WHAT is the point in regaining Scotland’s independence if we don’t improve the nation?
That is the theme running through the latest event being promoted by Voices for Scotland who are teaming up with the Sortition Foundation to host an event on a House of Citizens on Thursday, July 1, at 6pm.
The online event will consider Scotland’s future democracy, with a permanent Citizens’ Assembly being discussed as a means to have a more democratic and representative system in Scotland.
The event, hosted by Will Stringer of the Sortition Foundation, will provide information on how Citizens’ Assemblies work, why we need one and how this will benefit Scotland.
Voices for Scotland said: “As with all our events this is an opportunity to take a look at how these big issues may affect you and how, together, we can create a better country for us all. Independence is an opportunity to make a better country, however there are changes that can be made now to begin progress towards that common goal. Citizens’ Assemblies bring together randomly selected and representative members of the public to vote on recommendations of how the country should be governed.”
The idea of a House of Citizens is that it will be a second Chamber like the UK House of Lords, except that rather than having unelected peers with an average age of 70, and only 27% of them women, a House of Citizens would represent all of the country and help shape a Scotland for everyone.
A spokesperson for Voices for Scotland added: “With this event, and others we have planned, we’re really looking for as many people to come along as possible and find out how these issues affect you. So often events are about passively listening and absorbing information.
“Whilst it’s fine to do this, there’s an opportunity to participate and really find out how something like a Citizens’ Assembly could impact upon your life, your family, your community and your country.
“We may not have a date for a referendum yet, but it’s important for all independence supporters to get involved now and get ready for campaigning.
“Voices for Scotland acts as a platform for your ideas and offers a space for you to get involved. As well as providing the information you need to make the case for independence we are developing tools to help you spread the word. It would be great to have as many people along to our events as possible, to volunteer, get involved and be part of our future plans that will help grow and connect the movement as we move towards independence.”
Visit voicesforscotland.scot/events for more details about the House of Citizens.
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