Good evening Friends!

There's something I've been meaning to tell you: you are awesome.

So, election day was almost a week ago already. To be honest, I've caught up on much needed sleep over the last few days…. But, I've also been reflecting on our campaign and what I learned from it.

First, this has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Working with so many of you and listening to our neighbours - their struggles, dreams, ideas, and plans. I truly found inspiration at every corner.

We live in one of the most interesting communities in our great city. Most people who live here originally came from somewhere else, and chose our city for so many different reasons. They chose our city to embrace the freedom to be who they are, the opportunities for themselves and their children, the safety from conflict or discrimination, and the true potential to work, learn, and raise families in close communities.

If there's one thing I've learned in life - and something that I try to instill in my children - it’s that nothing great ever happens unless we work collectively. We need to work together to build inclusive communities to make life better for everyone. We need to work together to stand as allies with those who face challenges. We need to work together to have the guts to take a stand against injustice, even when it's not always the most popular position.

I'll admit that over the last few days I've gone through the roller coaster of emotions. I’ve felt deep anger that Doug Ford will be bringing his regressive plan to Ontario. But, I’ve also felt elation over our incredible win in Davenport, and the amazing MPPs I'll be joining at Queen’s Park as official opposition. Andrea Horwath laid out a progressive vision of Ontario that includes dental care, childcare, affordable housing, and real support for students. This vision remains and will continue to drive us. We are committed to bringing this change to Ontario.

Above all, I am so incredibly humbled at the confidence put in me by our community, and by you -- the folks who put up signs, dropped literature, entered data, knocked on doors, helped me prepare for debates, or dropped off food for our staff. And of course gratefulness to my family, who surrounded me throughout and supported me in so many ways.

As I said on election night, for those who are new to elections or to the NDP: we are your family, we are your community. In the NDP, it's not just about winning elections, it's about building a movement. It's about organizing between elections to support others who are pushing for change. Transit activists. Childcare advocates. $15 and fairness. Fighting climate change. Standing against homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, racism and all hate and discrimination. Standing up for public education. Building a prosperous and inclusive community. 

We have so much to be proud of today. I know Andrea Horwath and our team at Queen’s Park are ready to take on Doug Ford every single day. You can count on me to stand up to the Conservative government and it’s regressive plan for Ontario.

You can also count on me to be there for our community. I believe that an MPPs role is to bring the voice of our riding to Queen's Park, to work within the constituency, and across all levels of government, to make life better. That means partnering with our School Board Trustees and City Councillors to ensure the development happening in our community includes the greatest possible benefit to our neighbourhoods. It means working to expand and preserve our green space. It means keeping our streets safe and expanding active transportation. It means embracing the role of our libraries, schools, and community centres as important hubs. The next few years will be a battle for our cities, and we can make Davenport a beacon for progressive city building.

You and I can do this together.

Many of you have asked me how you can stay involved. Join the Davenport NDP to help us build for future elections and elect more progressives at all levels. We would be thrilled to have you. Join our movement. Email us if you are interested. Meanwhile, we will also keep you posted on upcoming events and actions.

Again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Now let's get good things done!

Marit