District of Muskoka Council adopts the Elect Respect pledge

The initiative promotes respectful conduct in politics and public discourse

District of Muskoka Council adopted the Elect Respect pledge, in the March 16, 2026, meeting.

The motion moved by District Councillor, Brenda Rhodes and seconded by District Councillor, Terry Glover, is a campaign launched by Halton region aimed at promoting respectful conduct in politics and public discourse.

The motion calls on Muskoka District Council to formally support the initiative and encourage respectful behaviour in political spaces. The pledge promotes civility and safety for individuals participating in public life, particularly those serving in elected office.

According to the motion, democracy functions best when individuals are able to participate fully and safely in civic processes and contribute to the well-being of their communities. However, the resolution notes that elected officials across Ontario are increasingly facing hostile and unsafe work environments, including threats, harassment, and personal attacks.

The motion also highlights concerns that social media platforms have contributed to a rise in negative commentary and toxic engagement, which can discourage people from seeking public office.

Rhodes indicated that Bracebridge has signed the pledge and it’s important that District Council does as well. She said, “It’s important to uphold these values and show the world we’re supporting these values.”

Glover, expressed, “It’s important to protect elected officials running for office.”

Councillor, Peter Johnston, said that most of the people that impacted his life were women. He added, “My mother, my grandmother, my mother-in-law, my sister, my daughter. I’m forever grateful for their influence on my life.”

Chair, Jeff Lehman, indicated that because of this issue “across the country fewer people are running for office.”

The Elect Respect pledge encourages elected officials and community members to treat others with respect in all settings, including public meetings, private conversations, and online spaces. It also calls on participants to reject harassment and abuse, focus debates on ideas and policies rather than personal attacks, and help build a culture where people from all backgrounds feel safe to run for and hold office.

As part of the pledge, supporters also commit to calling on relevant authorities to ensure protections are in place for elected officials who face threats or harassment. The campaign further emphasizes modelling integrity and maintaining high standards of conduct in political dialogue.

The motion also encourages elected officials, organizations, and community members to support the Elect Respect campaign and sign the pledge online at electrespect.ca.

A copy of the resolution will be shared with several organizations, including the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and other municipal and law enforcement bodies.