Date: December 10, 2003
Dear Ms. Harkat,
I am sorry I cannot be with you this evening as you mark this sad milestone. As you are aware, New Democrats have grave concerns with the federal government's use of Ministerial certificates that violate the rights of citizens in their so-called defence of our democracy.
All Canadian citizens deserve equal treatment enshrined in our Constitution. Yet the federal government has enacted legislation that opens the door to the rights of certain citizens being violated on the basis of race, religion and place of birth. We cannot allow this to happen in the name of 'national security'.
The words of American Congresswoman, Barbara Lee who alone voted against George Bush's war escalation seem more apt and sobering than ever:
"IN THE ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT TERRORISM, LET US NOT BECOME THE ENEMIES WE DEPLORE".
New Democrats will continue to defend the rights of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
Alexa McDonough
MP Halifax NDP
Foreign Affairs Critic, Lead Peace Advocate