Writing to Politicians

Dear Peacewomen

This is Julie. I was asked by the moderator, Diana, to connect with anyone interested in writing letters to politicians.I was a newcomer, invited by Rona Bloomfield, at this gathering of fine women. From what I heard that day, I felt that my letters would be most powerful if I could recount a couple of stories that would illustrate the points I wished to make. So far I do not have those stories, but I am hoping that what develops from the radio broadcast and the story collecting will be the fuel I am looking for.I intend to address my letters to Stephen Harper, Peter Mackay (minister of Foreign Affairs, and Gordon O'Connell, minister of Defense. Elizabeth May of the Green Party will be challenging Peter Mackay (not sure of how he spells his name) in Halifax, and that too will provide some content, as I agree with the Green Party slant on things.

Before I go, I realize that I do have an example of a “little story”. It was news to me that there is a group of women called the “blackwatch”, that simply are present at check points. I was profoundly moved at the simplicity but power in such a gesture. I mentioned this to a number of other women who, like me, had not heard of this. Their reaction was the same as mine.

In writing to politicians I plan to recount a ‘little story’ that illustrates the way that I believe real change happens and contrast that to the top heavy, expensive, and destructive policies that so often are the purview of governments. So any "little stories" that I hear will be gratefully received as "fuel" for my letters. I also encourage others to take that bit of time to write. I know that letters make a difference.