SAVE YOUR CITY

A veteran community activist and municipal government leader tackles civic hostility.

As bitter partisan rhetoric divides voters, hate crimes continue to surge, and extremist conspiracy theories have taken over local city council meetings, Canadian author Kalen-Sukra warns: “We are all losing sight of the great threat this toxicity poses to our democratic way of life.” The book’s first section, “Welcome to Bullyville,” provides a harrowing survey of how the decay of civic norms has contributed to governmental (virtually any and all levels of government) inability to address pressing problems of climate change, growing inequity, housing, etc. While realistic in its assessment of the noxiousness of contemporary culture, the book provides alternative approaches in its second and third sections, “Journey to Sustainaville” and “Sustainable Culture.” The author proposes that we reemphasize civic education, which could potentially spark a “culture and values revolution” that prioritizes compassion and empathy. Kalen-Sukra is careful to note that these changes must occur at the local level and require a team of “civil society representatives,” from business leaders to community activists. As a certified municipal clerk, former local government chief administrative officer, and columnist for Municipal World magazine, the author draws on three decades’ worth of experience in local government and community organizing. While some might find the goal of fervent community mindedness to be Pollyannaish, the author lists specific, realistic avenues for change. A foreword by the former executive director of Toronto’s Christie Refugee Welcome Centre, various diagrams and other visual aids, and 50-plus endnotes contribute to the book’s informed presentation and welcoming style.

A well-researched guidebook for encouraging civic-mindedness.