Hi folks, So we have been unsuccessful in changing the minds of Mr. Mulcair and Mr Harper, and the Consortium debate has been cancelled. This is the the first time since 1968 that voters will not be able to listen and watch our leaders discuss their platforms and policy on over the air television and radio. I wanted to thank you all for calling and writing to NDP and Conservative offices asking for those two leaders to show up. It is disappointing, especially when the debates were confirmed with Mr Mulcair's initial indication, and cancelled when he decided to follow Mr Harper's leadership. I still have never heard a good reason for this political double cross, but I am sure Mr Mulcair had his reasons. I did not start this petition on behalf of any particular political Party, but I have noticed great support for the debates from Green Party and Liberals, and some from NDP insiders as well. I do know supporters of ALL the parties signed on though, so thank you to all. Thank you as well to Change.org staff for their suggestions and guidelines. I highly recommend this site for anyone who wants to make an effort to change anything. It's particularly exciting in the early days to watch the signature counter leap forward. We may have only been partially successful getting the French Consortium debate, but I have seen other successful campaigns using this platform. Going forward, I would recommend two things to people who are considering their own petition: 1) Have a team, and multiple streams of building awareness and support. I'm just one warehouse worker on the evening shift. Having a team to respond and spread the message would be helpful for anyone hoping to make change. I've largely relied on people sharing this petition, and the fact that we reached just under 15,000 couldn't have been done without you! 2) Make sure you proofread (or have someone proofread) your updates. I can't count the number of times I hit "post" only to wish I had done a better job editing. Again, thank you to all for your support. Be sure to get out and vote! - John