Our Meeting With Dr. Graham White

We had the privilege of meeting Dr. Graham White, an alumnus of OLIP’s inaugural cohort (1976-1977), former Clerk at the Ontario Legislature (1978-1984), and OLIP Academic Director (1987-1994). Dr. White is an expert on the structures and processes of Canadian government; his research spans Queen’s Park, Nunavut, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.

In preparation for our trip to the Northwest Territories (NWTs), Dr. White briefed us on the NWTs legislature, geographic landscape, and current political climate. This conversation allowed us to begin analyzing the NWTs and Ontario's legislative similarities and differences. We also learned about Dr. White's research on establishing Nunavut's governance structures in the late 90s. Since the NWT is the furthest North many of use have ever travelled, Dr. White's briefing introduced us to the unique historical background that has shaped governance in Northern Canada.

More recently, he visited us again to share his insights into how Queen’s Park has evolved over the decades. We found it particularly interesting to learn how changes in House proceedings have often been instituted to make MPP participation easier. These changes to the Standing Orders include making House proceedings more family friendly or expanding the legislative library and research services. It was also fascinating to learn about initial hesitancies to allow any form of technology in the House, whereas using technology in the House (e.g. recording Question period, having personal laptops / phones on hand, etc.) is now accepted as an important method to promote democratic participation. Our discussion on changes over time opened reflection on practices that have endured centuries. These traditions include the Page Program or a longstanding practice for OLIP interns to commemorate their cohort with a fun plaque.

Meeting with a member of OLIP’s very first cohort was a great reminder of the program’s impact and the generations of interns it has shaped. Thank you, Dr. White, for your generosity in sharing your expertise and for your enduring support of OLIP!