Editor,
I am writing to express my strong support for religious, human and gay rights, within the context of our community and the freedom we enjoy in Canada. It is crucial that we as a community advocate for fundamental freedoms, and ensure that these rights are inclusive and accessible to all individuals, regardless of religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.
When I read about the 108 Mile Ranch Community Association granting permission to allow a meeting of Awake in the Cariboo, and particularly the guest speaker, Tanya Gaw, the founder of ‘Action4Canada’, I was appalled. Gaw and her organizations appear to promote divisive rhetoric and the spreading of misinformation and lies against public health measures, vaccines, religious freedoms, and LGBTQ groups and individuals.
In today's world, the fight for freedom extends beyond traditional boundaries. As an advocate for equality and justice, I firmly believe that no person should be discriminated against or marginalized based on whom they love, their religious beliefs, where they are from or how they identify. Upholding human dignity and ensuring equal rights for all are essential components of a just society, not just here in the Cariboo but all of Canada.
I have no issues with Awake in the Cariboo and their commitment to advancing their belief in freedom in Canada, but I urge them to consider integrating and advocating for religious/racial rights and freedoms and LGBTQ+ rights into their broader agenda, rather than narrowing it by listening to anything said by Gaw, who is obviously using her faith to promote hatred. By expanding our views and supporting human rights and freedoms, we can collectively contribute to a society where every individual is valued, respected, and afforded the same rights and opportunities we take for granted in Canada.
That is true freedom.
Sincerely,
David Radcliffe
108 Mile Ranch
