The Ontario office of the Green Party announced confirmation of Riden’s as its candidate in an email release to local news outlets April 5. A long-time resident of the area, Riden is well-known for his dedication to sustainable and organic farming practices.

« COVID-19 laid bare the stark realities of food insecurity, supply chain fragility, inequality, and the intensifying impacts of the climate emergency, » stated Riden. « We need to urgently crush climate pollution and protect nature to build a more liveable and sustainable province. »

Riden is on the board of directors of the Eco-East non-profit group that is lobbying municipalities within Prescott-Russell and also the United Counties of Prescott-Russell for a regional climate action plan. He was involved in helping Beau’s Brewery Ltd. in Vankleek Hill get its certification as a B-Corp, advocating for the company on the Sustain Ontario board of directors, and helping to manage the brewery’s organic certification status.

« Thaila is a champion for his community and the environment, » stated Mike Schreiner, Ontario Green Party leader. « Ontario needs more voices at Queen’s Park with a true commitment to stewardship and sustainability. »