There are 32 registered political parties in British Columbia but those that are well-known to voters can be counted on one hand.

This is understandable. The more-established parties have large advertising budgets and long histories in B.C. Thus, leading up to the May 12 general election, media attention is naturally drawn to these big players.

Before the start of this campaign period, Elections B.C. invited all provincial political parties to submit a brief statement which describes their platform for the 2009 election.

Twelve of the 32 registered parties responded. Outside of the big four—the Liberals, NDP, Greens, and Conservatives—here are some excerpts from statements submitted by B.C.’s smaller political players.

B.C. Marijuana Party: “Our purpose is to bring awareness and attention in ending the prohibition of marijuana. We believe in responsible cannabis use. We want full legalization, regulation and taxation.”

B.C. Refederation Party: “BC Refed is the ballot name of the new centrist party in BC that will give BC voters control over BC politicians, bureaucrats and judges by means of a binding citizens’ veto. That is not government by referendum. It is control of government by referendum - at last.”

Reform Party of B.C.: “Over the last ten years, the office of the Premier has maximized the public pension fund profits of the BC Investment Management Corporation (bcIMC) at the expense of most of British Columbia’s four million people”¦.Sending another NDP or BC Liberal to Victoria will not change a thing.”

Communist Party of B.C.: “During the terrible economic crisis shaking the capitalist system today, the message of the Communist Party of BC for radical socialist change is more relevant than ever. For over a century, wealthy corporate interests have ruthlessly exploited workers, stolen the unceded lands and waters of Aboriginal peoples, and plundered B.C.’s environment and natural wealth for a quick profit.”

B.C. Libertarian Party: “Libertarians believe there is too much government interference in our lives. We want more choice in health care, education, car insurance, farm products and in many other areas of life where government regulations restrict voluntary capitalist acts between consenting adults.”

The Sex Party: “The Sex Party aims to develop a sex-positive culture. We are the world’s first registered political party dedicated exclusively to sex-positive issues.”

Western Canada Concept: “We believe Confederation for British Columbia was and is a mistake. We seek to build the new nation of Western Canada chosen by referendum in each of the four provinces, in which a clear question would be answered in the affirmative by a clear majority of over 50% of votes cast.”

YPP-of-BC: “YOUR POLITICAL PARTY OF BC is dedicated to making BC better for all British Columbians. YPP-of-BC would make the budget completely public down to the last tax dollar so that every taxpayer can see exactly where each dollar is being spent.”