As you read this, the federal government is making a concerted effort to permanently shape Canada's digital future without your input.
The policy being developed right now will change Canada forever. Issues on the table include media ownership, Internet openness, broadband access, cellphone rates and competition, support for Canadian culture and much more.
Industry Minister Tony Clement, at a major conference last month with business and government leaders, announced a 60-day consultation on a digital economy strategy. Narrowly framed in the language of efficiency and competition, documents speak to the government's approach to this issue. The emphasis is on "maximizing reliance on market forces" through deregulation and protection of the "legitimate interests" of internet service providers and other industry players.
There is clear evidence that government began this "consultation" after getting its marching orders from the industry following a series of closed-door meetings.
JOIN OPENMEDIA.CA RIGHT NOW AND HELP PUSH FOR A DIGITAL POLICY THAT MEETS THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITIES.
The government's approach, which allows for minimal public involvement in this brief consultation process, demonstrates the urgent need for a countering citizen-oriented initiative. We must push government hard with our proposal, one that makes a community-centred media system a priority.
We've been here before, bringing your voices into the political process. Witness the Net Neutrality campaign, when we were able to get more than 12,000 comments submitted to the CRTC. This time the issue is more diffuse, the challenge is greater and we need your help.
Our opponents have deep pockets. Help make a community-centred digital strategy a reality by becoming a sustainer of OpenMedia.ca. Join the fight for a truly public consultation that will bring Canadians' voices into the policy-making choir.
We're a small, dynamic coalition. Your support will go a long way in helping us with this crucial public engagement work. In the coming weeks, our goal is to find just 30 new sustainers of OpenMedia.ca. You can also make a one-time donation.
Sincerely,
Steve, Jacqui, Marie, Reilly, Amanda
Tell-a-friend!
