January 11, 2023 – Liberals in Hamilton Centre have nominated Deirdre Pike, a justice advocate, community researcher, and 2SLGBTQI+ training facilitator, as their Ontario Liberal Party (OLP) candidate for the upcoming by-election.
“Deirdre is a proven fighter who has always advocated for positive change to make life better for Ontarians,” said OLP Interim Leader, John Fraser. “I am thrilled to have Deirdre on our team, and I look forward to having her join us at Queen’s Park as we continue to hold the Conservatives accountable for their reckless agenda.”
In 2001, Deirdre Pike joined the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton, retiring recently as a Senior Social Planner. Pike became known for her facilitation skills, community-based research, and policy work in poverty reduction, affordable housing and homelessness, and creating 2SLGBTQI+ positive spaces.
Since 2019, Deirdre has been the Justice and Outreach Program Consultant for the Anglican Diocese of Niagara. Her focus there has included climate justice, truth and reconciliation, human trafficking awareness, food insecurity, and anti-racism education. Pike is also the principal facilitator in Queer Positive Power, leading 2SLGBTQI+ Positive Space training.
“I am excited to represent the Ontario Liberals in the upcoming Hamilton Centre by-election,” said Pike. “It’s time to hold Doug Ford accountable for his broken promises, which have had terrible impacts on people’s lives and on our environment. Let’s work together to bring an Ontario Liberal government back to take progressive action to improve people’s lives.”
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