Democracy Works!

Well, here we go again.

Another election, more shenanigans, more promises, more spin, more attack, fewer real issues tackled, more sarcasm, more voter apathy.

The average voter turnout for federal elections since 1867 has been 71.2%. Since the year 2000, the average has dropped to 61.4%. [Reference: Elections Canada http://bit.ly/eMsAC4 ]

Some among us feel that their vote doesn't matter, that nothing will change, that all politicians are the same, that it is all a bunch of BS, that there are better causes to feel passionate about where they can make a real difference. I feel the same way some days, when I see/hear blatant lies and dirty tricks.

We need to try to understand and appreciate this perspective. We must not preach or force our own views.

What keeps me grounded and truly appreciating our democracy, even with all of its faults is a look around the world.

Hundreds of thousands, maybe millions, of people in dozens of Middle Eastern and African countries are pouring into the streets, and in some cases giving their lives, to establish democracies. Many of these societies have been ruled by brutal dictators for decades. They are fighting for the very basics in human rights and security.

Meanwhile we find ourselves debating who is or isn’t likeable, who promised to deliver and did or didn’t, who is more trustworthy, etc. Not suggesting for a moment that these are not good things to discuss, any discussion about the alternative is good.

I am suggesting that we have the luxury of debating and openly sharing our views about the details, while millions of people around the world wouldn’t dare.

Democracy is not perfect, but it is better than any other system.

Democracy is ours to work on and improve overtime.

We must use it, or risk losing it.

Democracy works!

Check out which party your opinions seem to line up with:
http://federal.votecompass.ca/page/1/#top


Please exercise your right to vote and bring a friend on May 2, 2011.


**** Update ****

Thinks are looking very different all of a sudden:

- Advance poll turnout largest ever.
- Student Vote Mobs in virtually every university in the country.
- NDP heading for 2nd place ??? Including in Quebec. Wow !
- Who ever wins this is very good for Canadian democracy

**** Update ****

Well, you know the story by now.
Not sure if anyone would have predicted this.
But ! The people have spoken.