To start, allow me to applaud your confidence. Putting forth personal opinions (At odds with Electorate, Sept. 26) for public scrutiny is never easy and won’t always garner the support we seek.
As a resident of Robson, I am denied the right to vote in this election. Had I the right, I would have chosen a candidate whose platform echoes my beliefs and values, as you so succinctly put it. What are those beliefs? Well, I’m glad you asked.
I believe in everyone having the right to their opinion. I believe in allowing people to live the life they wish, as long as it does not harm others. If a man loves another man, I support it. Their love doesn’t hurt me and, honestly, our world can use all the love it can get.
I believe in the power of change. There may be no need to reinvent the wheel but sometimes that wheel needs repairing. I value the input of those who have been through the trenches but I also welcome fresh perspectives from newcomers.
In my experience, new ideas are not always encouraged by those who have been around the block. This is a shame because we were all newcomers at one time or another, wanting to contribute and be heard.
As for near-nudity at Gay Pride events, allow me to take you one step further. I believe/know that society has been exposed to a lot more near/total nudity, because of the relentless subjugation of women through domestic violence, pornography, sex crimes etc. The damaging effects of this are far reaching, unlike an event held to allow people to feel the dignity of acceptance, perhaps for the first time.
Change is inevitable, Mr. Kemperman. We can fight it and be rigid or we can embrace it and be part of positive outcomes.
I believe I’ve said enough.
– Dawn Graham,
Robson