An associate professor of history at St. F.X. will carry the banner for the Communist Party of Canada in Central Nova.
“I don’t know,” Chris Frazer said, with a laugh, when asked about the decision to throw his hat into the federal ring.
The long-time educator and human rights activist noted, so far, “the big thing” voters are asking him about is his party selection.
His response – the “high profile” parties do not put forth policies regarding issues that are meaningful to Canadians.
“We need to change that,” he offered.
Frazer noted the political discourse requires “something new to debate.”
“Our party is providing some depth and new solutions,” he said.
In providing an example of that deficiency his parties see in the others, Frazer touched on climate change and how it “connects” to myriad of issues in Central Nova, particularly the ongoing Northern Pulp situation, which he described as a “lightning rod.”
“It illustrates an attempt to pit workers against people in those communities,” Frazer said, describing it as a “false application.”
When it comes to the treatment of the Pictou Landing First Nation, he described it as “egregious and outrageous.”
“It has to be shut down without hurting workers,” Frazer said of the Pictou paper mill.
That doesn’t mean workers are forgotten; they deserve the compensation they are entitled to from their union positions.
“They are entitled to jobs – good, decent jobs – and their benefits,” Frazer stressed.
He noted that must happen while honouring First Nations’ rights, along with the health and welfare of communities.
“There needs to be serious attention paid to infrastructure development in the province,” Frazer said, noting the “lack of vision” from the other federal parties in this area.
He explained the importance of development in areas, such as passenger rail service and renewable energy, which can also provide employment, including for potential displaced workers from Northern Pulp.
Frazer said there also needs to be more focus on jobs and poverty in the riding.
“That is crucial,” he added.
Frazer has been an adjunct faculty member at the University of Rhode Island, a lecturer at Harvard University and an organizer for the United Auto Workers Union.
His extensive track record as a human rights activist includes advocating for the LGBTQ+ community.
“I am very proud of that,” Frazer noted.
When it comes to making contributions in this region, including in areas, such as union and LGBTQ+ rights,” he pointed to a track record of “stepping up.”
“They should be electing people who are honest about their intentions and willing to be honest about their solutions with the public,” Frazer said, when asked why Central Nova voters should cast their ballots for him.
He added his party provides options to help deal with “real needs.”
As for the campaign, Frazer said he “openly welcomes” debate and discussion on any of the Communist Party of Canada’s platform issues.
He also invited residents to follow him on his Facebook page – Chris Frazer for Central Nova.
Frazer plans to officially launch his campaign Oct. 10 at the People’s Place Library.
