WHEREAS municipally elected officials are dealing with increasingly hostile, unsafe work environments facing threats and harassment;
AND WHEREAS we are witnessing the dissolution of democratic discourse and respectful debate across all levels of government and in neighbouring jurisdictions;
AND WHEREAS social media platforms have exacerbated disrespectful dialogue, negative commentary, and toxic engagement which disincentivizes individuals, especially women and candidates from diverse backgrounds from running for office;
AND WHEREAS better decisions are made when democracy is respectful and constructive and the voices of diverse genders, identities, ethnicities, races, sexual orientation, ages and abilities are heard and represented around municipal council tables;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
THAT Courtenay Council supports the Elect Respect pledge and commits to:
- Treat others with respect in all spaces—public, private, and online;
- Reject and call out harassment, abuse, and personal attacks;
- Focus debate on ideas and policies, not personal attacks;
- Help build a supportive culture where people of all backgrounds feel safe to run for and hold office;
- Call on relevant authorities to ensure the protection of elected officials who face abuse or threats; and
- Model integrity and respect by holding one another to the highest standards of conduct;
AND THAT Courtenay Council calls on elected officials, organizations and community members to support the Elect Respect campaign and sign the online pledge at www.electrespect.ca;
AND THAT a copy of this resolution be sent to the K'ómoks First Nation, Comox Valley Regional District, Village of Cumberland, Town of Comox, Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities, Union of BC Municipalities, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, relevant MPs and MLAs, the local detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the founder of this campaign, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.