In a perfect world, politics would be civil, free from controversy and scandal, with both politicians and residents showing respect for each other.
That has not always been the case in St. Albert. Our city council has been fundamentally divided for some time and has certainly had its share of controversy – everything from lawsuits to allegations of pecuniary interest. There has also been a distinct 4-3 split on council for some time, with the same players representing the same teams. This ‘great divide’ can become reflected in the community.
Coun. Cathy Heron believes that the division within council is influencing the public sphere.
“I think the public becomes aligned with either the three or the four. So what happens in chambers has become very much an on-the-street conversation,” she said.
Heron has a point, but the situation could very well be a chicken-and-egg scenario. Councillors are guided by what they are hearing from residents and residents often get their information by what is being debated in council.
We saw this split reach a boiling point recently in regards to the branch library borrowing bylaw and the subsequent petition. While in some respects, the petition was simply an example of democracy in action, there were some clear battle lines being drawn in the public debate. Tensions were heated and some of the language was unsavoury.
“In the last week or so I have had emails with the words: “stupid, dildo, elitist, con artist, liar, greedy politician…” Heron wrote on Facebook.
This type of polarizing debate isn’t unique to St. Albert. It’s run rampant in the U.S. with both the left and right descending into name calling. It’s present in Canada and Alberta too, especially on social media.
It does not serve to benefit society, however. Polarization often leads to blind hatred, refusal to compromise and an absence of moderate voices. It reduces the quality of political debate. It also hinders many from thinking critically about an issue, instead opting to simply support their team’s position. It becomes us versus them.
While St. Albert’s council split is not a strict left-or-right division, it has led to some of the same symptoms. But it can be improved.
We are coming up on a municipal election where we are guaranteed at least a few new voices and an opportunity for change. But even our current council can be improved if prompted. Remember, councillors are reflecting back what they are hearing from residents.
Take the time to listen to all sides on an issue. Promote civil discussion and don’t tolerate nasty politics. Challenge assumptions and biases before making a decision.
Most issues in life are not cut and dried. There is plenty of room for compromise and discussion. We can disagree but we should be prepared to compromise and behave with civility. This could improve the public discourse, and in turn, improve our governance.
