Freedom of speech being destroyed

By Letter to the Editor on July 2, 2019.

Another parliamentarian, Michael Cooper, has been criticized for expressing thoughts unacceptable to certain others. He had tried to point out that hatred is not a function of conservatism. His apology was not sufficient appeasement. Bigots immediately clamoured for his dismissal from the Conservative Party of Canada caucus.

This was not an isolated incident. Sen. Lynn Beyak was castigated for talking sense about the residential schools. The Hon. Ralph Goodale was chastized for telling the truth about Sikh terrorism (a fact not used to characterize Sikhs generally). Former Wildrose leader Brian Jean was assailed for using a common word which jarred some exaggerated sensitivities.

The current policing of the internet may help to silence hatred but can also serve to enforce political correctness. Some users expressing “wrong” opinions have already found themselves deleted from major social media.

Self-appointed language arbiters are destroying freedom of speech, along with truth and honesty. They should limit their concern to cases of actual hatred and let honest people continue to be honest.

Charmaine Wood

Irvine, Alta.

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