Manitoba Stronger Together
Making Your Voice Heard
Practical Tools to Influence Local, Provincial, and Federal Government
In a time when Canadians are increasingly shut out of meaningful political dialogue, it's more important than ever to understand how to engage with government—and be heard. Whether you're contacting your MLA, organizing a delegation to a council meeting, or responding to harmful legislation, effective advocacy starts with knowing your rights and using your voice strategically.
Manitoba Stronger Together is here to help you turn concern into action.
Section One
Contacting Your Elected Officials
A single email or phone call may seem small—but when coordinated with others, it can change minds and policy. Learn how to communicate clearly, respectfully, and forcefully.
Tools Included:
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Sample letters and scripts for contacting MLAs, MPs, and local councillors
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Guidance on writing persuasive, personal, and fact-based messages
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Best practices for follow-up and holding elected officials accountable
One voice can be dismissed. A thousand can’t be ignored.
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Overview
One of the most direct ways to influence government policy is by contacting your elected representatives—whether they are your municipal councillor, school trustee, MLA, or MP. Many Canadians don’t realize that every message counts, especially when coordinated with others. Politicians notice when the same issue appears in their inbox from dozens of constituents.
You don’t need to be a policy expert. You just need to be clear, respectful, and persistent.
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What You Can Do
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Send an Email or Letter
Written communication is powerful, especially when it’s personal and specific. Avoid form letters if possible. Speak from the heart and relate the issue to your own family, community, or profession. Attach supporting facts when relevant.
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Make a Phone Call
A quick phone call to a representative’s office can have just as much impact as a written message. Be polite, stay on topic, and ask for a response. Office staff keep records of every call.
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Request a Meeting
If the issue is serious or ongoing, request a short in-person or virtual meeting. You don’t have to go alone—bring others who share your concerns. Prepare talking points and questions in advance.
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Follow Up
If you don’t get a response within two weeks, follow up. If they still don’t respond, consider posting publicly (respectfully) to draw attention to their silence.
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Tips for Effective Communication
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Be concise — stick to one issue per message
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Be courteous — anger closes doors; professionalism opens them
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Be factual — include key points, links, or documents
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Be local — always mention that you are a constituent
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Be public — consider CCing a local news outlet or sharing on social media
Tools Provided by MST
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Sample Letters to MLAs, MPs, and Councillors
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Sample Phone Scripts for Urgent Issues
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Meeting Request Templates
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Quick-Reference Guide: Responsibilities by Government Level
Real Example
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"We sent your template letter to all 57 MLAs about Bill 4. Within days, we received six responses—including two from MLAs who said they were reconsidering their stance. That never would have happened if we had stayed silent.
— MST Member, St.Clements
Section Two
Organizing Local Delegations
Presenting as a group to your city or municipal council is one of the most impactful ways to challenge harmful policy or propose alternatives.
Tools Included:
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Step-by-step guide to preparing a delegation
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Sample speaking notes and submission templates
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Real examples of successful MST delegations
Show up. Speak up. Stand together.
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Overview
Appearing as a delegation before your municipal council, school board, or legislative committee is one of the most visible and effective ways to oppose harmful policies or propose solutions. When ordinary citizens present organized, respectful, and well-informed delegations, decision-makers take notice. Even if council members disagree, the public exposure and community support you generate can shift the outcome.
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Delegations demonstrate that you’re not alone—and that you’re willing to stand publicly for what’s right.
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What You Can Do
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Organize a group of like-minded citizens to present a unified message
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Contact the municipal or school board clerk to request to appear as a delegation (follow formal procedures)
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Choose one or two spokespersons to deliver a clear, concise message
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Bring printed copies of your presentation to distribute to councillors or trustees
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Ask supporters to attend the meeting in person, wearing a common color or button to show unity
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Record or livestream the meeting when permitted to spread awareness
Tips for Effective Delegations
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Focus your presentation on one clear issue or demand
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Keep your remarks under 10 minutes unless otherwise allowed
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Practice beforehand—anticipate questions or pushback
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Be respectful, even if council members are dismissive or disagree
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Follow up with a written summary and copy of your delegation for the public record
Tools Provided by MST
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Sample delegation request email
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Sample 5–10 minute speaking script
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Printable handouts and reports to leave with councillors
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Delegation preparation checklist
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Visual templates for posters, buttons, or signs to show unity
Real Example
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“After attending MST’s delegation training, we formed a group of parents and presented to our local school board about mask mandates and mental health. The board didn’t reverse course immediately, but they extended the consultation period and opened up community feedback—something they never planned to do.”
— MST Member, Selkirk
Section Three
Petitions, Open Letters & Community Campaigns
Well-organized petitions and open letters can rally public support and draw media attention—especially when combined with in-person advocacy.
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Tools Included:
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Templates for creating effective petitions (both print and digital)
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Sample open letters and advice on getting signatures
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Outreach strategies to build local momentum
Organize your voice—and amplify it.
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Overview
Petitions and open letters are time-tested tools for organizing public pressure. When written clearly and promoted effectively, they can rally supporters, attract media attention, and force elected officials to take notice. These tools are especially effective when combined with other efforts like delegations, emails, or public meetings.
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Whether you’re trying to stop a harmful policy, demand transparency, or push for change, a well-crafted campaign can shift the conversation—and the outcome.
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What You Can Do
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Launch a physical or online petition with a clear demand and brief explanation
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Write an open letter and gather signatures from community members, professionals, or organizations
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Deliver the petition or letter to elected officials with a media release or public event
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Distribute leaflets or postcards to raise awareness in your local area
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Use social media, email, and word of mouth to spread your campaign
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Encourage local media to cover the campaign or write a follow-up op-ed
Tips for Effective Campaigns
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Keep your messaging short, factual, and emotionally compelling
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Use one strong headline or call to action to unify your materials
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Be honest about your goal and how people can help
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Offer multiple ways for people to participate (sign, share, donate, attend)
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Set a clear deadline and plan a formal delivery or announcement
Tools Provided by MST
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Petition templates (print and digital)
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Open letter writing guide and samples
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Flyers and social media graphics templates
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Sample press release for campaign delivery
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Checklist for local canvassing and outreach
Real Example
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“We attended MST’s information session concerning the WMR Plan20-50. We delivered the printed handouts provided to every councillor. The council later confirmed it influenced their vote to withdraw from the WMR.”
— MST Organizer, West St. Paul
Section Four
Speaking at Public Hearings or Committee Meetings
Governments often hold public hearings or invite submissions. Most citizens don’t participate—but your voice matters.
Tools Included:
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Guide to finding out when and where to speak
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Tips for preparing a confident, concise 5-minute submission
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Advice for presenting online or in person
When you speak on the record, you shape the record.
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Overview
Public hearings and committee meetings are official venues where governments claim to listen to citizens—but they often go unheard simply because too few people show up. Participating in these sessions allows you to speak directly into the public record, influence elected officials, and educate other attendees. Whether it’s a local zoning bylaw, a school board decision, or a provincial bill, your voice matters in these formal settings.
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Many Canadians don't realize how accessible these opportunities are—and how impactful they can be.
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What You Can Do
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Monitor local council, school board, or legislative websites for announcements of upcoming hearings
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Register to speak if required, or attend to listen and support others
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Prepare a short, focused 3–5 minute statement or presentation
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Attend with others to show support and increase presence
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Submit a written copy of your remarks for the official record
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Follow up afterward with a letter to the committee or council summarizing your position
Tips for Effective Public Testimony
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Stick to facts, but speak with emotion and personal relevance
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Be concise—these meetings often have strict time limits
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If you're nervous, read your statement slowly and calmly
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If they cut your time short, ensure your full remarks are submitted in writing
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Dress respectfully and conduct yourself professionally to make a strong impression
Tools Provided by MST
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Sample statements for public hearings
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A checklist for preparing your remarks
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Submission templates for written records
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List of questions you can pose to officials or boards
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Weekly updates on upcoming public consultation opportunities (via email list)
Real Example
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“I spoke at a provincial standing committee hearing about Bill 3 using MST’s sample testimony. It was my first time doing something like that, but I got messages afterward from people in the audience thanking me for giving voice to their concerns.”
— MST Member, Winnipeg
Section Five
Amplifying Your Message Through Media
The mainstream media may ignore your story—but you can still be heard. Learn how to use social media, local press, and alternative platforms to get your message out.
Tools Included:
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Templates for letters to the editor
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Press release formats and event promotion advice
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Building your own newsletter, blog, or podcast
If the legacy media won’t tell your story—tell it yourself.
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Overview
Getting your message out to the public is just as important as getting it to elected officials. In a media environment where mainstream outlets often ignore or misrepresent citizen concerns, it’s vital to develop your own communication strategy. Whether through letters to the editor, alternative media interviews, or social media campaigns, your voice can reach thousands when you use the right tools.
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You don’t need a journalism degree—you just need to speak the truth and stay consistent.
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What You Can Do
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Write and submit letters to the editor or opinion pieces to local newspapers
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Record short videos sharing your story or perspective and post them on social media
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Share reliable articles and advocacy updates through email lists or community groups
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Connect with independent journalists, bloggers, or podcasters to tell your story
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Organize public events that attract attention and create media-worthy moments
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Tag elected officials and media in your posts to increase visibility and accountability
Tips for Effective Messaging
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Keep your message clear and personal—people respond to real stories, not slogans
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Use plain language and avoid jargon or complex political terms
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Stay respectful, even when being critical—it strengthens your credibility
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Be visual—include photos, infographics, or short video clips when possible
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Post consistently across platforms, not just once
Tools Provided by MST
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Letter to the editor templates
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Press release sample formats
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Social media caption and graphic templates
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Media contact list for Manitoba and national alternative media
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Training guides for giving interviews or hosting live video streams
Real Example
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“When our local paper refused to cover our delegation, we followed MST’s advice and filmed our own 3-minute summary. We posted it online with links to the documents, and within a week, it had over 10,000 views—and we got picked up by two independent news platforms.”
— MST Member, Stonewall
Section Six
Real Success Stories
Manitobans just like you have changed policy, defeated bad legislation, and educated their neighbours. Read their stories and get inspired.
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Examples Include:
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MST campaigns that halted Plan20-50
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Municipal withdrawals from the Winnipeg Metro Region
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Citizen-driven resistance to school mandates and digital ID proposals
Everyday citizens. Extraordinary impact.
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Overview
Behind every political shift, policy reversal, or public awakening are the quiet efforts of regular people who took action. Manitoba Stronger Together has worked alongside citizens across the province who proved that one voice—or a dozen—can make a difference. These are not professional lobbyists or career politicians. They’re farmers, teachers, parents, business owners, and retirees who decided to show up and speak out.
These success stories remind us that change is possible when the truth is shared and people work together.
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Examples of Impact
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Plan20-50 Withdrawals
Citizens in multiple municipalities used MST’s reports, seminars, and leaflets to educate their councils on the dangers of centralized planning under the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region. Within months, several councils voted to withdraw—leading to provincial legislation (Bills 3 & 4) that gave municipalities a legal pathway to exit. -
Stopping School Policy Overreach
Concerned parents in eastern Manitoba organized delegations to their school board using MST templates and testimony. They halted a proposal that would have implemented permanent mask requirements and mandated digital health status tracking for students. -
Freedom Convoy Support and Legal Awareness
During and after the Freedom Convoy in 2022, MST helped citizens organize local rallies, communicate with elected officials, and access legal resources to fight ticketing, bank account freezes, and other retaliation. In many cases, charges were dropped or public pressure forced reversals. -
Local Delegations That Changed the Vote
In small-town Manitoba, citizens used MST’s delegation training to appear before their municipal council regarding property tax increases and unelected regional boards. Their organized presentations helped swing a critical vote by one councillor—stopping the measure entirely. -
Public Campaigns That Went Viral
An MST-supported petition opposing the rollout of Digital ID in Manitoba reached thousands and was hand-delivered to MLAs. Videos explaining the technology’s implications were widely circulated, helping to slow momentum and spark broader public debate.
Takeaway
These aren’t isolated victories—they’re proof that determined, informed citizens can stand up to government overreach, misinformation, and inertia. The more we share and learn from each other, the stronger we all become.
Section Seven
The Ultimate Act of Advocacy
Why you must consider running for elected office.
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This section is pivotal in empowering citizens to take direct action when current representatives fail to serve the public interest.
Below is a comprehensive guide on how to run for office in Canada, broken down by level of government, including eligibility criteria and official resources for more information.
Run for Office: Be the Change
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When your representatives no longer represent you, it's time to step forward.
Federal Office (Member of Parliament - MP)
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Why It Matters:
Serving as an MP allows you to influence national legislation, represent your constituents on the federal stage, and hold the government accountable.
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Eligibility Criteria:
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Must be a Canadian citizen.
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At least 18 years old on election day.
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Not disqualified under the Canada Elections Act (e.g., certain public officials, individuals convicted of election offences).
Nomination Requirements:
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Submit a completed nomination paper (Form EC 20010) with at least 100 signatures from eligible voters in your riding.
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Provide a deposit of $1,000.
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See Elections Canada website, Manual for Becoming a Candidate.
​Resources:
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Elections Canada – Becoming a Candidate
Provincial Office (Member of the Legislative Assembly - MLA)
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Why It Matters:
As an MLA, you can shape provincial laws, budgets, and policies that directly affect areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
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Eligibility Criteria (Manitoba):
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Must be a Canadian citizen.
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At least 18 years old.
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A resident of Manitoba for at least six months before the election.
Nomination Requirements:
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Submit nomination papers with signatures from at least 100 voters in your electoral division.
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Appoint an official agent and auditor.
Resources:
Municipal Office (Mayor or Councillor)
Why It Matters:
Municipal officials make decisions on local services, zoning, and community development, directly impacting daily life.
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Eligibility Criteria (Manitoba):
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Must be a Canadian citizen.
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At least 18 years old.
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A resident of the municipality for at least six months before the election.
Nomination Requirements:
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Submit nomination papers with the required number of signatures from eligible voters in your municipality.
Resources:
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Province of Manitoba – Municipal Elections FAQ
School Board Trustee
Why It Matters:
Trustees oversee the education system at the local level, influencing policies that affect students, teachers, and families.
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Eligibility Criteria (Manitoba):
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Must be a Canadian citizen.
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At least 18 years old.
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A resident of the school division for at least six months before the election.
Nomination Requirements:
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Submit nomination papers with the required number of signatures from eligible voters in your school division.
Resources:
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Final Thoughts:
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Running for office is a significant commitment, but it's also a powerful way to effect change. If you're considering this path, start by researching the specific requirements for your desired position and reach out to your local election office for guidance. Remember, democracy thrives when citizens like you step up to lead.
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Think You Can’t Win? Think Again.
Most local elections are decided by a handful of votes—or none at all.
Section Eight
Key Takeaways
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You don’t need to be an expert to make an impact.
The most powerful advocacy often comes from regular citizens who speak from the heart and show up consistently. Your lived experience matters. -
Persistence beats perfection.
You don’t have to get it perfect—just get started. Whether it’s a phone call, a delegation, or a social media post, your action creates momentum. -
Your elected officials work for you.
MPs, MLAs, and councillors are not your rulers—they are your representatives. Remind them of that. Hold them accountable with facts, clarity, and public pressure. -
Organize locally, influence nationally.
Many of the biggest policy wins start at the municipal level. Get to know your local council, school board, and provincial representatives—they’re easier to reach and influence than you think. -
Use every tool available.
Emails, petitions, open letters, delegations, media statements, and Zoom presentations all contribute to pressure and public awareness. Layer your efforts. -
Never underestimate the power of numbers.
One voice can be dismissed. Ten voices get noticed. A hundred voices can shift policy. Work with others—organize, coordinate, and act together. -
Courage is contagious.
When one person speaks out, others are encouraged to do the same. Be the first voice in the room—you won’t be alone for long.