George Bush, in an address to a joint session of Congress on September 20, 2001 said, "Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists." In the film Star Wars, Episode 3, Darth Vader says to Obi-Wan Kenobi, "If you're not with me, then you're my enemy." Obi-Wan responds, "Only a Sith deals in absolutes."
For the international NGOs and for newcomers, the 'wedge politics' approach should be of concern. It is likely that both groups are familiar with this style of politics from other countries. 'Wedge politics' casts issues in 'either/or,' and 'them against us' terms. It creates conditions of fear leading to increasing levels of polarization and suppression.
If you are concerned about the rights of Palestinians then you are against Israel, even "anti-Semitic" (Jason Kenny).
Bev Oda, in the face of CIDA's support of Kairos, simply cancels funding. Offend this group, please another group. Forget rational criteria for judgment and obey the boss.
If you raise questions about the handling of Afghan detainees, you are refusing to support Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan (Harper).
Both NGOs and newcomers are familiar with countries in which a leader has promised to bring order and discipline and has made power and political control the priority. Control is the keyword. Terry Milewski for CBC in Halifax this morning observed directly to Harper that he appeared to be campaigning "in a bubble" -- with pre-selected crowds of supporters in attendance. The reporters raised the issue of only being allowed 4 questions. There is evident tension between Harper and the press.
Michael Ignatieff, in contrast, seems happy and at ease with the questions coming his way. His style of response suggests a person and a party with policies and a vision that is intended to serve the whole country. My anticipation is that if Ignatieff's personal presence continues to receive positive response on the campaign trail, NGOs and those concerned about Canada's relation with the world will begin to feel quite comfortable with the Liberals.
The newcomer groups are a different matter. If they left home countries where government was dominating and corrupt, it is possible they will want to remain disconnected from the political process. They are likely to be more concerned than others about the economy. What will be their judgment be on politically motivated spending over fiscal restraint? How will they react to Canada being mired in deficit?
No comments:
Post a Comment