A Letter to My MP

 

Dear Mr. Erskine-Smith:

As my local MP, I urge you to join Joel Lightbound in insisting on moderation with regard to the current protests in Ottawa and across the country. It is not just that the world is watching, and Canada’s reputation as a free and tolerant land is in the balance. History is watching too, and will not forgive the authorities if there are any deaths or serious injuries to fellow Canadians honestly protesting as a result of government actions here.

The federal government of the day was able to put down Riel’s North-West Rebellion. But Riel is remembered as the hero, and the Conservative Party lost the support of Quebec for generations. The government was able to put down Mackenzie’s and Papineau’s rebellions. But Mackenzie and Papineau are remembered as heroes, and the Family Compact and Chateau Clique and Bond Head as villains. Before the Easter Rebellion in Ireland in 1916, the idea of Irish independence had little popular support. After its suppression by the British government, it became inevitable.

Do not allow yourself to be put on the wrong side of history. At present, the protesters sound like moderate voices, and the Prime Minister sounds uncompromising and divisive in a most unCanadian way.

You have been a good member. Do not throw it away. It is time to seek compromise and negotiation. It is time to seek unity.

Sincerely,

Stephen K. Roney