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Who will be the Nation Builder of 2007?

EDWARD GREENSPON

From Saturday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 3:00 PM EDT 02/01/08

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  1. David Demner from Vancouver, Canada writes: For the nation builder of the year, I would like to submit the Defense Counsel of Robert Pickton, Adrian Brooks. He is passionately and vigorously, but not negatively, defending someone that everyone else found guilty long ago.
  2. Gordon White from Vancouver, Canada writes: I'd like to nominate British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell as Nation Builder of the Year. He's been the unparalleled leader of any government for the environment. From reaching out to Green Governor Schwarzenegger (June 2007 Trade Mission) to signing carbon-trading treaties in Lisbon, Portugal, the Premier has proved that we don't need to wait for the federal government for leadership.

    Honourable Mention: Paul Pritchard for standing toe-to-toe with the RCMP and forcing them to make his video public. His actions are hopefully the first step towards establishing an independent, non-partisan body for investigating the RCMP. Having an in-house investigation accomplishes nothing but increased public suspicion of the national police force. Our country cannot function without a public that trusts the police force. Pritchard's actions may have wide-spread implications.
  3. Donald Redhorse-Ripley from Beverly Hills, Florida, United States writes: I nominate Fred Doucet, former Sancho Panza to Brian Mulroney, for his imaginitive presentation of various memories in the interviews about money transactions not involving Mr. Mulroney.
    DFRipley
  4. don naylor from Canada writes: Whether you like his style or not, whether you are Conservative or Liberal, Stephen Harper is showing us that he has a vision for Canada that appears to include all of the Nations people with recognition for the country's unique cultural character. In a world that is more torn than ever
    between the haves and have nots of society, Canada is positioned to
    soar. Responsible, sustainable growth is the key. We will see whether
    he can stay out of trouble. Kyoto looms as Harpers most serious threat to
    credibility. Canadians perceive themselves as a conservation conscience society. A non ratification of Kyoto is a failure to deliver on what most canadians believe is the responsible course of action for our nation
  5. Helen McCarthy from Peterborough ON, Canada writes: For the nation builder of the year, I would like to submit Sergeant Debbie Bodkin, a 20-year-veteran of the Waterloo regional police in Ontario. She has served in the homicide, the sexual assault and the drug squads. In the summer of 2004 she used her vacation time to travel to Chad as a member of the Atrocities Documentation Team for a US State Dept inquiry. She and colleagues interviewed 1,136 victims. In November 2004 she joined an investigation team authorized by the UN. She suffered from post-traumatic stress due to her experiences, but she continues to move people to action through her lectures. - notes from CBC.ca website

    As Canada is mired in questions about police performance, Debbie shows the Canadian constabulary at its finest. She has a vision of service and protection that exists beyond prescribed duties, expectations and borders. She teaches us to protect and serve human kind.
  6. francis mercer from Canada writes: why MR DON CHERRY of course. he is the only one who truly shows his feelings for our Canadian troops/police/fire fighter,and will support anyone who puts Canada first

    why he hasn't received the order of Canad speaks volumes, for the bigots who select the people who have been asked ,and will be asked to return their order of Canada
  7. Marie Belliveau from St. Catharines, ON, Canada writes: I believe that Maude Barlow from the council of Canadians is the Nation builder of the year. Ms. Barlow has written many books to call attention to what is happening behind the scenes in government and has worked hard travelling the country to inform Canadians. The work of Ms. Barlow and the Council has helped to bring Canadians the information they need to stay safe, to keep our Canadian values and maintain our sovereignty in a political climate that would take all of that away in a very secretive heart beat.
  8. Karen Johnson from Edmonton, Canada writes: I would like to suggest that Paul Gross be given consideration as your nation builder. This talented, committed Canadian has chosen to focus his artistic skills on telling Canadian stories to Canadians. That he has managed to film 'Passchendaele' (writing, directing, producing) is so admirable - I not only can't wait to see it, but I hope it is the beginning of a new trend among Canadian artists - honouring our stories and our citizens.

    I have always enjoyed his work on stage or screen. His commitment to telling the story of Passchendaele deserves our acknowledgement and recognition as a nation builder. Thank-you.
  9. S Taylor from B.C., Canada writes: My vote goes to Paul Pritchard who with his video camera galvanized not only Canada, but millions around the world.

    He showed us how the RCMP really operates in much of this country, including how they attempt to cover-up when witnesses provide information contrary to the Force's own spin.

    As one Canadian wrote recently, if only Mr. Pritchard had been there with his camera the night Ian Bush died in Houston, BC police custody.
  10. Pamphleteer . from Canada writes: Paul Pritchard? Why? He deserves some credit for going after the RCMP for getting his video back - although if he has had any intelligence or sense he wouldn't have given the cops the tape in the first place. He stood around and admittedly videotaped that poor Polish man's agony for his own personal amusement. At the time, he couldn't have cared less about what the man was going through.
  11. Donald Redhorse-Ripley from Beverly Hills, Florida, United States writes: re the nomination of Don Cherry
    I suggest he reminds me of the south end of a north bound horse and his rants have become drones of the natural output of same.
    DFRipley
  12. Job Patstone from Canada writes: This may sound 'corny' but Jean Charest has done more to promote federalism in Quebec, in a quiet way, than any other Quebec politician, in the last 30 yrs, and should be commended for it.
    This nation could be stronger if he manages to get Quebec on board
    which seems to be happening, slowly but surely. One has to live in Quebec to see the changes, but it is working.
    Of course if he were nominated to be the Nation Builder, the whole separation issue would start up again, so don't vote for him, vote for Stephen Harper instead, he is doing a great job so far. Just thought I'd give Charest a boost.
  13. Rod Duncan from Toronto, Canada writes: Arctic activist Sheila Watt-Cloutier, a candidate who embodies Canada's major related (twin) long-term issues of climate change and northern sovereignty, the latter representing the nation's capability to defend the world's northern polar environment, and hope that such control will be in the right hands.
  14. M C from United States writes: I nominate Ezra Levant, for closing the Western Standard in a dignified way and standing up for the freedom of speech in a time when it is imperative to do so.
  15. coming up on 55 from Canada writes: My vote goes to General Rick Hillier. I don't think we have anyone else on the National stage that exemplifies the word leadership like this man. As I have said in previous posts, my family has a person in the Canadian army who will be deployed to Afghanistan next year. I think he will be a little safer with this General in command
  16. Emma Hawthorne from Canada writes: I nominate Paul Pritchard who captured what was happening on his cell phone, then had the prescence of mind to fight to get his tape back when less-than-honest officials were attempting to hoodwink the public with untruths. He exemplifies everything Canadians wish to be, and frankly, in the current environment, need to be.
  17. Donald Redhorse-Ripley from Beverly Hills, Florida, United States writes: Francis Mercer
    In the maritimes my family always thot Torontonians BSed mre than NY Englanders.
    I am US Citizen---US Vet and one of my parents originally came from N.
    I heard Cherry in Windsor Nova Scotia a few years ago.
    Windsor is the documented home of Hockey in the world.
    Cherry took their fee and then crapped all over them.
    I wrote him off then.
    I pay attention to Canadian issues. My wife was born there.
    DFRipley
  18. allie bellini from Salt Spring Island, Canada writes: Prime Minister Harper hands down. We finally have a Prime Minister to be proud of and he deserves the acknowledgement.
  19. MC Wilson from Vancouver, Canada writes: Paul Pritichard? There seem to be some faulty assumptions about his motivation. According to the chronology of news releases here in Vancouver, Pritchard made it clear he wanted the video returned in order to sell it .... and he made this clear before he ever went to court to fight for its return. And he did sell it, for an undisclosed amount, even though the media usually refuses to pay for this kind of thing. A nationbuilder??
  20. Tom Shaffer from Victoria, Canada writes: Jim Balsillie is a smart and successful Canadian who has dedicated much of his wealth to the wellbeing of his country and his fellow citizens of Canada. I would nominate Jim as Nation Builder of the Year.
  21. Gary Casey from Canada writes: I suggest Danny Williams, for having the guts to call a spade a spade and just maybe starting the ball rolling towards challenging the status quo in this country and creating a Canada based on truth and equality.
  22. Robert LeMessurier from St. John's, NL, Canada writes: I nominate David Suzuki who was going on about global warming and other environmental problems, long before they became household words.
  23. David Kendall from Montreal, Canada writes: I would like to nominate the Canadian astronaut Dave Williams as Nation Builder of 2007. During his historic 13-day flight to the International Space Station in August, Williams performed three spacewalks spending 17 hours and 47 minutes outside the space station, a Canadian record. He performed his duties flawlessly in a tricky and dangerous environment garnering the admiration of NASA and the other International Space Station partners, and contributing significantly to the ongoing efforts to construct and use the Space Station as a world-class laboratory. He also acts selfishly as an inspiration to our young people across the nation, instilling in them the amazement of exploration and a belief that Canadians are and can perform at the highest level on the world stage. What better example of a Nation Builder, icon, diplomat and explorer than this outstanding individual.
  24. Brian King from Sydney, Australia writes: As an expat who has been living Down Under for over 2 1/2 decades, I've been following the news back home daily since the Globe and Mail has been available on-line. As a life-long Liberal who started as a Young Liberal the age of 16 with Pierre Trudeau as his MP, I believe that Stephen Harper and Jean Charest have done more to bring Canada back together as the nation I passionately love than anyone in my living memory (59 years). If it can be split 3 ways, then General Rick Hellier must be added to the mix for he exemplies all that is good and great in our Armed Forces, ensuring that the Canadian Army not only punches above its weight in Afghanistan, but that it does so with courage, valour and aplomb.
  25. Gil Hughes from Victora, Canada writes: Mike Duffy a heart bypass and a major wieght problem.
    He is still standing firm between the politicians spin and the facts.

    He stands for the truth and real ethics still in spite of the fact he nearly died but for modern medicine.
  26. Vianney Prud'homme from Montreal, Canada writes: Above all the great Canadians (except Don Cherry) mentionned below,I think that the one who deserves it ,this year,is Stephen Harper.This man has a vision for Canada and his policies are inclusives.For the first time in many years,we have a Prime Minister who 'delivers' and his honest in his approach.Except for his bilan in environment,he is a great Prime Minister.Being a leader not coming from Quebec is a plus, when it comes to re-unite the country.Excuse my english...
    P.S. The official recognition of Quebecois as a nation was very much appreciated in my province.
  27. Abid Virani from Guelph, Canada writes: David Suzuki truly deserves the 2007 Nation Builder award... Unbelievable contribution to the world around him
  28. Glynnmhor of Skywall from Canada writes: Pritchard never helped poor Dziekanski when he had the chance, so he's hardly 'nation builder' material.

    I'd suggest Stephen Harper for all he's done to forge an independent foreign and envorinmental policy for Canada, and for finally setting out the reality that though the franco-quebecois constitute a sociologic nation, Quebec does not constitute a country.
  29. S C from Victoria BC, Canada writes: I nominate Richard Bradshaw, for being a leader in advancing the arts in this country to a level that is shoulder to shoulder with all great nations, and for putting to rest the old moniker of: 'the country without an opera house.' Let his legacy light the way to address Canada's lack of cultural infrastructure, lest we squander our prosperity and hand our children a second-rate nation.
  30. Barbara Scott from Canada writes: Without wanting to be 'corny' or overly- sentimental, I believe the nation builder is the thousands - - maybe millions - - of volunteers who give unstintingly of their time and energy with no expectation of either recognition or reward, in direct service to people in need of help. I think of the volunteers who serve people in palliative care (a very tough job), and those who work with the mentally or physically challenged, and others who volunteer with persons addicted to some substance or other; and I think of the volunteers who become 'professional friends' to the men, women and children who are homeless, or to women and children escaping abusive homes, or to orphaned youngsters. If you need a single name to represent Canada's direct service volunteers, then I would submit that of Helen Tayor, an octogenarian who has done some of the work specified above, and who is off in January to Columbia on a mission to bring medical help to Columbians.... but I'd prefer not to have a single name, and rather recognize all direct service volunteers.
  31. Elizabeth Harvey from Toronto, Canada writes: Do the nominees for Nation Builder have to be famous? My friend Stuart Hickox from Ottawa was surfing the web a couple of years ago when he read that if every household in Canada changed one incandescent bulb to a compact fluorescent, the reduction in pollution would be like taking 66,000 cars off the road. So he changed all his bulbs and started a not-for-profit organization called One Change that's now running a national social marketing campaign called Project Porchlight in 150 communities across Canada. Porchlight empowers and mobilizes community groups and volunteers to 'be a light in the community' by delivering free bulbs door-to-door. Changing a bulb converts environmental awareness to widespread action. In just 18 months, Stuart has raised over $7 million from sponsors who have never worked together before (from small local businesses to EnCana in Alberta to the Ontario Power Authority) to buy bulbs, and he has built a team that started with just his friends and now includes over 50 staff in Ontario and Alberta and 3,000 volunteers. Stuart also lobbied for the incandescent bulb ban earlier this year and worked with both the Ontario Liberal government and the federal Conservatives on their recent announcements. In fact, the quote that was reported in the Globe from Minister Gary Lunn was from speaking notes provided by Stuart. At a time when Canadians are increasingly concerned about climate change, but don't know what to do, Stuart Hickox is providing a simple solution, a way to start. He's not a household name, but he's a nation builder. Stuart and his friends are changing Canada, one bulb at a time. Visit www.projectporchight.com to see the campaign!
  32. Rick Flair from T.O., Canada writes: I say Buzz Hargrove should be considered up there with any of the so called nation builders. In a few years time, Mr. Hargrove will be leaving the labour movement, as he will be forced to retire, and he has done more for the common worker than most can readily realize. He is the driving force behind the most progressive and powerful private-sector union within this country and truly cares about his job. Mr. Hargrove is the leader of one of the only unions in this country that fights for every Canadian minority's rights, whether or not they are a union member. Many people say a lot of things about Mr. Hargrove, but never stop to think about what he has done for all the workers within this country. He is not earning half as much as Stephen Lewis, David Suzuki and the like, but cares just as much about all Canadians, regardless of where or who they work for. Without leaders such as Buzz and Bob White, there would never be a labour movement within this country. It is time to start recognizing those who fight for Canadian workers, the less fortunate and minorities alike. It is not politicians, those who are paid to appear and say a nice speech, etc. that should be praised. The real people fighting for Canadians are those that live, breath and truly know the Canadian worker and the importance of the employment relationship. Without people like Buzz Hargrove, the workers of this country would be left in the 1800s.
  33. A Free Quebec from Quebec, Canada writes: I wish to nominate Stephen Harper, for acknowledging that Quebec is a nation and as such repealing the undemocratic and unconstitutional 'Clarity Act' (ie Bill C-20)... Paving the way for a new country clearly qualify as nation building (literally!)
  34. robert hughes from Toronto, Canada writes: I wish to nominate the Governor General Michaelle Jean. She is a wonderful role model for minorities and shows the promise of what a more caring and inclusive Canada could be. She has certainly brought a lot of class and dignity to the office of GG even in spite of all the detractors.
  35. Eric Morse from Toronto, Canada writes: Gen. Rick Hillier. He leads us in war, where no one else leads us at all.
  36. Kevin Desmoulin from TO, Canada writes: Louise Arbour United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights I would like to nominate her as nation builder of 2007. I think she represents us Canadians at the international level very well and has been helping to build nations including Canada for a while now.
    Of the rest I seen I think none can compared and we should not be just restricting our focus on nation building to just Canada.
  37. Jedburgh Abbey from Canada writes: I'd like to nominate Constable Douglas Scott, 20 years old, who was killed on duty in Nunavut on the night of November 5th. Thousands of other young RCMP constables face similar dangers on a daily basis, and Cst. Scott's death, while obviously not an intentional sacrifice, is a powerful symbol of the cost of their unsung nation-building efforts.
  38. Joseph Sis from Ottawa, Canada writes: I would like to recommend Rick Mercer. He is a good reflection of what is good and nice about Canada. Intelligence, wit with humour and humility.
  39. Susan Friedman from Huntsville, Canada writes: I would like to nominate Mr. Stephen Harper for his level headed approach to our national fiscal position. His tax policies and vision will make Canada strong long after his time at the helm is done. If we would only follow his lead, in this budgetary area, in our personal lives! Definitely a role model in todays mad mad world.
  40. Dan Green from Palm Beach Gardens Florida, United States writes: Rick Mercer hands down.
  41. Dean Utting from Ottawa, Canada writes: My nomination for Nation Builder of the Year is The Canadian Dollar - 'The Loonie'. It's rise has helped our nation in so many ways. Agreed, it has also has hurt some of our nation and it's people, but what nation builder over the years hasn't. The rise of the Loonie has increased the status of our currency and our nation as a whole in the rest of the world. We now feel that we are as 'strong' (actually stronger) in the world markets to the United States. I just returned from the USA and what a great feeling it was that I no longer had to 'pay' to convert my money and generally knowing that the American dollars I was spending weren't as strong as our own Canadian money instilled a confidence and pride that I have never experienced before. Think about how the rise of the Canadian dollar has dominated the press over the last several months. It has to be one of the biggest - if not the biggest - news story of 2007 for Canadians. I strongly suggest you consider the Loonie as the Nation Builder of the Year for 2007. Happy Holidays!
  42. Lloyd Peacock from Vancouver, B.C., Canada writes: I agree with my brother Rick Flair fro Toronto. Buzz Hargrove has given tirelessly of his blood, sweat and tears for this country's working class and for the up scale too when you think about it.
    Brother Hargove started Nation Building from his early beginnings.

    I also believe that right on his heels is Maude Barlow another great Canadian who works to better the lives of all of us here in Canada and within the world we live.

    Lloyd and Bob Peacock
    Vancouver, B.C.
    Canada
  43. Karl Junkin from Toronto, Canada writes: I'd have to nominate Mike Sullivan of the Weston Community Coalition in Toronto. He chairs a coalition of concerned citizens numbering in the thousands, a number equal to about half of the entire Weston neighborhood (which has a population of 7000), and has also been getting other vulnerable neighborhoods (e.g. Carlton Village, Brockton Village) mobilized and unified in fighting for the sustainability and livability and preservation of their neighborhoods' quality of life, under threat from private, for-profit rail operations funded by taxpayers with detrimental environmental impacts among other negative effects, and at the same time promoting sustainable investment in infrastructure of benefit to all the people living along that infrastructure (and not geared for the business elite). He has put together a comprehensive collection of information and resources for his community as a form of war-chest for the coalition, publicly made available online by the coaltion through their website, challenging the private sector and government bodies (including SNC-Lavalin and GO Transit) and winning their legal challenges to get information being witheld by these bodies through Access to Information Laws and have succesfully derailed the tax-payer-funded private for-profit railway that was set to destroy both their and others' neighborhoods (for now). His leadership has led to policies being enacted by politicians that will end up protecting neighborhoods across the city or province (such as the city policy for no road closures for rail improvements), a symbol of perserverence against impossible odds in a world where money and politics are being trumped by Ontario's second poorest riding. His efforts have also been towards an encouragement of political participation/involvement in general. Truly a symbol of the power of everyday Canadians, united and strong together, defeating corrupt private-interest poltical backroom deals that dare try to destroy their neighborhoods.
  44. Anonymous, Except to the RCMP.... from Kingston ON, Canada writes: Paul Pritchard is without doubt a Canadian to be very proud of.

    Chance put him in place to record the death by murder of Robert Dziekanski.

    A brave spirit and the ability to not be intimidated by the RCMP bureaucracy attempting a cover-up, allowed him to get the video out to the world.

    Unquestionably a model for all of us.

    This should be an easy choice.

    And a runner up to the first cop who speaks out against the murder by one of his/her own.
  45. Anonymous, Except to the RCMP.... from Glace Bay, Canada writes: By the way, are dead Canadian immigrants eligible for this award?
  46. Anonymous, Except to the RCMP.... from Quadra island, Canada writes: I just noticed that this this comment page is (see the top of the page), in the Football section.

    Whassup??
  47. Len West from Toronto, Canada writes: Stephen Harper is no doubt the Nation Builder for 2007. He rescued us from the Liberal morasse of infighting and fraud, made big inroads in Quebec to bring them closer to the rest of our great country, gave Western Canada a feeling of greater involvement in Canada's affairs, brings great international leadership in Afghanistan, the Commonwealth and is increasing our international profile.
    Although Conservative, his financial philosophy includes all Canadians and his policies help improve the financial well being of our business, the employers of Canadian working people. Without a successful competitve business atmosphere, employees would suffer the greatest.
    So, Harper is the man for 2007
  48. vic w from Canada writes: Stephen Lewis and David Suzuki are good bets.

    Seriously, at some point in time some of you people nominating politicians have to stop drinking the kool-aid.
  49. Karl Reiger from Brooks, Alberta, Canada writes: I nominate Conservative MP Ken Epp for Bill C-484 for his efforts to recognize the personhood of the unborn and provide legal recognition and protection to these children from the moment of conception. This not only represents the will of the majority of Canadians but could also serve as the first step to unite this country against a misguided minority of Canadians who not only support the pro-death doctors exploiting women but also support the infanticide of the most vulnerable of our society.
  50. Karl Junkin from Toronto, Canada writes: I have to agree that politicians are almost entirely about division and are as far from nation building as they come. It is politicians (Liberal and Conservative... NDP don't have many faults since they've never held federal power to make faults with) that are primarily responsible for the deficiencies of this otherwise great nation. They are building nothing and destroying everything Canadians were once proud of, including their international image.
  51. Laurie Milne from Medicine Hat, Canada writes: I nominate Suman and Majit Virk, parents of Reena Virk, for showing grace and foregiveness to Warren Glowatski, who was found responsible for the death of their daughter. Immigrants to Canada, they epitomize the positive qualities we need in a nation through the compassion they showed this young man and the message they sent to all Canadians that violence never achieves a positive outcome and that brotherly love is not dead.
  52. Jack Robertson from Toronto, Canada writes: I nominate The Canadian Taxpayer as the Nation Builder of the Year. Often ignored, overlooked, unappreciated and invisible, The Canadian Taxpayer toils day and night to build the the country and make it work, often making great personal sacrifices in the process. If The Canadian Taxpayer is passed over for Nation Builder of 2007, perhaps our legislators could commission the building of a statue of The Canadian Taxpayer on Parliament Hill. As a resting place and dumping ground for pigeons and other birds, the statue could come to symbolize the role of the real CanadianTaxpayer as someone who receives nothing but s*it and abuse from on high in real life.
  53. bruno tomassini from Canada writes: I was going to nominate somebody...however after reading people nominating Harper, I just decided that this is a farce not worth the effort.

    cheers!
  54. kenneth caverly from Canada writes: nominate paul pritchard
  55. Mike Dawes from Canada writes: I nominate Amir Attaran, editorial consultant to the Lancet, legal adviser to Amnesty International and the B.C Civil Liberties Association, professor and Canada Research Chair in law, population health and global development policy at the University of Ottawa, tireless defender of human rights including health. More details at
    http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=AmirAttaran
    http://www.chairs.gc.ca/web/chairholders/viewprofile    e.asp?id=1779
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amir_Attaran
    theglobeandmail.com
    http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/opinion/story.html?id=b7d60b16-a7ce-4e17-8179-ebbacb31675f&p=1
    http://www.cbc.ca/canada/ottawa/story/2006/09/21/foreign-aid-privacy.html
    ... and many more.
  56. harry schmidt from Shanghai,China, Canada writes:
    As nation builders, none are more relevant than
    the immigrant. Experience over fifty years, in this great country of ours, has shown to me that immigrants are very patriotic. Yet it is however not always acknowledged.
  57. Iqbal al-hamazir from Halifax, Canada writes: Thomas Homer-Dixon, David Suzuki or Stephen Lewis. They are fighting for a Canada (and a world) with intelligence, science and passion. Our Prime Ministers (Liberal or Conservative) are doing everything they can to make sure nothing in this country (or world) changes. Homer-Dixon, Suzuki and Lewis make me proud to be a Canadian.
  58. Mike Sumners from Anytown, Canada writes: After reading that Maher Arar was nominated as a 'Nation Builder' I can honestly say that this is a joke. It was never proven that Arar was whipped with 2' electrical cord like he claimed, Canadian diplomats at the time stated that they saw no bruising or cuts and that Arar had a firm handshake. Odd for a man who claims that he was whipped on the wrists and palms of his hands.
    Arar took us to the cleaners to the tune of $10.5 million.He is certainly no nation builder. What a joke!
  59. Love my Country Expect More From My GOVERNMENT from TO, Canada writes: Every Single Soldier Killed In Service In Afganistan This Year.
  60. Bob John from Toronto, Canada writes: Amen to the last post.
  61. Gerald Balm from Waterloo, Canada writes: I nominate Stephen Lewis. I am sure most readers and writers know this distingished Canadian.
  62. Maggie Tissington from Vancouver, Canada writes: I'm horrified that anybody would nominate Paul Pritchard.

    Pritchard stood by - for 10 minutes - and filmed Dziekanski's distress and subsequent death, rather than offering to help. ( That was left up to a woman bystander.) Then later he was heard (on tape) to mention that what he was filming would make good material for his home video collection. But, most damning of all......Pritchard fought for return of his video, not for any high-minded ideals, but because he wanted to make a buck. He was quite frank about this, and admitted - before he ever went to court - that the motivation behind his case was to be able to sell the video to the media (which he subsequently did)

    Let's talk instead about Stephen Lewis or David Suzuki, who stay in our faces - tirelessly - about dire situations we'd rather ignore.
  63. LEWIS SOMERS from sackville, Canada writes: I submit the Canadian Taxpayer as the 2007 nation builder. In my opinion its a no brainer. Period.
  64. Adrian Lao from Calgary, Canada writes: The Nation Builder for Canada 2007 should be PM Stephen Harper. He has shown clarity and vision as a leader. We may not always agree with him, but we cannot fault him for being wishy-washy. Harper's decision to provide nation status to Quebec has helped stem the tide of the separatists, and promoted the federalist cause. As a nation, we cannot allow the separatists to dictate the terms of confederation, which is something the Liberals never understood. Likewise, we cannot allow political correctness or other nations to dictate what we will do for Kyoto. Our Kyoto efforts have to be fair to Canada, including Alberta. I am always amazed at the unfair coverage Harper seems to get from the Globe and Mail. Harper is the best PM we have had in a long long time.
  65. Gavin Charles from Halifax, Canada writes: I nominate Bill Casey, M.P., as Nation Builder of 2007. Mr. Casey has tirelessly and strongly represented his constituents in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley. He has epitomized the role of the M.P. as the voice of the people. When an issue arose (the government's effective withdrawal from the Atlantic Accord) which threatened the wellbeing of his constituents, he courageously stood up for the people of his riding, and consequently the democratic rights of all Canadians, at severe cost to himself. When other Members of Parliament refused to voice their constituents' concerns, Mr. Casey took a stand. Effective democracy--our democracy--depends on people like Mr. Casey. For this he deserves our commendation and support.
  66. Rick Flair from T.O., Canada writes: I do not agree with either Stephen Lewis or David Suzuki nominations. They are both great individuals, however, neither can be considered nation builders. Stephen Lewis rarely concerns himself with the 'common' plights of the average Canadian citizen, let alone concern himself with the many societal issues that face people across this great land. Instead, Mr. Lewis, gratefully, accepts the humble duty of fighting human rights, poverty, disease, etc. at the global level. As such, if this were a nomination for 'who is greatest Canadian at the Global level', I would nominate Stephen Lewis or David Suzuki. Noting David Suzuki, on the same token, he is the Stephen Lewis of the environment, which has nothing to do with nation building. Greatest issue facing Canadians is the environment...given. However, this is not local. This is a global issue and does not build nations. David Suzuki, is a great Canadian, right up there with Stephen Lewis. On the other hand, we need to look at those that devote their lives to domestic issues and making 'this' country the greatest country in the world, which all all know it really is. Look to those that fight for the rights of Canadian minorities, workers, and those in need of someone pronounce their voice.
  67. Jane Doe from Canada writes: Jim Balsille, hands down - and I'm not even a hockey fan, I don't own a Blackberry, nor do I work for RIM (wish I did though)
  68. Name Witheld from Vancouver, Canada writes: My nominee for Nation Builder of the year is Major Anthony Farris, mentioned in a column by Christie Blatchford earlier this year. (theglobeandmail.com?query=Blatchford)
    To hear Ms. Blatchford tell it, the major, a lawyer with Canada's Judge Advocate General's corps, mentoring membes of the Afghan government in the fair administration of their own, hard-won laws.

    In my opinion, Maj. Farris is the very definition of a 'nation builder' helping to build the type of trust in government required to build respect for the rule of law in a civil society - something that almost all other Canadians take completely for granted.

    In the past, the Globe and Mail has named as nation builders Canadians who were instrumental in defining or securing rights for other Canadians; but such achievements would be irrelevant without public trust in government and respect for the rule of law. Why not nominate a Canadian who is building a system whereby the citizens of another country can define, secure and enjoy their OWN rights.
  69. Phil Gardner from Nanaimo, Canada writes: Maude Barlow, the head of the Council of Canadians is my nominee for Nationbuilder of 2007.
    Ms. Barlow's clear and insightful information on the threat to a sovereign and independent Canada posed by the Security and Prosperity Partnership this year is an example of the type of intelligent and courageous leadership that is sorely lacking in our political leaders today.
    It is in large part her action to expose this agreement, that has been negotiated by large multinational corporate CEOs and not by elected officials, that is responsible for informing the average Canadian this year of the very serious perils of the SPP.
    Maud Barlow is a model for all other intelligent and courageous Canadians who can think for themselves to see what the SPP and Deep Integration with the USA really is.
    It's time to recognize Ms. Barlow's contributions to a vibrant and sovereign Canada. She is a true Canadian patriot and Nationbuilder in every sense of the word.
  70. Louis Boutet from Ottawa, Canada writes: Mr. Harper Recognizing Québec as a nation within Canada took the wind out of many separatist sails.
  71. D G from Toronto, Canada writes: Anyone but Stephen Harper. He's a shameful disgrace not to mention small, petty, vindictive and divisive.
  72. Laura Jean from Canada writes: I nominate the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Paralympic Committee for launching their program called Soldier On: The Soldier On program is a joint initiative between DND and the CPC to enhance (through sport) the quality of life and opportunities available for current and former soldiers wounded/acquiring a disability overseas.
    http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/newsroom/viewnewse.asp?id=2311

    http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/sports/story.html?id=fd47ab33-9493-43a1-b973-6b7eb854662d

    http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/218074

    http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/story.html?id=edced072-b845-4ecb-a6b6-12bcb56b24c6

    http://www.cbc.ca/insidetrack/highlights/p.html

    for more information check out the Canadian Paralympic Committee website at www.paralympic.ca
  73. polar camel from Canada writes: All three of my choices have already been mentioned above:
    Sheila Watt-Cloutier
    Danny Williams
    Rick Mercer
    The rationale for each of these nominations has also been given by other forum participants much more eloquently than I could ever do it.
    It makes me wonder, however, how can anybody see Steven Harper as a nation builder - don't people read the stats? His party under his leadership cannot cross the magic 40% support - it looks like to 60% of the nation doesn't really want to be built by this 'builder', eh :) Just as a note, I do think that he is a very smart, highly intelligent, and efficient politician, but nation he has not been building so far.
  74. Jedburgh Abbey from Canada writes: Ah yes, Danny Williams as Nation Builder of the year . . . we're talking about the Canadian nation, though, right?
  75. golfer golfer from vancouver, Canada writes: David Sazuki - He seems to be the only one capable of standing up to Stevie Harper-Bush
  76. Dave Medich from Canada writes:

    I nominate Omar Kadr. A fine Canadian.

    .
  77. m weber from ottawa, Canada writes: A 'Nation Builder' designation suggests a profound and sustained contribution to our country and our culture - not necessarily a cause celebre du jour. I cannot imagine that either an Arar or Pritchard can be seriously considered as nation builders in any context. While it can be argued that they have helped to raise awareness for key issues, it's a bit of a stretch to suggest anything beyond that.

    My vote for Nation Builder will have to go to Stephen Harper. Although I would not have imagined so two years ago, I have come to appreciate his focused leadership and firm stance on issues. Whether or not we share views, he has won the grudging respect of many doubting Canadians and he has provided leadership that has visibly united us and strengthened our national identity.
  78. paul heinila from Toronto, Canada writes: My vote goes for Stephen Harper. He has made Canada a Global player. He has realized that Canada’s arctic is an asset worth defending and is doing something about it. North West Passage is reality, soon to happen. I just wish that the order for armed icebreakers would be placed to Aker Yards in Finland soon enough. Russians are using Aker Yards high tech icebreakers and are the Bully of the North.
    I would be not very convincing to start policing the North with leased icebreakers from Russia or from USA to that matter.
  79. Colleen McIntosh from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada writes: Hello, My vote is, without any doubts, for Hon. Stephen Harper for standing up for Canada and Canadians! Wonderful, to finally have a Government Leader worth cheering for.

    Hopefully, he will govern Canada for many, many years to come.

    Colleen
  80. Farenheit 451 from Vancouver, Canada writes: Stephen Lewis. Compassionate and determined to help the poorest and least represented people in the world. Absolutely unselfish and dedicated to the service of others.

    I'm sorry I just don't see any politician even being in the same league.
  81. Devil Bud from Toronto, Canada writes: I can't see how Harper could ever be seen as a 'Nation Builder'. Many of Stephen Harper's initiatives are motivated by his party's belief systems and politics that actually divide this country. In just a few short years, Harper has divided Canadians on such issues as minority/gay rights, Constitutional Supremacy, the environment, criminal justice and the death penalty, and finally, the war in Afghanistan. How can a man of such debate be considered a nation builder? Are we to assume that those that nominate Stephen Harper intend this 'nation built' to resemble some sort of moral-right nation?
  82. ALASTAIR JAMES BERRY from nanaimo bc canada, Canada writes: Without the shadow of a doubt, my vote goes unequivocally to that OUTSTANDING CANADIAN MR. DON CHERRY.

    He exemplifies everything that is good, wholesome and decent in Canada.

    He expresses himself clearly with none of the shilly shallying that is so prevalent in todays 'Politically Correct' role model, Canadian personalities.

    One contributer to this series suggest the ORDER of CANADA be given Mr Cherry to recognize his indefatigible efforts in the field of Promoting Canadian Values and Ideals.

    I would suggest the the Prime Minister appoint Mr, Cherry as CANADA'S next GOVERNOR GENERAL.

    He certainly has the stature and all the other necessary attributes for the post!
  83. George Spentzos from London, writes: I nominate Colin Angus. Colin Angus and his wife-to-be, Julie Wafaei, circled the world in a 43,000 km journey by rowboat, bicycle, foot and ski, completing what Outside Magazine and many others have called 'one of the last great expeditions' - the first human powered circumnavigation. In June 2004, the Canadian team left from Vancouver on a two year odyssey that included rowing across 2 oceans, trekking over 3 continents, and exploring 17 countries. They managed the first rowboat crossing of the Bering Sea, travelled through the coldest lands outside of Antarctica, and trekked alongside Nomadic reindeer herders. For 5 months they rowed unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean, enduring 4 cyclones during the worst hurricane season in recorded history, to complete their 10,000 km ocean crossing, making Julie the first woman to row across the Atlantic from mainland to mainland and the first Canadian woman to row across any ocean. The goal of their expedition was to show just how far non-motorized transportation can take you and to promote no or low emission transportation as an alternative to reduce green house gas emissions to combat climate change. For their achievements, they jointly received the Adventurer of the Year Award from National Geographic Adventure. 59 Minutes
  84. B L from Canada writes: I find it ironic that Francis Mercer said about Don Cherry: 'why he hasn't received the order of Canad speaks volumes, for the bigots who select the people...' You want a bigot? Cherry is your man!!
    Cherry is sometimes funny, always outspoken and rarely inoffensive to at least one minority group (though sometimes he does double up).

    Instead of a loud-mouthed bigot, I'd rather nominate a protector of the weak and a voice of justice for all: Stephen Lewis or Marie Louis Arbour

    PS - Me too, Rex Bradley. At least you know where Bin Ladin stands.
  85. Broken Record from Victoria, B.C., Canada writes: We already have a nation built not by any individual but by millions of people over many centuries. No one person alive or dead could or should be called a 'nation builder.' Nobody deserves that much credit.
  86. italian girl from Vancouver, Canada writes: I wish to nominate SIMA ASHNRAFINIA - The woman who tried to help calm down Polish immigrant Mr. Dziekanski. She was concerned for his wellbeing and not in the least afraid. The RCMP could learn a thing or two from Ms.ASHRAFINIA. She represents the Canada we know and love. Compassionate, caring and not afraid.
  87. francis mercer from Canada writes: i thought for a second i had a quebecer as a cherry fan ,but i reread again and i was wrong ....darn!! but don was right!
  88. R Fisher from Vancouver, Canada writes: The name that immediately comes to mind is Stephen Harper.
    A prime minister with integrity and honour - what a concept!
  89. Go Oilers Go! from Canada writes: Rick Flair from T.O., Canada writes: I say Buzz Hargrove should be considered up there with any of the so called nation builders. In a few years time, Mr. Hargrove will be leaving the labour movement, as he will be forced to retire, and he has done more for the common worker than most can readily realize.

    Congrats...best laugh of the day. As a common worker I can say the only thing Mr. Hargrove has done for me, other than insult me by saying my values are not 'Canadians' is cost me more money off each paycheque.

    Sorry but I would have to say Hargrove is about the worst example of a nation builder I have ever heard.
  90. A Big Black Dog With Two Tails from Leduc County ex St. John's, Canada writes: I would like to nominate Ms. Madelaine Drohan as Canadian nation builder in 2007. When too many of her peers are inclined to go off half-baked, her reporting was a breath of fresh air. Her trip to Newfoundland to find out what all the fuss was about Danny Williams and his Hebron MoU produced a very even-handed description of exactly what was going there at the time; after what all had been said by others (including journalists in this newspaper and in the The Natonal Post ), her even-handed comments were a like tonic. Her stories as Ottawa corespondent for The Economist newpsaper are seen by that magaizine's global (and reputedly influential) audience. She has been very actively fostering effective professional journalism in Asia and Africa since at least 2000. She is that rarest of journalists - a credit to her profession.
  91. Go Oilers Go! from Canada writes: Farenheit 451 from Vancouver, Canada writes: Stephen Lewis. Compassionate and determined to help the poorest and least represented people in the world.

    While Mr. Lewis should certainly be recognized for his work; none of it has developed nation building in Canada. In fact the focus of his entire body of work is focused on another continent.

    Paul Pritichard? Are some of you sniffing glue? He shot a video in an airport...hardly an act of nation building.

    I think many people are missing the point of the award.
  92. Karen Johnson from Edmonton, Canada writes: Did someone send out an email asking all of Mr. Harper's supporters to flood this nomination venue?

    I would be very disappointed were he chosen as a 'nation builder' when he has created more divisiveness than I have seen in years. While I agree with some of his policies, he is a bully and a thug and has fostered a culture of bitter and nasty political debate (just look at his nasty attack ads against Mr. Dion - bad enough within an election, but unconscionable outside of one).

    Please people - look outside of the mess of partisan politics. There are many wonderful Canadians helping to continue to build this magnificent country.
  93. Occams Razor from Montreal, Canada writes: I think the nation builder of the year award should go to Shane Doan for grace under pressure in a very typical Canadian way. When the HoC, led by Coderre and the Bloc, chastised Doan for something he never did, Doan showed ultimate 'stick to it-ve ness' by captaining Canada to a decisive IIHF World Championship this demonstrating that even with the Government on our backs, Canadians still rise to the occasion and overcome the ignorance of others.

    C'mon who seconds my nomination?