In mourning for Toronto
A
fter terror attacks, mass shootings, and devastating events, we in the chattering classes often write columns that are nearly all alike: an inspirational quote, thoughts and prayers, as well as exhortations of “hope triumphing over fear and grief.”
I do not mean to denigrate this rhythm – I’ve used it many times. But that pattern often falls short of addressing the bigger issues and lessons that ought to be properly discussed after a major tragedy.
Another point, cynical and insensitive as it may seem: my opponents are already out to shape this latest woe to their own twisted narrative, from which they are to profit personally and politically.
There used to be a great deal more time between tears shed and calling for change, in the form of policy demands and choreographed outrage.
The victims of the shooting Sunday night in Toronto are not yet buried, but they are already being used as ammunition by lobbyists.
So I’ll begin with lessons and then offer sincere condolences. First, the shooter, whether motivated by individual or ideological hatred, ought not to be named or glorified as the media is wont to do.
It is widely understood such perpetrators of violence, from ISIS to incels, are out for a final climatic validation of their ego.
We cannot grant this to anyone: committing such evil acts against the very society that sustains you voids your right to any and all recognition, period.
Second, as to the the weapon itself, there is only one question: did he obtain it legally?
I would strongly advise all following this story, regardless of political background, to demand that this question be answered explicitly and stated clearly in any media related to this event.
If this rule is not adhered to, then those who perished will truly have died in vain, as they are invoked to justify policies that consistently disarm law-abiding citizens but do nothing to stop criminals.
Third, I would ask all, from those who live in Greektown to the far reaches of our three shores, to think about violent attacks in Canada – because it’s 2018.
We often live in a blissful bubble of sanctimony, always figuring we’re less violent than our southern cousins. Yet as our own history shows, we are not immune to the design of lone wolves or terrorist cells, as far back as D’Arcy McGee. How do we account for the evil acts Canadians commit against each other?
And as a final corollary to all points above, it is right and just to be deeply grieved and angry about what occurred Sunday night in Canada’s biggest city.
Yet I simply remind everyone that moral panics make for terrible policy.
The favorite citation of this is Prohibition: a band aid solution treating symptoms instead of the the deeper ills causing them. Real solutions require sober and judicious deliberation, from the heights of Parliament to the nearby community hall.
Now, with what ought to have been glaringly obvious to all but the wilfully blind properly stated for the record, I will offer my heartfelt condolences to the family members who have lost dear loved ones as well as the neighbourhood that has been scarred due to one man’s actions.
My heart goes out to thee, the families, community, and city at large in the midst of deep grief. There is nothing worse than the violence you have witness and suffered: an evil man who turned malicious intent into lethal force against total strangers.
While the shooter was killed by police, an ignominious death but justly earned, that vengeance is cold comfort; you are left to pick up the pieces, without the closure of a trial.
I sympathize with the great anger you must feel.
Know that throughout the rest of the country, we mourn with you. Whatever our heritage, Canadians always stand in solidarity during tragedy and disaster: ask us for help, and it will be provided. Nothing can be done to change the horrendous events of Sunday night, but we have the choice to “be not afraid.”
Of course you have my prayers in these dark days.
God keep you.