TORONTO - NDP Leader Howard Hampton today kicked off the party’s Fresh Ideas New Energy convention by inviting delegates to “Get Orange” and fight for a fair deal for working families in the upcoming Ontario provincial election.

"Friends, we are here in Toronto to send the people of Ontario a clear strong message: After three years of Dalton McGuinty's weak leadership, excuses and broken promises, it's time to give Ontario's hard-working families a break - and it's New Democrats who will lead the fight," Mr. Hampton said. 

"I invite progressive people across Ontario to Get Orange and help today’s NDP build a better Ontario – an Ontario that puts working families first, " he said.

Mr. Hampton's call was met with a rousing ovation by the 1,000 New Democrats in attendance. Delegates came from every part of Ontario to attend.

Opening ceremonies began with the Riverdale Children’s Choir singing of O Canada, and a traditional welcome by Wanda Whitebird of the Miq Maq Nation. Toronto City Councillor Paul Fletcher welcomed delegates to the city.

Convention highlights will include Mr. Hampton's keynote address Saturday at 11 a.m., the Convention Leader's Dinner with special guest Shaun Majumder Saturday at 7 p.m., and a keynote address from Jack Layton, Leader of Canada's NDP, Sunday at 12:15 p.m.

The convention is taking place at the Sheraton Centre Toronto, 123 Queen Street West.