In our “Orwellian” climate, I’m reassured that I am not alone in my concern for our democracy. Sadly, however, it is not just Abbott & Co adhering to Newspeak. Labor is also tainted by its adherence to the same metadata laws and asylum seeker policies as the government. I have always believed my vote is precious but I now find myself in the difficult position of not having any respect for, or faith in, either of the major parties. It is not cynical mistrust but a quiet fear about the direction this country is taking, as reflected by the fact that Greens’ senator Sarah Hanson-Young was “spied upon” during a visit to Nauru. And I wonder just how deluded we have become when so many people can stand by apparently unconcerned about what is going on in our midst.