There were no real surprises contained in a report to Scarborough Community Council last week about the lack of knowledge about, or interest in, municipal politics and politicians.The Scarborough Civic Action Network (SCAN) reported the findings of a survey the group conducted in Scarborough of 1,000 attendees at last year's Scarborough Community Summit. SCAN organizer Sean Meagher reported to Scarborough politicians that voters in this community feel disconnected from their elected representatives, and that fewer than 66 per cent of respondents could identify the mayor. An even smaller proportion (25 per cent) could name their local councillor.
One would think this might serve as a call to action for Scarborough politicians to attempt engaging citizens in municipal government, inviting them to participate in the process beyond casting ballots on voting day, and undertake an action plan to get out into the community and make contact with citizens.
Instead, Ward 38 Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker (Scarborough Centre) gave a lecture to SCAN and Scarborough's apathetic voters.
De Baeremaeker was "offended" by the survey's results and said it was "irresponsible and lazy" of voters not to be more knowledgeable of local government and its players.
Well, he's half right.
While the information presented by SCAN may have been offensive to the councillor, it should be seen as a major concern which would raise questions as to why such a situation exists. Shooting the messenger never solves a problem. De Baeremaeker also needs to refrain from insulting Scarborough residents for not being interested in democracy. More carrot and less stick would work in this situation.
That being said, the fact is this country and those who built it have shed their blood and given their lives to protecting democracy here and around the world.
It is troubling that so many residents seem to be unaware of that fact or even understand the precious gift of freedom we have in Canada. If residents do not take advantage of their right to vote, and their right to be involved in the politics and the governing of their own city, province and country they have truly broken faith with those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
Given that this Monday, April 9, marks the 90th anniversary of the First World War battle of Vimy Ridge in which more than 3,500 Canadian soldiers died, now is an especially important time to reflect on the price paid for our democracy.