Political training for young people with the Coalition Jeunes+ and the Centre St-Pierre

Political training for young people organized by the Coalition Jeunes+ in collaboration with the Centre St-Pierre

Last night, the Coalition Jeunes+ brought together a group of young people to discuss their perceptions of elected officials and the place of young people in politics, particularly those experiencing homelessness.

How are they perceived ? The young participants expressed feelings of misunderstanding and stigmatization. They feel they are often judged as uninvolved, lazy, or criminal due to low voter turnout. Yet some elected officials recognize their resourcefulness and resilience.

A need for listening and genuine engagement They denounced the lack of follow-up on electoral promises and called for greater involvement in decision-making, well beyond election periods.

Concrete proposals : The discussions highlighted the urgency of strengthening communication and collaboration between young people and elected officials. Among their demands:

• Better accessibility to education

• Increased mental health support

• Suitable employment opportunities

• Affordable housing

• Universal basic income
  

Some key quotes from the evening :

“Fewer young people on the street, more young people in school. Fewer young people in school, more young people on the street.”

“Young people don’t speak up enough; we don’t say what hurts us.”

“Budgets are being cut, but we still believe in you.”

“The responsibilities we are going to take on are pointless. (No future)”

The message is clear: young people want to be heard and to be part of change!