In the face of fear, citizens get organized

“A patriarchal DNA is still embedded in political institutions which increases the risk of violence and war.”

In an event where the main focus was the risk posed by nukes and nuclear disasters, it might not be expected to listen to issues such as patriarchy. However, Sen. McPhedran explained the connection between these two apparently unconnected issues. She was adamant in clarifying that her position does not target male individuals but the patriarchal status quo embedded in systems and institutions founded a lot of time ago, where their prevalent vision favored the use of violence and military force for conflict resolution rather than dialogue. There have been changes, but that institutional DNA is still alive.

If this is a reality, the question is how to make more positive changes to challenge such a vision that brings us closer to war, and even nuclear threats. First, there are systemic issues, for example, how resources are allocated in political institutions. McPhedran states that citizens must bring fresh ideas and proposals through direct dialogues with authorities and diplomats. Indeed, several multilateral dialogue platforms could be set up between civil society organizations and those in positions of power with the ultimate goal of reducing the amount of nuclear weapons available for governments.

Therefore, places for discussions like these are necessary. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights has been a meaningful space to get engaged in conversations between citizens and authorities. However, it would even be irrelevant without the presence of voices from civil movements and organizations. The events they organize matter because they resonate well beyond this physical location due to social media and internet, specially in hard times like the ones we are living in.

On the other hand, it was not possible not to mention the rise of Trump in the United States. What will happen with this political shift? Will there be less reproductive rights for women? These are questions that inevitably arise and might inflict fear. This is feeling that might be paralyzing since people can experience the pressure of decision making from those in power. Although this is true, citizens can also get organized and support each other in order to find ways to survive and defend their values and rights.

“Although the United Nations has many flaws, it is still a civilization tool. What will replace it if dismantled?”

Nationalist and polarized visions could also mean less support for organizations such as the United Nations whose services and programs have already suffered because less financial help has been received from the United States government. Now, there is a serious possibility that it will withdraw from this institution even further. Although the United Nations has many flaws, it is still a civilization tool. What will replace it if dismantled?

The good news is that we are all global citizens. In face of daunting changes in the world, we are given the opportunity to challenge the system. When governments are more regressive, people get organized to fight against pressing threats such as the climate crisis or the real possibility of nuclear annihilation. Places and events like the YNPS are perfect to remind people that they have allies in the Parliament and the Senate of Canada where there are young leaders that care about these issues. Sen. McPhedran finished her speech with powerful statements: “elected representatives must not remain silent” and “commitment is even better if made collectively.” Her words are an urgent reminder that people also have the power to make positive changes happen along with their allies in the government and other institutions.

At the end of the #youthnuclearpeacesummit, a panel discussion featured Senator Marilou McPhedran, Dr. Ernst Thiessen, Dr. John Guilfoyle, and Rooj Ali – moderated by Rochelle Squires (#youthnuclearpeacesummit • Instagram).

Nicolas Dousdebes – Communications Coordinator – MARL