BetaKit recently took a group of local tech professionals to an evening performance of The Master Plan, a theatrical adaptation of Josh O’Kane’s book Sideways: The City Google Couldn’t Buy. The production tells the story of the failed attempt to build a smart city on Toronto’s waterfront, offering a captivating reflection on how tech and its ambitions often collide with local realities. This theatrical performance not only highlighted the poignant lessons from the past but also served as a lighthearted reminder that the tech industry could benefit from more self-reflection and humor.

While the play focuses on the 12-acre plot of land on Toronto’s waterfront, it touches on issues that resonate far beyond the city’s borders. The story explores two major thematic tensions: the differences in American and Canadian approaches to business deals and the Canadian penchant for discreet power structures versus the more overt, aggressive style often seen in the US. These themes are especially relevant in the current political climate, where Canada’s sovereignty is being questioned by external forces, including US President-Elect rhetoric and threats regarding economic leverage.

The ongoing 51st State dilemma has sparked widespread debate, with Canadian leaders attempting to defend national interests against the backdrop of global pressures. The Prime Minister’s resignation and the looming threat of tariffs have led to a host of responses from political figures, including former PM Jean Chrétien, who has called for a renewed sense of strength and unity among Canadian leaders. This national reflection is timely, especially as Canada faces external challenges that require a cohesive and forward-thinking approach.

In this context, the message for Canada is clear: the nation must adopt new strategies to address longstanding challenges. This requires optimism, a unified national vision, and a commitment to solving the pressing issues that shape the country’s future. The willingness to engage with foreign forces at the expense of national sovereignty, particularly for personal or short-term gains, is troubling. As Douglas Soltys, BetaKit’s editor-in-chief, asserts, Canada’s future is for those who are committed to building solutions, not those who are willing to trade their principles for convenience or advantage.

The Free Our Feeds campaign and other efforts to maintain control over Canadian digital infrastructure align with the growing need for self-determination and control over national assets. These movements underscore the importance of Canada charting its own course, free from undue foreign influence. For those who believe in Canada’s future as a nation of builders, the current moment calls for resilience, creativity, and the courage to face challenges head-on. 

The statement emphasizes the importance of national sovereignty and collective effort in shaping Canada’s future. It suggests that those who prioritize personal or short-term gains over the nation’s well-being and independence are not contributing to the long-term vision of Canada. The message encourages individuals to align with the collective interests of the country, reminding them that Canada’s true strength lies in its ability to maintain control over its own decisions, resources, and path forward. The call is for unity and dedication to building a future that benefits all, rather than compromising for fleeting advantages.