What started off as a Facebook page, objecting to Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s decision to prorogue Parliament, sparked into a nationwide protest that attracting people by the thousands. CBJ staffer Antonia McGuire was there to participate in a protest for the first time in Toronto.

Carrying signs with messages ranging from No to Proroguing, Yes to Democracy to Harper Go Back to Work, the crowd dressed warmly and shouted loudly for all the cameras—and ultimately, Stephen Harper to hear. As a news reporter, I used to mock those clichéd chants that went something like this: “hey, hey, ho, ho!” In lieu of a camera and note pad, I picked up a sign to participate in the politically neutral event. And come they did by the thousands from Antigonish, Nova Scotia to Montreal, Quebec and Yellowknife.

When asked why protest in the first place when clearly the big wigs aren’t listening, I said, it’s part of our civil duty. And it’s that simple. When governments prepare new policies they must consult stakeholders that will be affected, it is equally our right and duty to be engaged, to care and participate in the democratic process. Who else is better equipped to bring attention the issues to the House of Commons, where our elected politicians represent us?

The coolest thing about social media is that it’s a great tool, when used right, to effect change. So tweet your heart out or post a blog with your thoughts and stand for your rights, but golly just don’t sit there. Millions around the world aren’t given the chance to have a say.

Personally I believe Mr. Harper’s decision to suspend or prorogue Parliament is nothing but a public relations stunt to save face during a major international event, Vancouver 2010 next month. With the Conservatives neck to neck with the Liberals in the polls, tension is stirring. Spring election anyone?