
Jo Cox, fair use
This referendum casts a stark spotlight on the state of our democracy. Jo Cox was one of the most passionate, principled and honest campaigners I have ever known, and she was killed amidst a toxic fog of cynical campaigning and failing politics.
It is time for all of us to take responsibility. Our own actions in the coming days will shape our country for decades to come. Jo’s vision was clear. As she said in her maiden speech, “We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us.” But this ideal cannot be achieved by ignoring problems or disagreements. To live up to her example, we must listen and reach out to build bridges, as well as acting on our principles.