Grateful to have, share democracy

As Canadians, we sometimes take for granted our electoral system or worry about the state of our democracy.

I lead a group activity in co-operation with Saint Columba House. We invite men who came to Canada as sponsored refugees or are refugee claimants to a meal once a month.

Recently, in the spirit of explaining Halloween, we carved pumpkins. We then discussed the recent Quebec election.

I explained Canadian politics in this way: I put three chairs on the stage and explained the responsibilities of the different levels of governments.

Then I told them how our former premier appeared on TV about 75 minutes after the polls had closed and conceded the election, and that it was normal for politicians here to do that.

Many refugees come from countries where people do not give up power after a loss, or win with 96 per cent of the ballots, or don’t bother with elections at all.

I explained that we do not get arrested here for speaking our minds, that governments are led by different political parties, sometimes with fewer than 40 per cent of the votes, and that the system works.

How wonderful it is that so many people have won the geographic lottery and live in Canada. And may we continue to welcome people from lands lacking freedom.

Paul Clarke, executive director, Action Réfugiés Montréal