Understandably, everyone’s whining and crying about the U.S. election results. I really don’t blame the approximately 75 per cent of the population who didn’t vote for Donald Trump to be just a tad bit concerned about the future of their country, and lives.
But therein lies the problem. Nearly half of the eligible population (46.9 per cent according to the United States Election project) didn’t even bother to vote at all.
It’s a sobering statistic, particularly today (Remembrance Day here in Canada and Veterans Day in the U.S.) as we remember those who fought for such freedoms that we have the luxury to enjoy.
In fact, it’s a slap in the face to the veterans, and their families, some of whom died at war and some of whom were seriously injured, as well as those who continue to fight.
These brave young men and women fought for us, and on top of paying our respects today it is our duty to uphold our rights and privileges and continue to fight for a better world.
I’m not convinced the American population did its due diligence. Instead of fighting for a better world, too many have sluffed off their responsibilities as citizens and allowed this monstrosity to occur. It’s sickening to think just what Trump could do to our nation, our planet, our lives with the power that Americans have given him.
The U.S. (and Canada, and the rest of the world) is rightfully worried. But my dear southern neighbours, don’t come crying to Canada seeking refuge. You made your bed, now it’s time to lie in it - at least those who didn’t bother to vote for a better future.
It’s time for U.S. citizens to step up and hold Trump accountable. Wanting him to fail is not the answer either. He is the pilot of this plane and if he fails, you all crash and burn.
It’s not as if everyone was thrilled to have Justin Trudeau voted prime minister in 2015. But then again, many were thrilled to throw out former PM Stephen Harper.
The fact is, you can’t please everyone.
But the whole point of this democratic process is to allow the people to decide. We have the freedom of choice here in North America, while many other countries do not enjoy such a luxury.
And I know for many, it was like choosing the lesser evil for many in the American election. But the point is, everyone had a choice, unfortunately many neglected to be active citizens in fighting for the future of their country.
It’s not an onerous task, not like the soldiers who had to dodge bullets and carry wounded buddies through the trenches. A little research, a trip to the polls and that’s all it takes.
While I feel for my U.S. neighbours, this whole debacle makes me proud to be a Canadian.
We too may have a problem with voter apathy, but last year’s election boasted a turnout rate of just over 68 per cent, the highest in two decades.
Meanwhile the U.S. turnout rate is declining - sadly a reflection of the state of well being.