Religions, diversity and rights
First, let me tell you that I am proud to be French Québécoise. I am proud to be bilingual, Canadian and that we are an innovative bunch who have influenced many positive changes not only in this province, but in all of Canada. I am also very weary of being called racist and xenophobic and resent the fact that both English and French media seem to promote the idea that Québécois who live outside of Montreal are closed-minded and badly educated.
Second, I am especially proud to be an anti-religious feminist and supporter of human rights. I, and many others, do not want to see religious symbols in the public sector knowing full well that religions accept and promote human-rights abuses, most of which are illegal in Canada and Quebec.
Let me name a few basic rights that are openly denied by one or more religions:
The rights of lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual people; the right to choose your religion; the right to associate with people who do not share your beliefs; the right for women to hold positions of power at houses of worship; the right to wear any clothing you wish; the right to a peaceful life (most wars right now are because of religious differences).
Please tell me who is xenophobic, racist and sexist? Who is barbaric? Give me a break, please!
In my opinion, any religion that denies basic human rights should not be acknowledged or supported in a secular society. Take down the crucifix in the National Assembly. Leave pork in school cafeterias. Stop telling women what to wear. Our women and our LGBT people have equal rights in this country.
It is legal for women to be in positions of power. In this country, I can wear whatever I like. I wear mini-skirts. I wear very red lipstick. I have a tattoo. I am a big girl. I am a mom. I walk proudly. I look at people straight in the eye, including men. I am a happy, agnostic libertine.
People who wear religious garb usually refuse to look me in the eye and smile when I say “bonjour.” Tell me, who is xenophobic and racist and sexist?
When in Rome, do as the Romans. If you want to work in the public sphere in a secular society, then leave your religious beliefs and symbols at home. Please stop accusing me, and look at who is point- ing the finger. The freedom of religion stops — becomes personal, not public — when other people’s rights and freedoms are not respected, such as the rights of women and the LGBT community. Kimberley Hebert
Pierrefonds
Re: “Charter of Values: Religious roups already divided” (Turning the Page blog, Sept. 14)
Jillian Page states that, as a Theosophist, she wonders whether the LGBTQ rainbow Pride flag would be welcome at demonstrations against the PQ Charter of Values, which will ban religious symbols from being worn by employees of the public sector.
Is Ms. Page suggesting that LGBTQ Muslims, Jews, Sikhs and Christians who wear such symbols don’t exist?
They do. And as such, they need support from all communities.
There is not just one interpretation of any religion. The world, including followers of faith, is diverse.
You can find out more about our queeraffirming Muslim community organization by checking out our website at mpvottawa.com.
Shahla Khan Salter Chair, Muslims for Progressive Value MPV Ummah Canada
Ottawa
As a gay, male, anglophone, agnostic Montrealer, if somebody had told me I would some day find myself in a protest march with thousands of hijab-wearing, turban-wearing, cross-bearing folk, I would have laughed.
I have to admit, it was amazing to see these communities rallying together Saturday for a common cause, peaceful wonderful democracy, which we sometimes take for granted until a government like the PQ comes along and threatens our individual rights with divisive tribal nonsense.
I love Montreal, but I cannot say I am proud to be a Quebecer — at least not until this dreadful government is banished. Ron Harris
Montreal