TIME TO MOVE ON

Sometimes I wonder if I’m the only one fatigued by the endless focus on individuals and groups claiming to be victimized.

Certainly, there are cases that warrant attention and corrective action. Has some of the media’s attention gone beyond the pale? Recent examples receiving unlimited media attention include race, gender, diversity, sexual orientation, transgender issues and the like.

If one takes an unbiased look at these issues, the tireless negative focus belies the progress that’s been achieved. In the race example, the United States elected a Black president twice. That must mean that at least half the voters liked and respected him. Additionally, much has changed since the enactment of civil rights legislation.

Looking at gender, more women than ever before are involved in leadership roles in industry and politics. On the diversity front, has anyone looked at the racial makeup of our federal Parliament?

Many don’t realize that if you’re a Caucasian in many parts of Canada’s largest city, you’re a visible minority. In years past, sexual orientation was a taboo subject. Today, same-sex marriage is widely accepted. Celebrities and politicians are “coming out” with little or no unfavourable fanfare.

To add perspective to some of these issues, a recent survey found that five per cent of our population identified as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

Some would argue with considerable merit that the progress seen by those in the aforementioned groups are due to the focus brought on by the media. The question is, is it time to move on and address the issues that the majority of the population faces? Doug Appt, Halifax