CRISIS IN DEMOCRACY
Posted by Nick Paling on Mar 30, 2017 in Opinion
Gill from Transition Exeter argues that working to improve democratic processes in our democratic system could be vital for protecting our environment and suggests an initiative…
Are we losing more than we’re winning? Transition Exeter wants to see Exeter transitioning towards a low carbon and socially just society; however more is being invested in roads than rail, buses and cycling; planning rules don’t favour decisions based on environmental sustainability and thousands of new houses which increase emissions are being added to Exeter without enough thought to sustainable transport; public services are being stretched or shredded and inequality nationally is rising. It is harder to promote sustainable lifestyles where some are too poor to have choices and others too rich to care.
This seems to reflect a trend to increasing influence of wealth over governments, through lobbying, political donations, social interaction and the revolving door between the worlds of corporations and governments. Many of the changes taking place are happening despite public opinion, such as the failure to fund health, social care and education adequately.
To have proper environmental protections it may be necessary to work to protect and develop democracy itself; so there is greater transparency, accountability and so that every vote counts, every voice has an equal chance of being heard.
Compass is an organization dedicated to supporting progressive politics in Britain (you can see more about it at www.compassonline.org.uk). Is anyone else interested in starting a local Compass group in Exeter to host political discussions without allegiance to any particular political party? If so, please get in touch: gillwestcott@gmail.com
Transition Exeter » CRISIS IN DEMOCRACY
With an event happening later this month:
RETHINKING POWER, REMAKING CONNECTION
Posted by Nick Paling on Mar 30, 2017 in Events |
We live in a time of upheaval, with the Brexit campaign and referendum and Trump’s election, growing inequality and environmental damage. This event offers space to speak our reactions, fears and hopes and listen to one another, perhaps to listen to ourselves; and to share inspirations and ways to resource ourselves in difficult times.
The workshop draws on the work of Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone, rethinking the nature of power and exploring how the experiences of our own lives offer us connections with others; connections through which we are affected by and can in turn influence wider changes in the world. There is a place here for despair, a place for taking stock, for allowing new ways of looking. We look at different kinds of power, and how they manifest in everyday interactions, and can contribute to the seeding and building of a better world.
Donations. Bring food to share.
Please book for the workshop with
Gill Westcott: gillwestcott@gmail.com, 01647 24789
Adrian Harris: Adrian@gn.apc.org
Share on Facebook: www.facebook.com/events/1628720717156930
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