Going Public

The Political Spectrum Quiz

Dawn is a left moderate social libertarian. Dawn is also a non-interventionist and culturally liberal.

Dawn's scores (from 0 to 10):

Economic issues:+3.62 left

Social issues:+1.1 libertarian

Foreign policy:+4.79 non-interventionist

Cultural identification:+4.84 liberal

Category:political quizzes

According to the Political Spectrum Quiz on facebook, I'm a left moderate social libertarian as well as being a non-interventionist and culturally liberal. Regardless of the source, this seems pretty accurate to me and when illustrated on a graph, it appears that I couldn't be much closer to dead centre (though left-leaning all the same).

When situated near the centre, rationalizing a stand on various issues can be a bit precarious. Why supportive of government-funded health care, but not of government management of other activities? Why is it ok to publicly administer (un)employment insurance but not provide handouts to failing businesses?

The reasoning for me is that we must differentiate between a universal obligation to look after each other as individuals and the need to let bona fide businesses succeed or fail independently from government interference.

I believe that the mandate of government is to provide strong leadership while competently managing as transparently as possible. Of primary importance is the delivery of universal social services - those areas that would not necessarily deliver a short term monetary return on investment, but are critical to ensuring longer term quality of life for all.

With this lens in place, some recent events have resonated for me:

- this week's dismantling of crown corporation Tourism British Columbia, a highly successful destination marketing organzation, so it can be absorbed into the government of BC. This after 12 years of outstanding achievements on behalf of the tourism industry and many communities throughout the province. It seems counterproductive, as at risk is the marketing discipline and creativity of Tourism BC which has flourished at arms length from government.

- the recent bail outs of big banks and two of three big auto companies in North America. Should our governments be supporting businesses that have failed due to lack of vision and fiscal management? I don't believe they should, although the impact on so many individuals' livelihood, pensions and communities make this one a lot less clear. It seems that creative thinking in government and business, might have come up with wiser, more sustainable solutions.

- the ongoing debate re. universal health care in the US which is dragging other nations' systems into the discussion. This one is of course a no-brainer from my perspective. It's an excellent example of why universal social programs are required because if left only to business and right-leaning ideologues, anyone in need of health care without positions of wealth or power are left to flounder without a social safety net.

NB: As many know, I worked with Tourism British Columbia for six years and have much admiration for the operation, management and staff at the world-renowned and award-winning destination marketing organization.

Have you heard the news?

It's interesting to be of an age that's in between those who live and breathe online and those who have an aversion to ever going there. Truth be told, many of my contemporaries who are not compelled to be online for work or in order to communicate with their kids, aren't there either.

I've lately found myself discussing the pros and cons of social media with friends and siblings. My sister is resisting the requests of her 12-year-old to have a Facebook account for fear of cyberbullying and security risks. My old university room mate has no interest at all in anything beyond using her work email and Blackberry for her job. Many friends are reluctantly on Facebook to be current, but fear they'll be sucked into an inane loss of time should they embrace Twitter.

And while ubiquitous media reports either celebrate the power and reach of social media or project the demise of Facebook first and now Twitter, the digital landscape continues to evolve in some pretty interesting directions. And the key is the power to provide or access instantaneous links to current and relevant news, articles, video, images etc. from a wealth of sources across the world.

The best ways I've been able to explain why some of it works for me include:

- Personal blogs (mine and those of others) have kept me in touch with friends, especially those back in BC, since I left almost three years ago. Blogging also provides a creative outlet including the ability to aggregate photos, video, web links etc.

- Professional blogs in the areas of news, media, marketing and communications provide indepth, current insight from experts in their fields

- Facebook offers the ability to keep up on daily details in friends' lives, in addition to being aware of, and able to engage in, political, charitable and professional issues, trends and news (Facebook.com/dawncharlton)

- Twitter has connected me to the voices of people I wouldn't otherwise hear or even know about across the spectrum of news, current affairs, arts, culture, technology etc. as well as providing a quicker and more succinct way to communicate (Twitter.com/dawncharlton)

Most importantly, these communication channels offer an alternative to the mainstream.

Through tweets from a variety of trusted sources, I was able to monitor the real-time results of a political convention here in Ontario when no news media were providing such coverage. We all know about the role that Twitter has played in communicating from Mumbai during terrorist attacks, from the Hudson River, and in many other circumstances where traditional media weren't there at first.

Of interest this weekend has been the ongoing Twitter coverage of the election results in Iran (see #iranelections). While Twitterers are providing ongoing updates from Tehran and elsewhere including links to some traditional media coverage, a large gap has been noted in CNN's coverage (see #CNNfail) - especially given their publicized race to be first to gain 1 million followers. That said, a lot of the news making its way out of Iran today regarding protests includes the fact that journalists are being detained, cut off from internet services or having their footage confiscated.

All of this is pretty compelling and adds to the debate about the role of social media versus traditional news sources - though in this case, it would seem that both are working together to get the stories out.

PS: Huffington Post is live blogging a comprehensive, chronological list of events in Iran helping to put real time updates into context.

PPS: A friend of a friend now living in Tehran is providing sporadic email updates pretty much confirming the info coming to us via various sources regarding the protests and police crackdowns in the streets. In terms of communications:

"... Most mobile carriers have been cut off, all text messaging has been cut off, our phone at home hasn't worked properly for the last week... I have spent the past 3 days trying to get online every 15 minutes or so and been denied. So I've been watching the news (they haven't bothered cutting off any of the English news, only the BBC Persia and some Arab news networks have been shut down). And while I have not been able to get into my email, I can open other pages, although BBC.com and CNN.com etc. are shut down. ..."

A personal view of a woman's life in Afghanistan

A Thousand Splendid Suns is one of the most powerful novels I've ever read. Given all that's taking place in Afghanistan today, especially regarding the lives and rights of women, I highly recommend this beautifully-written, emotionally-driven story.

Featuring two women who find support, love and strength amid the heartbreak and brutality of their daily lives, it personalized for me the political situation that has existed there for decades. While many are torn about participating in the war, this perspective gave me a different view of why some feel we should continue to fight for the rights and freedoms of all Afghans.

It's hard not to ask why so many civilians and foreign soldiers should be sacrificed in the name of this most current conflict. That said, how can we walk away considering the efforts and recent deaths of real Afghan women who have taken on leadership roles, working to improve their country's future? Or the women, and men, who have seen so many of their civil rights taken away?

It seems that despite the setbacks, it's going to take a concerted effort dependent on force first, but also featuring development and diplomacy. I hope a time will come when armies are no longer visible, nor needed.

Inspiring medical care

Toronto is fortunate to count Dr. Mark Nowashinsky among its dedicated citizens. See this CBC piece on his efforts to care for senior patients in the city with house calls, as well as his advocacy for improved home-based health care services. Compelling, inspiring and another wake up to the need for more realistic and effective health care reform in Ontario and Canada. Especially as the ranks of older adults will continue to swell in the coming decades. 

This doctor with a camera is a true visionary. 

Thanking Paul Martin

I was fortunate to attend the Toronto Public Library Foundation's Book Lover's Ball on February 12, which was great fun and a memorable occasion. The Ball is an annual event for library supporters including many of Toronto's philanthropic and political leaders as well as 56 of Canada's outstanding authors. Writers attending included Margaret Atwood, Alissa York, Joy Fielding, M.G. Vassanji, Paul Quarrington, Russell Smith, Vincent Lam, Wayson Choy, Debbie Travis, Ian Brown, Dan Hill, Jan Wong and Christie Blatchford, among many more.

My highlight, however, was realizing that former Prime Minister Paul Martin was there (having recently released his memoir Hell or High Water). I noticed him upon arriving at Toronto's renowned Royal York Hotel as he mingled with guests. 

At that moment I knew I must meet him. While dinner and speeches ensued, it was in the back of my mind that I would make my way to his table to say hello. 

That amid the flurry of mingling and events onstage - including a live auction and fashion show as well as a video tribute by Rick Mercer and wonderful MC duties performed by CBC's Diana Swain. It was all very exciting - especially to see so many celebrities as well as my TPL colleagues all dressed up for the black tie affair. (And yes I found myself in a 'gown' for the Ball which was a surprise - to me most of all! Sorry though no pics to be found... :)

Suddenly, Mr. Martin was approaching me. Even if I'd wanted to, I couldn't have avoided meeting him. What an opportunity! 

I realized he was saying his goodbyes and so I waited patiently for him to arrive at my spot. At which time I said hello and shook his hand. Then I said that I just wanted to thank him for all he's done for Canada. He said thanks very much and that I was "very kind." To which I added "I also want to thank you for coming tonight as we at the library really appreciate it." He smiled and held onto my hand a few seconds longer and then we said goodnight. 

It happened very quickly and then it was over. And yet it was such a meaningful encounter for me. I believe he's a man of integrity and grace and we would have been in a much better place if he was our PM now. At any rate, I also believe events happen for a reason and he has gone on to do some important work both in Canada and internationally. 

Funny enough I just saw an interview with him on TVO's The Agenda this evening which reminded me to tell you about this meeting. 

Oh yes and I also bumped into (literally) Stuart Mclean as I arrived, and had a quick and friendly exchange with Giller recipient Joseph Boyden - both which were almost as thrilling!

Hats off to the Toronto Public Library Foundation - especially Julie and Heather - for a wonderful and successful event. 

Photo: Toronto Public Library Foundation

What to say?

In Canada, we're not experiencing one of our best moments. Many non-Harperites were initially intrigued by this idea of a non-confidence vote and subsequent coalition government. When we realized that could be the outcome, it was quite interesting and, in a way, poetic justice. Why? Because Harper's aggressive and non-collaborative approach to all things government is ineffectual in a country where we take great pride in the idea of getting along.

The Conservatives had the opportunity to pull parliament and the country together in a concerted effort to overcome the extreme economic crisis. Instead, the Finance Minister and Prime Minister opted to take the low road, taking on all other political parties by reducing their public funding as well as introducing ideological no-gos including forbidding the public sector's right to strike and lodge pay equity disputes - ostensibly to tighten the public purse. (This at a time when international experts are all saying the economy will not respond to restraint, but requires stimulus).

Following years of holding their noses and swallowing their pride in the House of Commons, this time around it wasn't going to fly. Suddenly all three opposition parties coalesced in a concerted effort to rid the school yard of the bully.

Since then, however, the coalition has not demonstrated the competence required to take on the leadership of Canada either.

I have tried to remain open-minded toward Dion and have to admit there is no way he has the qualities required to bring together our country, as he cannot even do so for his Liberal party. His lack of consultation with his caucus as well as inept communications tactics do not indicate a sign of better things to come.

Even with recent opportunities to soften his approach, Harper has yet to demonstrate any ability to consult with the rest of the house. His partisan style and ideological stubborness is still to be guarded against. He simply does not seem to be trustworthy to most of the 62% of voters who did not support him. (And who by the way, still have the right to voice their opinions and yes, support the toppling of his minority government).

It's difficult to have an opinion on what the best direction is now. Do we opt for the continuation of the mean-spirited, close-minded Conservative leadership or do we choose the disorganized and fragile coalition - regardless of who among the shattered Liberal party leads it? This may become our so-called choice, as it's pretty doubtful that these politicians are capable of working as a team for Canadians.

Let's hope that the holiday spirit takes hold and effects real change so that we can look to the government for collaborative, stable, competent leadership - at a time when that's what is needed most.

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PS: I also wanted to note that the efforts of both the NDP and BQ to work with the Liberals seem to be laudable. The fact that the Conservatives chose to demonize the BQ (and potentially jeopardize stability in Quebec) is deplorable. And the fact that the Liberals may back away from the coalition in order to protect the aspirations of the top leader-in-waiting (versus for the good of the country) is pretty uninspiring as well.

A gentler tone and time

Now that both the US and Canadian elections are thankfully over - it has been a long, intense and sometimes alarming period - it feels like the time for forgiveness and collaboration has finally arrived. The people of both our countries as well as around the world need it. Our natural world needs it. And our future generations are completely dependent on it.

The election of Barack Obama has represented this and so much more to the majority of Americans as well as many, many internationally.

To see Obama's conciliatory approach as well as McCain's gracious concession speech on Tuesday, was inspiring and yet unsettling too. There is no question that there exists a tremendous rift in the US that will hopefully begin to be repaired in the next four years. More than that, however, the economic and ecological crises that we're now experiencing are on a global scale, affecting everyone. The US has the power and the responsibility to attempt to chart a new course - one that hopefully is inclusive, progressive and peace-oriented.

As much as I've reacted to what has seemed to be negative conservative posturing over the past few months, I'm feeling less comfortable with my own words now looking back. I have come to realize, or remember, that everyone truly is entitled to their views and their politics. Although we don't all agree philosophically, we live in a world where our interconnectedness becomes more and more apparent all the time. The need to accept our differences and work together seems more important now than ever before.

I'm hoping that everyone will accept the outcome of Tuesday's US election and move forward together. I'm trusting that goodwill for all will now necessarily take over - as is being seen in the international approach to the economic meltdown. And I'm praying that we can all move on from choosing warfare as a suitable choice in dealing with disputes, no matter how dire they are.

Today we heard of the release of CBC journalist Mellissa Fung who had been abducted a month ago while on assignment in Kabul. Thankfully she had not been hurt and will be returned home to her family soon. She was taken two days prior to the Canadian election and the decision was made not to announce her disappearance in order to protect her safety and to help in securing her release. It took international cooperation including direct contact between Stephen Harper and Afghan President Hamid Karzai, daily work by Afghani and Canadian government and security officials, and the agreement by journalists at the CBC, throughout Canada and around the world not to publish the story.

And now just days following the US election, Mellissa's worried family and colleagues - as well as the rest of us who were unaware - hear that she is safe. Thanks to nonpartisan, collaborative and wise action on the part of hundreds of people on the international stage. This one example gives me some hope. That said, Mellissa wouldn't have been put in this dangerous position if we weren't at war in Afghanistan. And we wouldn't be in Afghanistan if...

With all the promise that potentially rests with Obama and his government, there remain other setbacks and challenges - including the regressive repeal and/or banning of legalized same-sex marriage in California, Florida and Arizona during the same election.

With all that's going on for good and for bad, idealism is definitely not what's needed now. Pragmatic humanitarianism might be the ticket though.

What a difference a month makes

Following the US political conventions and the announcement of Canada's fall election, it seemed that the conservative factions in both countries were on an unfortunate upswing. Then, well, Palin spoke, McCain spoke, Harper spoke, the economy began its collapse... Now the Obama/Biden ticket is decidely (at least for now) ahead in the polls and Harper's grabbed-at majority win has all but disappeared. And possibly with a bit more time Dion might even be able to deliver a Liberal minority win.

I truly hope that Harper's mean-spirited agenda is defeated. And that Obama wins and leads the US towards a kinder, gentler and more unifying domestic and international approach.

Some time ago, I realized how important the following principles are to me, no matter what. Honesty, integrity, fairness, compassion and what can simply be called 'niceness'. When looking for a new job in Toronto, my mission was to do meaningful work with nice people. Luckily I found exactly that at Toronto Public Library.

I've also seen many signs of others looking for the positive in life and in each other. A Toronto businessman who held a "Thanks for being Nice" party for his colleagues and suppliers. The psychologist in Colorado who studies the states, symptoms and contributors to happiness as opposed to depression. Many people who leave or eschew prosperous private positions to work in non-profit organizations. Numerous young people who haven't yet lost their desire to make a difference in the world versus striving just for monetary advancement. And of course all those who have always been advocating devoted, peaceful, compassionate committment to the good of all in many, many walks life.

Before this double-barrelled election year, I hadn't fully comprehended what a significant philosophical difference exists between today's conservative and liberal factions. To hear the aggressive, negative, untrue and personal attacks launched by the Palins, McCains and Harpers of this time is not just offputting, it's shocking. What truly puzzles me is how so many can align themselves with this type of thinking and action.

I'm also perplexed about why political parties exist with the goal of winning the right to govern when they don't believe in government. In both countries right now the governing parties espouse de-regulation, privatization, tax cuts for the wealthy, corporate favouritism, minimal environmental protection, declining health care and educational standards and infrastructure, as well as questionable social policies such as the right to own (and thus use) guns, the expansion of prisons and imprisonment, attacks on the arts and on it goes.

Jane Jacobs, in her 2004 Dark Age Ahead, described the two different types of societal influencers as 'traders,' who champion markets, and 'guardians' who look out for universal wellbeing. While she claimed that a balance of both is essential for a healthy society, she was leery of 'traders' taking over the governing role of the 'guardians'. 1

That's my feeling as well - I will sleep much better if well-meaning, compassionate, open-minded, trust-worthy guardians are in government in both the US and Canada. Just look where the traders have led us.

1. As cited by Thomas Axworthy in Restore political trust with vote for guardians of public interest, Toronto Star, Saturday, October 11

A shock to the system

I am admittedly a liberal. Definitely a supporter of the US Democrats vs the Republicans. Without a doubt. However, I really have tried to tune into the Republican convention this week, to hear them out and compare their position to Obama's and Biden's from last week. I simply can't do it.

The words, the speakers, the delegates, the candidates - all espousing a primarily privileged, selfish and fear-based position - are too much to bear. God save America is all I can say.

Change

The US Democratic Convention has ended with the expected dramatic speech by Barack Obama. It, plus the preceeding video created by the party, will hopefully go a long way in demonstrating Obama's background, experience, vision and leadership ability to those still unfamiliar or unconvinced American voters.

It was a momentous opportunity to witness an audience of 80,000+ in that Denver stadium, as well as the other enthusiastic gatherings around the country, celebrating the making of history. To see an event of that scale marking this new era in American politics is stunning - especially when we consider the rumoured upcoming Canadian federal election. What a contrast in style, impact, outcome and, frankly, inspiration.

It will be interesting to see what happens in the US from now until the election in November. Can't say that it will be anywhere near as compelling to participate in our own process though. Too bad.

On being Canadian

Like many others, I was feeling a bit frustrated about the fact Canada is dead last in the Olympic medal race after six days of competition.

Then I heard some of the commentary and comparisons to Australia's and China's and other nations' athletics programs. Interestingly while Canadian athletes tend to be coached and developed within a more individualistic culture, we also have to remember that we as a nation aren't especially great at supporting our athletes (especially the summer ones).

We tune in every four years and then question why we aren't doing better. What encouragement - financial or otherwise - do we provide in between? So, when our swimmers or gymnasts or rowers say that they are happy with their non-podium-earning performance as they've achieved a personal or national best, they are simply reinforcing the culture in which they live.

Canada does not really provide a concerted, well-funded athletics program. Our athletes (with support from their families and sponsors) are on their own much of the time and most of the credit needs to go to them for their diligence, talent, skill and passion. The fact that we sometimes do score medals is wonderful; however, how much of the glory can Canadians at large really claim?

All that said, I actually don't think that the 'we did our very best' approach of most of our athletes is a bad thing. Isn't this simply an insight into our oh-so-difficult-to-define Canadian personality?

Isn't it true that most of us go about our daily lives striving for success, while emphasizing a well-rounded, balanced quality of life? It's actually quite remarkable how healthy and positive most of our athletes sound and they truly do seem to believe what they're saying.

If we as a country decide that our Olympic-class athletic program is a priority, perhaps to inspire better national fitness as well as international pride, our athletes will become the benefactors of better training, support and opportunities. As a result, we all might be happier every time we sit down to cheer them all on during the Olympic games.

In the meantime, I wish them a world of success during these games as well as in their lives as a whole. They are representing us well and are indeed making us proud.

The 'Will and Grace generation' and beyond

I've just watched a segment of 6o Minutes about the US Military's 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy. I also know of two friends who've attended gay weddings, in Canada, in the last few weeks. Interestingly, while it's tempting to contrast our two countrys' different policies regarding same-sex rights, what strikes me is the hope that's embedded in both nations in our younger generations.

One friend blogged recently about how excited her young son and daughter were to attend a summer wedding and though she felt she needed to let them know it was for two 'grooms', the kids were simply happy to be attending a wedding celebration that included dancing. The fact it was a gay marriage was just not an issue for them at all.

Another friend's best friends were married this weekend and in attendance were the two very young children of the 'brides' - who are and will grow up to be, I'm sure, perfectly fine with the arrangement.

Back to the 60 Minutes piece. What became glaringly clear was that younger generations do not have the same objections that the older, mainly white, conservative males currently in charge have with gays serving in the military. This actually presented some hope, as it may just be necessary to wait for the retirement and ultimate destiny of those less enlightened before this becomes the non-issue that it actually is.

Why are we silent?

A compelling video quoting the UN Declaration of Human Rights asks this challenging question. The situation in Tibet has been tolerated for far too long.

CBC's Influence

I've been enjoying a sunny Sunday morning at home with coffee, getting things done and listening to CBC Radio. I often find this to be a wonderful way to recharge my batteries - both physically and mentally. Actually spiritually too.

The combination of Sunday Morning, Stuart McLean's Vinyl Cafe, Tapestry, Eleanor Wachtel's Writers and Company and Cross Country Checkup with Rex Murphy provides an insightful snapshot of life in Canada. While at times it can seem Toronto-centric, for the mostpart these shows, as well as weekday installments of The Current, This Country Canada and others really do cover the spectrum of locations, issues and cultures in Canada and beyond. And though I've lived in Ottawa, Vancouver and Toronto, I've always loved the fact I can tune in and connect with familiar voices and people.

Two different shows this morning resulted in an epiphany for me. One featured a comedian who did impersonations of prime ministers. When mimicking Stephen Harper he commented on how difficult it was as he has a fairly indistinctive voice. That said, he did succeed in sounding like Harper's 'new' way of speaking. As many of us have observed, Harper's voice changed significantly prior to his first election race for PM. No longer was he sounding cranky, impatient and mean, but had transitioned to a more (for him) upbeat cadence, ending sentences on up tones, I think in an effort to seem more open-minded, warm and statesman-like.

Later in the morning, I heard the Vinyl Cafe. That's when it hit me - Stephen Harper had changed his voice to emulate Stuart McLean! If you listen to McLean's delivery - it's quite amazing how similiar it is. Positive, smiling - in story-telling mode. He's a renowned Canadian personality welcomed to any and every community across the country. There to meet and share experiences with Canadians from all walks of life. Warm, engaging, creative, astute. Perfect! Harper's image/pr consultants surely must have seen the benefits of personifying this well-loved CBCer as Harper's personality on its own was not electable. Too bad this new one isn't the real deal.

Photo: Stuart McLean, CBC