A frank discussion of Canada, the environment and Sierra Club Canada Foundation | Sierra Club Canada.
Reflecting is a good thing this time of year. First, I want to thank you for your support and apologize for being so annoying with my constant demands.
Then, give a big sigh of relief…we got through yet another year without being silenced. It is a real concern – many organizations have audits hanging over their heads and others fear they will be next. It can have a chilling effect, and we have felt the chill, examined our operations and made numerous administrative changes…but we will not be silenced. We will continue to speak out–that is our role.
We were targeted by (un)EthicalOil.org in 2012 and 2013–they wanted the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) to shut us down–but not this year. Perhaps it’s because bullies generally fade away when you stand up to them.
The CRA chill has caused many foundations to turn away from advocacy and invest in other kinds of environmental work. They may fear the government or just believe the chances of stimulating change in today’s Canada are limited. We used to rely on individuals to support our capacity to approach large foundations, and foundations to cover the costs of programs. In today’s world, we must rely on your support and generosity more than ever before. It’s not cliché—it’s the new normal, unfortunately.
