An open letter to MP Colin Mayes:
Several weeks ago in the Salmon Arm Observer, you stated that you had not heard any objections to Bill C-51 from individuals, just form-letters originating from a political party. To quote: “I haven’t seen a non-form letter saying they (constituents) have a problem with the government protecting them.”
Pardon my tardiness in writing to you, and please be assured this is no political-party form letter. I don’t have a problem with being protected, but I do have a problem with the Harper government ignoring the wisdom and suggested amendments of their parliamentary colleagues in other political parties. I have a problem with Bill C-51 which seems chillingly similar to the laws enforced in Nazi Germany in the early 1930s – and we all know how that turned out!
I have a problem with the Harper government sullying the reputation of all Canadians by engaging in a bombing campaign which is illegal under International Law. There are better, more humane ways to be in the world.
I have watched two Christian organizations whose mandate is to seek justice, and promote understanding and peace, KAIROS, and Project Ploughshares, lose their federal funding. Because I support the work of these organizations will I be viewed as a suspected terrorist?
If this government truly wants to protect Canadians, and others around the world, it needs to stop stifling those who protest, oppose and speak out about injustice, and listen to their voices.
If this government wants to protect Canadians, it needs to take strong action to stop funding and promoting the fossil-fuel industry, and instead invest in clean, renewable energy. For the effects of human activity on climate change will bring about global suffering far beyond the radical and abhorrent behaviour of a relatively small group of terrorists. I urge you to vote against Bill C-51.
Rev. Juanita Austin
