Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Khadijah Haliru is serving her first term as a councillor for the town of Ingersoll and has thrown her hat in the ring to serve as Oxford County’s Member of Provincial Parliament.
Haliru described herself as a community leader and business owner in addition to her role as a member of council.
“Since immigrating to the USA in 2003 and Canada in 2006, I have worked to bring people together through business, local governance, or grassroots initiatives to create real opportunities for families and workers anywhere I am. Strong communities are built when people feel supported, their concerns are heard, and when leadership is focused on real solutions that improve everyday lives.”
She has lived in smaller communities like Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Mission, BC, as well as major cities like Toronto, Brampton, and Vancouver.
“I’ve seen firsthand the disparities in funding, services, and opportunities. Rural areas and smaller towns often carry the burden of growth without receiving the same level of investment as bigger cities. This perspective allows me to recognize what’s missing in our approach to development and advocate for solutions that ensure Oxford County gets its fair share. I believe in leadership that listens, takes action, and fights for real change that uplifts families, workers, and businesses alike.”
Haliru said her interest in politics comes from a belief that leadership is about standing up when it matters most.
“Over the years, I’ve watched as critical services like education, healthcare, and social support, were eroded by funding cuts. I saw how my children’s friends were affected when the first round of Ford’s cuts hit education and disability programs. Families struggled to find adequate care for their children with special needs, while others had to make impossible choices between work and caregiving.”
She said the pandemic resulted in the loss of nurses, doctors, and frontline staff because they were exhausted and unappreciated.
“Now, we face a healthcare system stretched too thin, with wait times growing and fewer professionals to rely on. Meanwhile, students who once dreamed of a better future have had to walk away from post-secondary education because they couldn’t afford the costs, even when financial aid existed. A generation of young people was lost simply because they lacked access to opportunity.”
There are four main issues in her campaign, starting with education and opportunities for youth.
“We need to restore funding to schools, invest in disability programs, and ensure post-secondary education is accessible to all. Every child deserves a fair shot at success, no matter their background or financial situation.”
She added it is also time to properly invest in healthcare by retaining doctors and nurses, addressing burnout and expand healthcare access in rural communities like Oxford County. Building affordable and inclusive communities is also top of mind.
“Oxford is growing, but without smart housing solutions, proper childcare support, and job security, many families are struggling to keep up. We need bold action to ensure that our region remains a place where people can thrive.”
Haliru added she wants to bring back real support for working families.
“That means investing in affordable childcare, especially for children with disabilities, so that parents aren’t forced to choose between work and caregiving. It means ensuring healthcare workers get the wages and respect they deserve, so we don’t lose more nurses and doctors. And it means making sure our schools have the resources to give every child a quality education.”
The Echo also asked Haliru if there were any issues specific to local communities:
Woodstock – Expand housing options and improve public transportation. Ensure new developments include affordable housing options.
Ingersoll – Strengthen healthcare access and ensure infrastructure keeps pace with growth. Strengthen disability and social support programs for families who need them most.
Tavistock – Invest in rural infrastructure and make sure small communities aren’t left behind. Address the unique needs of agricultural support.
”This election is about more than party loyalty. It’s about choosing leadership that understands what families are going through. I encourage everyone, no matter their political background, to think about what kind of future we want for Oxford. Do we want to keep struggling with underfunded schools, an overstretched healthcare system, and a lack of real economic opportunity? Or do we want leadership that will fight for solutions that truly make a difference?”
She added voters can’t afford four more years of Doug Ford.
“I believe we can do better. We need fresh Ideas. It's been 30 years since the last NDP government. The party has changed, the priorities have changed and the people have changed. I know we can build a stronger Oxford with current policies that will drive growth, where every person—no matter their background—has access to the services, education, and opportunities they need to succeed. I am ready to step up and fight for that vision.”
Kommentare