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From the community

The Opinion section of The Journal is a platform for a diverse range of voices from Sarnia-Lambton. The views expressed here do not necessary reflect those of The Journal or its editorial team.
 

OPINION: The growing divide in Canadian politics: A reflection on leadership and media influence

OPINION: The growing divide in Canadian politics: A reflection on leadership and media influence

Rodney Beatty reflects on the deepening divides in Canadian politics, exploring how leadership struggles and media narratives are shaping the country's polarized landscape ahead of the 2025 federal election.
Downtown Sarnia needs unity, not fragmentation

Downtown Sarnia needs unity, not fragmentation

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun takes aim at the fractured efforts holding back downtown Sarnia, challenging the current planning committee to step aside and urging stakeholders to unite under a formal, council-recognized structure. By focusing on collaboration and laying the groundwork for a Business Improvement Area (BIA), he argues, downtown can finally find its voice and drive meaningful change.
The loneliness of men and the need for connection in Sarnia

The loneliness of men and the need for connection in Sarnia

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun reflects on the quiet epidemic of loneliness, particularly among men, and how it manifests in Sarnia during the holidays. Drawing from local observations and experiences, he explores the lack of inclusive community spaces and calls for simple, intentional efforts to bring people together and strengthen the fabric of the city.
LETTER: Why is the City of Sarnia using consultants so much? A reply to Councilor Bill Dennis' concerns.

LETTER: Why is the City of Sarnia using consultants so much? A reply to Councilor Bill Dennis' concerns.

LETTER: Response to 'At Least We're Not in Sarnia' opinion in The Chatham Voice

LETTER: Response to 'At Least We're Not in Sarnia' opinion in The Chatham Voice

Let’s end violence against women

Let’s end violence against women

In this opinion piece for the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Allan McKeown calls for collective action to challenge systemic violence and honor the lives lost.
Who are our councillors representing?

Who are our councillors representing?

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun examines the strange trend of Sarnia councillors declaring conflicts of interest on issues affecting their own neighbourhoods, leaving bureaucrats and city staff to set the agenda. Colquhoun argues that this approach undermines the very purpose of elected representation and calls for a rethinking of how councillors advocate for their communities.
Do we really need $6 million to make Sarnia “business ready”?

Do we really need $6 million to make Sarnia “business ready”?

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun questions Sarnia's $6 million plan to prep industrial parks, arguing the city should cut red tape instead of spending taxpayer dollars as a patchwork solution to a broken system.
Rethinking emergency housing: Why are we so obsessed with tiny homes?

Rethinking emergency housing: Why are we so obsessed with tiny homes?

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun questions the public’s obsession with tiny homes and offers a bold, practical alternative to addressing Sarnia’s housing crisis—one that challenges local leaders to take real action instead of spinning in circles.
Nurture your green heart: Grow a native garden

Nurture your green heart: Grow a native garden

In his latest Earth Matters column, Allan McKeown reflects on the joy and legacy of planting trees, sharing how native species like Redbuds and Oaks can combat climate change and biodiversity loss while transforming backyards into thriving ecosystems.