A commentary by Bill Demeter, Chair of It’s Our City, Inc.
In the aftermath of the latest earthquake, everything has centred on one major theme. That theme is always talking about the “Economic Recovery”. There is far more than just economic recovery to be discussed. We need to deal with human recovery and all that is implied by that term.
Human Recovery suggests we collectively get healthy, we can see a future for ourselves, we are optimistic for our city, and we embrace - not resist change. This requires several things to take place. First, our own individual willingness to look at new ideas, be patient, and accept we can be stronger by participation – not observation.
Our politicians and officials have also got to make an extremely difficult change, a change that this city belongs to the people and not them. They are not the single depository of what is right and they must listen to the people. There is a reason nature gave us two ears and only one mouth. Only time will tell and it is clear we only have one chance to get it right.
Christchurch has a wonderful opportunity to build something new and different that embraces new thinking, new technologies and attracts new people who want to live in heart of excitement and innovation.
The challenge is for our politicians to be willing to let us tell them what we want versus them doing what they want.
Stay tuned.
Also, listen to a new programme on PLAINS FM, The Quake Panel.In the first programme, Lizzie Belcher talks to David Simmons from Lincoln University, CBD business owner James Ayers and activist / programme maker Bill Demeter.
