Letter: Political opinions should be expressed responsibly and with respect

To the Editor

It is sad to see the disregard for public decency displayed by a vulgar flag prominently flown on the edge of the hamlet of Plato, alongside the municipal road. You’ve likely seen bumper stickers and these flags that feature an obscene four-letter word (with a maple leaf replacing a middle letter), followed by the name of the Canadian Prime Minister.

Christine Van Geyn, Director of the Alberta based Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF), claims “Technically, it is not a profanity.” to display these flags, and that citizens of Canada have a right to express their political views.

Expressing opinions about Justin Trudeau is not the issue – that’s a right. But you have to ask yourself, “What is gained politically by those using boorish attacks that imply violence?”  And to incorporate the Canadian maple leaf symbol into this trash, is insulting to the memory of all who fought and died while wearing it.

Former Conservative Party of Canada leader Erin O’Toole has said, “These flags and their hyper-aggressive rhetoric that accompanies them are slowly normalizing rage and damaging democracy.” He went on to say, “But the real risk to our democracy stems from the growing complacency of the majority. Canadians seem to be getting used to this high level of polarization in our country. Too many people just shrug and ignore the rise in aggressive language, the social media pile-ons and the elimination of informed debate.” Even Pierre Poilievre has said “I don’t like the flags, and I don’t like the rage.”

Safety concerns for our political representatives are now a reality thanks in part to unhinged attitudes creeping in from across our southern border. Exercising freedom of speech in Canada is a right. But as with all rights, citizens have responsibilities. Political opinions are most effective when expressed responsibly and with respect.

Regards,
Doug Bone
Elrose, SK