This project is organized by independent democrats, civil society supporters, and Participedia: the world’s largest database and research community studying democratic innovations, based at McMaster University. Besides starting with a pro-Greenbelt slant, this campaign is non-partisan and intends to engage broad public participation.
It will use a tool called “Polis” to host a large, open, online democratic conversation for Ontarians to discuss how the Greenbelt should be managed. We will also be conducting door-to-door canvassing to invite Ontarians to participate. The conversation will run Sept 18-24, and results will be released shortly thereafter. Find more info on our About page or see this short video on Polis.
We’re asking supporters to:
- Let us add your name to our supporters list (akin to signing an open letter)
- Share this site to social media, mail lists, etc. when it opens (info to follow)
- Optionally submit a few “seed comments” by Sept 18 (see below)
New supporters are welcome to join after Sept 18, and we welcome suggestions or requests. You can contact yourgreenbelt@gmail.com with any questions, and we’ll be happy to answer by email or arrange a short Zoom or phone call.
Please don’t share this info publicly before the campaign is officially announced.
What seeds are for
Seeds will be seen by the first participants when the conversation opens. For an example, see demo currently on the main page (those comments will be replaced by your seeds). Participant comments will also appear as the conversation develops, but your seeds will ensure things get off on the right foot by including a diversity of perspectives and demonstrating to participants what’s expected of them.
You don’t need to submit seeds to be a supporter, but seeds will ensure your ideas are represented in the conversation from the start. You’ll also see how people voted on your seeds (and other ideas) when the full dataset is released. Once the conversation opens, you’re welcome (and encouraged!) to add more comments or invite your organization’s members to visit the site and participate.
How to write seeds
Seeds must:
- be 140 characters or less
- contain only one idea each
- adhere to the basic rules in our moderation policy
Seeds should:
- use clear and simple language that anyone can understand
- be an opinion or argument people can agree / disagree with, not just a fact
Seeds can:
- be consensus-oriented or polarizing (it’s ok if some people will disagree)
- express extreme ideas or positions (within reason)
- cite facts to make their point
Seeds should be sent to the person who contacted you or to yourgreenbelt@gmail.com