This letter to the editor is in response to a column written by City of Kelowna councillor Ron Cannan. Wilbur Turner is a Kelowna-based writer and the founder of 2SLGBTQ+ organization Advocacy Canada. — Source KelownaNow
Dear Councillor Cannan,
As we step into the new year, your predictions for 2024 offer your view of various issues facing our world, nation and local community. While your opinions cover a range of topics, I feel compelled to address some of your statements.
It is both disheartening and concerning to see religious beliefs injected into political discussions, especially when those discussions include matters affecting marginalized communities such as the 2SLGBTQ population.
As a Canadian politician, it is essential to uphold the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for human rights. Engaging in proselytizing by intertwining personal religious beliefs with political commentary can be damaging, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and fostering an environment where discrimination and prejudice may thrive.
Elected officials are entrusted with the responsibility of representing all citizens, irrespective of whether they share the same personal beliefs.
It is worth highlighting the casual use of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s first name throughout your predictions, which may inadvertently diminish the formal respect owed to the office he holds. Political discourse should maintain a level of decorum, recognizing the importance of addressing leaders with the appropriate titles.
Furthermore, insinuating and derogatory remarks about the relationship between Prime Minister Trudeau and the NDP leader, Jagmeet Singh, not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also detracts from the substantive issues at hand. Such comments undermine the gravity of political discussions and divert attention from the core responsibilities of our elected officials to serve the public and promote a fair and inclusive society.