In Barry's own words
Barry Douglas Jacklin on the events that led him to run for Mayor of London, Ontario.
The tragedy of my partner's death prompted me to ask questions. After a year of silence, I decided to run for office myself.
I have protested outside City Hall and the Police headquarters. My grief is shared by many. I met many people with similar stories. And I met the homeless, developing Plan B with their input as well as ideas from residents, business owners and their employees.
Partner of Barry Douglas Jacklin.
Kevin and I were together for 33 years. He was diagnosed with stage-four cancer and later suffered a heart attack. I called for help. London sent paramedics, multiple police cruisers, the fire department and the SWAT team.
From my perspective, the response left me with profound questions about how emergency services respond to vulnerable people and families in crisis. After Kevin's death, I began asking those questions. I wanted to understand why the response unfolded as it did and why I could not get clear answers.
I approached politicians and public officials who I believed had a responsibility to listen and represent me. I felt ignored. I continued seeking answers from the organizations involved and was left with more questions.
For me, this was the beginning of something much larger.
Over the past two years, I have spoken with many Londoners who have shared their own difficult experiences dealing with emergency services and public institutions. Their stories have reinforced my belief that people need to be heard, that public institutions need to be accountable, and that government must be willing to answer difficult questions.
Being a public servant means serving the public. Representing people means representing those who agree with you as well as those who do not.
My experience has convinced me that London needs greater transparency, accountability and a willingness to listen to people who feel they have nowhere else to turn.
This must change.
I am asking London voters to give me the opportunity to show that it is possible to speak openly, ask difficult questions, do what is right and defend human decency.
I have nothing to hide. I would rather be a shining light.
Where Barry stands
Barry's stated campaign priorities, including Plan B, Cop City, and Community.