Keep religion out of public festivals

RE: RELIGION

The Dundas Cactus Festival is always a highlight of the summer. This year, I was deeply concerned to see — alongside charitable organizations such as the Down Syndrome Association of Hamilton, Dundas Food Bank, and Girl Guides — a religious group handing out “literature” to passersby.

Let’s not kid ourselves — vendors sell. And a community festival, sponsored by the municipality and by local and national businesses, is no place for religious people to hawk their wares.

On its website, the Cactus Festival Committee states it aims “to provide an opportunity for increased visibility of ... charitable groups in the community, and (an opportunity for) some advertising.” While religious organizations are usually also registered charities, it is inappropriate for a festival like this to serve as a forum for a religious group to recruit new adherents.

In this time of extreme political correctness, saying ‘No’ in certain situations seems to be a difficult position. However, just as we fundamentally acknowledge the separation of church and state in Canada, so should we do so at non-denominational community events where all who attend should feel welcome.

The City of Hamilton must say no to the inclusion of religious vendors in the festivals it sponsors. The rightful place for dialogue with these folks is on street corners, in parks or, best of all, in their houses of worship.

Sarah Robin, Dundas