September Days of Peace and Democracy

OTTAWA - Sept 15th marks the International Day of Democracy, followed soon after by the International Day of Peace on Sept 21st.  “These two issues are inextricably linked,” said Green Party of Canada Peace and Security Critic Ellen Michelson.  “Peace and democracy go hand-in-hand as part of a culture of peace and cooperation between states, societies and individuals.  These principles are part of the core values of the Green Party and form the basis for global security.”

Greens believe that security should not rest mainly on military strength but on cooperation, sound economic and social development, environmental safety, and respect for human rights. This includes a global security system capable of the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts.  Above all, peace rests on removing the causes of war by understanding and respecting other cultures, eradicating racism, promoting freedom and democracy, and ending global poverty.

“We are lucky in Canada to benefit from peaceful times within our democracy. But we must stand on guard to protect that peace and ensure that we participate in the democratic process.  Maintaining our Canadian way of life requires paying attention and speaking out, especially with your vote, when you see policies that don’t resonate with your personal values,” said Michelson.

Green Leader Elizabeth May recently published a book entitled, “Losing Confidence: Power, Politics and the Crisis in Canadian Democracy.”  In it, she reminds Canadians not to let democracy slip through our fingers by being spectators, and urges us to get informed, speak out and be sure to vote.  “The essential elements of a functioning democracy are a free and independent media, a well-informed and engaged electorate, and high levels of participation on voting day,” says May.

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