Heavenly Father thank you for Shane Simpson, an advocate for the people. We thank you that he has worked to make the lives of the less fortunate better. He is qualified not only because he has lived in the area he works, but also because his heart is truly focused on providing housing, good working conditions and equality for all. Lord, thank You that his experience as an instructor in the Community Economic Development program, truly enables him to implement the principles he taught in his constituency, which includes East Hastings. Lord, please continue to give him innovative ways of bringing the standard of living of the less fortunate to a higher level. Do not let him become weary in well doing. Bless him and his partner Cate and their daughter………………………..
Shane Simpson was first elected MLA for Vancouver Hastings in May. He was re-elected in 2009, 2013, and 2017. He is the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
Shane served as Opposition Spokesperson for Economic Development, Jobs, Labour and Skills and Opposition Caucus Chair. He has also served as Opposition Critic for Labour, Housing and the Environment.
Born and raised in East Vancouver, Shane has lived, worked, and engaged in community-building activities in his community since 1971.
In his professional career, Shane has worked as the Director of Policy and Communications for Smart Growth BC, chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, an instructor in the Community Economic Development program at Simon Fraser University, Executive Director of the Worker Ownership Resource Center, Legislative Coordinator for the Canadian Union of Public Employees, coordinator and fundraiser for the Ray Cam Cooperative Center, Executive Assistant to former Vancouver East MP Margaret Mitchell, and as a self-employed consultant on business and economic development for labour, co-operative and non-profit groups.
Shane was the recipient of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for his contribution to community in 2002. In 1992, he was awarded the Governor General’s 125th Anniversary Commemorative Medal for Community Service.