To be completely honest, I wouldn't have gone to school and wasted taxpayer money if I would have had to pay for the whole ride myself. I was a kid for fuck sakes, 18-19 years old! I GREW UP. Realized it was foolish., realized my actions do affect other people. Government money is on the backs of PEOPLE WHO WORK FOR A LIVING. I'm pretty sure in the 20 years since then I've paid all that back and MORE. THE SOCIAL SAFETY NET enabled me to "use the system". (It was only two years btw)
Once again, I am fine with the way it is, no more taxes. They can't bleed us anymore. That's my position and you bleeding hearts can't change it
Geezuz man. Are you serious? After what I revealed to you .... You should realize that it was a story about how social assistance has run amuck. Wow. Just wow.
Easy dignin. You quoted me! And in doing so, proved my point. I was merely hypothesizing. Notice the maybe's and "perhaps". I said nothing about anyone specifically. Little tricks to get overly sensitive people fired up. This was too tame, even for a polite Canadian political forum
You're case was special. You were just a kid so I guess that makes it okay. Fuck the older guy who's not a kid. He should know better. 18 years old is too young to know right from wrong or have a work ethic or pride.
Does it make any difference to the system who's collecting the cheques?
Bottom line: you collected for... FOUR... years. Not just a couple. FOUR! You got your shit together and instead of being thankful for a system that allowed you to get on your feet... you admonish it.
Not only that... you now mock those that supported and paid for such systems that you took full advantage when you needed them.
Have you stopped to think how absurd your assertions are?
Go ahead. Vote for Harper. He's a turd, but if that's your choice then have at it. Just as Canada supports 'bums'... we support the freedom to vote as your conscience dictates.
Easy dignin. You quoted me! And in doing so, proved my point. I was merely hypothesizing. Notice the maybe's and "perhaps". I said nothing about anyone specifically. Little tricks to get overly sensitive people fired up. This was too tame, even for a polite Canadian political forum
Yes, you're on here to bait people. We could already tell, but least you're honest about that. It's unfortunate, but the rest of us can go on with the discussion without you.
my small self... like a book amongst the many on a shelf
You're case was special. You were just a kid so I guess that makes it okay. Fuck the older guy who's not a kid. He should know better. 18 years old is too young to know right from wrong or have a work ethic or pride.
Does it make any difference to the system who's collecting the cheques?
Bottom line: you collected for... FOUR... years. Not just a couple. FOUR! You got your shit together and instead of being thankful for a system that allowed you to get on your feet... you admonish it.
Not only that... you now mock those that supported and paid for such systems that you took full advantage when you needed them.
Have you stopped to think how absurd your assertions are?
Go ahead. Vote for Harper. He's a turd, but if that's your choice then have at it. Just as Canada supports 'bums'... we support the freedom to vote as your conscience dictates.
"The system"
Of course I'm "admonishing" "the system" you hold so dear! Of course, you are so blinded in some kind of old man rage you can't see the forest for the trees.
I mock the government who paid for 70% of my tuition and books for TWO YEARS (community college broadcast journalism course - Lethbridge) so it amounted to I believe $12000. Either way, it was not right. Like I said if I had to pay for it myself I would. It have gone and left that seat for a more determined (albeit less talented) student.
I have not said I will vote for Harper. I said I don't want to pay more taxes. Mulcair has stated he wants a balanced budget, however the Provincial NDP not real easing Alberta's first budget in 2 years until after the federal election (no provincial and federal party are as closely aligned) has me concerned.
But once again, your assumptions about who I am, and the fact that quite frankly sir you cannot admit that we learn things as we go through life is quite astonishing. Your beliefs and ideologies are exactly the same now as your late teens? I guess you were a pretty sharp teenager the.
Easy dignin. You quoted me! And in doing so, proved my point. I was merely hypothesizing. Notice the maybe's and "perhaps". I said nothing about anyone specifically. Little tricks to get overly sensitive people fired up. This was too tame, even for a polite Canadian political forum
Yes, you're on here to bait people. We could already tell, but least you're honest about that. It's unfortunate, but the rest of us can go on with the discussion without you.
Well, you are at least observant! I can sit here and read the long posts of other people's words, the links to other people's words, or I can put down my own.
"The rest of you" can continue on talking In a big love fest as long as everyone agrees with you. The left is right and the right is wrong. I'm a libertarian, I want freedom. I want to be unburdened of the shackles of big government. If I can't have that, I'll take it the way it is. But for fuck sakes, quit taking all the money out of my pocket. It kills people's dreams. Does anyone work for anyone else but themselves and their family? Not volunteer work, the paid gig. On a day to day basis are you at work thinking "I'm doing this for our social safety net because I'm a good little socialist and the betterment of the state is far more important than the betterment of the individual"?
Didn't think so
You expect us to see it your "humanitarian way" however you refuse to see the humanitarian way I do it because it doesn't jive with your idealistic view of a utopian society.
You're case was special. You were just a kid so I guess that makes it okay. Fuck the older guy who's not a kid. He should know better. 18 years old is too young to know right from wrong or have a work ethic or pride.
Does it make any difference to the system who's collecting the cheques?
Bottom line: you collected for... FOUR... years. Not just a couple. FOUR! You got your shit together and instead of being thankful for a system that allowed you to get on your feet... you admonish it.
Not only that... you now mock those that supported and paid for such systems that you took full advantage when you needed them.
Have you stopped to think how absurd your assertions are?
Go ahead. Vote for Harper. He's a turd, but if that's your choice then have at it. Just as Canada supports 'bums'... we support the freedom to vote as your conscience dictates.
"The system"
Of course I'm "admonishing" "the system" you hold so dear! Of course, you are so blinded in some kind of old man rage you can't see the forest for the trees.
I mock the government who paid for 70% of my tuition and books for TWO YEARS (community college broadcast journalism course - Lethbridge) so it amounted to I believe $12000. Either way, it was not right. Like I said if I had to pay for it myself I would. It have gone and left that seat for a more determined (albeit less talented) student.
I have not said I will vote for Harper. I said I don't want to pay more taxes. Mulcair has stated he wants a balanced budget, however the Provincial NDP not real easing Alberta's first budget in 2 years until after the federal election (no provincial and federal party are as closely aligned) has me concerned.
But once again, your assumptions about who I am, and the fact that quite frankly sir you cannot admit that we learn things as we go through life is quite astonishing. Your beliefs and ideologies are exactly the same now as your late teens? I guess you were a pretty sharp teenager the.
You are losing this debate.... Badly
This isn't a debate. What are we debating?
This is me calling your character out as a hypocrite of comical proportions. I've made no assumptions at all- I've merely tried to illustrate how your past actions do not reconcile with your new founded values.
I've failed with my 'bottom line' attempt above and I'm not sure how I could have? It's painfully obvious that you've shoved your foot so far into your mouth its coming out your ass.
I don't hold our system so dear (another comical assertion). I think there's plenty of abuse and don't get me started about our penal system; however, I'd rather have social assistance that is ripe for abusing like you did for FOUR years (slow learner, eh?) so that it's there for someone who needs it. I'm not missing that money.
And 'old man rage'? How obtuse or simple can you be? The more appropriate term is 'astonished'.
To your claim of being uber talented, but not super determined (and slightly irreplaceable). HAHAHAHA. You've officially placed yourself in some elite company on these boards according to my books.
this is why i say ignorant ... seriously ... the internet has made it easy to get your facts ... canada has a very low tax rate compared to other countries including the US! ... for personal and businesses ... saying you are taxed enough and being bled is absurd especially coming from someone who lives in Alberta where there is no provincial sales tax ...
I think we should rename this the "I Hate Harper" thread
I'm sure you are all really nice people, and you are Pearl Jam fans which is cool, but your overtly left-wing leanings are just waaaay to much for me.
Everyone wants a handout instead of working for it. I will just never get it. I moved out of the house at 18 and my first full time gig was for 6 bucks an hour. This is after dropping out of post-secondary school and wasting taxpayers dollars for four years (not proud of that).
So instead of feeling sorry for myself about how the rich get richer and whining the government should pay me for doing nothing, I began to work and work hard. It opened doors for me. I moved to places people don't necessarily want to live (Fort Mcmurray) and slugged it out for a decade.
Now I make a really decent living and my lovely wife and I can give ourselves and her three kids a good life. But according to Trudeau, I'm not doing enough. I have to "give a little more". It's not bad enough I give thousands a year in income tax alone already... I'm just not doing "enough". Nevermind that nimrod Nenshi continually jacks our property taxes about 3% a year already, now Trudeau is going to tax me some more. Mulcair would do the same.
The TPP will not only benefit the rich, as stated by a another left wing lunatic. Does anyone really think free trade is a bad thing? Opening up 40% of the world markets is not good for jobs in Canada? Those "corporate whores" you talk about that EMPLOY PEOPLE. Or is it just that you don't really want jobs, you actually want to sit on your fat ass and collect a cheque.
Maybe you just want something to complain about. Seems like the way it is these days. If you think it's that bad, vote for who you want, but Canada is doing just fine.
This is the most ignorant post I have read all day. All week. All month?
I can't respond to everyone I pissed off lol, so I'll just respond to the last one.
That post is how I feel, call me "ignorant" a "NEO CON" or whatever else. Ignorant would mean uninformed or blind. Everything I said was based on what I deem fact, followed by an opinion of that fact.
The Canadian way is to complain, to sit back and whine about how bad it is, when really it's pretty damn good. You have every opportunity in this country if you take a shot, commit yourself, and DO something.
If you like paying more taxes, have atter! There are about 60 taxes/fees I can think of off the top of my head you are already paying. What was I thinking? We need a stronger middle class!! We should all strive for the middle!! I mean, that's what Canada is all about right? Mediocrity... Just flying under the radar.
If you lived in Calgary, there is more than one Nenshi bashed. If he becomes PM, well that would be an unmitigated disaster. This guy still lives with his parents lmao. Beauty.
It's a free country people! I have every right to my opinion. You have the right to yours, Funniest part to me is, You fight against capitalism on a board of a corporation, and that corporation is Pearl Jam. You don't think MOST of the money stays at the top? I'm sure the CEO (Ed) and the Board of Directors (stone,Jeff, Mike, and Matt) all make off very handsomely with the money you spend. I'm sure their employees make a good living, not millionaires necessarily, but middle class living. They support different charities (like almost EVERY OTHER CORPORATION) and do good deeds, but in the end, it's a business. Hey, I see nothing wrong with it! They didn't need the CBC to be famous. They got there because they were good. Kind of like Apple, Google, Exxon, Canadian Tire, Walmart, spongebob square pants, Royal Dutch Shell, etc etc.
You live In a free market economy, all your ridiculous vitriolic rants about Harper making deals with the devil are laughable. I've said before, I'm no Harper fan, but I am also not "ignorant" either
Somebody somebody will explain to me how they think the world works without capitalism. Yeah Norway and Sweden, but they aren't Canada, with 10 provinces and 3 territories who all seem to think differently about what is important here. I'm fine with the social safety net AS IT IS. I care not to give anymore, thanks Turdo. I prefer to give whatever else I can to organizations to help others without the government getting their greasy paws on it first. Remember those days? No probably not because you have been drinking the socialist koolaid since PET
this attitude right here is the problem. are people striving for "mediocrity"? if mediocrity means being comfortable in life without believing I need a 3000 sq foot home, then call me mediocre. I can be happy in life with my small house that fits my wife and 2 girls just fine. we have everything we need. I don't need a fancy car to feel good about myself.
the happiest societies, studies have shown, as oftenreading mentioned, are those with the most well-run social programs. a successful society isn't a rich one, as you obviously believe. a successful society is one where most participants are of equal value.
your society is every man for himself, which is incredibly selfish. I'd prefer my extra money go to help society, not fill my garage with useless shiny things.
See my previous post Hugh, and once again, I am happy with HOW IT IS. We have enough government intervention, taxes are high enough. We need a break from tax hikes, seriously. And taxing corporations isn't the answer. The answer is to curb government spending. I don't have a fancy car (nor do I want one) don't have a 3000 sq ft house (although with these kids around a bigger one may be an idea lol). My society isn't " every man for himself" and my garage has some bicycles, a push mower, weed eater, kids sports stuff, and camping gear (tents), hiking gear, beer fridge, stereo, some tools.
You see, you assumed a bunch of things about me because I don't share your left leaning agenda, and all your assumptions were wrong. I'm not an elitist, I still go to Bad Religion and NOFX. Concerts and party with young punks (shame they don't have good music of their own) You are so prejudice of someone who is politically conservative you allowed yourself to make up a whole story of who I was. Funny isn't it? Like I was wearing a niqab and you couldn't see the face behind the belief
I didn't say anything was you. I said that's what I WASN'T. I have no left leaning agenda. I have voted every party in several different elections. I'm not stupid enough to be partisan. I vote issues, not colours.
I'm not prejudiced at all. My parents usually vote conservative because those are the issues that speak to them, and that's fine. But you presented a world where anyone who doesn't vote for Harper is a lazy sack of shit who is looking for handouts, all the while you took them yourself, and I have never done so, and I took exception to that.
Feschuk: The Stephen Harper fear index An A-Z guide of everything the PM tells us to be petrified of
Scott Feschuk October 7, 2015
Stephen Harper’s leadership philosophy is clear: In troubled times, it is the duty of the Prime Minister to rally the people of Canada, bring us all together—and provide us with many, many reasons to freak the hell out. In such matters, Harper takes inspiration from Franklin Roosevelt: The only thing we have to fear is this exhaustive list of terrifying things to fear.
Alas, it can be hard to keep track of everything we’re supposed to be petrified of. So here is an alphabetical reminder of the threats to our country, according to the PM. Tape it to the fridge and consult it, should you ever begin to feel that things in Canada are going semi-okay.
Coalitions. The Conservative leader has been consistent on this one: Nothing represents a greater menace to the future of the country we love than the chilling prospect of our elected representatives cooperating.
Deficits. As Harper tells it, a budget shortfall will instantly “wreck” the Canadian economy. Sure, Harper ran deficits himself—but his were different. Think of it in terms of a soap opera, where the good guy is invariably revealed to have an evil twin. The bad egg is usually distinguished by a menacing facial characteristic of some kind. And look, whaddaya know: Trudeau’s proposed deficits are totally rocking a goatee.
Elites. What a tragedy it would be for Canadians to heed the words of those who, through education, effort and accomplishment, have at least some clue of what they’re talking about.
Enemies of Israel. This subset includes both genuine and imagined enemies of Israel, up to, and including, people who have tweeted something snarky about Seth Rogen.
Europe. Once a lovely continent known for its tourist attractions and abundant berets, Europe has been reduced by Harper to a threatening symbol of economic turmoil—a contagion that must be quarantined. Do not visit Europe the continent. Do not listen to Europe the band. DO NOT PRONOUNCE EUROPE THE WORD. It’s like Beetlejuice: Say it out loud three times and—poof!—the Greek finance minister will appear in your kitchen and max out your credit card.
Immigrants. The Conservatives are vowing to create a tip line so Canadians can rat out their neighbours to the RCMP for “barbaric cultural practices.” I say it’s about time: My neighbour Brian is of Asian descent and, one afternoon, I saw him barbecuing with his shirt off. Not in my Canada, señor.
Harper’s message is clear: People who come here from other countries are to be welcomed and accepted, unless they say, do or cook anything that seems—and I’m paraphrasing here—“kinda weird.” If nothing else, this campaign has proved that Harper would have made a great dad in the 1950s. Now, now, Beaver. Your school chum says she’s a grateful immigrant following her cultural traditions. But wouldn’t it be doing everyone a favour to have her detained by police, just in case?
Marijuana. Harper tells us weed is “infinitely worse” than tobacco. And he’s right. Smoking kills 40,000 Canadians a year—but that’s nothing compared to the staggering cost of potheads sitting quietly on the couch for three hours.
Niqab. As a Conservative, the PM is a reliable defender of individual freedom, except when confronted by a clear and present threat to national security, such as a couple of women choosing to cover their faces. The veil is terrifying, because there could be anything under there. You might find a person. You might find a different person. Or maybe three young boys stacked on top of each other, trying to order a beer at a strip club. It is therefore in Canada’s best interest to rely on Stephen Harper to set out a national dress code: Ill-fitting blazers for all! Also, remember the haircut you got as a seven-year-old? You now have to keep it for life.
In Harper’s world, we should be suspicious of everyone—except, apparently, political leaders who spent the past decade telling us to focus only on the economy, but who are now suddenly telling us to wet our pants over veiled ladies.
And let’s remember: Harper has a perfect track record at identifying cultural threats. He warned that same-sex weddings would gravely undermine the institution of marriage. Had we listened to him, we wouldn’t today be watching helplessly as millions of Canadians lobby for the right to marry their appliances.
Related: This or that? Find out where you stand this election with the Maclean’s Policy Face-Off Machine
Rival political leaders. According to Harper, Canada is the “greatest country in the world”— but not so great that it could survive a routine change in government without being transformed overnight into a nightmare dystopia defined by economic chaos, civil strife and stoned, veiled toddlers.
Science. Friends, don’t listen to all those lab-coated nerdlingers out there: The environment is totally, 100 per cent fine. * North pole explodes *
Terrorists. For Harper, it’s not enough to be afraid of the few who actually commit acts of terror. We must also be fearful of potential terrorists. And the beauty is: Anyone could be a potential terrorist! Your neighbour. Your veterinarian. Did your barista just give you a weird look? There, there – let Uncle Steve comfort you by pointing out that your cab driver also seems suspicious.
Harper’s message to voters is clear: On Oct. 19, be guided not by your head or your heart, but by the hairs on the back of your neck.
“Too broken to write,” I told my editor, after the onslaught of Conservative announcements. The niqab was condemned. Citizenship was revoked for convicted terrorists with dual citizenship. Canadians were reminded of “barbaric cultural practices,” and the federal government’s preference for mainly non-Muslim Syrian refugees was reiterated. Make no mistake: This divisive strategy is meant to prey upon fear and prejudice.
Last May, I wrote that Canadian Muslims “are the low-hanging fruit in the politics of fear. Omar Khadr is exhibit A; Zunera Ishaq is exhibit B. With an October election, it won’t be surprising to see political machinations at our expense.” Yet the sheer brazenness of the Conservatives leaves one speechless; a 2.0 version of Quebec’s “charter of values” is being used to win votes on the backs of a vulnerable minority. The government’s open hostility has given licence to bigots to vent xenophobia. A pregnant Muslim woman is assaulted in Montreal. A niqab-wearing woman is attacked while shopping with her daughters in Toronto. Mosques are taking precautions. Identifiable Muslim women feel a little less safe, and Muslim youth face difficult questions about identity and acceptance.
Don’t expect Conservative Leader Stephen Harper to call for calm; this cynical strategy seems to be working. What does this say about us, and our commitment to a just society?
December will mark 50 years since I arrived from India as a toddler. In Montreal, I experienced the fear of terrorism during the 1970 FLQ crisis and horror after the massacre of 14 women one dark December evening in 1989. My first voting experience was momentous, for I helped to keep the country together in the 1980 Quebec referendum. I did the same during the nail-biter of 1995. Along the way, I never felt any discrimination, any sense of being second-class.
Quebec and Canada allowed me to thrive. I remember the pride I felt when my Harvard University professors told me that Canadian graduate students were the best-prepared – a testament to our excellent undergraduate institutions. And the love I felt for my compatriots during the massive 1995 pro-Canada rally in Montreal. It reminded me of the hajj – a sea of individuals from near and far, united in their love for a noble ideal. Differences melted into a shared vision of the future.
However, the mood changed in Quebec after then-premier Jacques Parizeau’s “money and ethnic votes” comment the night of the 1995 referendum. For the first time, I was told to “go back home,” while walking my eight-month-old daughter in a stroller. When I moved to Ottawa, a man, proudly brandishing his Canadian Legion jacket, told me the same. Then came the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Although there were a few more incidents, I never feared for myself or my children. On the contrary – friends, neighbours and complete strangers renewed my faith in the basic decency of Canadians.
Now, things feel different. I never imagined that the federal government would use its hefty weight to vilify Muslims. Never in 50 years have I felt so vulnerable. For the first time, I wonder if my children will have the opportunity to thrive as I did. One is a budding environmental scientist; one has entrepreneurial goals; the youngest dreams of playing soccer alongside Kadeisha Buchanan. But the Conservative message is: You are Muslim, you are the “other,” you can’t be trusted and you will never belong.
Thankfully, other political leaders have stepped up; Justin Trudeau, Tom Mulcair, Elizabeth May, the Quebec legislature, among others, have denounced the politics of fear, and reiterated the Canadian value of inclusion. We need more people to stand together against all forms of bigotry, whether it’s against Muslims today, or aboriginals every day.
By all means, let’s respectfully discuss our differences, while weaving a tapestry of shared experiences toward a more inclusive country. Our hearts, like the land, are wide enough to mend broken spirits. As the late NDP leader Jack Layton reminded us so eloquently: “My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.”
An earlier digital version of this story had an incorrect quote attributed to Jacques Parizeau. This digital version has been corrected.
I smell trouble for the NDP this election. Are we possibly seeing a red wave? It's amazing how much 60 to 70% of the Canadian population want Harper out.
ABC
my parents probably voted conservative last election ... i thought about robocalling them myself ... but decided to ask them to not vote conservative ... they asked why ... i explained why and they said ... "oh shit" ... "definitely not voting conservative" ...
i don't feel good about it but i'm quietly hoping for a liberal-ndp coalition ... don't really care who is pm ... anyone but harper ...
My entire family is voting Conservative, and there seems to be nothing I can say to stop them.
Given that you hate harper so much I assume the rest of your family that is voting conservative is unaffected by his evil ways that you talk about. No?
Mostly no. My brother-in-law is rich and that's really all he cares about. I'm sure he'd be happy with a completely private health care system, ending all welfare programs, etc., and his kids are in an expensive private school. So that's an obvious reason for him to vote Conservative (not that the Conservatives are pushing private health care, but hopefully you get my drift). But the rest of them are simply oblivious to most of what Harper does (plus, my dad is a fucking climate change denier). My family is as affected by the things that make me hate him as I am (although I'll also mention that they are not nearly socialist like I am - I am way farther left in any case. Also, the sister and bro-in-law are rich, and my parents are baby boomers, so own a house that they built for $22,000 that is totally paid off and is now worth closer to $1 Million, so they are not too worried about financial issues personally, the literally don't know what other people have to deal with this day and age). They just don't know he's to blame. They don't stay very informed, unfortunately. I.e. the campaign ads actually work on them. When I try to talk to them about all the shit they don't even know about, they close their ears. It's very frustrating. They are all smart people; they just don't like thinking about politics. And like digin said, they pick one or two issues that they think the Conservatives are supposed to handle well in their opinion (in my family's case I'm sorry to say that's immigration and prison terms... they think that the Conservatives somehow allow less immigrants into the country and cause longer prison sentences than the other parties. They are obviously wrong on both counts (and kind of racist), but they seem to be sticking to their moronic right wing guns (figuratively, not literally, lol). Anyway, I have given up on them. I find it a bit upsetting, so I don't talk politics with them anymore.
Post edited by PJ_Soul on
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
I smell trouble for the NDP this election. Are we possibly seeing a red wave? It's amazing how much 60 to 70% of the Canadian population want Harper out.
ABC
my parents probably voted conservative last election ... i thought about robocalling them myself ... but decided to ask them to not vote conservative ... they asked why ... i explained why and they said ... "oh shit" ... "definitely not voting conservative" ...
i don't feel good about it but i'm quietly hoping for a liberal-ndp coalition ... don't really care who is pm ... anyone but harper ...
My entire family is voting Conservative, and there seems to be nothing I can say to stop them.
Given that you hate harper so much I assume the rest of your family that is voting conservative is unaffected by his evil ways that you talk about. No?
Mostly no. My brother-in-law is rich and that's all he cares about, so that's an obvious reason for him to vote Conservative. But the rest of them are simply oblivious to most of what he does (plus, my dad is a fucking climate change denier). My family is as affected by the things that make me hate him as I am (although I'll also mention that they are not nearly socialist like I am - I am way farther left in any case). They just don't know he's to blame. They don't stay very informed, unfortunately. I.e. the campaign ads actually work on them. When I try to talk to them about all the shit they don't even know about, they close their ears. It's very frustrating. They are all smart people; they just don't like thinking about politics. And like digin said, they pick one issue that they think the Conservatives are supposed to handle well in their opinion (in my family's case I'm sorry to say that's immigration and prison terms... they think that the Conservatives somehow allow less immigrants into the country and cause longer prison sentences than the other parties. They are obviously wrong on both counts (and kind of racist), but they seem to be sticking to their moronic right wing guns (figuratively, not literally, lol). Anyway, I have given up on them. I find it a bit upsetting, so I don't talk politics with them anymore.
That is a very well put honest post. I understand where you are coming from now. It is frustrating talking politics to "family". It's frustrating because generally people don't change party colours like a person doesn't change their own.
I smell trouble for the NDP this election. Are we possibly seeing a red wave? It's amazing how much 60 to 70% of the Canadian population want Harper out.
ABC
my parents probably voted conservative last election ... i thought about robocalling them myself ... but decided to ask them to not vote conservative ... they asked why ... i explained why and they said ... "oh shit" ... "definitely not voting conservative" ...
i don't feel good about it but i'm quietly hoping for a liberal-ndp coalition ... don't really care who is pm ... anyone but harper ...
My entire family is voting Conservative, and there seems to be nothing I can say to stop them.
Given that you hate harper so much I assume the rest of your family that is voting conservative is unaffected by his evil ways that you talk about. No?
Mostly no. My brother-in-law is rich and that's all he cares about, so that's an obvious reason for him to vote Conservative. But the rest of them are simply oblivious to most of what he does (plus, my dad is a fucking climate change denier). My family is as affected by the things that make me hate him as I am (although I'll also mention that they are not nearly socialist like I am - I am way farther left in any case). They just don't know he's to blame. They don't stay very informed, unfortunately. I.e. the campaign ads actually work on them. When I try to talk to them about all the shit they don't even know about, they close their ears. It's very frustrating. They are all smart people; they just don't like thinking about politics. And like digin said, they pick one issue that they think the Conservatives are supposed to handle well in their opinion (in my family's case I'm sorry to say that's immigration and prison terms... they think that the Conservatives somehow allow less immigrants into the country and cause longer prison sentences than the other parties. They are obviously wrong on both counts (and kind of racist), but they seem to be sticking to their moronic right wing guns (figuratively, not literally, lol). Anyway, I have given up on them. I find it a bit upsetting, so I don't talk politics with them anymore.
That is a very well put honest post. I understand where you are coming from now. It is frustrating talking politics to "family". It's frustrating because generally people don't change party colours like a person doesn't change their own.
That is possibly the nicest thing you have ever said to me, and i appreciate it!
That is true. Most don't. Although I will say that just yesterday a 25 year old co-worker of mine who has voted Conservative ever since he was old enough, and who claims he would be a republican if he were American, voted Liberal yesterday (at at early voting station at the university) because, and i Quote, "Harper is acting like he's leading the fucking tea party at this point."
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
You're case was special. You were just a kid so I guess that makes it okay. Fuck the older guy who's not a kid. He should know better. 18 years old is too young to know right from wrong or have a work ethic or pride.
Does it make any difference to the system who's collecting the cheques?
Bottom line: you collected for... FOUR... years. Not just a couple. FOUR! You got your shit together and instead of being thankful for a system that allowed you to get on your feet... you admonish it.
Not only that... you now mock those that supported and paid for such systems that you took full advantage when you needed them.
Have you stopped to think how absurd your assertions are?
Go ahead. Vote for Harper. He's a turd, but if that's your choice then have at it. Just as Canada supports 'bums'... we support the freedom to vote as your conscience dictates.
"The system"
Of course I'm "admonishing" "the system" you hold so dear! Of course, you are so blinded in some kind of old man rage you can't see the forest for the trees.
I mock the government who paid for 70% of my tuition and books for TWO YEARS (community college broadcast journalism course - Lethbridge) so it amounted to I believe $12000. Either way, it was not right. Like I said if I had to pay for it myself I would. It have gone and left that seat for a more determined (albeit less talented) student.
I have not said I will vote for Harper. I said I don't want to pay more taxes. Mulcair has stated he wants a balanced budget, however the Provincial NDP not real easing Alberta's first budget in 2 years until after the federal election (no provincial and federal party are as closely aligned) has me concerned.
But once again, your assumptions about who I am, and the fact that quite frankly sir you cannot admit that we learn things as we go through life is quite astonishing. Your beliefs and ideologies are exactly the same now as your late teens? I guess you were a pretty sharp teenager the.
You are losing this debate.... Badly
This isn't a debate. What are we debating?
This is me calling your character out as a hypocrite of comical proportions. I've made no assumptions at all- I've merely tried to illustrate how your past actions do not reconcile with your new founded values.
I've failed with my 'bottom line' attempt above and I'm not sure how I could have? It's painfully obvious that you've shoved your foot so far into your mouth its coming out your ass.
I don't hold our system so dear (another comical assertion). I think there's plenty of abuse and don't get me started about our penal system; however, I'd rather have social assistance that is ripe for abusing like you did for FOUR years (slow learner, eh?) so that it's there for someone who needs it. I'm not missing that money.
And 'old man rage'? How obtuse or simple can you be? The more appropriate term is 'astonished'.
To your claim of being uber talented, but not super determined (and slightly irreplaceable). HAHAHAHA. You've officially placed yourself in some elite company on these boards according to my books.
See ya.
I can't debate people who lack simple reading comprehension anyway. I seemed to have learned a lot quicker than you how the real world works. Later dude!!
I think we should rename this the "I Hate Harper" thread
I'm sure you are all really nice people, and you are Pearl Jam fans which is cool, but your overtly left-wing leanings are just waaaay to much for me.
Everyone wants a handout instead of working for it. I will just never get it. I moved out of the house at 18 and my first full time gig was for 6 bucks an hour. This is after dropping out of post-secondary school and wasting taxpayers dollars for four years (not proud of that).
So instead of feeling sorry for myself about how the rich get richer and whining the government should pay me for doing nothing, I began to work and work hard. It opened doors for me. I moved to places people don't necessarily want to live (Fort Mcmurray) and slugged it out for a decade.
Now I make a really decent living and my lovely wife and I can give ourselves and her three kids a good life. But according to Trudeau, I'm not doing enough. I have to "give a little more". It's not bad enough I give thousands a year in income tax alone already... I'm just not doing "enough". Nevermind that nimrod Nenshi continually jacks our property taxes about 3% a year already, now Trudeau is going to tax me some more. Mulcair would do the same.
The TPP will not only benefit the rich, as stated by a another left wing lunatic. Does anyone really think free trade is a bad thing? Opening up 40% of the world markets is not good for jobs in Canada? Those "corporate whores" you talk about that EMPLOY PEOPLE. Or is it just that you don't really want jobs, you actually want to sit on your fat ass and collect a cheque.
Maybe you just want something to complain about. Seems like the way it is these days. If you think it's that bad, vote for who you want, but Canada is doing just fine.
This is the most ignorant post I have read all day. All week. All month?
I can't respond to everyone I pissed off lol, so I'll just respond to the last one.
That post is how I feel, call me "ignorant" a "NEO CON" or whatever else. Ignorant would mean uninformed or blind. Everything I said was based on what I deem fact, followed by an opinion of that fact.
The Canadian way is to complain, to sit back and whine about how bad it is, when really it's pretty damn good. You have every opportunity in this country if you take a shot, commit yourself, and DO something.
If you like paying more taxes, have atter! There are about 60 taxes/fees I can think of off the top of my head you are already paying. What was I thinking? We need a stronger middle class!! We should all strive for the middle!! I mean, that's what Canada is all about right? Mediocrity... Just flying under the radar.
If you lived in Calgary, there is more than one Nenshi bashed. If he becomes PM, well that would be an unmitigated disaster. This guy still lives with his parents lmao. Beauty.
It's a free country people! I have every right to my opinion. You have the right to yours, Funniest part to me is, You fight against capitalism on a board of a corporation, and that corporation is Pearl Jam. You don't think MOST of the money stays at the top? I'm sure the CEO (Ed) and the Board of Directors (stone,Jeff, Mike, and Matt) all make off very handsomely with the money you spend. I'm sure their employees make a good living, not millionaires necessarily, but middle class living. They support different charities (like almost EVERY OTHER CORPORATION) and do good deeds, but in the end, it's a business. Hey, I see nothing wrong with it! They didn't need the CBC to be famous. They got there because they were good. Kind of like Apple, Google, Exxon, Canadian Tire, Walmart, spongebob square pants, Royal Dutch Shell, etc etc.
You live In a free market economy, all your ridiculous vitriolic rants about Harper making deals with the devil are laughable. I've said before, I'm no Harper fan, but I am also not "ignorant" either
Somebody somebody will explain to me how they think the world works without capitalism. Yeah Norway and Sweden, but they aren't Canada, with 10 provinces and 3 territories who all seem to think differently about what is important here. I'm fine with the social safety net AS IT IS. I care not to give anymore, thanks Turdo. I prefer to give whatever else I can to organizations to help others without the government getting their greasy paws on it first. Remember those days? No probably not because you have been drinking the socialist koolaid since PET
this attitude right here is the problem. are people striving for "mediocrity"? if mediocrity means being comfortable in life without believing I need a 3000 sq foot home, then call me mediocre. I can be happy in life with my small house that fits my wife and 2 girls just fine. we have everything we need. I don't need a fancy car to feel good about myself.
the happiest societies, studies have shown, as oftenreading mentioned, are those with the most well-run social programs. a successful society isn't a rich one, as you obviously believe. a successful society is one where most participants are of equal value.
your society is every man for himself, which is incredibly selfish. I'd prefer my extra money go to help society, not fill my garage with useless shiny things.
See my previous post Hugh, and once again, I am happy with HOW IT IS. We have enough government intervention, taxes are high enough. We need a break from tax hikes, seriously. And taxing corporations isn't the answer. The answer is to curb government spending. I don't have a fancy car (nor do I want one) don't have a 3000 sq ft house (although with these kids around a bigger one may be an idea lol). My society isn't " every man for himself" and my garage has some bicycles, a push mower, weed eater, kids sports stuff, and camping gear (tents), hiking gear, beer fridge, stereo, some tools.
You see, you assumed a bunch of things about me because I don't share your left leaning agenda, and all your assumptions were wrong. I'm not an elitist, I still go to Bad Religion and NOFX. Concerts and party with young punks (shame they don't have good music of their own) You are so prejudice of someone who is politically conservative you allowed yourself to make up a whole story of who I was. Funny isn't it? Like I was wearing a niqab and you couldn't see the face behind the belief
I didn't say anything was you. I said that's what I WASN'T. I have no left leaning agenda. I have voted every party in several different elections. I'm not stupid enough to be partisan. I vote issues, not colours.
I'm not prejudiced at all. My parents usually vote conservative because those are the issues that speak to them, and that's fine. But you presented a world where anyone who doesn't vote for Harper is a lazy sack of shit who is looking for handouts, all the while you took them yourself, and I have never done so, and I took exception to that.
I never once presented a world where people don't vote for Harper is a lazy sack of shit. I took an education as a teenager. Is taking college education a handout? Sure I dropped out, but I think I'm one class short of my two year diploma for broadcasting. Anyways, the point you all seem to conveniently miss is I AM FINE WITH THINGS HOW THEY ARE. Social safety net is good enough. Somehow that makes me a NEO-con or something? It's laughable.
Heard the best call ever today on a news talk radio station here in Calgary.
Guy called in and said the left wing wants to make sure there is no Canadian identity. Basically, this lack of identity and values makes us multicultural. The left likes to protect this belief that we don't have an identity because it allows them to get the immigration vote. He said Canada has an identity, and he is right about that. He said Canada has values, and he is right about that as well. His quote "the naqib has a place in Canada like the bikini has a place in Saudi Arabia".
We have a history, we have values. Turdo says "don't turn Canadians against Canadians". Isn't that what an election is?
Heard the best call ever today on a news talk radio station here in Calgary.
His quote "the naqib has a place in Canada like the bikini has a place in Saudi Arabia".
The question is why doesn't a bikini have a place in Saudi Arabia? It's only a piece of cloth like the naqib. It covers the sensitive areas. We allow have bikinis here and don't oppose.
So to recap everything... As I take a break from here again as I can only handle so much of the uber left wing rhetoric and silly posts of other people views and links to news stories from the watered down media we already read:
1) I've never once said who I am going to vote for 2) you are all convinced I am voting for Harper 3) some think I am hypocrite because I learned from my mistakes (interestingly, I went to the Lethbridge Food Bank four times as a student and I send them $100 every year, I don't forget) 4) if anyone doesn't agree with people who think Harper is pure evil that person is wrong 5) it appears people who lean far to the left are extremely closed minded. To the point of a lack of respect of any view which isn't consistent of their own 6) not one of you know me, but you have many assumptions.. Good for you 7) the internet isn't real and all of you are wasting your time arguing here while doing NOTHING 8) I am fine with the way things are and I don't want to pay more taxes.
No matter who wins and takes hold of the government, you are going to complain. Then you are going to bitch and moan how the corporations run the world. All the while doing nothing because you say stupid shit on Twitter or Facebook, or because you dropped acid and freaked out at age 19. Or it's just because you like to complain. I've said it before and I'll say it again, running a country is no easy job, many have tried and so few have left office revered (remember when they considered renaming Canada's largest mountain after PET? ) So carry on with your left wing propaganda, I will lurk in the shadows laughing. Most of all though, get out there and vote on the 19th, even if you spoil your ballot, because above everything else I believe in democracy.
Cheers! Oh yeah and 27 days till I see PJ in Santiago. I'm so blessed... What a great country we live in.
Heard the best call ever today on a news talk radio station here in Calgary.
Guy called in and said the left wing wants to make sure there is no Canadian identity. Basically, this lack of identity and values makes us multicultural. The left likes to protect this belief that we don't have an identity because it allows them to get the immigration vote. He said Canada has an identity, and he is right about that. He said Canada has values, and he is right about that as well. His quote "the naqib has a place in Canada like the bikini has a place in Saudi Arabia".
We have a history, we have values. Turdo says "don't turn Canadians against Canadians". Isn't that what an election is?
I thought you didn't get distracted by the small issues? That caller was a bigot.
Eight days left of this bullshit campaigning. So what do you think is instore for us Canadians from the Harper government again?
A resounding testimony that the intelligent, reasonable, well rounded individuals in Canada are outnumbered by the simple fools that drool all over themselves daily.
I fear for what you say because of it materializes... we will know that this is actually the case. And in this event... that's the shits. Drooling fools get to shape my future.
Eight days left of this bullshit campaigning. So what do you think is instore for us Canadians from the Harper government again?
A resounding testimony that the intelligent, reasonable, well rounded individuals in Canada are outnumbered by the simple fools that drool all over themselves daily.
I fear for what you say because of it materializes... we will know that this is actually the case. And in this event... that's the shits. Drooling fools get to shape my future.
Sorry I was laughing so hard... I just couldn't resist.
"Droll all over themselves daily". How simple and obtuse can you be?
The extreme left, such as yourself, tend to think of themselves as "more civilized", "intellectual" and "socially conscious". But your last post shows a complete lack of any of those traits which you hold so dear.
Eight days left of this bullshit campaigning. So what do you think is instore for us Canadians from the Harper government again?
A resounding testimony that the intelligent, reasonable, well rounded individuals in Canada are outnumbered by the simple fools that drool all over themselves daily.
I fear for what you say because of it materializes... we will know that this is actually the case. And in this event... that's the shits. Drooling fools get to shape my future.
Sorry I was laughing so hard... I just couldn't resist.
"Droll all over themselves daily". How simple and obtuse can you be?
The extreme left, such as yourself, tend to think of themselves as "more civilized", "intellectual" and "socially conscious". But your last post shows a complete lack of any of those traits which you hold so dear.
Great... now I can't help myself.
Yah I suck.
But as much as I suck... I've never procured social assistance from my government for four years and proceed to call anyone else who does a 'bum'... while at the same time talk about how awesome I am and how to be successful with a strong work ethic. Doing that would make me narcissistic.
Eight days left of this bullshit campaigning. So what do you think is instore for us Canadians from the Harper government again?
A resounding testimony that the intelligent, reasonable, well rounded individuals in Canada are outnumbered by the simple fools that drool all over themselves daily.
I fear for what you say because of it materializes... we will know that this is actually the case. And in this event... that's the shits. Drooling fools get to shape my future.
Sorry I was laughing so hard... I just couldn't resist.
"Droll all over themselves daily". How simple and obtuse can you be?
The extreme left, such as yourself, tend to think of themselves as "more civilized", "intellectual" and "socially conscious". But your last post shows a complete lack of any of those traits which you hold so dear.
Great... now I can't help myself.
Yah I suck.
But as much as I suck... I've never procured social assistance from my government for four years and proceed to call anyone else who does a 'bum'... while at the same time talk about how awesome I am and how to be successful with a strong work ethic. Doing that would make me narcissistic.
Thirty - lovely to hear you've joined the rest of us on the extreme left or, as we of course call it in Canada, the extrême-gauche. Make sure to join us next Tuesday for our meeting at the Marxist-Leninist centre where we plot the next cultural revolution. Dress code is casual, hammer and sickle optional but beards appear to be mandatory for the fellows.
my small self... like a book amongst the many on a shelf
Rockin' on the extreme left, apparently. I just feel so intellectual and civilized I don't even know what to do with myself or what to say anymore. I guess I'll just lie here and be super socially conscious.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
Comments
^^^^
To be completely honest, I wouldn't have gone to school and wasted taxpayer money if I would have had to pay for the whole ride myself. I was a kid for fuck sakes, 18-19 years old! I GREW UP. Realized it was foolish., realized my actions do affect other people. Government money is on the backs of PEOPLE WHO WORK FOR A LIVING.
I'm pretty sure in the 20 years since then I've paid all that back and MORE.
THE SOCIAL SAFETY NET enabled me to "use the system". (It was only two years btw)
Once again, I am fine with the way it is, no more taxes. They can't bleed us anymore. That's my position and you bleeding hearts can't change it
Geezuz man. Are you serious? After what I revealed to you .... You should realize that it was a story about how social assistance has run amuck.
Wow. Just wow.
I said nothing about anyone specifically. Little tricks to get overly sensitive people fired up.
This was too tame, even for a polite Canadian political forum
Sure man.
You're case was special. You were just a kid so I guess that makes it okay. Fuck the older guy who's not a kid. He should know better. 18 years old is too young to know right from wrong or have a work ethic or pride.
Does it make any difference to the system who's collecting the cheques?
Bottom line: you collected for... FOUR... years. Not just a couple. FOUR! You got your shit together and instead of being thankful for a system that allowed you to get on your feet... you admonish it.
Not only that... you now mock those that supported and paid for such systems that you took full advantage when you needed them.
Have you stopped to think how absurd your assertions are?
Go ahead. Vote for Harper. He's a turd, but if that's your choice then have at it. Just as Canada supports 'bums'... we support the freedom to vote as your conscience dictates.
Of course I'm "admonishing" "the system" you hold so dear! Of course, you are so blinded in some kind of old man rage you can't see the forest for the trees.
I mock the government who paid for 70% of my tuition and books for TWO YEARS (community college broadcast journalism course - Lethbridge) so it amounted to I believe $12000.
Either way, it was not right. Like I said if I had to pay for it myself I would. It have gone and left that seat for a more determined (albeit less talented) student.
I have not said I will vote for Harper. I said I don't want to pay more taxes. Mulcair has stated he wants a balanced budget, however the Provincial NDP not real easing Alberta's first budget in 2 years until after the federal election (no provincial and federal party are as closely aligned) has me concerned.
But once again, your assumptions about who I am, and the fact that quite frankly sir you cannot admit that we learn things as we go through life is quite astonishing. Your beliefs and ideologies are exactly the same now as your late teens? I guess you were a pretty sharp teenager the.
You are losing this debate.... Badly
"The rest of you" can continue on talking In a big love fest as long as everyone agrees with you. The left is right and the right is wrong.
I'm a libertarian, I want freedom. I want to be unburdened of the shackles of big government.
If I can't have that, I'll take it the way it is. But for fuck sakes, quit taking all the money out of my pocket. It kills people's dreams. Does anyone work for anyone else but themselves and their family? Not volunteer work, the paid gig.
On a day to day basis are you at work thinking "I'm doing this for our social safety net because I'm a good little socialist and the betterment of the state is far more important than the betterment of the individual"?
Didn't think so
You expect us to see it your "humanitarian way" however you refuse to see the humanitarian way I do it because it doesn't jive with your idealistic view of a utopian society.
This is me calling your character out as a hypocrite of comical proportions. I've made no assumptions at all- I've merely tried to illustrate how your past actions do not reconcile with your new founded values.
I've failed with my 'bottom line' attempt above and I'm not sure how I could have? It's painfully obvious that you've shoved your foot so far into your mouth its coming out your ass.
I don't hold our system so dear (another comical assertion). I think there's plenty of abuse and don't get me started about our penal system; however, I'd rather have social assistance that is ripe for abusing like you did for FOUR years (slow learner, eh?) so that it's there for someone who needs it. I'm not missing that money.
And 'old man rage'? How obtuse or simple can you be? The more appropriate term is 'astonished'.
To your claim of being uber talented, but not super determined (and slightly irreplaceable). HAHAHAHA. You've officially placed yourself in some elite company on these boards according to my books.
See ya.
I'm not prejudiced at all. My parents usually vote conservative because those are the issues that speak to them, and that's fine. But you presented a world where anyone who doesn't vote for Harper is a lazy sack of shit who is looking for handouts, all the while you took them yourself, and I have never done so, and I took exception to that.
www.headstonesband.com
An A-Z guide of everything the PM tells us to be petrified of
Scott Feschuk
October 7, 2015
Stephen Harper’s leadership philosophy is clear: In troubled times, it is the duty of the Prime Minister to rally the people of Canada, bring us all together—and provide us with many, many reasons to freak the hell out. In such matters, Harper takes inspiration from Franklin Roosevelt: The only thing we have to fear is this exhaustive list of terrifying things to fear.
Alas, it can be hard to keep track of everything we’re supposed to be petrified of. So here is an alphabetical reminder of the threats to our country, according to the PM. Tape it to the fridge and consult it, should you ever begin to feel that things in Canada are going semi-okay.
Coalitions. The Conservative leader has been consistent on this one: Nothing represents a greater menace to the future of the country we love than the chilling prospect of our elected representatives cooperating.
Deficits. As Harper tells it, a budget shortfall will instantly “wreck” the Canadian economy. Sure, Harper ran deficits himself—but his were different. Think of it in terms of a soap opera, where the good guy is invariably revealed to have an evil twin. The bad egg is usually distinguished by a menacing facial characteristic of some kind. And look, whaddaya know: Trudeau’s proposed deficits are totally rocking a goatee.
Elites. What a tragedy it would be for Canadians to heed the words of those who, through education, effort and accomplishment, have at least some clue of what they’re talking about.
Enemies of Israel. This subset includes both genuine and imagined enemies of Israel, up to, and including, people who have tweeted something snarky about Seth Rogen.
Europe. Once a lovely continent known for its tourist attractions and abundant berets, Europe has been reduced by Harper to a threatening symbol of economic turmoil—a contagion that must be quarantined. Do not visit Europe the continent. Do not listen to Europe the band. DO NOT PRONOUNCE EUROPE THE WORD. It’s like Beetlejuice: Say it out loud three times and—poof!—the Greek finance minister will appear in your kitchen and max out your credit card.
Immigrants. The Conservatives are vowing to create a tip line so Canadians can rat out their neighbours to the RCMP for “barbaric cultural practices.” I say it’s about time: My neighbour Brian is of Asian descent and, one afternoon, I saw him barbecuing with his shirt off. Not in my Canada, señor.
Harper’s message is clear: People who come here from other countries are to be welcomed and accepted, unless they say, do or cook anything that seems—and I’m paraphrasing here—“kinda weird.” If nothing else, this campaign has proved that Harper would have made a great dad in the 1950s. Now, now, Beaver. Your school chum says she’s a grateful immigrant following her cultural traditions. But wouldn’t it be doing everyone a favour to have her detained by police, just in case?
Marijuana. Harper tells us weed is “infinitely worse” than tobacco. And he’s right. Smoking kills 40,000 Canadians a year—but that’s nothing compared to the staggering cost of potheads sitting quietly on the couch for three hours.
Niqab. As a Conservative, the PM is a reliable defender of individual freedom, except when confronted by a clear and present threat to national security, such as a couple of women choosing to cover their faces. The veil is terrifying, because there could be anything under there. You might find a person. You might find a different person. Or maybe three young boys stacked on top of each other, trying to order a beer at a strip club. It is therefore in Canada’s best interest to rely on Stephen Harper to set out a national dress code: Ill-fitting blazers for all! Also, remember the haircut you got as a seven-year-old? You now have to keep it for life.
In Harper’s world, we should be suspicious of everyone—except, apparently, political leaders who spent the past decade telling us to focus only on the economy, but who are now suddenly telling us to wet our pants over veiled ladies.
And let’s remember: Harper has a perfect track record at identifying cultural threats. He warned that same-sex weddings would gravely undermine the institution of marriage. Had we listened to him, we wouldn’t today be watching helplessly as millions of Canadians lobby for the right to marry their appliances.
Related: This or that? Find out where you stand this election with the Maclean’s Policy Face-Off Machine
Rival political leaders. According to Harper, Canada is the “greatest country in the world”— but not so great that it could survive a routine change in government without being transformed overnight into a nightmare dystopia defined by economic chaos, civil strife and stoned, veiled toddlers.
Science. Friends, don’t listen to all those lab-coated nerdlingers out there: The environment is totally, 100 per cent fine. * North pole explodes *
Terrorists. For Harper, it’s not enough to be afraid of the few who actually commit acts of terror. We must also be fearful of potential terrorists. And the beauty is: Anyone could be a potential terrorist! Your neighbour. Your veterinarian. Did your barista just give you a weird look? There, there – let Uncle Steve comfort you by pointing out that your cab driver also seems suspicious.
Harper’s message to voters is clear: On Oct. 19, be guided not by your head or your heart, but by the hairs on the back of your neck.
http://www.macleans.ca/politics/ottawa/feschuk-the-stephen-harper-fear-index/
“Too broken to write,” I told my editor, after the onslaught of Conservative announcements. The niqab was condemned. Citizenship was revoked for convicted terrorists with dual citizenship. Canadians were reminded of “barbaric cultural practices,” and the federal government’s preference for mainly non-Muslim Syrian refugees was reiterated. Make no mistake: This divisive strategy is meant to prey upon fear and prejudice.
Last May, I wrote that Canadian Muslims “are the low-hanging fruit in the politics of fear. Omar Khadr is exhibit A; Zunera Ishaq is exhibit B. With an October election, it won’t be surprising to see political machinations at our expense.” Yet the sheer brazenness of the Conservatives leaves one speechless; a 2.0 version of Quebec’s “charter of values” is being used to win votes on the backs of a vulnerable minority. The government’s open hostility has given licence to bigots to vent xenophobia. A pregnant Muslim woman is assaulted in Montreal. A niqab-wearing woman is attacked while shopping with her daughters in Toronto. Mosques are taking precautions. Identifiable Muslim women feel a little less safe, and Muslim youth face difficult questions about identity and acceptance.
Don’t expect Conservative Leader Stephen Harper to call for calm; this cynical strategy seems to be working. What does this say about us, and our commitment to a just society?
December will mark 50 years since I arrived from India as a toddler. In Montreal, I experienced the fear of terrorism during the 1970 FLQ crisis and horror after the massacre of 14 women one dark December evening in 1989. My first voting experience was momentous, for I helped to keep the country together in the 1980 Quebec referendum. I did the same during the nail-biter of 1995. Along the way, I never felt any discrimination, any sense of being second-class.
Quebec and Canada allowed me to thrive. I remember the pride I felt when my Harvard University professors told me that Canadian graduate students were the best-prepared – a testament to our excellent undergraduate institutions. And the love I felt for my compatriots during the massive 1995 pro-Canada rally in Montreal. It reminded me of the hajj – a sea of individuals from near and far, united in their love for a noble ideal. Differences melted into a shared vision of the future.
However, the mood changed in Quebec after then-premier Jacques Parizeau’s “money and ethnic votes” comment the night of the 1995 referendum. For the first time, I was told to “go back home,” while walking my eight-month-old daughter in a stroller. When I moved to Ottawa, a man, proudly brandishing his Canadian Legion jacket, told me the same. Then came the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Although there were a few more incidents, I never feared for myself or my children. On the contrary – friends, neighbours and complete strangers renewed my faith in the basic decency of Canadians.
Now, things feel different. I never imagined that the federal government would use its hefty weight to vilify Muslims. Never in 50 years have I felt so vulnerable. For the first time, I wonder if my children will have the opportunity to thrive as I did. One is a budding environmental scientist; one has entrepreneurial goals; the youngest dreams of playing soccer alongside Kadeisha Buchanan. But the Conservative message is: You are Muslim, you are the “other,” you can’t be trusted and you will never belong.
Thankfully, other political leaders have stepped up; Justin Trudeau, Tom Mulcair, Elizabeth May, the Quebec legislature, among others, have denounced the politics of fear, and reiterated the Canadian value of inclusion. We need more people to stand together against all forms of bigotry, whether it’s against Muslims today, or aboriginals every day.
By all means, let’s respectfully discuss our differences, while weaving a tapestry of shared experiences toward a more inclusive country. Our hearts, like the land, are wide enough to mend broken spirits. As the late NDP leader Jack Layton reminded us so eloquently: “My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.”
An earlier digital version of this story had an incorrect quote attributed to Jacques Parizeau. This digital version has been corrected.
Follow us on Twitter: @GlobeDebate
www.headstonesband.com
I understand where you are coming from now. It is frustrating talking politics to "family".
It's frustrating because generally people don't change party colours like a person doesn't change their own.
That is true. Most don't. Although I will say that just yesterday a 25 year old co-worker of mine who has voted Conservative ever since he was old enough, and who claims he would be a republican if he were American, voted Liberal yesterday (at at early voting station at the university) because, and i Quote, "Harper is acting like he's leading the fucking tea party at this point."
I can't debate people who lack simple reading comprehension anyway. I seemed to have learned a lot quicker than you how the real world works. Later dude!!
I took an education as a teenager. Is taking college education a handout? Sure I dropped out, but I think I'm one class short of my two year diploma for broadcasting.
Anyways, the point you all seem to conveniently miss is I AM FINE WITH THINGS HOW THEY ARE. Social safety net is good enough. Somehow that makes me a NEO-con or something? It's laughable.
Guy called in and said the left wing wants to make sure there is no Canadian identity. Basically, this lack of identity and values makes us multicultural. The left likes to protect this belief that we don't have an identity because it allows them to get the immigration vote.
He said Canada has an identity, and he is right about that. He said Canada has values, and he is right about that as well.
His quote "the naqib has a place in Canada like the bikini has a place in Saudi Arabia".
We have a history, we have values. Turdo says "don't turn Canadians against Canadians". Isn't that what an election is?
It's only a piece of cloth like the naqib. It covers the sensitive areas.
We
allowhave bikinis here and don't oppose.1) I've never once said who I am going to vote for
2) you are all convinced I am voting for Harper
3) some think I am hypocrite because I learned from my mistakes (interestingly, I went to the Lethbridge Food Bank four times as a student and I send them $100 every year, I don't forget)
4) if anyone doesn't agree with people who think Harper is pure evil that person is wrong
5) it appears people who lean far to the left are extremely closed minded. To the point of a lack of respect of any view which isn't consistent of their own
6) not one of you know me, but you have many assumptions.. Good for you
7) the internet isn't real and all of you are wasting your time arguing here while doing NOTHING
8) I am fine with the way things are and I don't want to pay more taxes.
No matter who wins and takes hold of the government, you are going to complain. Then you are going to bitch and moan how the corporations run the world. All the while doing nothing because you say stupid shit on Twitter or Facebook, or because you dropped acid and freaked out at age 19. Or it's just because you like to complain.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, running a country is no easy job, many have tried and so few have left office revered (remember when they considered renaming Canada's largest mountain after PET?
So carry on with your left wing propaganda, I will lurk in the shadows laughing. Most of all though, get out there and vote on the 19th, even if you spoil your ballot, because above everything else I believe in democracy.
Cheers! Oh yeah and 27 days till I see PJ in Santiago. I'm so blessed... What a great country we live in.
Well if anything after that post you aren't voting NDP.
That would put you in the stupid class.
ABC!
Always Be Conservative!
So what do you think is instore for us Canadians from the Harper government again?
I fear for what you say because of it materializes... we will know that this is actually the case. And in this event... that's the shits. Drooling fools get to shape my future.
"Droll all over themselves daily". How simple and obtuse can you be?
The extreme left, such as yourself, tend to think of themselves as "more civilized", "intellectual" and "socially conscious". But your last post shows a complete lack of any of those traits which you hold so dear.
Yah I suck.
But as much as I suck... I've never procured social assistance from my government for four years and proceed to call anyone else who does a 'bum'... while at the same time talk about how awesome I am and how to be successful with a strong work ethic. Doing that would make me narcissistic.