Canada is a country built on the promise of equality, where the Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees that every individual is treated the same under the law. Yet, recent actions by our political leaders suggest otherwise. They are choosing sides, accepting donations from activists, and pandering to specific groups rather than standing firm on the principle that all citizens deserve equal treatment. This behaviour is not only divisive, but it also erodes Canadians' trust in their government and undermines the unity that our country was founded upon.
The recent controversy surrounding Ramsey Zeid, co-owner of Foodfare and president of the Canadian Palestinian Association of Manitoba (CPAM), is a stark example of this problem. Zeid’s public mourning of Hassan Nasrallah, leader of Hezbollah, and Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas, has sparked outrage. Both Hezbollah and Hamas are recognized as terrorist organizations by Canada, the United States, and the European Union. These groups have been responsible for decades of violence, targeting innocent civilians and inciting terror worldwide. Despite the global condemnation of these leaders, Zeid has celebrated them as martyrs and pledged his continued support for their cause. He even expressed his willingness to travel to Gaza to join the fight. This rhetoric is not only dangerous but also raises serious questions about the rise of extremism and antisemitism within Canada’s borders.
What is most concerning, however, is the response from our political leaders, or the lack thereof. Instead of denouncing these alarming statements, we see politicians attending events and taking photos with Zeid, accepting donations, and offering their tacit approval through silence. Zeid reportedly donated $5,000 at a fundraiser for Obby Khan. Election Manitoba records show that Zeid donated to Khan and the PC Party of Manitoba for the 2023 election. Who are our politicians representing when they align themselves with such figures? Had they not known before October 7th, 2023, that’s one thing. But now they do know what remedial actions are being taken. Are they prioritizing the interests of a few influential activists over the values and safety of all Canadians?
The actions of these political leaders suggest that they are more interested in securing votes and financial support from specific activist groups than in upholding the principles of fairness and equality. Wab Kinew’s NDP, for instance, has introduced anti-Islamophobia material into Manitoba’s classrooms. The idea of addressing discrimination is commendable, but why focus solely on one group? Why not expand this effort to include hate directed at Christians, Indigenous peoples, Caucasians, Mormons, Catholics, and others? By targeting only one form of prejudice, the NDP is creating a narrative that some forms of hate are more critical to address than others. This approach does not teach tolerance; instead, it fosters division by signalling that certain groups are more deserving of protection than others.
When was the last time a government publicly recognized the work of a Christian organization? When have they donated funds to a Christian group’s social services, as they have for other activists and special interest groups? The NDP’s recognition of the Canadian Palestinian Association of Manitoba, which Zeid is a member, could be seen as a glaring example of selective favouritism. This kind of preferential treatment is not fair or reasonable to all Canadians, who are guaranteed equality under the Charter of Rights. It seems that the very leaders who claim to fight for justice and equity are the ones perpetuating inequality.
The issue extends beyond donations and recognition. It involves the very fabric of how our political system operates and how decisions are made. When Minister of Sport and Culture Obby Khan and the PC Government allocated tens of thousands of dollars to cultural and religious groups. Is it fair to give to one religious group while others receive nothing? Are elected officials genuinely qualified to determine which cultural group is more deserving of support? The answer is clearly no. Political expediency or the desire to appease vocal activists should not influence such decisions. They should be guided by a commitment to serve all Canadians equally, without favour or bias.
The ongoing protests and demonstrations that have erupted across the city, including the pro-Palestinian protests at a Superstore on Grant Avenue, are another troubling sign of the growing division in our community. As reported by Marty Gold in the Winnipeg Sun, a Jewish community member was advised by a police officer to avoid the area “for everyone’s safety.” Why should any Canadian be denied access to a public space because of a protest that may incite hate or violence? This is not the Canada we aspire to be. We do not see protests against Palestinians, nor do we see graffiti denouncing Muslims. Yet, when it comes to Jewish Canadians, the response seems different, as if their safety is a secondary concern. This inconsistency is unacceptable.
Politicians must understand that their role is to represent all people, not just the ones who can offer financial contributions or social media praise. They are elected to serve every Canadian, regardless of background, religion, or ethnicity. By accepting money from activists and pandering to specific groups, they are undermining the very principles they were elected to uphold. They are creating a landscape where division thrives, and hate can easily take root.
I am a Canadian, born here, as were my parents and grandparents before me. My family’s history on this land stretches back generations. I have seen the changes in our society, and I believe in the core values that have made this country great. But those values are being threatened by the actions of our current political leaders. It is time for them to take a stand and reject donations from individuals and groups that promote division and hatred. It is time for them to remember that they are here to serve all Canadians equally and without prejudice.
This is a call to Wally Daudrich, Obby Khan, Wab Kinew, Scott Gillingham, and Cindy Lamoureux. It is a call to every political leader and hopeful who wants to earn the trust of the people they seek to represent. Put an end to favouritism. Stop accepting money from activists who do not align with the values of equality and inclusivity. Treat all Canadians the same. This is not only what we expect from our leaders—it is what we deserve.
Comments