LETTER TO THE EDITOR
(The Sun - Ottawa, Toronto, Edmonton, Winnipeg & Calgary)
Dear sirs,
Your editorial of February 28, 2011 reveals new information, courtesy of the secret RCMP file, about the past and opinions of Tommy Douglas. In fact, had the Sun done its own research with any due diligence, it would have discovered that there was nothing new or revelatory in those files. (I suggest your readers explore the three fine biographies of Douglas that are available).
Douglas’s views on eugenics were once shared, alas, by many in all parts of the world in the early 20th century. What matters is what Tommy actually did once he became premier of Saskatchewan -- when he specifically rejected advice involving eugenics -- instead instituting programs of therapy for mental illness, and training and education for persons with handicaps. Political leaders in B.C. and Alberta found eugenic ideas much more acceptable at the time.
Douglas’s views on homosexuality were common currency among medical professionals and certainly among religious leaders, in the 30s and well beyond. Again, what matters is what he did. Douglas never exhibited or practiced prejudice, and supported human rights and fought discrimination, including discrimination against homosexuals, throughout his career. Indeed, his record in defending and promoting individual liberties is far and away better than that of his political opponents.
The balance sheet of Douglas’s achievements – which have improved the life, health and well-being of generations of Canadians – more than justify the title ‘Greatest Canadian’.
What is surprising in reading through these "secret" documents is a reaffirmation of the honesty and integrity of Tommy and how ironically, his message of peace and humanity was taken as a threat by those in power... and perhaps still is.
Sincerely,
David Mackenzie
President
The Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation mourns the passing of Stephen Lewis with profound sorrow and deep gratitude for a life of extraordinary service. In Stephen Lewis, we have lost not only a towering figure in Canadian public life, but a giant among progressives, an intellectual of rare brilliance, and a moral voice whose clarity and conviction helped shape generations of thought and action in pursuit of social justice.
By Josh Bizjak, Executive Director
A record number of NDP members across Canada are currently voting for who will lead the federal party into the future. Although "rebuilding" seems to be the word of the moment, the NDP must remain committed to its roots: the pursuit of power.
Talk of forming an NDP government right now may seem deluded. However, despite what some revisionists might say the party was established with a sole purpose, to form a federal government.
It is with the heaviest hearts today upon learning of former BC Premier John Horgan’s passing.
