A big interest of mine is how governments can better engage with their citizens - basically, move closer to participatory democracy and away from traditional Western representative democracy.  But the part I sometimes miss is that citizens also have a responsibility to engage with their government.  It takes two to tango, and sometimes people can use the “my government isn’t listening” as an excuse to stay on the couch, rather than do something to engage and have their opinions heard, and respected. 

So what better day than Canada Day for all of us to make resolutions for the coming year as to how we’ll be better citizens of our municipality, province, and country?  Many of you reading this blog are probably already quite active - but we all have room for improvement.  When I say citizenship I don’t just mean engaging with government; citzenship also includes getting involved with the wide range of non-profits and non-governmental organizations that are addressing gaps that our governments aren’t (or are unwilling/unable) to fill.

My resolution for the coming year is to bring out one unengaged and/or disillusioned person to a civic activity at least once a month.  I think we’ve got a thoughtful and committed group of engaged folks in this town - but I also worry about the inevitable burnout that will occur if we don’t build more capacity.

What resolutions can you make to be a better citizen?  This is by no means an exhaustive list, but here are a few suggestions:

1. Social Media: Read or write a blog about news, politics or social issues, and follow political types, active citizens, and non-profits on Twitter.  To start, follow @late2game, @kvl, @nanbran, @jodisimpson, @Matt_Brown_, @brian_frank, @Emerginglondon, @jeffsage, @linzsage, @phubert1961, @s_courti (that’s me!)

2. Traditional Media: Read newspapers (online if you prefer), or watch The National (or other nightly news).  Listen to ‘The House’ or ‘Cross Country Checkup’ on CBC Radio (and podcast.)  I know it can be hard to find the time, but as citizens we should have a base knowledge of current affairs

3. Volunteer with a non-profit or charity: We’ve got more causes in this city to list, and it is usually very easy to get involved.

4. Politics: Help a municipal candidate in the fall - hand out flyers, knock on doors, donate; or, at least pay attention to the election and vote.  Think about sitting on a citizen advisory committee, or putting your name forward for a city agency, board, or commission.  Or, help pull out the vote -you can attend an upcoming change cafe about voter mobilization.

5. ‘Dinner table’ conversation:  Integrate talking about current events into your daily routine.  Really easy thing to do, but also tends to whet your appetite for more civic activities.

So while you sing O Canada, drink beer, hang out with friends, and watch fireworks today, please take a little time to reflect on how you could be a better citizen, and make a commitment to yourself to be more engaged in the year ahead.  I bet your Canada Day resolution will be easier to keep than that New Year’s resolution you made seven months ago!

Happy Canada Day everyone.