LETTER

Come Together: response to media coverage of Islamophobia conversation this winter 

Recent events have highlighted both the authoritarian nature of political correctness and the difficulty for many to adapt to our rapidly evolving society. This trend of using minority groups or lifestyles as tools for signalling a set of virtues while targeting those who don’t conform to the “righteous side” needs to be properly addressed. We will not advance by trying to shame or marginalize those who hold different viewpoints. Let’s be patient and have open and respectful discussions. Please, no more singling out of specific groups for use against perceived opponents – leave them in peace rather than pushing them unwillingly onto an ideological battlefield!

Every society has challenges with inclusion, and the City of Gatineau is doing its part through the Vivre-ensemble (Living Together) initiative which is due to submit a report after last April’s public forum. This work will continue as we move towards ever greater understanding of difference, leading us to higher levels of social and economic inclusion, and I will continue devoting my efforts to this.

We live in a wonderfully diverse and very peaceful society. Don’t allow random anti-social incidents to disrupt the balance. We have far more in common with one another than we seem to realize. Shalom.

Mike Duggan, councillor for Deschênes Ward

Vice-President of Gatineau’s Commission for the Arts, Culture, Letters, and Heritage