My grandmother, Laura Olsen, taught me that it was our responsibility to look after our place—the WSANEC territory. But it wasn’t until Silas, my son, was born that I really understood what she meant. That’s when I dedicated myself to protecting and enhancing this awe-inspiring place for future generations. A deep sense of personal responsibility for our home and for our children has guided my work ever since.
I grew up in Tsartlip and I have mixed heritage. When I was young it felt like the world was divided between on and off the reserve - Indians and non-Indians - and I wasn’t sure where I fit. Yet as I grew older I realized that having a foot in both worlds was a gift. It taught me that people on both sides of any issue have legitimate concerns, that people are often unable to appreciate opposing opinions, and that it takes hard work to bring people together to find shared solutions.
Over the past ten years I’ve had the honour and privilege to serve on local council in Central Saanich and be the interim leader of the Green Party of British Columbia. I have led by example and brought people together. Making hard decisions and leading the transformation of an organization, has given me the opportunity to learn from failure and success. What unites all of these experiences is community service. When you get right down to it, that’s what it’s all about, listening and caring, finding solutions and solving problems.
I’m a passionately creative person, an ideas person and an innovator. I’m so thankful for the support of a strong family that keeps me grounded; a wife that encourages me, and two young children who inspire and motivate me every day.
I find the election process exciting. I love the hard-hitting debates and tough questions. How else can we forge real leaders and find real solutions? Some find it tiring, but I find it invigorating.
Elections are about earning your trust. That’s why I’m proud to run as a Green candidate. Greens believe in people, we care about your future.
And Greens are good for democracy. Being the MLA that represents Saanich North and the Islands is the best way I can imagine to fulfil my responsibility to the land, water and people of this community. I want to help bring us together. That’s why I’m asking you to place your vote in my care.
Adam Olsen is the Green Party Canadidate in Saanich North and the Islands