Editor:
Trudeau did not miss an opportunity to be the change agent – he was “torpedoed” by news media, Conservative opposition using Jody Wilson-Raybould to score points, and lack of experience in making political change, to do things differently.
To “make change” is a process that takes time, commitment and negotiation. Just ask businesses who have tried to use “teamwork” as a model rather than “top down,” business as usual how difficult it is to make change.
With unauthorized sources and leaks, the Globe and Mail reporters used this information to try to create a scandal to sell more papers, rather than help the process work.
All the media had the opportunities to assist the change model. Why should we expect more from the media when they are top-down?
The number of elected women has increased, the number of women in positions of power has moved slowly. Wilson-Raybould was in a position of power. Wilson-Raybould should not have resigned, but used her power and opportunities for teamwork to do business differently.
We understand that negotiations and discussion took place on resolution, each side presenting what had to be done to reconcile the stalemate.
After the media circus, it was impossible to resolve the issue.
Accusations of weakness on the part of the prime minister fed by the media and Conservative opposition and the public made a change in political practice impossible.
Where do we go from here? If we want change, we have to work hard to make it happen. Just check changes for women and girls in education, sport, health care, administration, etc. One step forward and two steps back.
“Democracy is counting on us”
Arlene McGinn, White Rock
