Blue Like You

Archive for December 11th, 2007

To some people, the hijab is a symbol of faith, culture and a means of modesty in an increasingly secular, anything-goes Canada.

To others it is a symbol of oppression; even though some hijab-wearers insist it is more liberating because women are judged for themselves rather than their looks.

But all this hinges on the assumption of choice.

Such does not appear to be the case with a 16-year old girl who is now in critical condition after being choked by her father; who apparently was enraged by his daughter’s desire to wear Western clothing - Were clothes behind the attack on teenager? (Post)

Her condition is so grave that police have not yet charged the man arrested at the scene until they know whether it will be a charge of murder or attempted murder. He was scheduled to appear in Brampton court today.

This article is a real eye-opener. I wonder how many other Canadian girls are out there in similar circumstances. They must eventually either give in to the intimidation or face abuse of some kind.

A frightening situation for a country that considers itself so advanced in the area of Human Rights.

Lots of outrage in today’s Record regarding their recent story about a Kitchener judge who cautioned a constable against wearing a poppy in her courtroom around Remembrance Day.

First we have various Letters to the Editor, including the Letter of the Day - Judges have proudly worn poppies in court.

Even the Record’s editorial gives Justice Margaret Woolcott a blast (accompanied with all due respect) - The poppy should be welcome everywhere.

Justice Woolcott never said who might take offence at a police officer wearing a poppy. That’s because, in reality, no one probably would take umbrage. However, the best response to someone who objects to the poppy would be a polite but firm, “tough.” Police who wish to should continue wearing the poppy. As for Justice Woolcott, she should read a good history book.

Well, Stephen Taylor suggested a much more eloquent response should Const. Haines ever find himself in this situation again:

“Your honour, this symbol represents the sacrifice that braver Canadians than you or me made to have a free and fair court. It is a symbol, yes, much like the robes you wear and the gavel you use. It is this symbol which gives the ones you carry any authority, for without the sacrifice represented by those I honour, your symbols bear none.”
– Stephen Taylor

Afterwards, Stephen notes that in Canada we would refer to the judge as “Madam Justice”.

Whatever you want to call Justice Woolcott, the message still rings true.