Thread by @EveryAlbertan

If we truly want to have struggling Albertans do better, & AB as a whole come out of its struggles, we need to step outside our own perspectives & dialogue with those around us. (I know - weird concept). Know what doesn't help at all? Attacking each other & making assumptions. /1

We all have our own concerns when it comes to what we consider the biggest issues for AB. *Newsflash - we do NOT all have the same concerns.* (So wild to consider.)
I can say- there often is common ground when we take the time to dialogue on issues. Start there with people. /2

When someone disagrees with you, it does nothing to attack and shut them down. If we opt to give space & listen to what they voice as their concerns & thoughts, we validate others & we both learn. Surprise - not one of us can know ALL the issues & have the only solutions. /3

We are all doing the best we can with what we have. Even if we strongly disagree with one another.
We can disagree & remain respectful. The only way we will create needed innovative solutions is by coming together, learning from each other, & respecting each other.
/4

I consider policies which impact my life when I vote. As many others do. This does not make me a horrible person, it is me making decisions to support what is best for my family. We will never all agree on best platforms. We need to look already at what each party offers /5

Wise parties are already engaging with voters across Alberta to discover what people consider the biggest issues & needs & then create their policies & platforms around that.
Quit attacking each other & start hearing each other's concerns. The more we all know, the better we do.

Be kind. Be patient. Stop making assumptions.
#OurAlberta needs us to work together as much as we can. And where we disagree, to figure out solutions.
Please quit writing off others based on your own assumptions. That is your issue, not theirs.
Quit the attacks. They hurt AB.

When I engaged more on Twitter, I was attacked by both "sides". I was called an "egotistical bitch" by one strong NDP supporters & her friends all attacked me. Why? Because I was part of creating a non partisan advocacy group. That group dissolved. I still was attacked after.

Did that make me decide to align with NDP? No. It cause me to block the drama. I have zero time for disrespect, abuse, or bullies.
I have had the chance to engage with more on the right to meet on common ground than with those on the left. Even though I align more left.

We need to quit the drama. Quit the attacks. There are those who will not change their mind. That is not on us. But it is on us to remain respectful if we choose.
There are MANY people with concerns in AB. The more of those we engage with, the more we will learn issues across AB.

THEN we can look at the biggest areas of common concern. & work outwards from there.
Let me tell you a HUGE ignored demographic. Those with #disabilities. Engage with them. Advocate alongside. When we support them, it helps ALL of us. Truly.
#BeKindOrQuiet. My thoughts. 😉