Pardon my poor French.
Pardonnez mon français pauvre.
For days now, we've been hearing Conservative party members, bloggers and media bash roughly the majority of Quebecers who chose to vote in the last election. They are using slurs like "separatist" to define a party which has really been more about "what's for Quebec?" than any sovereignist ideas over the past 4-5 years...
I would offer that Conservatives are more afraid of the ideas (the moderate, progressive ideas) that the Bloc offers... Ideas which are in tune with those of the NDP and Liberals (socially, anyways), and would show Quebecers that it is only the Conservative Party which stands against their ideals...
The word separatist is a pretty good term to use - for fear-mongerers - and that is precisely how Harper has governed. As a Westerner, I can without a doubt recall the hateful remarks about Quebec which came from Reformers and their ilk. This hasn't changed... only the rhetoric in the public eye has been calmed.
Let's look at the coalition more closely: Why would the Bloc want in? I mean, really, if they are "separatists", as the Conservatives say, then why would they want to have a hand in governing Canada? This is where Conservative ideology just "doesn't get it". They are the party of conflict and confrontation. They don't get that differing opinions can sit down and discuss matters diplomatically. Why are some people sovereignists anyway? Because they "faced off" with some folks who were quite firm in their own opinions in the past. They had ideas for their Province that they felt werent' being met because of a lack of voice in Ottawa. Even back when Quebec sovereignty and "Sovereignty Association" were big themes, it was due to ideas not being heard or agreed to. Why do people choose to separate from any land (or become more "sovereign")? It is because their ideas aren't being heard in government. Perhaps it is more rights for gay and lesbian couples. Perhaps they want universal daycare. Perhaps it is better healthcare funding.
Looking at a conservative perspective, it's best to continue to be confrontational - be a Western Separatist (the forebearers of the Reform and current Conservative Party). My way or the highway (and one can see that clearly from Harper's childish behaviour). That is how conservatives would react to not being heard. They wouldn't mesh words either. There is no room for detente in Harper's world.
But, what better way for the Bloc to actually discuss the real issues that matter to Quebecers? I mean, isn't this really what all the "troubles" were all about in the first place? Not being heard? Of course they were! The Bloc will benefit from this move. They were starting to lose relevance in Quebec. Now, as part of government, they will blossom into a strong regional party... This will also give credence to the other two parties in Quebec. We Liberals already have a "beach head" and strong traditional roots there...
Quebecers will have a seat at the table, and their voices heard!
Les Quebecers auront un siège à la table, et leurs voix entendues!
Viva la Canada!
No comments:
Post a Comment