I was born and raised in the West Kootenay as a first generation Canadian of “hybrid geopolitical European” ancestry. My dad was a Willy Brandt social democrat who left Germany after World War II seeking a Canada that was open-minded, tolerant, and caring.
And Canada delivered. I was able to lift myself out of childhood poverty, to graduate from the University of Alberta, and to contribute to the education of our youth.
On many fronts, I now see the dismantling of democratic institutions, the social safety net sinking, and less protection for the land/water/air that support biodiversity, not monoculture.
What stands out for me is Tom Mulcair’s tenacity to represent Canada on a global stage. Very noteworthy is the principled stand on Bill C-51. Civil liberties are stake. It is time to see a turnaround for this country — to offer a better future for subsequent generations, to reduce the despair that is the sentiment of many of all ages.
Sheila A. Haegedorn
Kaslo
