Open letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:
It was with deep shock and profound disappointment that I heard the news this morning that you are reneging on a profoundly important promise made to the Canadian people during your election campaign. You promised that this would be the last `First Past the Post’ election in Canada. I was part of the pre-election town hall meetings and took part in the online (though confusing) survey, as did so many Canadians.
I have no doubt this is an extremely difficult time to govern in a world gone mad with the likes of he-who-got-elected in the U.S. Unfortunately, by reneging on your promise, you have set us up for a similar horror in Canada.
I have no doubt those who took a chance on you because of this promise will not let themselves be fooled again.
Right-wing extremists have been emboldened by Trump, and his `winner-takes-all’ hateful actions. Some will be running in our next federal election. Left-leaning voices for tolerance, environmental protection, respect for diversity, justice and peace will once again be vastly under-represented and therefore silenced.
Please repent of this grave error in judgment before it is too late. We are deeply in need of diversity; every vote must count. I end with these beautiful words from your father – I hope you will live up to them.
“There is no such thing as a model or ideal Canadian… A society that emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate… What the world should be seeking, and what in Canada we must continue to cherish, are not concepts of uniformity but of human values… Compassion, love and understanding.”
–Pierre Elliott Trudeau
Rev. Juanita Austin
