Actions can speak louder than words

I recently attended an intimate breakfast featuring Jason Kenney and 15 influential women.

I was excited because I like his conservative fiscal politics. All questions welcome, he said. So I took the opportunity to share what troubles me and, I suspect, many other women, have about the UCP. I asked for a definitive answer on where he stands on abortion, bubble zones, minor medical procedures and the outing of kids wanting to join gay-straight alliances. He responded he won’t address “hot-button, divisive issues,” that his actions should speak, that he holds the pen.

Multiple other women indicated that today’s voting youth want answers on these issues because they are so important to this inclusive generation.

We encouraged him to be socially progressive and loud about it, rather than refuse to engage in issues surrounding basic human rights. He asked that we leave our email.

I left mine, with indication that I’d like answers on those four issues.

That was on May 17. Haven’t heard anything.

I’ve decided Kenney is correct. His actions do speak louder than words. The absence of his party at the safety bubble-zone vote just cost him my vote. What good is holding the pen if you don’t use it?

I like to make a buck like everyone else. I’m a commerce grad from the University of Alberta and a business owner. But I also want a leader who will stand up for basic human rights.

S.D. Wilson, Edmonton