Friends:
The Alliance 4 Democracy (A4D) steering committee met recently to discuss the letter we forwarded to you on May 8 – the eve of the provincial election.
In the heat of the moment, and disturbed about some of Dr. Weaver’s tactics during the campaign, we made a hasty decision to share some information from one of the Green Party supporters in our membership. Some of this information turned out to be incorrect and was unintentionally hurtful to our local candidate. Kim Darwin’s campaign manager has told us that all aspects of Andrew Weaver’s visit to the Sunshine and Powell River were organized by Kim, her campaign manager and the provincial campaign.
We apologize and take full responsibility for our decision. We acknowledge with hindsight that the timing, on the eve of the election, could not have been worse. We do understand why people are upset about the email.
Kim Darwin ran a principled, passionate campaign and, because of her hard work, the Greens’ share of the vote grew considerably. Kim raised important concerns and had solid ideas to offer.
During elections people get very passionate, which is a wonderful thing about democracy. A4D takes our role in offering informed opinion with due attention to facts very seriously. Our normal process ensures that statements are vetted by the steering committee, with adequate time for diligent consideration. Unfortunately we did not adhere to this, a mistake we don’t take lightly and will not repeat.
It is important for us all to find ways to work together for the changes we most want for our province, our communities and our families. We encourage the New Democrat and the Green parties to co-operate and work together to stop the Site C dam and many other environmental travesties, to bring electoral reform to B.C., to end big money control of our political process and to improve the functioning of our democracy.
A4D Steering Committee:
Bet Cecill, Gail Riddell, George Smith, Lynn Chapman, Rick O’Neill
