My STEP Signature Project was an education abroad opportunity to intern at the Canadian Parliament. This involved direct engagement with the House of Commons and the legislative process as a staffer in an MPs office as well as access to multiple networking and career-building opportunities on Parliament Hill.
I interned with an MP from a rural and primarily French-speaking riding in Quebec. During this internship, I was tasked with responding to constituency mail, attending House committee meetings, assisting in research, and other miscellaneous tasks. I also went out of my way to work with offices that represented my interests in immigration, foreign affairs, and indigenous populations.
Being given an opportunity to be immersed in the federal politics of another country was a unique experience. It not only provided me with the opportunity to view U.S. politics from a different lens, but also motivated me to get further involved politically. The way constituencies, albeit large or small, influence structures of power fascinated me. In Canada’s case, the transparency that the government had with its citizens as well as profound acceptance of multiculturalism heavily impacted the relationship between Members of Parliament and their respective ridings (districts). I also felt very inspired and represented seeing the number of Muslim or South Asian or women MPs there were. Seeing the diversity of perspectives and communities represented in the House led me to feel optimistic about the future of government.
These experiences to learn about francophone culture in Quebec paired with exploring a multitude of global issues were distinctive from what a textbook could have provided me with. To even sit in on meetings that would make the news the next day or meet important figures daily in both social and political contexts was something I will never forget. I left Canada feeling inspired and fortunate enough to have the capability and the resources to pursue a career in law and one day enact change.
Additionally, the duration of this internship aligned completely with Ramadan, a month of fasting for Muslims. Because of this, several Parliament iftars (dinners where people break their fast at sunset) were hosted. When I attended some of these, I was in awe at the number of Muslim staffers, MPs, and Ministers as well as the number of non-Muslims that attended in solidarity. That community not only made me feel at home and welcome but also gave me the conviction that it was extremely possible for me to be successful and included in politics.
Another experience that really impacted me was being able to witness a lagre group from the Wasagamack First Nations people arrive at Parliament and meet with their MPs to discuss issues plaguing their communities. They had walked for three months from Winnipeg, Manitoba to Ottawa, Ontario to raise issues about drug abuse and the systematic injustices that they face daily. Their resilience and strength is something that I think about often now. This group that had just arrived included people of all ages, in search of better prospects for themselves and their children. Those are the people that I would like to help and fight for one day.
This experience was integral to keep me motivated to follow my goals. Witnessing the ways in which policies affect various communities opened my eyes to effective governance strategies. I want to become an immigration lawyer and provide legal services to communities in-need, seeking asylum or sanctity in the United States. How this opportunity broadened my horizons and exposed me to so many incredible people in both social and professional contexts is something that I will carry with me always. Because of this, I am more confident about my skills, my career path, and myself.
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This sounds like a pretty powerful experience in terms of what you learned. Thanks for sharing.