Wokeism as Symbol of Cultural Clash
摘要
In this chapter, we examine how the debate over the social values embodied by “wokism” is being mobilized politically in Canada. Is it like the debate observed in the United States? How has it been co-opted from a populist perspective? Are we witnessing a “cultural backlash” in Canada that benefits right-wing populist parties? We attempt to contextualize the debate on “wokism” in relation to the country’s sensibilities and religious values. We also examine the debate surrounding freedom of expression and cancel culture. We then look at how political parties are mobilizing issues of gender and intersectionality. Finally, does this debate resonate with public opinion? Can it help explain the rise of populism in Canada? To better answer these questions, we analyze the positions of party leaders and the labeling war being waged by both Pierre Poilievre and Maxime Bernier to determine who is the most “woke.”