A More Just Way of Living For Everybody? Stories of Language, Privilege, and a Transition Towns Movement in Eastern Canada

Abstract: In this thesis I explore the relationship between the transition movement and social and ecological justice. Through a case study of Transition Guelph (TG), a transition town in Ontario, Canada, I discuss how TG creates a language based on binary concepts embedded in unequal power relations, and how this language informs their actions and activism. I also discuss how language affects their own organizing, as well as the relationships they form with local justice activists interested in collaboration with TG. As someone active in the transition movement, I employ a participatory action research approach to this project, and also engage in self-reflection about my own position of power as a researcher and member of dominant social groups. I contribute a critical discourse analysis of semi-structured interview data and focus group data, through which I discuss issues of language, privilege and inclusion in transition. I also contribute three theoretical discussions which explore: how TG and the transition movement can critically reflect on power relations linked to epistemologies; steps towards overcoming 'privilege fragility' or the discomfort associated with being confronted with one's privilege; and strategies for 'coalition politics' or building meaningful relationships with activists across differences of perspectives and tactics.