"To not only see one black person elected but three is inspirational and it motivates me to be more politically involved," says Johise Namwira, a young black voter.

For the first time in 148 years, Manitoba has elected black MLAs into its legislative chambers. 

Ultimately, "voting is our collective voice, it's the way we respond to the policies and laws and practices that the government has put in place," says Chimwemwe Undi, Poet and Robson Hall law student.

This year that vote felt extra special to Undi because she was able to vote for a friend and help elect one of the three black MLAs through her riding, Union Station. She says that it is important for citizens to vote every year and in every election because politics is about the people.

"The people who represent us in the building make concrete decisions on everything. It is really important to me and a lot of people in my community because they need to represent the population of Manitoba and of Canada to the best of their abilities," says Undi.

Some were inspired by the presence of black MLAs in the election. "To see people say 'I'm going to go all the way, I'm going to go as far as I can, and push boundaries to try and break the mold,' it's super cool," says Troy Lydiate, Artist and engineer for Scribe music.

Lydiate encourages the black community and Christians at large to use their voices during elections. "It's important for Christians to play an active role [in politics], with a kingdom mindset." 

On seeing the success of three black candidates he says,

Now there are a lot of young black kids that are going to see someone that looks like them in a place of stature.

Undi believes that seeing herself in the leaders reinforces trust in them."The ability to speak to our needs is enhanced when the people in the legislature have faced them as well."

To learn more check out: History made with Manitoba's first black MLAs elected