Book Review: “Indian” in the Cabinet: Speaking Truth to Power by Jody Wilson-Raybould

As a Canadian, I have been disenchanted for many years, unable to reconcile the country that I love with the country in which I am currently living. It breaks my heart to admit that no is Canada strong and free.

I can remember watching the SNC-Lavalin affair unfolding in the media with utter disbelief. Surely with the truth being brought to light, accountability and consequences would rectify the corruption we were witnessing in our government. I am saddened by my naivete.
However, watching Jody Wilson-Raybould dare to use her voice and position to uphold the truth was inspiring and I was so incredibly proud that she was a leader in our country. For this reason, I was so excited to read her book.

For me, “Indian” in the Cabinet accomplished a few things…

First, it confirmed my worst fears. Our system of governance in Canada is undeniably broken, and that truth has only become more clear in the subsequent years since SNC Lavalin. It seems like every day there is a new scandal. I would love to hear from Jody what she thinks of the current state of affairs in this country.

Secondly, and more importantly, reading Jody’s story reassured me that there are still principled individuals in Canada who will not continue to tow the party line and follow blindly when those who are supposed to lead us go astray. Though they may be few and far between, they are mighty.

Lastly, ordinary people must be willing to take action if change is to occur. Canada, like many other countries around the world, is perched upon a precipice. We are losing little freedoms with every piece of insidious legislation that is hidden within the legalese text of government bills being touted as our salvation or for our good.

As sovereign, sentient beings, with inherent, unalienable rights, the government should never be allowed to influence decisions related to our bodies, our beliefs, our thoughts, what we read, and what we listen to, or what we say. Freedom isn’t free, and it is too easily taken for granted.

Historically speaking, freedom isn’t usually lost in one epic battle, rather it slips away slowly, over time, because indifference is easy and too many people just go with the flow.
Jody Wilson-Raybould is not indifferent.

I think the book should be read by every Canadian, and by all people who believe in good governance and the rule of law. Jody Wilson-Raybould exemplifies what it means to lead by example and with integrity. And though I’m not sure it was her intention, this book should also be classified as must-read leadership material.

Personally and from the bottom of my broken Canadian heart, I am grateful for Jody and her courage to re-live and write about her experiences in our nation’s capital. She gives me hope and another reason to stay proud as a Canadian, even when our country is struggling. Thank you, Jody, for speaking truth to power.

And to you, dear reader… read this book.