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A new vision for Canada? Justin Trudeau met with students and staff during his visit “This is a generation more empowered to change the world than ever before.” It was this idea that ultimately brought MP Justin Trudeau to the University of Guelph on Feb . Trudeau, often referred to as the rock-star of Canadian politics, was ushered into the Brass Taps on Feb. where he was greeted by over eagerly waiting students. He is currently a candidate for the leadership of the Federal Liberal Party of Canada, and took this opportunity to reach out to a group of young voters who wish to see a change in the political sphere. Trudeau spent the majority of his visit reminding students that while it is more important than ever for their voices to be heard, they are the segment of the population least likely to vote in political elections. “Young people are disengaging from politics because it doesn’t look like a compelling way to change the world anymore,” said Trudeau.
Trudeau also mentioned that, “if, as a generation, you are less involved with politics than ever before, the responsibility at fault for that rests squarely on the shoulders of politicians and not on young people.” This is what he hopes to change in upcoming years. Trudeau also discussed that students are continually an untapped resource in Canadian politics, which is why it is important for this generation of young people to vote. “We need to make politics once again about being open, about listening, about engaging, and about empowering others,” remarked Trudeau. “If all you focus on is what is urgent, you never get around to what is important, and that’s what we need this generation to speak up for.” Speaking with the charm and charisma he has come to be known for, students and staff listened intently to Trudeau’s speaking points. After a brief appearance at the university, the politician headed over to the Delta hotel where he addressed community members in a similar fashion. While some looked at it as an opportunity to mingle with a political icon, others
TOM BEEDHAM
Trudeau visited the Brass Taps to address students, staff, and faculty about his hopes for the future. wished to share their gratitude by bringing along pictures and memorabilia of the late Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin’s father. Community members and students of all ages gathered to catch a glimpse of Trudeau. Among them
was University of Guelph student ultimately as a Canadian,” said Mary Walton. Walton was lucky Walton. Support from students like Walenough to greet the Federal hopeful. “It was surreal to meet some- ton is what all politicians strive for. one I know is going to have such a Justin pointed out several times tremendous impact on me in the that if this generation realizes how ... 5 future, not just as a student, but
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CSA continues fight for water bottle ban The Central Student Association (CSA) Aqua Campaign took over the University Centre courtyard on Feb. for the campaign’s Day of Action. Students passing through the building saw displays with water
statistics and a banner proclaiming water as a human right. Hundreds of students wrote campaign cards to express their support for a bottledwater-free campus. Even Liberal MP Justin Trudeau, campaigning for the Liberal leadership, stopped by to sign a card and take part in a tap water taste test. One of the highlights was a wave sculpture made of hundreds of empty plastic water bottles, which
volunteers had collected over a twohour period on campus. Another station featured campaign members selling air. This was meant to raise an important question, CSA External Affairs Commissioner Dominica McPherson said. “Would you buy air? Why would you buy water?” McPherson asked. The day was part of the Aqua Campaign’s ongoing efforts to raise ... 4