Green with a Cause

Just getting back from the Green Party of Canada's BGM now, and I swear I'll be dreaming about policy for days. Although I'm told there weren't as many motions and resolutions are there were before, I can safely say that the party itself is on a long road to somewhere. I don't even think anyone knows where that is, yet.

The Green Party itself has great ideas, great grassroots and a very intelligent and intellectual leader but most members themselves are lacking in all these things. Listening to the conversation between both young greens and green members alike left me wondering if the only way to be taken seriously in this room was to have a law degree, a title, or both. Anything the leader supported or opposed openly was voted as such, and most of the commentary consisted of snide and foul arguments. Questions of consistency, and a lot of arguments appealing to authority and tradition (other than constitutional traditions) were used as bait to arouse emotion rather than discussion out of the membership. Whenever a particular policy or motion was discussed, it was always in view of "how it could make us look" rather than if it was logical and in line with party values. Essentially, the party needs a separate body to monitor the making of policy and to supervise to see that it always falls in line with the values and vision of the Green Party.

Meeting some amazing people was just a side thing, but it made my entire weekend. I got to personally meet Jessica Holmes, a wonderful Canadian comedian and Green supporter, as well as Mike Schreiner, leader of the Green Party of Ontario. These are two people whom I admire greatly for their work and contribution to Canada and furthermore to the Green community.

I learned a lot, as well. The weekend wasn't just about screaming out motions and points of order, but about connecting with Young Greens (where I learned that I'm a lot more well off in terms of Campus Clubs than I thought), networking with lawyers and fellow Green supporters, as well as just hanging out with a lot of really genuine people. The convention may have only lasted three days, but I could have done it for a week. My Green leanings are now stronger than ever, and I believe that although our minds (as a party) are on getting Ms. May elected in Saanich-Gulf Islands, we are building our party into the future of Canadian politics. There's a rush to get elected and sponsor change... but I believe that the green movement is growing even in blue and red supporters (of course, orange as well) which is surprising, but awesome all the same.

As screamed at the CBC during our 'flash mob' by YG: Vote Green!