Candidate: Susan Gapka

Who are you?

My name is Susan Gapka and I am completing a Specialised Honours in Public Policy and Administration in Political Science at York University. While at York, I have served as a member of the York Senate, Board of Governors, TBLG Commissioner for the Canadian Federation of Students, and the York Federation of Students, York’s central student union. I have also served on the City’s LGBT Issues Committee, Homeless Advisory Committee, and Police Services’ LGBTT Community Advisory Committee. I have also served on the Board of Egale Canada and helped to secure funding and organise the first Canadian Harm Reduction Conference, held in Toronto. On December 9, 2004, I received the City’s Pride Award in recognition for my work.


Why are you running?

I am running for City Idol because I want to see more effective and inclusive representation at City Hall. Underrepresented populations such as: women; LGBT people; youth; people of colour; low income people; and people with disabilities must be well represented, and City Idol has the potential to give voice to these communities. I want to contribute to City Idol as a political empowerment project which will support emerging voices and ideas, and inject them into our local political structures.


What should a City Councillor be?

A City Councillor should be a representative of all their Ward’s residents, regardless of class, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation & gender identity, or ability. It is a Councillor’s responsibility to use their skills and abilities to be an advocate for our citizens, and work on their behalf on the issues. A Councillor should meet frequently with residents to better understand their issues, and through a participatory political process, empower them to work together to develop strategies that work within their own communities.


Anything else?

I will work hard to earn your support for City Idol!

We need new leaders.