Ponteix reader explains reasoning for a need to have “Christian Heritage Month”

Recently, Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu tabled private members bill C-369, titled Christian Heritage Month Act. If passed, it would officially recognize December as Christian Heritage Month. December is the month that would make most sense.

For many Christians, December is kicked off with Advent, an important and holy season for Christianity.

And, of course, Christmas, when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Canada already has Sikh Heritage Month in April, Jewish Heritage Month in May, Muslim History Month in October, and Hindu Heritage Month in November.

It would only be fair if there was a Christian Heritage Month as well. This would not force any beliefs on non-christians, and in no way would lead to religious intolerance.

If you aren’t sure about that, ask yourself, have you experienced any intolerance during any of the aforementioned heritage months? As a Christian, I can confidently say that during November, no Hindus displayed any religious intolerance or discrimination towards me. This is because Hindu heritage month is about protecting the religious freedom of Hindus, and recognizing their contributions to Canada, past and present. And it is undeniable that Christianity is the bedrock of our democratic and moral beliefs, such as freedom of religion, freedom of speech, tolerance, and compassion.

I believe that the establishment of Christian Heritage Month would be an important step in securing equality and fairness among Canada’s faiths, and would serve as recognition of the great importance of Christian heritage in Canadian history.

Also, many Christians feel like their beliefs and practices have been shunned in the public sphere increasingly over that last decade.

Therefore, the establishment of a Christian Heritage Month would help ensure some much needed respect for and recognition of the importance of Christianity from sea to sea.