In a compelling guest column, think-tank member Steve Allan emphasizes the critical need for Calgarians to collaborate, connect, and actively participate in shaping their city's future. As part of the Postmedia Calgary project Countdown to 2 Million, Allan joins three dozen community leaders in advocating for sustained community building to secure opportunities for future generations in a competitive world.
The Unique Character of Calgary
Calgary stands out as a truly special place, distinguished by its unique character and palpable energy. Alberta's wealth of natural assets—including the mountains, prairies, energy resources, rich soil, big blue sky, and clean air—has long attracted settlers. Allan's own family history reflects this, with his mother's family arriving in the late 1800s and his father's in the early 1900s, joining others from Eastern Canada, England, Scotland, and Ireland.
These early pioneers brought dreams, aspirations, values, energy, resilience, and determination, weaving them into the fabric of Calgary's culture. Research conducted by the Calgary Stampede years ago identified core values that define the community:
- Western hospitality: Friendliness, informality, and a welcoming spirit.
- Commitment to community: High involvement, community spirit, and volunteerism.
- Integrity: Openness, forthrightness, and handshake honesty.
- Pride of place: Love for First Nations and pioneer heritage, land, and environment.
- Can-do attitude and entrepreneurial spirit.
Phenomenal Growth and Sustained Values
Calgary's growth has been nothing short of phenomenal. From a population of around 5,000 in the early 1900s to 130,000 in 1950, the city now stands on the threshold of 2 million people. Despite this rapid expansion, Allan notes that Calgary has largely stayed true to the values identified two decades ago. Hundreds of thousands of newcomers from around the world have been drawn to or remained in Calgary because they identify with these ingrained values, reinforcing them over time.
The city has consistently been named one of the most livable in the world, a point of pride for residents who experience its benefits daily. However, as Calgary approaches the 2-million mark, Allan raises pressing questions about sustainability.
Challenges and Risks to Community
Despite a shared set of values, Calgary faces significant risks that threaten its unique character. Allan highlights several critical issues:
- Unacceptable levels of poverty and homelessness.
- Ubiquitous drug addiction.
- Children lacking grounding for healthy, active lives.
- Complaints about the healthcare system without personal responsibility for health.
- A decline in bold decision-making once characteristic of the city.
- Deteriorating infrastructure in utilities, schools, and sports facilities.
While government policies may impose limitations, Allan urges each individual to reflect on their role in influencing or advancing change. He stresses that it is the responsibility of every Calgarian to ensure the continued building of communities that create opportunities for children and grandchildren.
A Call to Action
As Calgary grows, the need for active participation becomes ever more urgent. Allan's message is clear: collaboration and engagement are essential to preserving the city's distinct character and seizing future opportunities. By embracing the values of hospitality, community commitment, integrity, pride of place, and entrepreneurial spirit, Calgarians can work together to address challenges and sustain the livability that defines their home.
The think-tank initiative underscores the importance of collective effort in shaping a vibrant future for Calgary, reminding residents that their actions today will determine the legacy left for generations to come.
