Emily Lowan, the leader of the B.C. Green Party, vividly recalls the moment she was on a train to Ottawa with her Grade 11 classmates when she learned of Donald Trump’s election victory. This event sparked her awareness of the urgency of the climate crisis, motivating her to take action rather than succumb to despair.
Since then, Lowan has dedicated the past decade to activism, mobilizing young voters in the 2017 provincial election, leading protests that pushed the University of Victoria to divest from fossil fuel companies, and opposing fossil fuel projects during her tenure at Climate Action Network Canada.
Recently elected as one of the youngest political party leaders in Canada, Lowan has been actively campaigning across British Columbia to garner grassroots support, particularly in response to a snap election called by NDP Leader David Eby. Lowan aims to secure a seat in the legislature and potentially hold the balance of power in a minority government scenario.
Expressing her commitment to accountability and change, Lowan emphasizes the importance of implementing policies that address affordability and the climate crisis simultaneously. Notably, the B.C. Green Party’s platform includes ambitious goals such as building affordable non-market homes, establishing community health centers, and introducing a wealth tax on high-net-worth individuals.
Despite facing skepticism from some quarters, Lowan’s leadership has been commended for the party’s readiness to field candidates and represent marginalized voices in politics. As she continues her campaign, Lowan remains focused on connecting with voters and advocating for a greener, more equitable future for British Columbia.
