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As Canada contends with increasing polarization, foreign threats to our sovereignty and widespread distrust in our political institutions, it is easy for Canadians to feel disengaged and disempowered. Yet, when we focus on the local level, this narrative changes. In communities across Canada, we can readily find active citizens who are nurturing civic connections in their communities and relating to their neighbours through real conversations - not just about differences but about common ground.
This context was the driving force behind IDEAS for a Better Canada, a cross-country tour of public libraries presented in partnership by the Samara Centre for Democracy and CBC Radio’s IDEAS. These convenings, moderated by IDEAS host Nahlah Ayed, were held in Nanaimo, Edmonton, Burlington and Charlottetown in advance of the 2025 federal election and featured a range of local active citizens speaking about practical and tangible solutions to some of Canada’s most pressing challenges including electoral reform, the housing and affordability crisis, polarization, book censorship, and Indigenous-settler relations.
Listen to each event in full on the IDEAS podcast:
-Burlington: Libraries are fighting for their freedom - and our democracy
-Charlottetown: Why PEI cares more than any other province about voting
-Nanaimo: Has the housing crisis shaken your trust in democracy?
-Edmonton: Attacking our biggest fear - political polarization
Watch highlights from IDEAS For a Better Canada events on Gem or on YouTube.
IDEAS for a Better Canada was featured on CBC Radio Vancouver’s Early Edition with Stephen Quinn, Victoria’s On the Island with Gregor Craigie, PEI’s Island Morning with Mitch Cormier, Toronto’s flagship AM show, Metro Morning and covered by the Burlington Gazette.
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