Dear Editor:
I was smug watching the chaos in Washington, D.C. unfold on Jan. 6, 2021. That kind of Trump influenced assault on the national capital and democracy couldn’t happen here. Canadians are known for civility, respect for the law and tendency to find middle ground! Aren’t we?
Apparently not. So disappointing! The “protest” in Ottawa shows a darker side to Canada and one we can’t underestimate. Whether driven by pandemic discontent, right wing politics, vaccine misinformation, foreign influence or a mixture of all those, the threat to our way of life is real. And that minority who mistake anarchy for freedom don’t understand how civil society benefits everyone.
That is why we need firm action now to end the occupation on Parliament Hill, relieve residents of our national capital from intimidation and disruption and re-open the Ambassador Bridge.
And more provincial and national leaders, including MP Michael Chong and MPP Ted Arnott, must show courage by actively and vocally denouncing the demonstrators, even if it jeopardizes a few future votes. The chaos and our response to it will set a crucial precedent.
To the vast majority of truck drivers on the job, getting the work done: two thumbs up!
Peter Van Vloten,
Fergus