Dear Diane,
Every year when Canada Day nears, I am reminded of just how wonderful our country truly is, Diane. We live in some of the most beautiful and diverse cities and towns in the world; we have the ability to explore vast, lush rain forests – right in our backyard; we have an economy that has fared well during the past few uncertain years; and despite its shortcomings, we have a national health care plan that many countries in the developing world are truly envious of.
All these great things help make Canada the country that we all love – as I’m sure you do, Diane. It is in part because of these blessings that many people feel their concerns about homelessness in this country are going unaddressed. With such a beautiful, economically strong nation as Canada, do you not find it equally concerning that we have over 300,000 of our fellow Canadian citizens who have no place to call home, Diane? The situation is so bad, in fact, that it was characterized as a “national emergency” in 2006 by the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.
What a great decision (both personally and politically) it would be if you took it upon yourself to bring the national homeless crisis to the attention of your fellow MPs in the House, as our nation’s birthday looms in the not too distant future. Canada Day is the annual celebration of all that our country has to be proud of. The state of homelessness in Canada is a definitive black eye to our reputation internationally as a leader in social justice and progressive responses to large, national crises.
Do your part, Diane, and share with your colleagues the concerns that thousands in Canada (and I’m sure yourself) have about the need for a national housing strategy.
As we pause to reflect on what great things our country stands for, Diane, please do not forget the areas where our national policy has much room for improvement. Support Bill C-304.
Sincerely,
Jesse Kendall and the Homelessness is Over! Team
Here are some of your messages we shared with Diane today!
…I see many people sleeping outside everyday and I cannot stand it any longer. Take action . These people are cold and strangers on the street are often too busy to be kind.
…We are all humans and it’s not fair that peoplea re still homeless. Please find a way of finding shelter for the homeless.
…I would be proud to be Canadian if all my fellow Canadians had quality housing for life. Until that happens, I am ashamed and shame on you too!
