The probability of another Harper minority is discouraging enough. But the distinct prospect of a Harper majority (generated with less than 40 per cent of the vote) is deeply, deeply depressing. I'm hoping it's not too late to avoid that fate.

It's still possible the electoral process can more actively engage the progressive organizational networks, which we (rabble readers) are all part of. Individuals and groups whose priorities are ignored by the Conservatives can become more engaged and make a difference in the results, locally and nationally.

Canadian politics has been reduced to a series of small battles in a static war as the parties jockey for position for the next federal election.

As the politicians skirmish in Question Period, it is as though they are operating inside a hermetically sealed bubble, where they almost entirely shut out the enormous changes that have been rocking the world since the onset of the global economic crash two years ago.

Today I pass on the wooden spoon which acts as a baton in this Homelessness Hunger Strike Relay.

One week with little food is really nothing compared to having to sleep outside on cold winter nights or use all one's resources just to find a night's shelter. It is a symbolic gesture, but one that focused my attention on the circumstance that approximately 150,000 people in Canada face.

I know it is within our power as Canadians to provide adequate shelter for all our people. We can demand that our government take action - and why would we choose not to do it? Is there something more important than ensuring that the basic needs of people are met? Let's once again build a country we can be proud of, which acts on its principles and reflects the dignity of its people.

In 2001, something rather unique came about in the wonderful world of social movements. A few thousand activists mostly from Brazil met in Porto Alegre to discuss openly, without a pre-fixed agenda, on strategies and theories to oppose neoliberal policies, and brainstorm alternatives. Thus the Forum was born ...