Dear Editor,
My name is Luc and I live in Fort-Coulonge. Like everybody else in the world, I was horrified and dismayed at what happened in the US Capitol on Wednesday and the events that ensued. We don’t all have to agree on the issues or the politics, but I feel it is our duty as citizens of the world to make sure that we . . .
never allow such things to occur in our own back yard. I would like to comment on something that occurred in my back yard on Sunday which has left me quite disheartened.
My cousin informed me of a protest which was scheduled to happen in Fort-Coulonge on Sunday. I believe it was to protest the latest announcements from PM Legault about the lockdowns and curfew. As a recognized First Nations person (Status Indian) I understand oppression and the importance of having our constitutional right to demonstrate and to ensure that all voices are heard. I applaud those who have taken action to ensure that their voices are heard by demonstrating here and across the country, it is the cornerstone of our Human Rights Charter. But as I went to the grocery store earlier, I noticed that the protest had mobilized and gathered in front of the Spruceholme which is a privately owned business, by a private citizen, who also happens to be our duly elected Warden, Jane Toller.
I must say that this incident left me with a very bad taste in my mouth because I do not feel that Ms. Toller’s personal businesses or home life should be targeted in such a way especially when there is absolutely nothing she can do about the issues. This was not indicated in the advertisement about the event so she could be given the chance to respond, so this too is disappointing.
Why not protest at the offices of our local MNA, André Fortin who can bring back your views directly to the government? This is his job. We are talking about an edict from the government, not the MRC, so take the fight to the government where it belongs. I don’t believe PM Legault asked any MRC’s opinion on this matter, he just did it. Whether we agree or not with his actions, only history will tell us if it was worth it. To focus your ire on Ms. Toller, or her private businesses, is not productive to anyone I feel.
I have known Ms. Toller since the first day she arrived here in town with ideas and plans to give back to the community which her ancestors ultimately helped build whether we choose to like this or not. She poured her own resources into this community time and time again, creating many local jobs and contributing enormous tax revenues for our region. I know she is generous to a fault, honest as the day is long and only wants to help and is dedicated to actually doing something for our region. Like her ancestors, she is a builder. We don’t have to agree on each others politics but at a minimum we owe her respect as a fellow citizen. This is how the situation in Washington got fomented out of control and led to the events that unfortunately occurred. I just feel when our politics begin to encroach on the personal and private lives of our elected officials, we need to think long and hard at where this might lead.
My Elders have always taught me that as human beings, it is our job to love and respect ourselves and each other and promote good and wellness as much as possible. It’s not always easy, I admit. But they taught me to dislike the words, actions or politics of a fellow human being, but don’t dislike the person. If we truly want it, there is always a peaceful solution. I thank you for your time.
Meegwetch.
Luc Lacroix, Fort-Coulonge, Que.,
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