Public Service Next Step for Community Activist Jennifer Chen

There’s a lot that feels wrong in the world, and it can feel paralyzing trying to figure out what you can do to make a difference. 

But people are doing good work in the world, and it’s difficult not to feel inspired by their dedication to their community and enthusiasm for changing society and policies toward a better future for all. Jennifer Chen is one of those people. She is always dedicated and passionate about giving back to her community. Involved in several non-profit organizations, Jennifer has decided to go one step further, getting into politics. 

Chen is always giving 100 percent no matter what. As the President of the Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative, a board member of the Asian Heritage of Manitoba, among others, an elected school trustee for the Winnipeg School Division in the innercity community, and will give her all to service the constituents of Fort Richmond with the NDP Party. 

“I’m a mother of two, an elected school trustee, an active volunteer, and an advocate in the community. With everything going on, I want to give back to the community. We have so much to do coming out of this pandemic. Many people are struggling today and anxious about tomorrow. I wanted to get into politics to represent these communities and people, to make their lives more affordable and better.”

To alleviate the continued struggle of inequality, Chen believes we need to reinvest in the education system “so no child is left behind.” Keeping services public is another priority for Chen Hydro, health Care and parks. 

Boots on the ground, Chen has a finger on the pulse of her community, stepping in whenever she sees a need. You can always find Chen at an event standing up for social rights and equality. During the pandemic, she and others organized meal deliveries for nurses and set up vaccine clinics. Chen’s blood and sweat dedication is a product of her life before, coming from a country where democracy did not exist. 

“I had never voted before I came to Canada. I grew up on food rations, so it’s especially meaningful to me as a candidate for Fort Richmond that I will never take democracy for granted. As a young Asian woman, I face many barriers and stereotypes, and I want to show women of all backgrounds we can break these barriers together.”

Although the election occurs in 2023, Chen is rearing to get ready as there is a lot of work to do. Chen will be doing community cleaning and heading door to door come summer to meet the people of Fort Richmond. She invites all who want to get involved to reach out, knock on doors, pick up trash, help in fundraising, connect as a community, and discuss what is needed to improve the lives of everyone. 

To get involved in Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative: 

Website: www.wcclimanitoba.ca

Email: WCCLI.MB@gmail.com 

To get involved in Jennifer Chen for Fort Richmond campaign: 

Email: FortRichmondNDPMB@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of U Multicultural.