Editor,
I am writing to express my concern about the use of the profane flags during last Saturday's Freedom Canada rally, which was held beside the visitors' centre in 100 Mile. While the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of speech is indeed a fundamental value in our society, the use of offensive language was both disrespectful and counterproductive to any legitimate message the rally organizers intended to convey. In fact, being beside the visitors' centre, the vulgarity of the small group of protesters likely would have driven away any hope of tourism on that particular day.
Canada is a country that enjoys ample freedoms. The protesters have a right to refuse a COVID vaccination, just as the health department has the right to refuse a job to those not vaccinated. They have the right to voice dissent and express diverse opinions.
However, with these freedoms comes the responsibility to respect others, including those who may not share their views. Their use of crude and profane language displayed on flags during their rally undermined the credibility of the cause and disrespected many of those who drove or walked by with their families, our seniors, kids or just adults who do not appreciate the vulgar display or share their views. While I am certainly no fan of our current Prime Minister, I suggest the protesters try and run for public office to create change, help out on a campaign of their choosing, or simply understand a little about the democratic process.
Our country’s laws and culture protect a wide range of freedoms that many around the world do not have the luxury of enjoying. We are free to openly criticize our leaders, protest policies, and advocate for change. However, these rights should be exercised with civility, as the power of their message is greatly diminished by unnecessary rudeness and vulgarity.
I urge those who wish to promote change in our town and in our nation to do so with some respect, decency, and at least have some understanding of the values we already enjoy.
Sincerely,
David Radcliffe
108 Mile Ranch
