Braid: Trudeau's long gone but look who's virtue signalling now
Former Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was often criticized for his progressive virtue-signalling, but in Alberta, that void has been filled by smarmy conservative virtue-signalling under Premier Danielle Smith’s UCP government.
The UCP’s recent actions, such as the school library book ban and the law prohibiting trans girls from playing on school sports teams, have been seen as divisive political plays that escalate emotions and create division. These tactics are reminiscent of Trudeau’s approach to politics, where issues are inflated beyond reality to rally the base.
The school boards in Alberta have been forced to enforce these controversial laws and orders, adding to their workload amidst looming threats of a teachers’ strike or lockout. The requirement for proof of gender at birth for trans children and the school library book ban have been met with criticism for invading privacy and promoting a culture of reporting on one another.
While the issues may affect only a few individuals, they have been amplified by a vocal segment of the UCP base. The handling of trans students in sports and the censorship of library books should be approached with care and humanity, rather than as opportunities for grandstanding.
The UCP government’s focus on these contentious issues has overshadowed more pressing concerns, such as Alberta’s high unemployment rate and declining job opportunities. Despite the economic challenges facing the province, the government has managed to deflect attention through divisive policies and virtue-signalling tactics.
As Alberta faces uncertain times ahead, it is crucial for the government to address the economic challenges and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. While political distractions may temporarily rally support, the long-term effects of neglecting pressing issues could have detrimental consequences for the province.
Don Braid’s observations highlight the need for a balanced approach to governance that addresses both social issues and economic concerns. As Alberta navigates through challenging times, it is essential for leaders to focus on meaningful solutions that benefit all Albertans.
