Clowns and Conservative Towns

We knew we had our work cut out for us when we pulled up to the Brockville Memorial Civic Centre for the small community’s multicultural festival. Brockville has a long history of voting conservative, electing a conservative Member of Provincial Parliament in every election in the last 96 years. Unfazed, the Fairness Express team jumped in head first, handing out popcorn and engaging local residents. Those individuals that ventured up to the tables were also treated to some blues music courtesy of a couple local musicians. Engager and OPSEU activist Barb De Roche even had a little chat with a clown about income inequality. “I’m interested,” said Steve the Clown, “but I am more interested in the music.” Just as the bus was beginning to pull away, we were stopped by a local journalist who came aboard the Fairness Express, and listened to engagers John Hanson, Barb De Roche and Chrisy Tremblay speak passionately about the tour and its four pillars: tax fairness, good jobs, public services and labour rights. “We were in Merrickville this morning and spoke to a number of individuals who are really concerned. People know there is a problem, they just cannot put a name to it…the name is income inequality.” Well said, John.