Endorsements

Albert Dumont

In my eyes, Joel is a good activist! He has proven this many times since I have known him. Whether you are a government worker or a member of any other workforce residing in Ottawa Centre, you can count on Joel to defend your rights. I've voted for the Liberals in the past but in the next election I will be voting NDP. The Liberals and Conservatives aren't making any sense, not 'sense' as I understand the meaning of the word! They kowtow to the goals and ambitions of a certain segment of the community only. The interest of the common folk seem to be the furthest things from their minds. It's time for a change.

Albert Dumont, member of the Anishinabe Algonquin Nation (Host Nation)

Yamikani Msosa

I first met Joel in 2017, and since then, he has been a steadfast advocate for justice in Ottawa Centre.

Joel is authentic, kind, and accountable—a truly community-driven leader.

He demonstrates a willingness to step aside when necessary, sharing his power and privilege in practical ways to uplift his constituents and the broader community.

Whether it's addressing transit issues, championing environmental initiatives, supporting survivors of gender-based violence, or tackling other pressing social justice concerns, Joel consistently shows the courage to collaborate across party lines to get the job done.

Yamikani Msosa, Community Organizer, Ottawa Centre

Matthew Green

In a time of rising far-right conservatism and deep economic uncertainty, Canadians need strong, principled voices to stand against Pierre Poilievre and his far-right Conservatives in defence of human rights, equity, and social justice. Joel Harden has proven that he is exactly the kind of leader we need right now.

He has consistently shown up for the people of Ottawa Centre and for Canadians across the country, whether standing alongside his neighbours challenging the convoy protests, demanding an end to the genocide in Palestine, fighting the climate crisis, or advancing economic justice. Joel’s unapologetic commitment to these values defines his leadership as an MPP and his lifetime as an activist.

Few organizers have Joel’s ability to build grassroots power, take on entrenched Liberal elites, and win real change for working people.

Matthew Green, MP for Hamilton Centre (2019 - present)

Bill Knight

Joel has always been prepared to take on the tough issues working people face, often before anyone else.

For example my first encounter was work he was doing on nursing home health and safety, long before other public officials.

He is one of the best constituency problem solvers I’ve had the pleasure to know.

If we are serious about winning this federal seat, then Joel is our candidate to do it!

Bill Knight, Former MP (Assiniboia, 1971-1974), Principal Secretary to NDP Leader Ed Broadbent

Jill Andrew

What I have consistently seen Joel demonstrate is a rare ethics of care in both community and the Ontario legislature. I have no doubt that Joel will bring the same tenacity he has brought to the Ontario legislature to the House of Commons our nation’s stage. In a time of great political apathy we desperately need leaders who show up with courage and humility, who can celebrate wins while learning from criticisms, who are organizers, who put humanity before politics, and who we can count on and trust. Joel gives me hope.

Dr. Jill Andrew, PhD, Member of Provincial Parliament Toronto-St. Paul’s (2018 - ), ONDP Culture, Heritage, and Women’s Social & Economic Opportunities Critic; Previous child and youth worker, student equity and human rights advisor, teacher, and columnist

Evelyn Gigantes

I have very much appreciated Joel’s work as our MPP!

He has a strong grasp of Ontario-wide policy initiatives, and an outstanding capacity to help constituents get the government’s attention. Joel is an organizer.

The value of his many years of work stood out in the last Ontario election. Voters in Ottawa Centre gave him more votes than candidates in any other riding.

I’m looking forward to having Joel represent us as our federal MP!

Evelyn Gigantes, MPP for Ottawa Centre (1975-1981; 1985-1987; 1990-1995); former Minister of Health (1991), and Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing (1991-1995).

Jill O’Reilly

Joel focuses on the field, and speaking to everyone. Joel does not skip doors.

That’s how we win. He leads with issues that directly impact low to moderate income families, and never lets up. The public wants a real defender and a hard worker, not just a politician.

I want to do the hard work too, and so does the movement behind Joel.

Jill O’Reilly, 2018 ONDP Campaign Manager (Ottawa Centre)

Sally Thomas

Joel and I met at an art show put on by Ottawa ACORN.

One of my paintings spoke to him and he bought it! It featured the words “NOPE” with bold colours behind it.

My inspiration for the piece was the universe repeatedly stopping me from doing what I loved and wanted to do. I want a government that says “NOPE” to policies that hold Canadians back.

Who will win? Who knows. I do know that Joel tirelessly works to improve the status quo and will put things into action when elected.

Sally Thomas, Paralympian (2004), artist, and community organizer (disability rights and transit)

Shawn Menard

I support Joel because he believes in people, and in the power of local organizing. Joel has consistently shown up and has been there to support our residents and our work to improve quality of life in Ottawa and Capital Ward. I know Joel will be a fiercely independent voice in parliament that will fight for the same principles that inspired me to support him when he motivated thousands of people to believe in a more collective vision as MPP. He will not waver in his dedication to a transformed future. Ottawa and Canada will benefit from having Joel as a Member of Parliament.

Shawn Menard, City Councillor for Capital Ward

Melissa Shaw

When I ran for the Ontario NDP in the Kanata-Carleton by-election last summer, Joel was there for me, along with many Ottawa New Democrats. Our team made that by-election a close three-way race with hard work, often in sweltering heat.

Joel believes that New Democrats can win anywhere. We won the most votes on e-day in Kanata-Carleton last summer. Suburban, rural and urban seats are all winnable with the right strategy. But we must elect organizers who will train and attract organizers.

Ottawa Centre New Democrats: vote Joel Harden, and let’s get to work!

Melissa Shaw (formerly Coenraad), ONDP Candidate for Kanata-Carleton (2023), Regional Vice President and Executive Board member for OPSEU Region 4.

Sam Hersh

I first met Joel as a volunteer on his campaign in 2018 and am still as enthusiastic about him and the movement we created now as I was then. Whether it's on a picket line, at a rally or for an urgent community call Joel is always there.

His passion for his neighbours and our movement is not only what motivates him but also what motivates a new generation of NDP supporters.

I support Joel because he's an organizer and because he isn't afraid to push for the bold, transformative vision that we need - a vision where we can win, and win with principled leadership.

Sam Hersh, Community Organizer

Stephen Lewis

From my point of view, Joel Harden is a dream NDP candidate. He’s extraordinarily bright, principled, caring and decent. Yes, decent.

That’s a quality in short supply amid the vitriol and malice of our current politics. Equally important, Joel has an impressive grasp of all the issues … affordability, housing, disability, climate, equity, the list goes on … and when it comes time to take a stand, he does so with uncompromising integrity.

Above all, Joel understands that the greatest force for good and social change lies at the grassroots. I can say that I have rarely met a politician who gives so much time and energy to working in and with communities.

Joel will help to revitalize social democracy. We need his eloquent voice in the House of Commons. He will do you proud.

Stephen Lewis, MPP for Scarborough West (1963-1978), ONDP Leader (1970-1978), Leader of Ontario’s Official Opposition (1975-1977).

Phoebe Qiao

To me, Joel represents a new approach to politics, anchored in local communities and working class Canadians’ needs. Joel has always worked with local changemakers like ACORN, Ottawa Transit Riders, and Horizon Ottawa, because we all win together when we work together.

It means the world to me as a bisexual trans woman that Joel has shown up again and again for the queer community at counter protests against hate, despite all the violent intimidation from the far-right. It’s crucial we have people on the ground right now fighting the rising tide of hate and offering a hopeful, inclusive vision for Canada.

Joel shows up for us, because WE matter.

Phoebe Qiao, University of Ottawa NDP VP Social

Libby Davies

What good news in these challenging times that Joel is seeking the federal nomination in Ottawa Centre!

His activism and dedication to the community are just what we need for our party.

He will be a fine MP who brings optimism and strength to our movement for social justice and peoples’ rights.

Libby Davies — MP for Vancouver East (1997-2015); House Leader, Federal NDP Caucus (2003-2011).

Sabrina Payant-Smith

When Joel told me that he would be seeking the nomination to become the NDP candidate for Ottawa Centre, I couldn’t have been more excited.

As a young queer person living in Ottawa Centre, Joel is the ultimate ally, always showing up to protests to protect and defend my rights. He uses his power in politics to speak truth to power, uplift marginalized voices, and build solidarity across communities.

This is so important at a time where we are seeing rising hate. Not only is Joel a fantastic defender of human rights, but his organizer roots also ensure that there will always be friends with him to fight the cause.

If Ottawa Centre wants an MP that shows up, that will fight for you, and will bridge divides, the best person for the job is Joel Harden.

Sabrina Payant-Smith, LGTBQ2S Representative, NDP Federal Council.