21 Apr 2020 Embrace The Roman Salute

And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” – Matthew 12: 49, 50

Today, during a public demonstration, I gave the Roman Salute to a cenotaph in the center of my town. This gesture seems to have (unsurprisingly) “ruffled some feathers” and today we are taking the opportunity to clarify and perhaps expand on the message being sent with the ‘Roman Salute’. I do not believe this gesture was done dishonourably or against the sacrifices of those who perished in the conflicts to which the memorial pays tribute. I did this because I believe our country needs political change now more than ever before, and if the recent 43rd Federal Election is any indication, this change will not likely come democratically.

While saluting, I was also instructed to “hold”. I asked those who were in attendance to notify me immediately if what I was doing was a dishonourable act. The individuals nearest to myself did not claim that this was dishonourable. None of the 3 persons other than myself who were in attendance came forward during the demonstration to object or notify that this gesture was dishonourable.

I can understand how some may be confused or even offended at such a gesture. I would urge our fellow citizens to understand that such a gesture carries only those connotations that are ascribed to it – and for us, it is one of honour, strength, and justice. I would also ask them to consider how we should be expected to respond given that during and leading up to the recent 43rd Federal Election we were not been permitted access to the public commons in a meaningful way in order to promote our policies and compete democratically. Finally, I would implore Canadians to consider how unaccountable our federal government has become and how this is negatively affecting the lives of Canadians. We are grateful to those who are of understanding and patience. In no way has it ever been our intention to cause undue harm or disrepute to anyone.