June 1, 2013 - Updated
I recentlly received an email from Justin Trudeau asking what I would say to Stephen Harper, the answer is same as I'm saying to you! Regardless of who is the Prime Minister of Canada, my wishes, desires and hope for the country are the same. I have now updated this blog post to include some thoughts I didnt get in before publishing the first time. Interestingly, what is happening in the Senate and the saga with Mayor Rob Ford really make this blog post even more relevant!
Published April 20, 2013
As I drove out on to the main street on my way to work a few weeks ago, I thought about my walk the day before, how much I enjoyed the scenery and how blessed I feel to be living in Toronto, "the City within a park", I conceived the idea for this blog. In retrospect, now that Justin has been formally selected as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, I regret that I didnt finish the post that night when I started it. Nethertheless, the work has only just begun, so I'm right on time in that sense.
What do I as a Canadian really, really, really want for my country?
Like most Canadians, I'm a transplant! Canada has been home for the past 39 years, except for the 2 years in my rebelious youth when I was supposed to have it all figured out and returned to Jamaica, and swore I would not come back. I love this country, and I am constantly reminded of how blessed we are and how good we have it here. No regrets though, those though as that's how I launched my career in financial services.
Every time I go out for a walk, whether it's in the neighbourhood or along one of the many trails I am amazed as to how much there is. Every community has tennis courts, basket ball hoops, benches, gardens, community centres. One thing I know for sure, those city & provincial politicians, planners got a lot right in the last 25 - 30 years. The fact that I can walk from Lake Ontario at Sunnyside beach to Steeles Ave on the gorgeous trails on the Humber is nothing short of amazing! There are so many trails, parks and gardens in our city that it would take years to explore them all. Yesterday as I entered the downtown core on my way to a workshop on Bay Street I just oozed with awe as to how much the city has grown in the last twenty years. And this is not the only time, it happens every time. Does it sound like I'm in love? Yes, I'm in love with the City of Toronto, my Province and my Country.
As I contemplated the progress this city and country over the last 40 years, I thought, how would I like to see this country in going forward, and voila, this idea was born!
What I do I want for my country: Smart politicians with fresh ideas. I am tired of the same old, same old. I want politicians and policymakers who ware smart and bold enough to step it up to the 21st century. Why does it take 30 - 40 years for policy and laws to catch up with the results of scientific and social science research? Most of which the Government actually pay for, than stacked in warehouses to gather dust. That's a crying shame.
Take for example the idea of current Prime Minister, Stephen Harper and the Conservatives who think building more prisons is the answer to society's problems with people engaging in criminal activities. When, in the history of the world, has the presence of jails stopped people from committing the most gruesome acts? Recommended read: Erich Fromm's A Sane Society & Escape From Freedom, written in the fifties and still so relevant today. But there is a mountain of scientific research readily available on brain function, social behavours, human development from conception to adulthood etc that policymakers can use to create smart policies that would definitely lead to a more dynamic, intelligent society but old school politicians are stuck in the past. The last thing Canada need is a U.S. style prison industry, which in my humble opinion is the new form of slavery. Neither Government nor private enterprize should be in the business of running jails for a profit, that is outrageous!
Honesty in Government - I want my Government to be honest, and I want clarity. I have a beef with EI, and I've had it since, forever. Unemployment Insurance is paid for by employees and employers, and therefore, this money specifically belong to the people of this country to deal with unemployment and employment related matters only. Under NO circumstance should EI funds be used to fund anything outside that mandate, otherwise it is not INSURANCE, it is a tax. If EI is a tax, then call it a tax and call it ET!
In its current state is resembles a tax more than insurance because everybody who is on a payroll has to pay it, sutdents who will never be able to claim, retired people - yeah, why do retired people who are on full penion still required to contribute to an insurance plan they will never be able to collect from?
Politicians, Policymakers & Government who are visionaries - If you are unable to craft a vision of a greater future and can only deal with the day to day, you should not be in a position to run this great nation. "Without a vision, the people perish" - this is from the bible, but it is as relevant in people's personal lives as much as the Federal, Provincial, City and Municipal Governments. That's why now, in 2013, the largest and most dynamic city in the nation - TORONTO, is now just debating, a comprehensive transit strategy! The suburbs have mushroomed, there's gridlock everywhere and this just didnt start a few years ago. How long did it take Mississauga to build out? And nobody paid attention to all those studies about trends! They focused solely on what's in front of them, it's too expensive, blah, blah, blah. But how much more expensive is it today? Smart politicians surround themselves with people who are visionaries and can spot trends - we need trend setters not just followers and copy cats.
Politicians who can engage the young - The generation behind the boomers need something to be excited about. Boomers were hell bent on changing the world, and change it we did. According to my son, sometimes not for the better. But the sixties and seventies were exciting times when the young were engaged and eager. That type of excitement needs to be ignited in the young, after all they will be running this place when we are old. That's why new leaders must be bright, engaging and bold.
And isnt it time the Health Ministry get up to speed with alternative remidies and recognize the fact that Canadian's are spending millions and millions on alternative remidies and therapies not only to treat health maladies but to maintain good health. I remember 20 - 30 years ago these practices were totally snubbed, with constant warnings about the dangers of herbal remedies etc. As the use of herbal remedies continued to increase, the tone shifted from "this will kill you to measurements and safety", meanwhile, the large conglamorates started to jump on the band waggon. Surely there are enough research to substantiate their use, and that is why they have become "mainstream" in use and availability. Now entire sections of every pharmacy is stacked with every herbal remedy imaginable! Still there is no medical tax credit available and they are not covered by health plans. Over the last 12 years I have spent substantial dollars to get myself health and stay health all the while keeping it natural. If I spent the money on traditional prescription medicine I would get reimbursed for covered portion from my private health plan, and get tax credits for amounts not covered.
I want a tax system that is fair. Majority of Canadians dont mind paying tax, but they object to politicians taking their money and living large, wasting resources while continuing to squeeze the life force out of their citizens and behaving like they are entitled and above the law.
An overhaul of the education system is long overdue. Schools should have a curriculum that actually prepares student for the real world! I know both my children took business and law courses in high school but these were optional courses. These courses really helped them not only prepare for university but also with vital life skills. Life skills - yes, there should be mandatory life skill courses for every grade level and by the time a student is graduating high school, they should have basic financial literacy!
No to mention the legal system! This "old boys fraternity" needs to go! Canadians need a legal system that they can have confidence in, and that's all I am going to say about this right now.
So you see Justin, the world is changing, Canada not only need to keep, but to be a trend setter and standard bearer. Are you sure you still want to be Prime Minister?
It is appropriate to congratulate Justin for his victory in the leadership race. Now, roll up your sleeves Justin, because there is a lot of work ahead.
Good luck and God speed!
MissSam
HUMBER TRAIL, FALL 2012
FALL IN THE CITY
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