This week I attended a local community information meeting about independent power projects (IPPs). The meeting was organized by area residents who are concerned about the development of IPPs and the lack of engagement on the issue from our local government. So, with the specific purpose of sharing information and insights about IPPS, these “regular folks” organized an information meeting for the community.
The turnout was impressive. Substantial efforts were made by community members to promote the meeting by spreading the word through in-person and on-line networks. Friends brought friends. Neighbours invited neighbours. More than a 150 people packed the local legion to listen to representatives from the Western Canada Wilderness Committee and the Watershed Watch Salmon Society.
And while the presenters at the meeting shared important information about IPPs and the challenges that they currently present, it was their broader messages about community engagement and democracy in action that really resonated with me. They spoke about how community awareness and action, through vocal sharing of ideas, is still the best way to make change happen. And the evening’s meeting was a fine example of just that.
Despite being aware of the individual’s role in democracy, too often we underestimate the power that we have as citizens. When community voices come together and create a critical mass, then our voices have power. That power needs to be flexed more often I our efforts to effect change, from the local government level right on up to the federal level.
Activating your democratic rights has incredible value and doesn’t cost a thing; it just requires a little time and energy. Got an issue in your community? Then try this:
- Bring a few like-minded people together.
- Organize a meeting; don’t wait for your elected officials or city hall to do it.
- Distribute good information that invites people to attend and then ask them to invite more.
- Use your voice and encourage others to use theirs.
The speakers at the IPP information meeting reminded us that we live in a democracy – and challenged us to use the rights that living in a democracy brings us:
- to agree;
- to disagree;
- to organize;
- to speak out;
- and to take peaceful action.
If we don’t exercise and practice our democratic rights on a regular basis, it’s easy to take them for granted. In fact, complacency is something that most governments count on.
So embrace democracy. It’s a fragile condition that is about so much more than just casting a ballot every three or four years. Pay attention, show up, ask questions, get answers and find solutions.
No matter what side of an issue you may be on, value the freedom you have to express your opinion and engage in public debate. And never, ever take it for granted.
~ Maureen Douglas, CPF-IAF. Mo writes, consults and speaks about values-based teams and leadership; and public and community engagement. Click here for Mo’s FREE e-Guide to Better Public Engagement. Follow her on Twitter.
