication, and how to work as part of a winning team.
Throughout my life, I've had an unwavering belief in the possibility of creating positive change, whether it be as an individual or at the institutional level. I have used my internal drive and beliefs, as well as my experiences as a team player, to stand up for what's right and speak truth to power.
In my time as a community advocate I have proven myself to be a competent and persuasive communicator who can ensure the voices of the oppressed are heard by those in positions of power. Whether it's pushing for changes in our education system, empowering the next generation of young people to pursue leadership roles, or standing in solidarity with other marginalized groups, I have made an impact on our local community and helped showcase the serious issues of our times across the country. I look forward to working with members of our community and experts from across the country to continue to push for positive systemic change as your next Member of Parliament.
British Columbia has never elected a Member of Parliament of African descent. I'm determined to break that barrier together and prove to everyone that whether you're young, racialized, live with disabilities, or identify with any other marginalized group, you can make a positive impact on your country. It's time to prove to all Canadians that even if you can't see it, you can be it!
I know we can do this, so let's get to work and prove to the entire country that we are stronger together.
Why I'm the Right Candidate
I have grown tired and frustrated with the status quo of political ambition and ideology and out of that frustration have begun working in the community to improve the lives of the underrepresented. In that time, I have had to stand up to police departments, government ministries, and politicians in order to successfully advocate for marginalized people. This work has not ended internally either. Since joining the NDP I have advocated for the party to improve itself in order to better serve Canadians.
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These experiences have not been easy. However, I have found strength in connecting with communities and allies with similar goals and together we have become stronger. I am determined to create a movement across the country to bring in the sweeping changes needed to address the global issues of our times in order to save our planet and our livelihoods. I have the energy, strategy, and ability for the job and an eagerness work with experts to ensure we implement the best solutions possible for the problems we're facing.
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Canadians need bold new leadership, especially from underrepresented communities. I am proud of my mixed-race heritage, of being a capable young person, and of being able to use my different abilities that allow me to think outside the box. My type of leadership will be different from those in the past, and that’s the whole point. We need to be different in order to be better. I believe that together we will rise to the challenges we face every day and that together we will improve the lives of future generations.
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Dear residents of Vancouver-Granville, a better tomorrow starts today. Let’s work towards that better tomorrow together.
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Together We Rise
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Markiel In Action
Markiel has worked to improve his community through many forums
BC COMMUNITY ALLIANCE (BCCA)
Markiel works with the BC Community Alliance (BCCA) to dismantle systemic racism and hold public institutions to account.
WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM'S GLOBAL SHAPERS
Markiel works with the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers to empower youth voices in the 2020 BC election and more.
BC YOUNG NEW DEMOCRATS (BC YND)
Markiel formerly served as co-director of Diversity for the BC NDP Young New Democrats where he has advocated tirelessly for racial equity within the party and province.
BC NDP INDIGENOUS, BLACK, & PEOPLE OF COLOUR COMMITTEE
Markiel serves as the lower mainland rep for the BC NDP’s Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour (IBPOC) committee.
BC COUNCIL OF FEDERAL RIDINGS
Markiel was elected the chair of the BC Council of Federal Ridings, entrusted with communication effectively with all Federal ridings in BC and the Central party headquarters.
