Features
“The Right Path” sends the right message
Special to The Jewish Post & News by TASHA KHEIRIDDIN Well known political commentator and author Tasha Kheiriddin published her most recent book, “The Right Path: How Conservatives Can Unite, Inspire and Take Canada Forward” last month. A long-time conservative, Tasha is currently the co-chair of the leadership campaign of Jean Charest.
She is also a principal with the Toronto office of Navigator and a lecturer at the Max Bell School of Public Policy at McGill University. Tasha agreed to share some of her ideas that she outlines in her book with The Jewish Post & News as to how the federal Conservative party could best move forward in the future.
In “The Right Path: How Conservatives Can Unite, Inspire and Take Canada Forward”, I offer a roadmap to the Conservative Party of Canada to win the next election and elections well into the future. The book traces the twin arcs of populism and conservatism in Canadian politics, analyzes their current appeal and proposes the best approach for the party to succeed with three crucial voter groups, including New Canadians, urban and suburban dwellers, and Millennials / Generation Z. All these groups are part of a strategy to build a larger and more well distributed base of support for the party.
If Conservatives intend to remain a vital force and potential governing party, they need to put aside their differences and build a winning coalition. To attain this objective will require soul-searching and self-examination. Canadian Conservatives need to ask themselves some fundamental questions, including: How did we get here? What is Canadian conservatism? And how can we unite, inspire, and take Canada forward—and win a majority government?
As many have noted, in 2021 the Conservative party won the popular vote but lost the federal election because most of their support was concentrated in Western and rural Canada. Similarly, in the 2019 federal election Conservatives won 34% of the popular vote compared to 33% for the Liberals. Yet the Liberals remain dominant in crucial battlegrounds, including the GTA. To ensure a well distributed base of support and to win, it is imperative that Conservatives reach out to various groups across the country and build a bigger tent of support.
Successful Canadian Conservative leaders have always understood the importance of coalition-building. I discuss three leaders who successfully did this: John A. Macdonald, Brian Mulroney, and Stephen Harper. They were able to build big tents and win large majorities by tempering extremes and not playing to them. All three understood that governing is a balancing act. Each had their own challenge: Macdonald’s was nation building, Mulroney’s was nation keeping, and Harper’s was nation changing. While they did not accomplish everything they set out to do, they each came to power by forming extremely effective alliances and coalitions and made history as a result.
Politics is as much a social exercise as it is an ideological one. Forming personal connections with various communities throughout the country is essential and opens the door to potential support and civic engagement. The current Conservative party has been building alliances with various communities but much remains to be done.
Since the days of Mulroney and Harper, the party has developed a strong relationship with Canada’s Jewish community. While in office, Stephen Harper was a strong friend of Israel, and remains so today. He recognized the importance of Israel as a beacon of democracy in the Middle East. He understood the need to combat anti-Semitism at home and abroad. He also championed the values that conservatives and the Jewish community share. At its core, conservatism stands on three pillars: faith, family and free enterprise. All of these are also pillars of Judaism and of the Jewish experience in Canada.
This respect and support for Israel and Jewish Canadians continues to resonate within the current Conservative Party. In May of this year, designed Jewish Heritage month, leader Candice Bergen stated that “Throughout the month of May, I encourage all Canadians to celebrate the inspirational role Jewish Canadians have played in communities across Canada.” She noted that Canada is home to nearly 400,000 people of the Jewish faith – who have made invaluable contributions to various fields, including medicine, sports, technology and the arts, thereby improving the quality of life for Canadians and the entire world. Bergen committed to continue to carry on the fight against anti-Semitism and expressed the hope that all Canadians will take time to learn about Jewish history and culture in Canada and celebrate the incredible achievements of Canada’s Jewish community.
Just as we, as parents, strive to have our children carry on our heritage and traditions, one of the most important challenges for Conservatives is also engaging the next generation. Millennials now outnumber baby boomers, comprising 33.2 % of the working age population. As for Gen Z, they are projected to outnumber baby boomers by 2032 and millennials by 2045. Unlike what is commonly assumed, these groups are not monolithic in their political views, or overwhelmingly left-leaning. Almost 48% of Gen-Z voters, aged 18-24, define themselves as right of center. Among Millennials, about 30% lean right, and another 20% could be accessible Conservative voters if the party takes a centre-right approach and offers solutions on issues such as climate change. Young people are looking for a party that listens, and “that cares”; they seek sincerity and authenticity in their politicians.
When I started writing this book after the 2021 election, no one could have foreseen the events of 2022, including the freedom convoy in Ottawa, Russian’s attack on Ukraine, galloping inflation, and economic anxiety. Recent events have created an even more uncertain world, making it crucial that Canada has a government that provides greater stability and growth. Conservatives – and all Canadians, must also guard against the spectre of intolerance and hate that can accompany upheavals and economic anxiety. Populism has led nations to some terrible places in the past, and we need to ensure that this never happens again in the future.
Canada today needs a choice of governing parties and I believe that conservatism offers a better path out of our present malaise. The Conservatives can be that choice, but only if they can find some common ground. I hope “The Right Path” offers the next leader, whoever he or she is, some guidance and insight into how to achieve this objective.
“The Right Path: How Conservatives Can Unite, Inspire and Take Canada Forward” is available in bookstores, on Amazon and at www.opibooks.com For more information, please visit http://therightpathbook.com
Features
The Magic of DNA
By GERRY POSNER This is my story, but it just as easily could have been yours. Even at my older age, a new relative popped into the family. This was unexpected to me and the whole family and indeed the new family member as well.
Put the blame on or credit to DNA. What transpired I suspect is happening all over the world these days. That is, there is now a new first cousin in the family. Call her KBP. It seems that KBP took a test through ancestry.com not that long ago, just as I had done years ago. When you take the test, you end up receiving messages from Ancestry from time to time identifying people who have similar genetic markers to you, some closer than others. I have looked at these messages and have identified people I know to be my cousins just from the initials. However, most of the initials listed are completely unknown to me. These lists of relatives go on for pages and pages. I struggle with the value of trying to reach these distant relatives because, even if I can connect with any of them, no one can figure out just how we are related. What would we even talk about should we ever meet? Often, I just ignore the lists as there seem to be too many names to contemplate a possible contact.
As it turned out, KBP also took the same test with the same company, ancestry.com. But she also failed to notice a connection between her and anyone else. This story would have ended there but for the intervention of another cousin who also had taken the DNA spit test with Ancestry. This cousin spotted the relationship and alerted me. Once that occurred, we established a connection and then the rest of this story developed.
What took place some almost seventy years ago was the cause of this new relationship. Recall ( and this is particularly relevant to young readers) the decade of the 1950s was an era when abortion, though present, was in back lanes or in the shadows. Most of the time a child born out of wedlock was put up for adoption. In this case, an uncle and his then non-Jewish partner elected to put the child up for adoption and she was adopted into a family located in Alberta where she grew up. That would have been the end of the story – but for DNA.
My new cousin was ecstatic to find out about the whole new family she was now a part of and whose history was now hers. Even though she is now a Mormon, she was eager to explore her Jewish origins and indeed even came with me and my wife to synagogue at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue in Calgary not that long ago. She had much in common with the family. Most of all, she was so happy to delve into a past previously unknown. On the other hand, her birth mother, still alive at 93, rejected meeting her daughter from so long ago. KBP respects that view and has made peace with just her new association with Dad’s family.
Of course, what made this secret such a well kept secret for so long is that the uncle died young and never told anyone. Who then could have known? The truth is out and I, for one, am glad it is now out there. Not everyone in my family agrees with me, but the main protagonist in this tale, KBP, was supportive of my writing this article. Of course, the real test now is to see if and how this new relationship with KBP unfolds, if at all.
As I said in the beginning, this is not an isolated story. You can bet there are hundreds, maybe thousands of such stories out there waiting to be unearthed and told. It is all about DNA.
Features
Kevin Leach and the Sabre Training Advisory Group: Providing training assistance to the Ukrainian military
By MARTIN ZEILIG As a private citizen, Kevin Leach is following the example of the Government of Canada by providing much needed assistance to our democratic ally, Ukraine, in its fight against the unprovoked war of aggression launched by Russia on February 24, 2022.
Mr. Leach, who grew up in Palgrave, Ontario and lived in Toronto before moving to Ukraine, is the founder of the Sabre Training Advisory Group, a not-for-profit organization geared towards providing training assistance Ukraine’s military. He is a 10-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, and served as an OSCE ceasefire observer in Ukraine from 2018 until the full-scale invasion in February 2022.
He founded the STAG in November 2022.
“Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed $4 billion in military assistance to Ukraine,” says the Government of Canada website.
“This funding will allow Canada to deliver military assistance to Ukraine through to 2029. We deeply admire the bravery and courage of Ukrainians who are fighting to defend their independence and freedom, and we will continue to work closely with our Allies and partners to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty and security Canada and Ukraine are close partners with a long-standing defence relationship.”
As well, Operation (Op) UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) military training and capacity building mission in Ukraine, “was launched in 2015 at the request of the Ukrainian government,” and in 2023, was expanded and extended until March 2026.
“Since the start of Op UNIFIER, the CAF has trained approximately 41,000 Ukrainian military and security personnel in battlefield tactics and advanced military skills,” says the online information.
“As the mission progressed, much of the direct training undertaken by CAF members transitioned to members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with Canadians acting as advisors and mentors as well as assisting in the development of courses.”
“Ukraine’s fight is a fight for international law, for the United Nations Charter, and for innocent civilians, including children, who deserve to live in peace,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says on his website.
Besides military aid and training, Canada has also provided significant economic support, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, and has welcomed tens of thousands Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war into our country.
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Mr. Leach, who is a frequent guest on the Mriya Report, a 24/7 site on X that provides in-depth information on the war, agreed to an email interview with this reporter.
Q: What was your motivation in forming STAG?
KL: Sabre is a professional military training non-profit. Our aim is to give Ukrainian defenders the skills to come home alive. We are building the capacity for Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Sabre Training Advisory Group grew out of the frustrations its founding members had with the chaotic and unprofessional way that many foreign instructors were attempting to train Ukrainian soldiers in the NATO and Allied style of warfare.
Q: Who else works with you in the STAG?
KL: We have a team of volunteers from all over the world. They are former soldiers from Canada, the US, UK, and even Australia, plus our local Ukrainian volunteers. Our executive staff, besides myself, are two former officers from the British Army and US Marine Corps, respectively.
Q: Do you work closely with the Government of Ukraine or Ukraine’s military and/or the Canadian Armed Forces?
KL: We don’t work closely at this time with any civilian government, but we have an official partnership with the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade “Rubizh”. As we’re still a relatively small organization, we don’t warrant much attention from governments.
Q: What else that you would like the public to know about your work?
KL: Training inside of Ukraine is vital. It is far more efficient than moving large numbers of Ukrainian troops around Europe, and being here puts us closer to the action, and allows us to adjust faster to lessons learned on the battlefield. We also need support! It is hard to fund a program like ours, as it’s quite unique. Typically the role we are filling would be performed by private military contractors, which are illegal in Ukraine and carry severe political risk due to public perception of these companies.
We set out to establish a high standard, using proper training techniques and taking a systematic approach to instruction. In just a few short months we were able to secure a high-quality training area, and a team of excellent instructors who draw on decades of collected military experience. We have successfully trained over 3000 Ukrainian warriors and medics, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to excel on the battlefield. Our track record of tangible results demonstrates our commitment to the mission and the decisive impact on Ukrainian defenders.
For further information, visit the STAG website: www.sabretag.org
Features
Exploring 8 Innovative New Services in In-Home Care
In-home care has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, changing demographics, and an increased focus on personalized care. These innovative services are transforming the way support is delivered, enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the most exciting and groundbreaking innovations that families can depend on when it comes to their space and the best practices to ensure comfort and safety.
Telehealth and Telemedicine
Telehealth and telemedicine have revolutionized health care by providing remote access to services. Through video consultations, seniors and caregivers can communicate with doctors, nurses, and specialists without leaving their homes. This reduces the need for frequent visits to health facilities, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Telehealth also enables continuous monitoring of chronic conditions, allowing providers to adjust treatments promptly and prevent complications.
Remote Monitoring and Wearable Devices
Wearable devices and remote monitoring systems are becoming essential tools. These devices can track vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, providing real-time data to caregivers and health professionals. Advanced systems can detect falls, monitor medication adherence, and even predict health issues before they become severe. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions, improving outcomes and enhancing the safety of in-home recipients.
Virtual Companionship and Social Engagement
Loneliness and social isolation are significant concerns for seniors living at home. Virtual companionship services, such as those provided by robots or virtual assistants, offer interaction and engagement to mitigate these issues. These technologies can remind individuals to take their medications, guide them through exercises, and provide cognitive stimulation through games and conversations. Additionally, platforms that facilitate virtual social gatherings and activities help seniors stay connected with family and friends, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Personalized Care Plans and Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a crucial role in developing personalized plans. AI algorithms can analyze data from various sources, including health records, lifestyle habits, and genetic information, to create customized strategies. These plans are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each individual, ensuring they receive the most appropriate and effective solutions. AI can also assist caregivers by predicting potential health issues and suggesting preventive measures, thereby enhancing the overall quality of support.
Smart Home Technology
Smart technology is making it easier for seniors to live independently. Voice-activated assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home can control lights, thermostats, and appliances, reducing the physical effort required for daily tasks. Smart systems can also include sensors that detect movement, alerting caregivers if there is unusual activity or inactivity. This technology not only improves safety but also provides peace of mind for both the recipients and their families.
On-Demand and Flexible Care Services
The gig economy has introduced on-demand services to the in-home care industry. Platforms like Honor and CareLinx allow families to find and hire support quickly, providing flexibility and convenience. These services offer a wide range of options, from a few hours of assistance to round-the-clock support, accommodating the varying needs of individuals. The ability to schedule help on short notice ensures that support is available when it’s needed most. This includes teams like the one at Parners for Home Care; more on their services and support options can be found on their website: https://partnersforhomecare.ca/
Integrative Health and Wellness Programs
Holistic approaches to health and wellness are gaining traction – and for good reason. Integrative health programs combine traditional medical care with complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy. These programs focus on the overall well-being of the individual, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health. As a result of promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle, integrative health services can enhance the quality of life and prevent the onset of chronic conditions.
Enhanced Training and Support for Caregivers
Innovative training programs for caregivers are crucial in improving the quality of in-home care. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies provide immersive training experiences, allowing support workers to practice and develop their skills in realistic scenarios. Additionally, online platforms offer ongoing education and support, helping individuals stay updated on best practices and new developments in the field. Enhanced training ensures that everyone is well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their clients.
The Future of In-Home Care Services
The way we grow and age in comfort is rapidly changing, thanks to these innovative services and technologies. Telehealth, remote monitoring, virtual companionship, AI-driven plans, smart technology, on-demand services, integrative health programs, and enhanced training are all contributing to more personalized, efficient, and effective support. As these innovations continue to evolve, they hold the promise of significantly improving the lives of those who rely on in-home care, allowing them to age gracefully and independently in the comfort of their own spaces.