(Image: Christopher Drost)
Dear Urban Diplomat,
I am a Rob Ford supporter, and I work in an office where everyone, including my boss, bashes him. They even extend their criticism to his supporters, suggesting we’re all suburban morons (they don’t know I am one such “moron”). It’s offensive. How can I get them to shut up without alienating myself?
—Ford Indig-nation, THE ANNEX
Unless you plan on skipping town, you’re going to have to develop a Teflon skin when it comes to attacks on our lightning rod of a mayor. And it’s Ford’s job to deal with his approval ratings, not yours. That said, when your colleagues make simplistic generalizations about Ford supporters, you could correct them. Try gentle remarks such as, “I know educated, nuanced thinkers who believe in Ford’s policies.” If that’s too subtle, fight the stereotype with a stereotype: “Some of my best friends—latte-sipping downtowners who shop at farmers’ markets—voted for Ford.” Whatever you do, don’t lose your cool and call them pinkos.
Send your questions to the Urban Diplomat at urbandiplomat@torontolife.com
Wrong answer! HIDE YOUR SHAME.
December 13, 2011 at 11:38 am | by BenedictWhen confronted with uncomfortable situations, I follow Rob Ford’s example and always call 911. Conservatives like us are always under constant attack – being bashed and slaughtered and flayed by people who assume we’re linear thinkers with daddy issues and persecution complexes. So don’t hesitate to file a complaint with the relevant authorities. You have every right to never be uncomfortable in political discussions.
December 13, 2011 at 11:45 am | by Joe ToryJust be honest as to why his message rang well with you. He managed to convince a very large population to vote for him — those who are the most vocal may not like that fact but it is indeed what the people wanted.
December 13, 2011 at 12:09 pm | by AEIf you can’t explain to a group of others why you support Ford, maybe the problem is that you know your reasons won’t stand up to scrutiny. Yes, Toronto elected him but they did expect him not to be quite such a walking disaster. Maybe you should re-examine your allegiance and ask yourself, “Do you support him because you believe in him or because you don’t like admitting you made a mistake.”
December 13, 2011 at 12:36 pm | by StephanieYup. My mom voted for him. She lives in nursing that just had to cut 10%. She believed his lies. Now she regrets her vote and hopes to see the day he is ousted or jailed :)
December 13, 2011 at 12:40 pm | by Morse CodeYup. My mom voted for him. She lives in a nursing home that had to cut 10%. She believed his lies. Now she regrets her vote and hopes to see the day he is ousted or jailed :)
December 13, 2011 at 12:42 pm | by Morse CodeGetting them to “shut up” is not only the wrong approach, it’s bordering on being unconstitutional. I don’t want to live in any city, province, or country where people aren’t free to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with an elected official, either in general or on an issue-by-issue basis. It’s a cornerstone of democracy.
Instead, let your stance be well known, engage in healthy constructive debate, and encourage RESPECTFUL disagreement in all cases where people are on opposite sides of the fence.
Lastly, remember that political actions and policies affect people in very real ways, so it’s not surprising that people a exceptionally passionate and vocal about their views. Sometimes people get fired up and start using aggressive language to express how upset or passionate they are about a specific topic. Dont take it personally, and if you’re offended by any name calling, tell them.
December 13, 2011 at 1:42 pm | by ScottGood idea: take a job anywhere in Etobicoke. Like, anywhere.
Bad idea: take a job as Marg Delahunty’s personal assistant.
December 13, 2011 at 2:34 pm | by M. FauconA ford supporter in the Annex? Now I’ve heard of everything
December 13, 2011 at 2:44 pm | by slaI was a supporter of Bob Rae when he was being crucified for his creation of Rae days (maybe it was before your time…) However, I just held my tongue and didn’t say anything to those who criticized him and his supporters. It’s your turn.
December 15, 2011 at 11:36 am | by JonGet used to it. I note you don’t ‘out’ yourself as part of Ford Nation, and that is understandable. I suspect many of those who voted for Ford regret it. We are stuck with a mayor who puts the HAWG in Hogtown. He’ll be known as the mayor who ate Toronto! He’s a disgrace and a disaster.
December 16, 2011 at 2:38 pm | by Horrible Rob FordWell, we all have our cross to bare. Your not alone my friend, it will be us not them who will have the last laugh when Rob wins a second time. Just remeber,stay calm,be brave, and watch for the signs.
December 26, 2011 at 7:43 pm | by devilscabanaboyIt would be interesting to know if those who are constantly slamming the mayor are actually just people who read the Toronto Star; it is unfortunate that once every 20 years we need someone like this mayor who recognizes that this city is broke and is attempting to rein in the spending a bit. I also wonder how many of these Rob Ford haters are prepared to accept a massive tax hike to retain the services that they seem to want. Think about that; you cannot have it both ways.
February 26, 2012 at 11:22 am | by jl