One thing about writing a newspaper column is that you seldom know if anyone actually reads it.
I was surprised when a gentleman from Toronto read a recent column and commented on it. The gentleman was upset. Either I didn’t make myself clear, or he just didn’t get my point. My point is that what one “side” sees as a justified attack, the side being attacked probably sees it differently. The attackee might even consider it to be terrorism.
I am mindful, very mindful, of the dreadful things human beings do to each other. I wish it would stop. I don’t condone violence no matter what the provocation, and no matter who is doing the killing and maiming, be it individuals or gangs or countries. Doesn’t matter who is getting killed or hurt either, good guys or bad guys, I’m against it. Nations are constantly starting fights over what they believe is some just cause or another, or they are retaliating against someone who started a fight. Canada even butts into disagreements we should stay out of. Too often neither side actually wins. I’m outraged when innocent people, especially children, are victims, unintended or otherwise, of these battles, and just because the other guys did it doesn’t make it right.
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Remember the battle the Harper government waged against the Muslim woman who insisted on wearing her niqab while she took the oath of citizenship? The government lost two court challenges that cost $420,000 on that one. The case was a big issue in the election. Jody Wilson-Raybould, the new Liberal Justice Minister, has withdrawn the government’s appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada thus putting a stop to throwing even more money at the matter.
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During the election, Justin Trudeau promised a full and open public debate on the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement which was secretly negotiated on Canada’s behalf by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. There are many concerns over the contents of this agreement with twelve Pacific Rim Countries. Let’s hope that now Mr. Trudeau has the top spot he will keep this promise.
Diana French is a freelance columnist for the Tribune. She is a former Tribune editor, retired teacher, historian, and book author.