Plus: Homelessness and drug addiction were in St-Henri long before Maison Benoît Labre, writes another reader.
The decision by the karate centre to exclude the young girl was not only discriminatory, but potentially damaging to her emotional and psychological well-being. At 12 years old, she was in a critical stage of development in which identity and belonging are paramount. By barring her from participating, the centre sent a message that her cultural and religious identity were not welcome. This contributes to an “us versus them” mentality that can have long-term detrimental effects on a sense of self and belonging.
I commend the parents for standing up for their daughter’s rights and challenging an unjust practice. It is imperative that we, as a community, prioritize the emotional well-being of our children over rigid adherence to exclusionary rules. Inclusivity and respect for diversity should be at the forefront of our educational and social practices. Only then can we foster a society that truly values and respects all its members and where children feel appreciated and accepted — an essential component for their healthy development.
Lindi Ross, Carignan
Opposing mindsets are entrenched
Canadians feel Quebec is spoiled, and Quebec thinks it deserves more. How do you explain this? It’s called two solitudes or, more appropriately, two mindsets. It can’t be explained, only tolerated, until everything changes, and it probably won’t. The more things change, the more they appear to remain the same.
Douglas Cornish, Ottawa
Facilities for those in need encounter resistance anywhere
I thought shipping our “undesirables” — the poor, the unhoused, the ill — away from us disappeared with colonialism. Wherever you set up these facilities, someone will take exception. Health-care services must be located near where the needs are, not in some remote corner. Cities are often where drug drop-in and homelessness facilities are required.
Homelessness and drug addiction were in St-Henri long before Maison Benoît Labre. The new facility did not create those problems, but rather was built to help the situation. A little compassion, please.
Iris Shestowsky, Montreal
Show appreciation while you’re able
Wendy Reichental movingly writes: “Regrettably, the polite, concerned, considerate and sensitive behaviours displayed during these times of loss and reflection are not more commonly seen in everyday interactions.”
She also says: “A person’s compassion, empathy and unwavering love shape our memories and create the most profound impressions.”
How wonderful and life-affirming would it be if we were more able to verbalize these powerful sentiments to a loved one long before they passed?
Barry Beloff, Montreal