THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE FREEDOM PARTY OF ONTARIO
JUNE 1998 #33
Calgary Declaration Page 2 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998 eeC£6ac We get fetters ...
Instead of bringing you our regular 'Openers' column this issue (which will return next issue), we thought we'd use this opportunity to let our readers do some of the talking, and to introduce you to a new regular feature of Freedom Flyer: Feedback.
By no means exhaustive, the following selection of letters and e-mail represents a broad sampling of correspondence received by Freedom Pa~during the period January 1997 to May 1998. While many of these letters have already been personally responded to, others have not. Editorial responses, as they appear here, may be entirely new and/or edited versions of our original personal responses. To the greatest degree possible, original letters to Freedom Pa~ are left unedited, though there are exceptions with regard to length, structure and grammar (the latter applying particularly to e-mail and Usenet (news groups) correspondence).
As always, we'd like to hear from you. Your comments, criticisms, suggestions, and occasional compliments are always welcomed. To contact Freedom Party, write: Box 2214, London, Ontario N6A 4E3, or fax us at (519) 681 -2857, or e-mail us at "feedback@freedomparty org".
OJ NO DONATION up on freedom. To simply ignore the disastr· the text of Joe Armstrong's first-class ous consequences of drug prohibition and the speech to Kingston's Canadian Club. It's a Too bad you folks are still hung up on effect that such laws have on individual free· clarion call which, unfortunately, will not drugs! No donation. dom, privacy, and justice, would be to betray be heard by the vast majority of Cana Ted Banks, LONDON Ontario, Octo the principles upon which Freedom Party is dians. founded. But the significant point is this: the berl997 When I was in grade school at age 10 principles upon which we base our condemna· or 11, I was required to memorize John We checked to see if your claim has tion of drug laws are the very same principles McRae's famous poem which, even at that merit. The 32 issues of Freedom Flyer pub· upon which we base ALL of our policies and age, made a lasting impression on me. As lished from Jan 1, 1984 to October 1997 activities _.. including the 98% of issues with you may have been informed already, contain 514 pages, of which 8 are devoted to which you apparently agree. drug laws, representing 1.56% of that newslet· there is a misprint in your version of it, ters' content. The 30 issues of Consent (28 Whether or not you choose to contribute (enclosed). to Freedom Party is, of course, your choice. regular issues plus two specials) published William E Goodman, MD., TORONTC But money offered or withheld for the purpose from March 1988 to December 1997 contain Ontario, December 16, 1997 an additional 324 pages, of which 6.5 pages of trying to influence our policies cannot have (two essays) are devoted to drug laws, repre any effect because the simple fact is that our Thank you for your kind comments, and senting 2% of the space in Consent. Whether principles are not for sale. If anyone truly for being the first to alert us to the misprint. or not this represents an undue degree of wishes to influence Fp policy, then such (The line, "To you from failing hands we focus on this particular issue we will leave to influence should be exerted by discussion, throw" incorrectly read: "To you the failing our readers to decide. We also checked your argument, and reference to the principles on hands we throw.") Fortunately, our entire second assertion and you are quite correct; which the party is founded. No cash required. mailing had not yet been printed and thanks to we have received no donation from you. Our doors are always open to the free market your quick response, 80% of our print run saw of ideas. the correct version published, as the two However, judging by the tone of your subsequent copies we sent to your attention Where cash IS required, however, is in all comments, that may be a tragedy. We cer· will attest. [rm) tainly appreciate that many of our members those areas of political activity where ACTION and supporters do not agree with each and must be taken to effect change. If everyone every Freedom Party policy, nor would we withheld 100% of their support over a 2% OJ RATHER CONSOLING expect them to. But the fact that you feel it's disagreement, 98% of the work they'd want to "too bad" that there is an issue with which you see done would simply never get done. I have sent a cheque to support experience discomfort, seems to indicate that Freedom Party, and to ensure that I con Hmmmm. Perhaps there's a lesson here tinue to receive Consent and the Freedom you . otherwise support most of Freedom somewhere. [rm] Party's policies. What you have in effect told Flyer. us is that you are unwilling to support the I always find these publications VERY other 98% of our activities because of the 2% OJ CLARION CALL thought-provoking and rather consoling, you disagree with. (bet that's a first!), i.e., my thinking is not I must commend you for having prin We aren't hung up on drugs. We're hung ted, in the current issue of Consent (#28), (FEEDBACK ... cont'd on page 18) June? 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 3
Working For Freedom... FREEDOM BRIEFS
!.D" HARRIS CONSIDERING "I hope that your government will move to PROPORTIONAL the STV prior to the next election," Walker !.D" Fp A 'NATIONAL REPRESENTATION? encouraged the premier. "In that way, every candidate elected will have the support of a TREASURE', SAYS TORONTO (September 10, 1997) - In representative majority in their riding and we ARMSTRONG can forever put to rest the concept of splitting response to Fp leader Lloyd Walker's June 5 LONDON (November 20, 1997) - On his the vote." personal letter advocating the Single Trans whirlwind tour through southwestern Ontario ferrable Vote (STV) as a means of establish to promote his monumental work, Farewell ing proportional representation in Ontario, !.D" the Peaceful Kingdom, Canadian author and Ontario Premier Michael Harris wrote back COMMENTS APPRECIATED BY historian Joe C.W. Armstrong dropped by to inform him that "I've taken the liberty of Freedom Party's offices to update us on his sharing your letter with (Parliamentary Assis MANNING activities, and to pass on a copy of his speech, tant) Tony Clement and I know he will find "Legitimize Dissent --- or Lose the Federation," your comments informative and usefuL" OTTAWA (July 18, 1997) - As a Reform Party volunteer during the last federal election, which was published in the December 1997 It may be premature to suggest that some Fp vice-president William Frampton wrote edition of Consent. (See related coverage, form of proportional representation is suppor Reform Party leader Preston Manning to page 4.) ted by Ontario's PCs as a matter of principle. congratulate him "on the Reform Party becom "Bob, as Freedom Party· members and What may interest them about the concept ing the Official Opposition in Parliament." supporters well know," Armstrong remarked to could be nothing more complicated than Fp president Robert Metz, "it can never be simple self-preservation. However, his congratulations were accompanied by a criticism of Manning's tacit said too often: freedom requires eternal vigi "As I write this," Walker warned Harris, "I acceptance of "the theory that Confederation lance. The Freedom Party of Ontario is a hear the news informing me of Reform telling involved two founding peoples." national treasure. It is imperative that this your government to 'tow the line' or face movement grow and flourish. There are only a Reform candidates in the next election. The "You are reputed to be the best educated handful of organizations in Canada that are STV may be the only thing that will protect you and most well-read of all the party leaders," doing anything to save the country. This one and your MPPs from this type of blackmail. It wrote Frampton. "How can you not be aware counts! " that this two nations concept is a fantasy?" would also protect Ontarians from a party that Armstrong's compliment is no mere flat would happily split the vote and give Ontario a Frampton pointed at Manning's "weak tery, and we are honored to be viewed in such Liberal or NDP government just to 'keep you in response" to the media's 'anti-French' labeling a light by a truly Canadian author and his line.'" of Reform's television ads. Those ads sugges torian, who is himself among only a handful of Walker asked the premier whether or not ted that leaders from Quebec created the individuals doing anything to save Canada. As his government would be making any electoral problems we have today. of this writing (May/98) , Joe has already been booked for thirty Canadian Club speaking reforms in the near future. "Simply telling them that 'wasn't what engagements across the country and reports Reform meant by it' isn't nearly good enough," "In general," responded Harris, "our chief that "we are having an enormous effect! " electoral reform to date has been the passage explained Frampton, "because with very few of the Fewer Politicians Act, which will change exceptions there certainly IS a valid reason to Whether that effect will be great enough the number of seats in the Legislature from oppose leaders from Quebec --- namely, their to persuade Ontario's MPPs to reject the 130 to 103, as we promised in The Common advocacy of the two nations fantasy. The same Calgary Declaration in May remains to be Sense Revolution. We are also contemplating objection would apply to non-Quebecers (like seen. A majority PC vote in favour of the some other democratic reforms. As you may Joe Clark, for example) who accept the two declaration would only confirm the utter con know, last year I issued a discussion paper nations fraud." tempt that this government displays towards the public when gathering public opinion. The entitled Your Ontario, Your Choice. This paper "Your comments and suggestions regard disgraceful Ontario Speaks process (See asked Ontarians for their input on the matters ing national unity have been noted," replied coverage, pg. 5) has already been a low point of citizen initiative, referenda and recalL " Manning, " and your observations and advice of 'information gathering'. Despite the govern are truly appreciated. Constructive feedback, Of course, Walker was already aware of ment's best efforts, most Canadians still have such as yours, is helpful to myself and Reform the government's discussion paper, since both not even heard about the "Calgary decla MPs, as grassroots input is one of the funda he and Fp president Robert Metz addressed ration" (66% according to the Globe and Mail, mental cornerstones of the Reform Party." the legislature on this issue on September 11 , May 4/98) , let alone understand its impact 1996. (See Freedom Flyer .#30.) Walker also upon their daily lives. officially criticized the final recommendations of that discussion paper, calling the referenda Concluded Frampton: "As leader of the Once again, that task is left to the report " disappointing". (See Freedom Flyer Official Opposition, you have a golden oppor "handful" of individuals like Joe Armstrong, #32.) tunity to stand up for the true principles on and organizations like Freedom Party, to which this Dominion was founded. Maybe then creaie an informed Canadian pubiic. One of Nevertheless, the fact that the Harris more people in Ontario would accept Reform the first steps we can all take is to read Joe's government is "contemplating some other as following the footsteps of Sir John A. 746-page accounting of what he calls "the democratic reforms, " combined with its inter Macdonald and you can achieve a meaningful seduction and rape of Canada, 1963 to 1994." est in Walker's advocacy of the STV, could be breakthrough in this province." an indication of movement in a positive direc (BRIEFS ... . conrd on page 9) tio n. Page 4 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998
Ontario Speaks... NO ROOM FOR FREEDOM IN CALGARY FRAMEWORK, WALKER'S MESSAGE TO LEGISLATURE
TORONTO (December 15, 1997) - "The word 'freedom' does not Wood's response was immediate. In a December 16 letter to appear even once in a 'framework' that is presumably meant to redefine Walker, he expressed his appreciation for having received the material: the Canada of the future," says Freedom Party leader Lloyd Walker, "I look forward to reviewing this material with interest." in a December 15 letter delivered to each of Ontario's 130 MPPs. Baird, who found the articles in Consent to " be both interesting Referring to the Ontario government's current Ontario Speaks: A and thought provoking," wrote at further length: Dialogue On Canadian Unity questionnaire, Walker questioned the mechanism being employed: "It appears that the government is "I was especially interested to read Mr. Joe Armstrong's commen ignoring its own call for the use of referenda in constitutional matters. If tary on the Calgal}' Framework and on the Ontario government's this exercise is simply a process being used to 'take the public's current Dialogue on Canadian Unity. While I do not agree with all of Mr. temperature' on (the Calgal}' Framework), I find it lacking, somewhat Armstrong's personal opinions, I do agree with his suggestion that reminiscent of the loathed 'negative billing' option." meaningful change must be founded on the thoughts and actions of all Canadians, not just our political leaders. I sincerely hope that the Walker's letter to each of the MPPs was accompanied by a copy of Ontario Speaks dialogue can serve to spark just such a reaction." (END) Consent #28, Fp's 12-page December newsletter which features the full text of a 55-minute speech delivered to the ------Canadian Club of Kingston by Canadian author and historian Joe C. W. Armstrong. In 'FUTILE ATTEMPT,' SAYS that address, Armstrong refers to the govern ment's questionnaire as part of "the fastest FRAMPTON IN OFFICIAL Fp railroading of any provincial electorate in Canadian history." SUBMISSION
"Ontarians have only until December 15 OTTAWA (December 1, 1997) - Calling the Frampton. "On the contrary, this approach will to register a protest against the Calgal}' Calgary Declaration "a futile attempt to only divide Canadians. Framework, (which is) perhaps the most reconcile two contradictory theories of Con "The function of the Constitution is to dangerous document ever put forward," says federation," Fp vice-president William Framp specify what powers the people of Canada are Armstrong. "They're rushing it so fast, learning ton, in Freedom Party's official submission to willing to delegate to our governments to after Meech Lake and Charlottetown, that if the Ontario Ministry of Intergovernmental exercise on our behalf, and how these powers they let the thing fester very long and people Affairs' 'Ontario Speaks - A Dialogue on are to be exercised. The distinctiveness of our start to find out what it really means and what Canadian Unity', warned that the Calgary provinces is not something that applies to their is being done, then it will be too late." Declaration "is a dangerous document that no governments. Rather, it is something that is loyal Canadian could ever support, and Free Walker added his voice to Armstrong's, found in the people who live there. However dom Party condemns it absolutely." when he informed the legislature that: "I can diverse the people of Canada are, they need say for the record that Freedom Party offi Frampton's comments were in direct res and deserve to be treated equally under the cially endorses each of (Armstrong's) five ponse to six questions posed by the Ontario law." recommendations as they appear on page 8 government's questionnaire, as follows: "(1) Frampton rejected outright the definition of (your) enclosed newsletter: (1) Eliminate all Do you agree with the approach to strengthen of 'diversity' as described in the Calgary trade barriers between provinces; (2) Start ing Canada proposed in the Calgary frame framework. scrapping the first-past-the-post electoral sys work? (2) What do you see as the values that tem; (3) Cut taxes, the deficit, debt, and Canadians have in common? (3) What are the expenses; (4) Scrap Ontario's Human Rights diversities that make Canada special? (4) Do IIJ' INSIDIOUS Commission; and (5) End the historical revi you agree with an acknowledgment of the MUlTICUl TURAUSM sionism that is tearing Canada apart politically diversity of Canada (Le. , English and French and culturally. languages, unique character of Quebec, Abori "Official multiculturalism is particularly in ginal peoples, multicultural citizenry), as descri "As a starting point for discussion," con sidious," he explained. "This puts forth the bed in the Calgary framework? (5) Do you cluded Walker, "I would urge each and every very damaging idea that newcomers who agree that if any future constitutional amend one of you to consider the political, social, and come to Canada can keep their own culture ment gives powers to one province, these economic value that can make this province and that Canadian taxpayers will pay them to powers must be available to all provinces? (6) and this country great: freedom itself. " do so. This concept is diametrically opposed How can the Ontario government work together to the strongly held Canadian tradition that with the federal government and other pro newcomers should come to Canada, leave IIJ' ONLY TWO RESPONSES vinces to serve people more efficiently and their problems and ancient hatreds in the old effectively?" country, join the majority culture here, and Bob Wood, MPP for London South, and work together to build Canada." John Baird, MPP for Nepean, were the only two MPPs who directly acknowledged IIJ' RESPONSE After equally rejecting the notion of giving Walker's comments or receipt of Fp's newslet one province extra " powers" not available to "It is simply not possible to unite Canada ter. all provinces, Frampton concluded his submis- by accommodating what have become known
as Quebec's traditional demands," responded (ONTARIO SPEAKS ... cont'd bottom of next pg) June? 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 5
Ontario Speaks", CALGARY FRAMEWORK GETS ROUGH RIDE AT PUBLIC MEETING
LONDON (January 29, 1998) - After referring to Fp leader Lloyd "Nobody's here today to make a decision about anything. This is really Walker's criticisms of the Calgary Framework, London North MPP a consultation process. Think about what you'd like the country to look and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dianne Cunningham like, act like, behave like. Then we're going to talk about our approach described the crisis facing Canada's provincial and federal governments to diversity, and how we view diversity in the context of what the as one that was caused by a failure "at the time of Confederation" of Framework says. Then we're going to talk about how our view of having "our responsibilities at (various) levels of government spelled Canadian diverse society fits with the Framework's view." out.
"Over a very long period of time, but especially since the second o::Y FRAMEWORK DOESN'T FIT world war, we got our modern democracy, I think, by making promises at different levels of government with regards to programs that weren't One after another, speakers described how their view of Canadian really our responsibility," explained Cunningham. "In Ontario, I really society did NOT fit in with the Framework's view. Many demonstrated cannot tell you how we spend some of the federal government's money their awareness of the glaring omission of individual freedom as a value that is sent to institutions, and we actually have no authority to check to within the Framework's vision of Canada, though this was not see how that money is spent." surprising, given many attendees' involvement with groups like the Reform Party, the Alliance for the Preservation of English in Cunningham's comments were made at a publicly advertised Canada (APEC), and Freedom Party. Ontario Speaks meeting held at the Jewish Community Centre. Arrangements were made to engage the 55 attendees in a 'dialogue' Fp leader Lloyd Walker received particularly strong applause when that included group table discussions directed by 'facilitators', who he encouraged the government to " get out of the culture business" and explicitly instructed participants to avoid "arriving at conclusions" or to "abolish groups such as the Human Rights Commissions which bring "discussing matters of substance." the entire justice system into disrepute."
Rick Russell, "a full-time facilitator since 1989," emphasized that He challenged Canada's politicians to " live up to the rules of Confederation as laid out in the BNA Act of 1867," and condemned the Ontario Speaks process as an illegitimate means of collecting the The Calgary Framework opinions. of Ontarians.
Here is a framework for discussion on ,Canadian unity, as developed by premiers "I would like to point out that the Standing committee of the from nine provinces and the leaders of the two territories in Calgary on September 14, .1997. . Ontario Legislature has recommended the use of referenda on Constitutional issues," Walker reminded Cunningham. "Maybe it's time 1. All Canadians are. equal and have rights protected by law. 2. All provinces, while "diverse in their characteristics, have equality of status. they got that through and actually used it, if you really want to hear what 3. Canada is graced by a diversity, tolerance, compassion and an equality of opportunity individuals have to say on this Framework." that is without cival tn the world. • 4. Can~da's gift of diversity includes Aboriginal peoples and cultures, the vitality of the English and French languages and a multicultural dtizenry drawn from all parts of the world. . o::Y 1.6% RETURN A HUGE RESPONSE? S. In Canada's federal system, where respect for diversity and equality underlies unity, the unique character of Quebec society, induding its French speaking majority, its culture and Its tradition of civil law, is fundamental to the well being of Canada. Consequently, the legislature and Government of Quebec have a role to protect and develop the unique character of Quebec society within Canada. Cunningham defended the provincial government's process of 6. If any future constitutional amendment confers powers on one prOvince, these fX>wers collecting the opinions of Ontarians by claiming that the 1.6% return rate must be available to all provinces. of the Ontario Speaks survey represented " a HUGE response." 7. Canada is a federal system where federal, provindal, and territorial governments work in partnership while respecting each other's jurisdictions. Canadians want their governments to work cooperatively and with flexibility to ensure the effiCiency and "We sent out over four million brochures," she explained, "and we effectiveness of the federation. Canadians want their governments to work together are now going to have something like a 1.6% return. For most of us, that particularly in the delivery of their social programs. Provinces and territories renew their commitment 10 work in partnership with Ihe Government of Canada to best doesn't sound like very much. For people in the business of trying to serve the needs of Canadians. get 65,000 people to talk to them about something they care about, this .ONTARIO SPEAKS conl'd from prevo pg.) is great news! " sion with a call for our governments "to respect the division of powers Given the informality and absence of structure in the government's laid down in the British North America Act (now called the Constitution Ontario Speaks public meetings, it is highly doubtful that anything Act) in 1867." meaningful can possibly be accomplished by such a subjective process. If anything, such a process offers evidence that our govern His five recommendations echoed those highlighted by Fp leader ment's do NOT want to hear from their constituents. Their attempt to Lloyd Walker in his message t9 the Ontario legislature. (See 'No Room focus attention on meaningless process rather than substance is an For Freedom, pg 4) admission of the government's not-so-hidden agenda.
"The Calgaty Framework is 'about government power and their o::Y GET THE DETAILS! ability to force a rather perverse vision of diversity upon us," concluded Walker in his comments to Cunningham. "Where is the respect for the A full copy of Frampton's 9-page official submission to the Ontario individual? Where is the freedom? Where are the safeguards for us? Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs' 'Ontario Speaks - A Dialogue Where are the limits on government that should be part of any vision of on Canadian Unity' is available to Fp members and supporters on the future of this country? They're just not here in (this) Framework, and request. Check the green box on the back cover for details of how to that makes it an extremely dangerous vision." {END} get in touch with us! {END} Page {) Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998
Roots or Change Conrerence.. . FREEDOM FIRST!, METZ URGES CONFERENCE
TORONTO (March 20-21, 1998). - Fp president Robert Metz was SATURDAY: president of Any Key Solutions, Tim McKay; past among the key speakers participating in this year's Roots of Change Reform Party candidate and Canadian Citizen's Alliance president Conference held at the Royal York Hotel. Accompanying him at the Hugh Prendergast; Alliance for the Preservation of English in event was Fp leader Lloyd Walker, whose comments to Toronto Star Canada (APEC) president Ron Leitch; author, writer, and political reporter Thomas Walkom set the tone of that paper's coverage of the activist Greg Vezina; Reform Party of Canada's executive councillor event. (See reproduction, next page,) in Quebec Brian Rogers; Campaign Life Coalition member Steve Jalsevac; founder-president of Renaissance Canada Inc., Ken Organized by Progressive Group for Independent Business Campbell; PGIB Ontario youth chairman and board member of the (PGIB) president Craig Chandler, the Friday and Saturday conference Canadian Youth Rights Association, Karl Baldauf; president of the was billed as a 'unite-the-right' event. With an impressive list of speakers Ontario Progressive Conservative Youth Association, Walied with philosophies ranging from 'social conservative' to 'libertarian', Soliman. attendees heard a wide range of opinion on the merits and pitfalls of uniting these various fragments of the so-called 'right.' ID" LEITCH BEST
ID" SPEAKERS LIST Without exception, all speakers were both informative and enter· taining, and often found their controversial perspectives critically FRIDAY: Toronto Sun Money Editor Linda Leatherdale; pre challenged by conference attendees. Freedom Party's unofficial award sident of the Employer WCB Crisis Committee, Richard Fink; for the best presentation at the conference goes to APEC president London South MPP Bob Wood; journalist, author and talk show host Ron Leitch, whose passionate call to unite around freedom earned him Michael Coren; Mackenzie Institute president John Thompson; a standing ovation. Freedom Party president Robert Metz; former Halton School Board trustee Robb McLeod. " It is my belief that you cannot unite people around the words right, left, or cen ter," warned Leitch, " Politi cians and the media have joined forces to make use of the word 'right', in a political sense, a dirty word,"
Leitch repeated his call for a repeal of Canada's Charter of Rights and Free· doms, and referred attendees to his booklet, Freedom or Political Slavery (a speech which was delivered to Free dom Party members and supporters in June 1997) , for a more lengthy discussion of his argument. Under the Charter, summarized Leitch, "whenever the government restricts your freedoms, with or without legislation, J'Q.U are the one who must challenge that restriction in the courts, Before the Charter existed, the onus was on the govern ~ to prove that you did not have the freedom which you wished to exercise,"
Fp members and sup porters will have the oppor tunity to read the entire text of Ron Leitch's presentation in the next issue of Consea. (#29), ID" ABOVE: from the Toronto Sun, Saturday, March 21, 1998. Organizer Craig (FREEDOM FIRST, , cont'd next pg) Chandler kicks off PGIB's second Roots of Change Conference. June? 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page?
AlO THETORONTO STAR Saturday, March 21, 1998 Unite-the-right's downmarket element Change conference is attract 'If the right united, they'd want to get rid of guys like us.' "Manning did a good job get party as Michael Coren? Meeting attracts ing the kinds of blood-and-guts ting Canadians back on track, A real alliance of all right rightists who sparked the Re -- I-'IIEI-:I>O.\ I PAHTY I.EADE n LLOYD "VAI.KER but now the train is out of gas," wing forces, he said, would be those relegated form party, but who - as Re Chandler said. "a metaphysical impossibility." form attempts to become more Instead, he said, rightists "If the right united, they'd to sidelines respectable - find themselves alit ion of rural, gun-toting mili was headlined by conservative must forget personalities and want to get rid of guys like us," . relegated to the sidelines. ti as, downtown Trotskyists and pundits with a more downmar concentrate on common added Freedom Party leader By THOMAS WALKOM Anti-abortionists such as animal liberation radicals. ket flavour - Toronto Sun prinCiples. Lloyd Walker. NATIONAL AFFAIRS WRITER Rev. Ken Campbell of Renais Some seemed unconvinced business writer linda Leather But, as the left has discov Still, Chandler is trying. He When influential conserva sance Canada mixed with op when Tory ' MPP Bob Wood dale and CFRB talk show host ered, this is not easy. figures that maybe the best tives held a conference to unite ponents of bilingualism like (London South) said that Mike Michael Coren. Journalist Coren pointed to . way to unite the right is to start , the right two years ago, Craig Ron Leitch of the Association Harris' Ontario government Since Reform thundered out the most fundamental divide a third party - which would at Chandler couldn't even wangle for the Preservation of English has not become indifferent to of the West to become a serious within the right - that which tract both Reformers and an invitation. in Canada. its hard-core supporters. voice in Parliament, efforts to separates social conservatives Tories. "I called to get in but (orga Dick Fields of the Voice of And others voiced agree unite the right have become a like himself (no abortion; wom Or even better, Ontario right nizer and journalist) David Canadians (opposition to mul ment when Reform Leader cottage industry. en forbidden to go topless in ists could start a Bloc Ontario Frum wouldn't let me," the 27- ticulturalism and human ri ghts Preston Manning was The recent fuss over whether public) from economic conser which - in concert with Re year-old former Reform party commissions) was there yester slammed for betraying his Tory Leader Jean Charest will vatives (no social programs; let form in the West and the Tories candidate recalled this week. day as was Robert Metz of the principles. quit his party has merely added the poor starve). in the East - could form a co "He said they were full. It was a more libertarian Freedom Par Frum's 1996 Wi nds of a new urgency to the debate. ' If conservatism means let alition government. kind of cliquey, elitist sort of ty Oegalization of marijuana, Change conference, although Now even Manning himself ting the market rule human af In any case, he is optimistic. thing." opposition to medicare). closed to reporters, featured as is talking about some kind of fairs, Coren said, then "I am in True, only about 30 people reg So Chandler got his own They heard speakers slam participants some of the coun formal coalition with the creasingly uncomfortable istered for his conference. But back. Yesterday, he kicked off workers' compensation and try's tonier right-of-centre jour Tories. calling myself a conservative." he's sure more will come today. his own two-day, unite-the publicly funded abortion clin nalists, including himself and But at Craig Chandler's con Freedom Party president The right, he says, has just got right conference in Toronto. ics. They shivered as John Southam columnist Andrew ference, there were mutterings Metz echoed the dilemma from to get together. And David Frum wasn't Thompson of the Mackenzie Coyne. that the Reform party chief has the other side. How, he asked, "We're going to fight it out there. Institute warned of class war Chandler's Roots of Change already become yesterday's could anyone expect a libertari once and for all, and see who's Instead, Chandler's Roots of coming to Canada, led by a co- conference, by comparison. man. an like him to be in the same left standing."
[JJ ABOVE: Not one person at the Roots o'ChangeConference ever suggested that there should be -no social programs, - or to -let the poor starve, - as suggested in coverage by the Toronto Staron March 21, 1998. The paper's spin on the twO-day event not only understated the number of registrants by more than half, but clearly focused on the variance of opinion among attendees, and not on the areas of agreement and cooperation. (See back cover.)
.FREEDOM FtRST con!'d from prevo pg.) Nevertheless continuing to describe himself as a "social conserva tive, " Coren defined his philosophy as being "ever pragmatic," with [JJ PUTTING FREEDOM FIRST family and community, rather than the individual, as the basis of society. With respect to 'uniting the right,' Leitch's message virtually echoed The state has a DUTY to censor pornography and ban prostitution, he that of Fp president Robert Metz. argued, and went on to make an emotional case against 'same sex couples,' legalized abortion, and euthanasia (even if done for compas "Trying to unite a movement around a LABEL that can mean any sionate reasons). To justify his support of censorship, Coren read number of things to any given number of people is like sowing the explicit and offensive passages from a book describing forced anal seeds of one's own destruction," Metz challenged. "Uniting the right is (homosexual) sex, less an attempt to defeat the left, than it is to defeat our electoral system," he continued, as part of his argument favoring proportional " Economic freedom is not an end in itself," Coren argued, though representation. "In fact, the right wants to be the minority that gets never explicitly defining what 'end' he actually supported. past the post first, a concept totally alien to a free democracy --- and to When challenged by an audience member with obvious Objectivist what the right has been preaching. leanings, Coren described philosopher-novelist Ayn Rand's ideas as "The dilemma of an ideological political party like Freedom Party those one would find at the " bottom of the barrel." lies in the attempt to do two competing things: change public opinion, " I DO believe in the redistribution of wealth, socialized medicine, and win public approval," he explained. "To be true to principle, you and universal education," he emphasized, and went on to argue that the can't always do both, particularly under a first-past-the-post electoral issue of taxation has nothing to do with morality; it's what the money is system. We resolved our dilemma: We decided to put freedom first. used for that matters. Every time. No exceptions," "What's wrong with being coer.cive?" Coren quipped.
[JJ SOCIAL(IST) CONSERVATIVE? [JJ OTHER PERSPECTIVES AND CONCERNS Possibly the most diametrically opposed viewpoint to Metz's was presented by author, journalist, and talk-show host Michael Coren, Other speakers discussed a variety of subjects, generally consis who admitted from the outset that "I am becoming increasingly tent with the conference theme, but often focused on a narrower issue uncomfortable calling myself a conservative." (FREEDOM FIRST ... cont'd on back cover) Page 8 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998
Funding the Fight .. FUNDS APPEAL LAUNCHED
LONDON (November 11, 1997) . About 100 members of the London Property Management Association (LPMA) listened to Fp president Robert Metz outline the trials For a full accounting of all the facts and details of the Cheyenne Ave controversy and tribulations of London landlord Elijah Elieff, whose recent encounter with an Visit our Web Site at: Ontario Human Rights Commission Board of Inquiry eventually led to the total loss of his Cheyenne Avenue apartment buildings and U a submarine sandwich shop he owned and ··www.freedomparty.org/cheyenne.htm operated. (Details of his experience have been covered in past issues of Freedom Flyer and Consent and are always available on Fp's or ask for back-issues of our relevant newsletters, website. To get the whole' story, see box at Freedom F(yerand Consent right.)
In addition to telling the landlord's story and warning property owners about the dangers of Human Rights tribunals, Metz made a personal appeal to LPMA members: Elijah Elieff needs our help!
"I am also here to ask you to support one particular individual, on whose behalf I am Donations to help him with his upcoming legal battle can be speaking, in his personal struggle for some made payable to the: semblance of justice," he said, and then introduced Mr. Elieff to the audience. Cheyenne Court Challenge * • account privately & independently administered by Elijah Eliett 0:7 NEEDS HELP
Still reeling from the loss of his buildings and his businesses, Elieff now plans to go on the offensive, but his legal options have been limited both by the time that has passed since his first encounter with Ontario's Human Rights Commission in 1989, and by his lack of funds with which to launch an effective lawsuit Ask for our special re-print of Consent, which summarizes Mr. Elieff's experience against those he holds responsible for his before an Ontario HRC Board of Inquiry. plight. Inquiries and donations may be forwarded to: In July 1997, Elieff obtained a 41 -page letter of opinion from Barrister and Solicitor Paul McKeever, of Oshawa Ontario. The letter Freedom Party of Ontario outlined various legal approaches and options open to the London landlord, and stressed the Mailing Address: Box 2214, complexity and expense that he would face LONDON, Ontario N6A 4E3 once any action was launched, costs that could go as high as $50,000. To complicate matters further, Elieff's case has many unique Office: 240 Commissioners Rd. W. aspects from a legal standpoint, and pre LONDON, Ontario N6J 1Y1 cedents may not always be applicable.
In April 1998, with the help of a personal PHONE: (519) 681-3999 loan to augment his current income as a TOLL FREE: 1-800-830-3301 transport truck driver, Elieff retained the ser FAX: (519) 681-2857 vices of London lawyer Anthony Steele of Ross, Bennett & Lake, who likewise warned the former landlord that "The law relating to e-mail: -feedback @freedomparty.org civil actions is complex and technical and Mr. Web Site: -www.freedomparty.org- McKeever has done an excellent job of review ing the factors relating to those technical complexities ...
(FIGHT ... cont'd next page) June? 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 9
.FIGHT cont'd from prevo page) buildings. Eagle, a United Church minister, is Field has been conducting his own cam Undaunted, Elieff nevertheless plans to the primary individual responsible for Elieff's paigns against Ontario's Human Rights Com forge ahead. He has made it clear to all ordeal, since it was she who led the search for mission. He believes that there are a growing involved that he would rather "fight the fight" a complainant to file charges of discrimination number of people who are concerned with the and lose, than sit and do nothing about what against the landlord. Eagle also led public corruption of Canada's legal system and who has happened to him. That is his one un demonstrations in front of his sandwich shop may wish to get involved in cases like Elieff's. acceptable option, for the specific purpose of attacking Elieff's reputation as a businessman. "We must find people who are prepared to support Elieff," says Field. " He has been [JJ COULD HAPPEN TO YOU hurt badly and needs our support." [JJ OTHER VOICES "For Mr. Elieff, this is a highly personal matter, and needless to say, he has a personal TORONTO (March 1998) - Voice of [JJ ELIEFF INTRODUCED TO stake in his success," said Metz to LPMA Canadians chairman Dick Field has already MONTGOMERY TAVERN members, "For me, it's a matter of principle, alerted his organization's membership to the SOCIETY personal and public. Do I want to live in a "travesty" of Elieff's plight in the March/April country that allows subjective and arbitrary 1998 edition of Voices, published by the TORONTO (April 18, 1998) - That was the ' government tribunals to replace all semblance Voice of Canadians Committees. Field has message heard by attendees at a meeting of of objective justice? I think not. encouraged his members and supporters to the Montgomery Tavern Society (see back contact Freedom Party to help, and to visit issues of Freedom F,yer), where they each had "For you, it's a matter of protecting Fp's website for more details of Elieff's story. a chance to personally meet Elijah Elieff. Fp yourself, and protecting your fast-disappearing Many have already done so. president Robert Metz reviewed Mr. Elieff's property rights. What happened to Mr. Elieff story in much the same manner as when he "We will tell the story to you in our next could happen to YOU ." spoke to LPMA members in London. newsletter," promised Field, "although a novel LPMA meeting attendees each received a should be written. The story will enrage you Lobby group leaders and individual activ special reprint of two articles which originally and bring tears to your eyes. It is a story filled ists were asked for their help on three fronts: appeared in Consent #21 and #22. The first with political intrigue, conspiracy, misuse of (1) financial support, (2) moral support, includ was Metz's final argument before the Board of the tribunal system, and the ruination of an ing publicity and appeals to group member Inquiry, where he had acted as the landlord's innocent man and his wife." ship for support, and (3) advice and input representative. The second was written by relating to how each group/ member might be Readers interested in obtaining a copy of London-area home builder and property able to assist Mr. Elieff. manager Peter Sergautis, who, as the lan Voices may contact the VOICe of Canadians dlord who subsequently purchased Elieff's Committees at: Box 88512, Swansea Postal All members agreed that they would do buildings through a power of sale, outlined Outlet, 34 Southport St., TORONTO, Ontario. something to help. Stay tuned for future some of his own experiences with "community M6S 4Z8; Phone (416) 766-0895, Fax: (416) updates on this very important issue. {END} leader" Susan Eagle after he took over the 766-2270.
Freedom Briefs__ _ We wish to thank the folks at APEC for also generously supplying Freedom Party .cont'd from page 3) sident Robert Metz, who with 600 copies of the booklet at no charge; invites Canadians to explore Many Fp members have already received A limited number of autogra their monarchial heritage in p.b.e..d. copies of Armstrong's copies, while others will be receiving one with the context of individual this newsletter's mailing. Additional copies are Farewell the Peaceful Kingdom freedom: are available through Freedom still available either through Freedom Party Party at $35 each ($40 postpaid) . "What you are about to or APEC. VISA & MASTERCARD orders read is a call for action, Anyone interested in finding out more accepted. Call 1-800-830-3301 , or written by a man who about APEC may write or call : APEC, 3080 fax us at (519) 681-2857. In the deeply cares about Canada, Yonge Street, Suite 5068, Toronto Ontario London area, drop by our offices and who steadfastly M4N 3N1 ; Phone: (416) 482-2732, toll-free at 240 Commissioners Rd. w. , or believes that personal free 1-888-800-APEC; e-mail: apec@spectranet ca. call (519) 681-3999. dom should be the corner stone of all civilized law and government. In the few [JJ WHO IS 'FRANK [JJ APEC short years that I have come STEVENS'? ANNIVERSARY! to know him, I have learned that Ron Leitch's passion for freedom is ONTARIO (March 15, 1998) - Several TORONTO (October 24, 1997) - As part of genuine and serves as his unrelenting guide to members, supporters, and associates of Free its 20th anniversary celebration, the Alliance what action must be taken." dom Party received personalized 'anonym for the Preservation of English in Canada ous' letters bearing the typed name 'Frank (APEC) mailed to its membership a copy of APEC has good reason to celebrate. Stevens', accusing Fp president Robert Metz Freedom or Political Slavery, the speech 15,000 copies of Freedom or Political Slavery of improprieties with respect to Freedom given by APEC piesidant Ron Leitch to have already been printed, made possible by Party's ;995 Eiection Campaign Return. Freedom Party members in June 1997. (See a generous $1 million bequest to APEC under Because the letters were typed, unsigned, and Freedom Flyer #32.) the terms of the Will of the late Arthur James bear no return address, they have been Edward Child, a long-time APEC member The 32-page booklet is sharply produced, who died in July 1996. and includes a 2-page foreword by Fp pre- (B RIEFS .... conl'd next page) Page 10 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998
Freedom Briers... mission regulations to
(... conrd from prey pg) issue a tax-credit for the full amount, in regarded as anonymous, even though there is order for the Commis a 'Frank Stevens' (who has deniee! any know sion to be able to limit ledge of the letter) on Fp's membership list. any future contribu The letters read as follows: tions made by the contributors in the " Dear (Specific Fp member/supporter), same year. "As a fellow member of the Freedom Such a donation Party of Ontario, I think you should contact is regarded as a 'kind' the Commission on Election Finances, to contribution by the request a copy of our party's Annual Financial Commission, and Statement, the one submitted December 8, thus it is the name of 1995 and received by the government on the contributor that December 11 . In it you will find that Robert shows under the 'sup Metz, the founder of our party, paid himself plier' list on the Com $4,400 as an administratio(1 fee for running the mission's statements, campaign. In addition, he overpaid his friends, not, as in this case, Language & the Robert and Jean Vaughan, $1,918.20 for a CompuSiN. Canadian Identity computer and wanted to give them a tax break The Calgary for this over-inflated donation. Contributors "Frame-up" should know that "I think that we as members have a Unity or Dis-unity? Freedom Party, like responsibility to see where our party donations Entrenchment of all Ontario political are going and am very disappointed to see Minority Control parties, is audited what is in this document. Just what do we in Canada annually as a con represent, and who are our representatives .. . dition of retaining its really? official registration. "Yours very truly, Frank Stevens." Ironically, Fp's 1995 returns were audited The letters, all unsigned and bearing no twice, once by exter return address, were apparently mailed to a nal auditors, and number of Fp contributors, executive mem once by the Commis bers, and associates, among them Canadian sion itself (See our related coverage, Freedom of history at Trent University, Bruce Hodgins. author and historian Joe Armstrong, who was Flyer; April 1997), following Fp's refusal to Active in the Peterborough community, the first to notify us of their content. comply with a Commission order. Hodgins is also a card-carrying member of NDP who ran for that party in the 1960s. The "I am a member of no political party, " (3) The 1995 election campaign period issue: Should property rights be entrenched in Armstrong emphasized, while questioning the ran from April 28, 1995 to September 8, 1995, Canada's constitution? motive of anyone who would send such a inclusive. Mr. Metz's $4,400 fee represents letter unsigned, and without a means of over 1000 hours of his time expended during Metz began with a description of why responding. that period. We leave it to the judgement of property rights are necessary in a free society: Lest there are others who have received our members, supporters, and readers, now "Property rights give the average citizen some this letter, and who may be curious about the more fully informed, to determine whether this sort of guarantee that he cannot be deprived validity of the concerns raised therein, we offer represents any impropriety. of his property in a whimsical or arbitrary way. It is a proper function of government to the following facts: If any other Fp members or supporters PROTECT property rights." (1) No payment of any sort was made to have received a copy of the letter in question, anyone regarding the computer in question. we'd like to hear from you! Call 1-800- HODGINS: " I don't dissent at all, but 830-3301. The $1 ,91 ~ . 20 reported represents a contribu profoundly disagree that such rights are abso tion made BY the Vaughan's TO Freedom lute or that such rights need entrenchment. If it isn't broken, don't repair it. If you absolutely Party, and is clearly marked as a 'donation' on rn- PROPERTY RIGHTS Fp's Financial Statement. entrench such powers, you don't protect the DIALOGUE individual or the community, but I think you (2) Nor is there any issue of overpay frequently protect the large interests of inter LINDSAY, GLENARM (April 14, 1998) - Fp ment. On June 1, 1995, then-F p executive national banks, the multinational corporations, president Robert Metz was once again invited member Robert Vaughan made a special trip etc. I don't think it's a good idea. to purchase a brand new 486DX4-100 Pack to the Victoria-Haliburton area by local activist age System from Compu-Silv on Eglinton Jim McKee (see past issues, Freedom Flyer). "As a relallile right, these property (rights) Avenue East in Scarborough Ontario. He paid Accompanied by Fp executive member Paul are safe, safe under the Canadian version of $1 ,918.20 cash to the company (which was the Blair, Metz's visit included both a community English common law, and that we don't need, best price available for the given package that meeting to be held at McKee's home that nor should we have, such rights. In fact, I we could find anywhere in Southern Ontario). evening, and a cablecast taping in Lindsay would even argue that they're too strong for and promptly delivered the computer system earlier in the afternoon. my liking. They can be, of course, restricted by and the $1,918.20 receipt from Compu-Silv to The half-hour cablecast Dialogue fea the power of expropriation for general societal Freedom Party. We are obligated by Com- tured Metz in debate with professor emeritus (BRIEFS .... conl'd next page) Jun~ 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 11 letter writers who nudge the agenda APR C; ":%0 . . . . . here's an interesting publication Jerry Kasanda of Egbert, Ont, reo "Some of the messages they (Cite called Dialogue, which is com· sponds to the premiers who signed the Libre) are sending to CanadiailS are: T mitted to freedom of expression, Calgary Accord declaring Quebec 'If you think that the political, econom· something in short supply in Quebec. DIANE "unique" and who are asking for pub· ic and social future of Canada is for It's published monthly by Quebec FRANCIS lic input on the issue. Quebec alone to decide, you are buying political activist Maurice King. He and "Premiers, do you really believe separatist myth No . 1. • editor Janet Hicks produce a lively, en· thinking Canadians will not recognize 'If you think the constitutional en· tertaining compendium of news your 'Calgary Framework for DISCUS' trenchment of Quebec's distinctness nuggets about the latest stupidity of sion on Canadian Unity' for what it reo will make the threat of separation go the secessionists. along with a selec· ward has been bombings', kidnappings, ally is - another attempt to fool us a'way, you are buying appeasement tlon of letters written by their victims. murders, a constant stream of bilge wlth slightly recycled Meech and Char· myth No.!. For letter writers who want to nudge and the persecution of Quebec minori· lottetown?" he asked. 'And if you think that Canada's in· the agenda, it also contains addresses ties." .. "The very first princlple (in the ac· ternal borders may be altered by an act and phone numbers of politicians. . Ruth McKeage of Lennoxville; Que., cord), 'All Canadians are equal and of revolution, while Quebec borders reo What follows is a smattering of tid· has pinned her hopes on the pending have rights protected by law' is a falla· inain sacrosanct, you are buying ... bits from its March issue. Supreme Court of Canada decision on cy. Honorable premiers, are you not the Brooklyn Bridge. "The rest of Canada has yet to face whether secessionists can unilaterally a ware of Quebec's Bills 101 and 178? 'In short, if you think there is some· the Quebec reality. The reality is that secede after a Yes referendum victory, Although these were declared uncon· thing called Quebec democracy, which QU,ebec is an insatiable domestic bill" but without an amendment to the Con· stitutional by the Supreme Court of is different from true democracy and den (equalization payments) and an stitution. Assuming unilateral seces· Canada and condemned by the United that's okay, you are selling your coun· unrepentant international embarrass· sion is found illegal, she wrote: .. At Nations Human Rights Commission, try short: ment (United Nations censure of its iast, the Supreme Court will protect they remain in force and relegate more "They have my suppoti," wrote language restrictions)," writes Joe my rights! Just the thought of waking than two million non·francophone McKee. Houlden of Gloucester, ant. up in a separate country after another Canadians in Quebec to second·class And Dialogue, Guy Bertrand, the "Moreover, it has in its midst a xeno· misleading question and possibly more status. Honorable premiers, what have Equality party, Howard Galganov. phobic, tribal, ungrateful group that destroyed No ballots is something I you. done to eliminate this unjustice?" Mordecai RichIeI', the Mohawk, Cree, has done serious economic and moral wili never accept. Jacques Parizeau The launch in January of an Eng· Inuit and all other enemies of Canada's clamage to Canada. Canada has poured and others were ready to break up our lish·language edition of Cite Libre has secessionists·have my support. billt"ons into Quebec and dilutecl its country with his Plan 0 which would been successful and Jim McKee of principles in a generous, but fruitless, have c'ost us our savings and citizen· Woodville, ant., lent his support by cit· Oiane Francis is ediior of the Financial Pas!. Her etTort to accommodate the tribe. Its reo ship." ing some ofits federalist viewpoints. column appears Tuesdays. Thursdays and Saturdays.
~: -from the London Free Press, April 7, 1998. Financial Post editor Diane Francis tips her hat to political activists Maurice King and Janet Hicks who, respectively, publish and edit DIALOGUE (see illustration, previous page, and brief on page 12 ) , a publication committed to freedom of expression. Also mentioned is the contribution of Jim McKee, whose political activism is undoubtedly having a profound effect on his community. (See related brief on page 10 and below.) Freedom Briers... that the individual is not harmed and that they TIVE rights. I don't want absolute rights in any have due compensation. I don't think there's a case. All rights come in conflict with other (... cont"d from prey pg) remotest chance that such a thing could pass, rights that are also desirable, and frequently given the nature of the Canadian political need. The important thing is that the person they are all relative terms, not absolute terms. " system." receive due market value compensation, and METZ: " By definition, there is no such that they have the right to appeal in the courts. Ironically, Metz agreed that the process of thing as a competing right. (But) there ARE "To constitutionally entrench such rights entrenching property rights in the Constitution competing interests. That's why we need is not in the Canadian tradition, but insisted would violate the Canadian tradition, a very property rights. " important one. It would be very American, and that such rights still had to be recognized as absolute. HODGINS; "(Entrenching property rights) very much tied into concepts of the late 18th cannot be achieved under our political pro century and the period of the American revolu METZ: "The Charter enshrines nothing; cess. We'd have to have every province and tion and American constitution. Our tradition is the Charter has an overriding clause which the federal government all ruled by either the a royal one, or a 'red Tory' one if you prefer, would make entrenchment of property rights in Freedom Party or the Reform Party. " that emphasizes --- land in particular --- of the Charter rather a moot point." originally being part of a crown domain. We To which we say: "Amen! " receive property, which is not an absolute HODGINS: "No rights are absolute, Calli ng the half-hour taping of his Dia grant, through a patent. We receive property except for the right to life. " logue program "a sustained and intelligent through a crown grant; the only profound METZ: " But that's where property rights debate," host Rae Fleming essentially descri expression of that is aboriginal, and treaty come from, from the absolute right to your bed the tone of both the cablecast taping and rights for aboriginal people . . life. " the evening debate (hosted by Doug Hind "It would go against all the traditions of son) held at McKee's home. (Thanks again for Metz challenged Hodgins on the validity Canada, the United Kingdom, northwestern your hospitality Jim!) Anyone interested in of limited and conditional property rights as Europe, and all the countries of the Common getting a-dubbed copy of the cablecast debate they apply to Quebec's language laws, is invited to contact Fp for details. wealth that I can think of, to move to that next Ontario's laws against Sunday shopping, and stage to argue that this should be some kind the government monopoly prohibiting the pri of ABSOLUTE RIGHT. As a social democrat, I ID" Another 'Dialogue' vate sale of liquor. would argue that there are many cases where - see next page community rights are more important than HODGINS: "I keep emphasizing RELA- personal rights; the question is to make sure (BRIEFS .. . cont"d next page) Page 12 Freedom Flyer 33 JuneT 1998
How An Unattainable Ideal HasThreatened To get a copy of Hilborn's book, Tht3 Freedom Brie/s... Freedom. It's an excellent read for those Quest for Equality, contact: Citizens for Fore· .conl'd from prey pg) interested in understanding how the concept ign Aki Reform Inc. (CFAR), Box 332, Stn. B, of equality has been turned into a "fanatic" ETOBICOKE Ontario, M9W 5L3. ($6 single ANOTHER DIALOGUE ideology where "results are the same for aiL" copy; $5 two to five copies; $3.60 six or more.) CANADA (April 7, 1998) - Community "What can voters do when the leaders of OJ LONDON'S OTHER VOICE activist Jim McKee (see previous brief) was 'opposition' parties are also committed to among those who attracted the attention of something like enforced 'equality'?" Hilborn LONDON (November 10, 1997) - Thanks Financial Post editor Diane Francis in an asks. "Small par to past Fp candtdate and current member and April 7 column focusing on Dia- ties (like the liber supporter Jim Montag, Londoners were at logue, a national Canadian maga- tarians and least able to hear SQIJle intelligent debate on zine which is published in Quebec Ontario's Freedom issues of local concern during their municipal by political activist Maurice King ~ °lr~[g{ Party) may --- and election. Visibly missing from the debates was and edited by Janet Hicks. (See ~~~11iJ ~~ i§l®i7ll@$ often do ---chal- incumbent mayor Dianne Haskett, who, in reproduction on this page.) lenge the consen protest against an Ontario Human Rights Committed to freedom of sus of the entren Commission Board of Inquiry ruling against expression, Dialogue regularly fea ched political elite her, withdrew from actively campaigning dur tures letters and articles wri.tten by and provide an ing the election period. That ruling concluded average Canadians, many of outlet for discon that the mayor illegally discriminated when she whom may be found associated tent, but they lack refused to proclaim a "gay pride" week in the with groups like the Alliance for the money, organi city. the Preservation of English in zation, experienced With the mayor missing, that left Deputy Canada (APEC) , the Reform personnel and Mayor Grant Hopcroft, Montag, and 'Free Party, and of course, Freedom media' coverage dom' Schell (no relation to Freedom Party) Party. (King, Hicks, and McKee needed to present to debate the city's issues of the day. have all attended meetings of the themselves to a Montgomery Tavern Society in the mass electorate as past, where Fp president Robert a credible alterna Metz has had the pleasure of tive. In effect, the making their acquaintance.) electorate is depri ved of genuine In its March 1998 issue, pub options." lisher King soundly condemned the pretense by which "politicians --- and Hilborn's those that support politically correct views -- observation certainly hits the mark, and as use dissimulation as their communication readers may note, his message strikes a objective. " theme that repeats itself throughout this news letter, whether about the dilemma faced by A.BQ\lE: - reproduced from Referring to the "Calgary declaration and small political parties or the dilemma faced by Scene magazine, October 16,1997. the farce of provincial consultations that voters who have no option at the polls. accompanied it," he concludes: "The argument for a substantial degree of During questioning on an all-candidate's "The only way to have representatives direct democracy, through citizen-initiated ref mayoralty debate aired on CJBK radio in who are committed to their electors, and not erenda, is therefore a strong one," suggests London on November 6, candidate Schell their party leader, is to work towards electoral Hilborn, "but its introduction is bound to be refused to discuss his personal background: reform that will bring about proportional resisted by left-liberals as a threat to 'equa "I'm not really sure who I am. I'm setting up a representation. In the meantime, elect In lity.'" task force and coming out with a position dependents or candidates of parties other paper on that shortly." Funny stuff; zero than the four politically correct parties." No kidding. But what to do? Hilborn's recipe for a solution is in the question he asks: credibility. To which we say again: "Amen." Small parties need money, organization, Fortunately, Montag's approach was far experienced people, and increased media Anyone interested in subscribing to Dia more palatable, as he stressed issues of coverage. Voters need a choice. logue ($24 per year, tax included, for 10-12 financial responsibility and accountability at issues) can call 1-800-706-1819, or write: 2311 A long-time Freedom Party member city hall. For Montag, the choice between Rockburn Rd ., Franklin Centre, Quebec, JOS himself, Hilborn practices what he preaches, Haskett and Hopcroft was no choice at all. His 1EO. and in addition to supporting the party finan campaign theme, "London's Other Voice," cially, has also contributed essays to our sister presented an opportunity to inject some much newsletter, Consent, on three separate occa needed substance into an otherwise meaning QUEST FOR EQUALITY sions. less debate.
LONDON (January 14, 1998) - While "As always," he warns, " complacency By refusing to "support proclamations for passing by Freedom Party's headquarters for could prove to be a recipe for ruin. Unless one special interest groups," Montag indicated his a visit, professor emeritus of history at the is foolish, one will never despair because of support of the mayor's actions regarding the University of Western Ontario, Kenneth Hil defeats, and never be confident that a victory gay rights proclamation, but agreed with born, dropped off a couple copies of his is permanent. These are thoughts that conser candidate Hopcroft on one main point: that 91-page booklet, The Quest for 'Equality': vatives today would be wise to keep in mind." London lacked cohesive leadership. From Robespierre to Rae and Beyond: (BRIEFS .... conl'd next page) Jun~ 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 13
ration of the Libertarian Party of Canada, names, while other ridings will be joining us for Freedom Briefs.. . Fp leader Lloyd Walker has approached the first time. Watch for developments in (... conl'd from preY pg) executive members of the Ontario Liber upcoming editions of Freedom Flyer. tarian Party in an effort to meet "to discuss Approaching election day, Montag was what we could work on together." However, in Readers are again reminded (see pre twice asked to drop out of the race by political vious brief) that we are always looking for November '97, he was informed by party insiders who believed that he may have held a leader Sam Apelbaum that the party was in constituency association organizers and exe large enough voting block to keep Hopcroft cutive everywhere across Ontario. Call now: the process of closing its John Street office in out of office, and Haskett in. Of course, as 1-800-830-3301 . Toronto (which it shared with the federal things turned out, Haskett was re-elected by party), and that someone would be getting an overwhelming majority, dramatically illus back to us in the new year. trating the public's sympathy with her protest. fJ:J FREEDOM PARTY Having received no response by March REPRIMANDED Nevertheless, Montag's consistent mes '98, Walker e-mailed all the executive contacts sage and election campaign theme will have . TORONTO (April 29, 1998) - Ontario's on the Libertarian Party website and was set the stage for future political activity on his Commission on Election Finances has offi responded to by party representative George part. As chairperson of the London-Middle Dance on April 4. cially reprimanded Freedom Party for the late sex Taxpayers' Coalition (LMTC) , he has filing of the party's declaration that it did NOT already earned a formidable reputation as Dance informed Walker that Libertarian participate in the 1997 by-elections of Oriole, leader of the community's most effective tax Party members "are still learning to operate Ottawa West, and Windsor-Riverside. (A pre payers' 'watchdog group'. Stay tuned for without an office," but that the subject of vious reprimand occurred in January 1997 future developments. working with Freedom Party would be on the after a similar late filing regarding a 1996 agenda of their next meeting. by-election held in the riding of York South.) fJ:J FLAT TAX ADVOCATE "I'll make sure it's on the agenda for the The declarations, a relatively new require next meeting," he wrote. "It fits well with ment in the bureaucratic machinations of the LONDON (April 23, 1998) - At a London another item we have to start working on now: commission, were due on March 4, and were West Reform Party Constituency Associa next year's election campaign." not filed until April 21 , when we managed to tion dinner held at the Seven Dwarfs res locate a "commissioner for oaths" to co-sign Readers are reminded that we are always taurant, Fp president Robert Metz and Fp the documents. executive member Paul Blair were delighted looking for constituency association organizers to find themselves sitting at the head table with and executive everywhere across Ontario. For some bizarre reason which the Com guest of honor Jason Kenney, Reform MP You'll be getting in on the ground floor. (See mission has refused to explain, the decla for Calgary Southeast. [Association pre brief, following.) Anyone interested is encoura rations --- which report no activity, financial or sident and master of ceremonies, Terry ged to call 1-800-830-3301. otherwise --- require a "signature of commis Biggs, introduced Metz to the audience, sioner for oaths" to validate the authenticity of which audibly reacted with recognition upon the signature of the party's chief financial hearing about his regular appearances on fJ:J BILL 81 DISSOLVES 17 Fp officer, Patti Plant. What makes the require Left-Righ/-Center, a radio talk show which airs CONSTITUENCY ment even stranger is that no "signature of weekly in the city. (See related brief.)] ASSOCIATIONS commissioner for oaths" is required when filing annual statements which report activities Kenney was in town to discuss Canada's TORONTO (January 1, 1998) - Due to the involving tens of thousands of dollars (and overburdening tax rates and regulations, and passage of Ontario's Bill 81 , An Act to official tax-receipts!) . This is fortunate, given to advocate a move towards a flat tax, a policy Reduce the Number of Members of the that our external auditors, Johnston Benson with which Freedom Party heartily agrees. As Legislative Assembly, all of Freedom Inkster & Brighton, do not have anyone on past-president of the Canadian Taxpayers' Party's existing provincial constituencies have staff with a "commissioner for oaths" status. Federation, it should not be surprising that been officially dissolved, effective Jan. 1/98. Kenny supports the flat-tax concept, but it is The bill reduces the number of provincial seats In the past, by-elections in which Free refreshing and commendable that he con in Ontario from 130 to 103, and makes them dom Party did not participate, did not require tinues to advocate flat taxes as a Reform Party coincide with federal riding boundaries and the party to file any1hing. Now, as we were MP in the House of Commons. names. reminded by the commission, non-activity must be reported and "failure to file (a nil After discussing common acquaintances Seventeen Fp constituency associations declaration) may result in the deregistration of and common ideals, Metz congratulated were dissolved in the process, representing your party." Kenny on his courageous tax stance, and the ridings where the party fielded candidates in two exchanged business cards and promised past provincial elections. Those ridings are as to keep in touch. follows: London South, London Centre, fJ:J DOROTHY NOTHER London North, Middlesex, Welland Our appreciation and thanks are exten REMEMBERED Thorold, Halton Centre, Fort York, Lamb ded to London West Reform organizers, Terry ton, Elgin, Don Mills, Nepean, Missis LONDON (December 4, 1997) - We regret Biggs, Craig Stevens, and Jim Montag, both sauga South, Mississauga East, Scar to report the passing of Dorothy Nother at for their hospitality and for bringing an excel borough North, Perth, Oxford, and Oak age 85 in a London hospital. Mother of past lent event to the London area. ville South. Fp leader Jack Plant, Dorothy was a long time Freedom Party member and supporter We wish to thank all of our constituency and could be seen at most Freedom Party fJ:J APPROACHING presidents and candidates, present and past, functions from 1990 to 1996. Her presence will LIBERTARIANS for their part in helping introduce Freedom be sorely missed. Party to their community. Most will be re ONTARIO (November 1997 - April 4, registering their associations under new riding 1998) - In the wake of the federal de-regist- (BRIEFS .... conl'd next page) Page 14 Freedom Flyer 33 June, 1998
"social and economic upheaval." (Metz last April 23, and the statistics represent requests Freedom Briefs... debated Hargrove on an open-line radio pro received for the period April 23 - May 19, .. conl'd from prey pg) gram in September 1995, in the 1998: midst of labor protests against the 'rotal Tr~sfers by Cl.1.ent Domain QJ LEFT-RIGHT -CENTER Harris government. See Freedom 'Recta 'Byte Bytes sent Requests DOlD.Olin MARCHES ON F~erMarch 1996.) Other contribu ------1------_· tors include: Minister of Intergov 0.06 0.08 125572 35 I ae United Arab Emirates o. as 0.04 62484 25 I ar ArgentiruL LONDON (May 1998) - Launched in Sep ernmental Affairs, Stephane 0.00 0,00 180 1 I at IWstr1a tember 1997, CJBK Radio's experimental 1.25 1.13 1732422 687 I au Australia Dion; Director, McGill Institute for 0.12 0.12 189681 68 I be Belgium "Left-Right-Center" segment of Jim Chap 0.02 0.02 28031 12 I bg Bulqar1 While we are left scratching our heads ter. Even with respect to hemp, according to Freedom Briers... trying to reconcile how the new offence his department's own news release, "Health (... coot'd from prey pg) applies to those possessing "only small Canada will use licences, permits, and authori amounts" of drugs, .and to anyone "no matter zations to control activities. This level of control or essay in Consent. how much" is in possession, it is clear that the is necessary to prevent diversion of Cannabis Without doubt, WHOLE LANGUAGE is change in law represents a changing attitude to the illicit drug market." Among the regula currently the issue generating the most inter in Ottawa. tions is the continued prohibition of the cultiva est, accounting for nearly 12% of all document tion of hemp (which has no psychoactive requests. CENSORSHIP is issue number two, qualities!) within one kilometer of any school QJ PROHIBITION - AN though only accounting for 4.34% of requests. grounds or any other public place frequented Beyond these two issues, document requests 'OUTDATED' by persons under 18. The stage already are fairly evenly distributed throughout the PHILOSOPHY? appears to be set for future regulations which site. Watch for future updates on site develop may prove to be more irrational and ineffective TILLSONBURG (March 13, 1998) - Fp ments. In the meantime, we invite readers to than prohibition. Perth representative Rob Smink was per visit Freedom Party's web site at: "bttJ:LL sonally on hand to witness federal Health Meanwhile, as hemp growers have mana Iwww freedom party org". Minister Allan Rock kick off the re-birth of ged to partially free themselves from Rock's Canada's hemp industry, an industry which "outdated philosophy," multiple sclerosis suf ID' GOVERNMENT was banned along with marijuana in 1938. ferer Lynn Harichy who uses marijuana for OBLIGATED TO medical purposes is still a victim of that CRIMINALIZE DRUGS, More than 100 people attended the event, philosophy, and she appealed to Rock to allow leaving Smink with only two pieces of Free her the same degree of freedom. SAYS MINISTER OF dom Party literature remaining, as attendees JUSTICE eagerly scooped up the information offered. "I told her we are taking her position very Among the pieces distributed were copies of seriously," Rock said. onAWA (September 30, 1997) - In a Ray Monteith's essay, 'Drugs Should Be two-page letter responding to Fp Elgin repre Rock credited rural members of Parlia Legalized,' Fp's 'Prohibition Is A Crime,' and sentative Ray Monteith (See last issue, Free ment with making him aware of the value of educational literature produced by other dom Flyer), Minister of Justice and Attor hemp, though in actual fact, it was not until Fp organizations. ney General of Canada Anne McLellan founding member Marc Emery challenged made it clear that "The Government does not "I was received very well," Smink noted have any plans to decrimi_nalize drug use." --- so much so that he was even provided with (BRIEFS .. .. cont'd next page) a table to display McLellan was addressing Monteith's May the literature he 23, 1997 letter to Allan Rock, the former brought. A com- Minister of Justice who is now Minister of plete package of Health. (See brief, following.) Attached to information was Monteith's letter was a copy of his essay, given to Rock's "Drugs Should Be Legalized, " which has personal assis- previously been published in Consent #27. tant. "Allowing easier access to the drug might "(Hemp) is put Canada in contravention of international an absolutely agreements to which we are a party, " wrote remarkabl~ pro McLellan. "The Single Convention, for in duct that, for 60 stance, obliges us to maintain stringent years, we have domestic control over certain drugs, such as not been able to cannabis and cocaine. In particular, we must use in this coun treat possession, sale, cultivation and import try because of an ing activities as punishable offences. outdated philoso "Finally," she concluded, "decriminalizing phy," Rock told drugs would likely meet with considerable the crowd . opposition from the public." "Thank goodness those days are Nevertheless, McLellan cited the govern gone." ment's recent passage of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act which has intro Since hemp duced a "new offence for possessing only was banned as small amounts of these prodtJcts." part of the same " philosophy" that "This means that the offender will not be prohibits mari charged with an offence which carries a juana, Rock ' s maximum penalty of seven years imprison suggestion that ment," she explained, "no matter how much of this "philosophy" the drug was in the individual's possession. is outdated is The new offence is punishable by a maximum wishful thinking fine of $1000 or up to six months imprison indeed, given the ment, or both." continued pro hibition of the lat- Page 16 Freedom Flyer 33 June¥ 1998 debate. After the presentation, a couple of being spread by teachers' unions. Freedom Briefs. .. other students privately approached Metz for (... conl'd from prev pg) more information and told him that they were "The majority of our children's teachers intimidated by the prospect of entering the are hardworking and dedicated and we appre Canada's censorship laws forbidding the dis debate in class, and thus remained silent. ciate them," said Theriault. "But today we are semination of such information (in 1~2) that it Referring to the student leveling racist very, very disappointed in them. We know they was even possible to legally discuss the issue charges, one of them remarked: "Some have concerns about Bill 180 but we ask that here. (See Freedom Flyer, December 1992 for people have their own agendas." they fight this battle on their own time and background on the hemp story.) STOP using our children as political pawns." Another learning experience. "Ten thousand acres of hemp will pro The half-hour counter-protest was enough duce the same amount of paper as 20 years' ID' PICKETS FOR PAUSE to draw the attention of the media and to make growth of trees on 40,000 acres," Rock said. the point. "It's unbelievable!" LONDON - (October 31, 1997) - Fp leader Lloyd Walker and Fp president Robert Metz What's really unbelievable is that Cana were among a concerned group of 30 Lon ID' VAUGHAN RE-ElECTED dians are still being treated as criminals for doners calling themselves Parents Against EDUCATION TRUSTEE using cannabis as a recreational drug. Worse, Unions Stopping Education (PAUSE) who judging by federally legislated trends, it looks protested outside the offices of the Ontario LONDON (November 10, 1997) - Fp like tobacco users may soon find themselves Public School Teacher's Union (OPSTF) member Robert Vaughan was handily re sharing a similar fate. on Commissioners Road West. Across the elected as an education trustee in the London street, about 100 teachers were picketing in ' area, though this time for the new Public front of the constituency office of London District School Board #11 created by the ID' RACIST ON CAMPUS South MPP Bob Wood. (Coincidentally, Harris government. His victory follows a tumul LONDON (October 7, 1997) - "YOU , sir, Freedom Party's office is only one block tuous term where, as a trustee who was often the lone voice on a host of issues facing the are a RACIST," was the conclusion of one away.) student following Fp president Robert Metz's board, he has earned a reputation for not Locally organized by Fp member Craig presentation before a University of Western being afraid to buck a trend. Stevens and concerned parent Cindy Ontario Law and Social Welfare class Theriault, the counter-protest to the illegal One of those issues involved his backing taught by London lawyer Jeffrey Schlemmer. walkout by teachers objecting to the provincial an injunction to end the illegal teachers' The indictment followed Metz's presentation government's Bill 160 was held to focus walkout only a month earlier, while his criti on the nature of law, in which he introduced public attention on three major issues: (1) the cisms of exorbitant administration costs have the ideas of philosopher-novelist Ayn Rand unlawfulness of strike action, (2) the implica been a constant theme of his message. (See and French economist/statesman Frederic tions of teachers becoming poor role models, reproduced media coverage, next page.) Bast i at. and (3) the campaign of "misinformation" (BRIEFS .... cont'd next page) "How is it," asked Metz, "that you can call me a racist right after you've explicitly heard BELOW: - reproduced from the London Free Press, November 1, 1997 that I support laws which treat all people equally, regardless of race, color, creed or sex? What have I possibly said that would lead you to such a conclusion?" At this point the unnamed student refer red to two Consent essays appearing on Freedom Party's website, one written by Vaughan Byrnes (Discrimination - The Posit ive Perspective) and the other by Cathy Frampton (Body of Knowledge) . Both expressed views opposing political correct ness and policies of official multiculturalism. According to the student, Metz's affiliation with the views expressed in those essays was all that was needed for an assessment of charac ter. (Ironically, that's how racists think!) Quoting isolated sentences from each essay, he refused, when asked by Metz, to place the quotes in the context of the articles in which they appeared. Needless to say, the exchange sparked a lively debate and round of questions, few of which had anything to do with Metz's presentation. Another student objected to Metz's emphasis on philosophy, questioning its rele vance to practical law. There was a degree of M1CHAEL JORDAN The London Free Press Michelle Theriault, left, a Grade 8 pupil at Kensall Park public school, and her sister, Nicole Theriault, a Grade 12 noticeable hostility towards Metz on the part of student at Banting secondary school, take part in a demonstration with parents who are part of PAUSE - Parents a few students, while others appeared enter Against Unions Stopping Education. The group demonstrated Friday on Commissioners Road West. Across the tained by the accusations and subsequent street, teachers were demonstrating at the same time. June., 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 17 Freedom Briefs. __ (... conl'd from preY pg) On other political fronts, Vaughan has stepped down as president of the London Vaughan triumphs lrustee".... backs Fanshawe Progressive Conservative Rid his own interests - ing Association, and, citing a lack of time A school board trustee is one due to his commitment to his role as trustee who can be trusted to act on be half of the students and the staff and to his business (Direct Video) says he has while serving the public. also become somewhat inactive regarding his Trustee Robert Vaughan .has blatantly neglected his duties ~n injunction Reform Party directorship in the same riding. since the introduction of Bill 160. It 's more important. to Vaughan to "remain a friend of It is possible that the focus of Vaughan's the Tories than to prolect our political activities may take a new turn in the students against Bill 160 . ... His latest shameful act was to very near future. Referring to his experience as vote to <;leduct two weeks' pay ~ end strike education trustee and as an executive member from striking teachers out of to one paycheque when spreading t' of the above-mentioned riding associations, he the deduction over two pays J By Jonathan Sher time for secondary teachers, cap class has undertaken to write what some might would cost no more. Thank ,. Free Press Reporter sizes and recruit non·certified starr for goodness all of the other non-teaching duties. regard as an expose of Canada's democratic trustees voted for the reasonable and intelligent altel11ative. ::- London public school board trustee The teacher strike has done llttle to institutions. Vaughan should put the wel ;Robert Vaughan wants to order teach alter apparent apathy among the elec fare of students, staff and the ' ~rs back to work with a court injunc torate over the future school board. "We're living a lie," suggests Vaughan, "if public before his own self-inter ~ion - an issue many of his colleagues est we believe that we can change things simply :y;on't touch. "I would move T.E. (TOM) COSTELLO :, "I would move for an injunction to by changing our elected representatives. Our London );end employees back and end an ille for an injunc elected politicians are not leaders; they only 'i;\al strike. We have a commitment to tion to send lhe kids of this >ity," Vaughan said in HIRE our leaders -_. the .u.nelected bureaucrats No self-interes~/lA7 answer to a question at an all,candi employees who run the show." .'dates meeting for the soon·to·be·amal back and end in trustee's stand ckamated English-language Public Dis an illegal For the whole story, stay tuned to a future In his letter, Vaughan tri trict School Board No. II. ';';: Vaughan was openly opposed by issue of Consent. umphs his own interests (Nov_ strike. We have (END) 29). T.E. (Tom) Costello suggests 'trustee Bill Brock, who said, "I'll stand that my recent actions as a 'on the picket line." a commibnent trustee at the London board of ;But most trustees refused to disclose to the kids of education were in my self-inter :tlieir positions, even those who have est. He also inaccurately sug grave misgivings with an education this city." gests that because I opposed the bill they say would ·unhinge democra· Teachers broke law teacher's strike I was in favor of Trus.tee Robert Vaughan Bill 160 and not acting in the tic decision·making. district school board candidate bes t interests of the students . Trustee Marlene Patton said: "You with strike action and stafT and serving the public. ¢an't force an' injunction. You have to My criticism of Bill 160 is a 'have happy teachers to have happy Shame on the teachers' matter of record_ I s uggest students and a happy school." unions for urging their mem Costello and others look up th e :~ But later Patton said she would not Only 30 or so showed up for the meet Ontario Hansard website to see say whether she supported the strike ing at the London public library cen bers to grub around and claim exactly what I said about the bill tral branch, their questions few. the maximum $400 child subsidy during my presentation· to the 'bor if she would seek an injunction to government committee in Efndit. Vaughan, who has frequently sailed for their recent illegal strike. Chatham on Oct. 23. ' Also refusing to cQJrimit to a posi against the prevailing winds of the As to Costello's opinion that 1 tion were trustees Heather Wice, John current school board, took shots at his One must take exception to re was putting my o\Vn interests Townshend and Joyce Bennett. . colleagues, saying they were spending porter Hank Daniszewski's use above those of the public, I rail Townshend said he had a position too much on administration. of the phrase "teachers chal to see how opp.osing the single he would not state publicly for fear it Vaugnan questioned why the new biggest voting block for trustee, would cause division among teache.rs amalgamated board will need 18 super lenge the law" in Teachers to test that is teachers, during an elec .. intendents, the number being recom tion for that office can be acting and compromise the future board's law, seek subsidy (Jan. 15). As in my best interest. As well, the ability to deal with its employees. mended by a local education commit· with Bill 160, the teachers were polls revealed a substantial per· tee co·chaired by Wice and Town· centage of the public were in "I'll stand on shend. not challenging the law, but favor of the strike. I certainly ex "Their job is policy and it's the same rather breaking the law. pected my stand on the issue to the picket job w)"lether it's 40,000 students or cost me the election. As ' it line." , 80,000 students," he said. It is absolutely remarkable turned out, over 24,000 London But Wice defended the recommenda· how lawlessness can be soft-ped ers apparently agreed with the tion, saying the new board will be big way I was serving them [lnd Gllled. Let us notforget it was the chose to re·elect me. ger than Shell Canada, and that the number of superintendents would teachers' unions that brought As a trustee. I believed it my responsibility to oppose any cm· likely be within the range to be about and inflicted immeasur ployee group who would illegal· approved by the province. able harm on every school board ly break their agreement wit h The amalgamated board will bring the board, illegally prevent Lon· Trustee Bill Brock together four boards, which offer dif in Ontario. It was their actions don children from receiving an district school board ,candidate ferent programs in key areas such as that brought the education of education. and illegally prevent . pre-kindergarten and special educa the many teachers who wanted tion. . our children to a halt; to divide, to work rrom dOi ng so. It would have been nice to have had the Candidates differed on whether it mislead and upset cOlhmunities. slIpport or my fellow trus tees Brock was joined in his support of was possible to bring them all up - or How can union leaders direct (oml Costelio). However, we ap· striking teachers by Breton Downe, down - to the same level in terms of parently have diJTerenl views on running for the new board, and trustee program. their membership to partake in how best tu serve the public in Alex Sutherland, who said, "I'm " It may not be a case of bringing such an immoral action? lere~1. appalled at the insult to the democra- them up ... in some pases it may mean ' ROBERT VAUGHAN tic process." - bringinl? them down," Vaughan said. CRAIG STEVENS Trustee Teachers went on strike. Monday "Not everyone is going to h ave London LUlldul1 bo,lrd ofc(lllCalion over Bill 160, a package of education. acc~ss to every .program and that's not reforms that aim to trim preparation going tobe popular," Wice said. ~: - a sampling of editorial and media coverage from the pages of the London Free Press_ Letter by Craig Stevens: Jan. 26/98; Letter by T. Costello: Nov. 29/97; Letter by Robert Vaughan: Dec. 11/97; Free Press report on injunction: October 3, 1997. Page 18 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998 vIsion for the future of Canada, failed to someone who loses his job may well take include freedom as part of that vision. We actions that others may view as 'greedy' (but think it's odd that 'Human Rights' tribunals can finds it necessary to avoid losing his/her home feea6acl( intimidate and fine elected political officials for or whatever). That same person may, when We gd fetters ... { taking a stand on an issue. financially secure, be quite generous. We think it's odd that parents who pro This brings us to the socialism part of (... cont"d from page 2) vide their own day care cannot take into "socialism and the war on greed". Socialism so odd after all. I've especially enjoyed: consideration, for tax purposes, the economic eliminates the options for the person descri costs associated with their choice, while bed above, certainly not a very generous (1) Joe Armstrong's article, "legitim parents who use government subsidized day position to take on any front. ize Dissent! --- Or lose the Federation." care facilities get to claim all the tax benefits. He has made what has become so com Socialism itself is based on greed. It is plex and confusing and issue --- so sim We'll certainly pass your message on to completely consumed by a fascination with ple! Robert Vaughan for his input and advice. But other people's money and how to get it from in addition to that, by taking the time to write them, without having to earn it. Socialism is (2) hearing of Robert Vaughan's work us, your comments will be seen by many en1iJ:eh' about greed. It's proponents cloak its with the london Board of Education. others who are similarly thinking about the inherent greed with noble claims of 'equality' Would he be interested in moving to Peel future of their country, and who feel 'odd' that or 'social justice' in the hope that people will and running for trustee · here? We need no one else seems concerned. accept that the end (one they claim they will him! Please pass on my congratulations reach, but which has never been attained by Our task now is to get as many of these to. him for having the board recognize socialism) will justify the means (something it people as possible to support those groups phonics as a fundamental component of has never done) . It is a shame that those who and individuals who are working hardest to reading instruction, NOT just another are obviously sincere in their sentiment of reading "clue". Again, I'm consoled. reverse these 'odd' trends. It's a pretty simple generosity haven't yet discovered that social rule: the more support groups like Freedom ism isn't a war QIl greed --- it is an institution Q! (3) lucky london to have the mayor Party get from those who share our concerns, greed which cannot possibly hold any long- they do, standing up to the Human Rights the more impact we'll continue to have in the term hope of a better future. [Ikw) Commission!! ! political marketplace. You might be interested to know that And the more thought-provoking and [0" TOO MANY PARTIES I've gotten NOWHERE with the PCs consoling our newsletters will get. [rm) regarding fairness in child care in Ontario. Geez, I thought the 'Freedom Party' The final straw was Eves' announcement [0" GENEROUS IS BETTER was an open house to everything. But in the May ('97) budget on the new (From Freedom Ontario child care tax credit. This credit is (FEEDBACK cont'd on next pg.) ONLY for RECEIPTED care. Again, at Party's issue paper): home parents are excluded. The real "Socialism and the pinch is that the same receipt can be used War On Wealth for the Ontario tax credit AND the federal Child Care expense deduction --- a dou 'I've been rich and ble whammy --- it goes from bad to worse! I've been poor,and Maybe Robert Vaughan could help out on honey, rich is better!' this issue? Please advise. --- the late Sophie Freedom. Sorry this letter is rather messy. My Tucker." son was home ill today and it's 10:55pm; Socialism and the I'm running out of steam and not very War on Greed ResponsLbHLty. coherent. But at least I wrote my thoughts to you. I've been greedy and I've been generous, Cheryl Stewart, and honey, generous is 1 nseperable. BOL TON Ontario, January 8, 1998 better. We are 'honored that someone would take the early John the time, at the end of an obviously stressful Carrick day, to write Freedom Party about an array of issues that are of personal concern to them. John Carrick, Your thoughts on these varied issues have #crs 1198@in/oramp.nel, been MOST coherently laid out for our con· Sept 5, 1997 sideration, and we can assure you that they reflect the feelings of many people. You are One advantage of liv ing in a free society is that certainly not alone, and your thinking is not in the least bit 'odd'. people are allowed to choose between being In fact, quite the opposite. We think it's greedy or generous (or odd that our public 'education' system mana any degree in between) . ged to drop phonics as a reading fundamental There are times when a in the first place. We think it's odd that person may choose either Canada's political leadership, in framing a extreme. For example, Jun~ 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 19 OJ REAL POLITICS OJ COLLECTIVE LIMITATIONS? feedback I think that both Green and Freedom parties are people who cannot make it in W'Bd ('ttas ... So I am free to walk through your { real politics. What have either of these home any time I feel like it? So I am free parties ever done? Maybe I will start my to take your food if I am hungry? I own party; lets see, I'll call it "I want to be thought even libertarians concede that (.. .confd from prevo page) noticed party." your freedom ends when it encroaches on then who really cares about another politi I've read some of the articles written the freedom of another. That requires that even a libertarian society must have cer cal party? We have too many now. by Bob Allisat of the Green party; Bob you tain collective limitations on individual really have to get a life. Frank Poole, freedom. By your reasoning that means a [email protected], Aug.4, 1997 Brad Smith, libertarian regime will eventually become (responding to previous posts) bradsm@idirectcom, Februaty 2G, 1998 totalitarian. You 've made an ironic point about our not Danny Low, We're pleased to see you've recognized being able to make it in 'real politics,' because [email protected], Sept. 19, 1997 in a sense, we agree with you. the error in your estimation of what Fp stands Freedom does not mean licence. By for. After all, if we were an 'open house' to Judging by past history, 'real' parties definition, freedom includes accepting respon everything, we'd be Liberals! apparently all believe that government can run sibility for one's actions. So, while you might What concerns us, however, is your pre everyone's life better than individuals can run be 'free' to walk through anyone's home if you sumption that there are 'enough' political their own lives. By that definition, a 'real' were willing to be arrested for break and enter, parties. This assumes that Ontarians are politician believes that the government's func you never have a 'right' to someone else's expected to vote NDP, PC or Liberal (presum tion is to regulate and control things. The only property no matter what your circumstance. ing that those are the choices that comprise difference between the 'real' parties is that they can't agree on which part of our lives they Any system of government that provides 'enough' parties). for freedom must also be a government that should be controlling most. An open question we must pose is this: prQ1e.c1s people and their possessions (the How should people who find those parties Though we can't speak for the Green result of their work) . That's why, even in a free equally offensive vote? --- or should they Party, Freedom Party leader Lloyd Walker society, you will get into trouble for punching simply be relegated to sit at home and comments: someone in the nose, breaking into their home, etc. complain about the gover-nment on the Inter "Brad Smith is right on one point. I net? couldn't make it in those parties. I'm not This limited (protective) role can hardly Also, who would introduce alternative interventionist enough. I lack the desire to run be described as totalitarianism. Rather, it approaches to the political marketplace, parti someone else's life. In fact, I consider govern provides the framework (there's that word cularly alternatives that appear to be beyond ment doing so to be immoral. again!) needed to protect the r.igb1s of citizens, those rights being life, liberty and property. any consideration by the major parties? For "What Brad misses is that there really are example, Freedom Party has supported an Why liberty and property? Liberty gives us the people who are not conservatives, liberals or freedom of peaceable action required for a education 'voucher' system (or some system dippers," he adds. "Until I started working with free society to function. (Note: (again) being offering more choice for parents & students) Freedom Party in 1985, I was unable to find a held responsible for one's own actions is from day one, a policy you won't see being party worth supporting. They all turned me off. supported by the 'big three.' always a part of freedom.) Property is the Now, 12 years later, I've run in 3 provincial result of your actions. Nor will you find them entertaining many elections and was able to help focus the new ideas. Without alternative choices, how debate (if only in my riding) on issue.s, raising Under such a framework, power resides would the process of bringing fresh ideas alternative views that would never have been with the individual. How can that be called directly to the political marketplace be repla voiced in an election that allowed only 'real totalitarianism? [I kw] ced? These are questions that all those con politics.' I'm proud of what Freedom Party cerned with the healthy operation of a free has accomplished in the past 13 years and OJ ABORTION AND LIBERAL democracy should seriously consider. [I kw] very proud to have played a small part in it. " RELATIVISM In your assumed world of 'real politics,' it OJ ALIVE AND WELL? would appear that the electorate is expected Abortion is the killing of a human, and to remain helpless and that real change is that is violence which does not deserve Surfed onto your site. I am an Ameri simply out of the question. Fortunately, some respect. It is also wrong to say that can who follows Canadian politics and I still care enough about Ontario (and Canada) abortion is a right. Nobody has the right really like what I see from you folks: that to decide that ~ for change (even from a to kill a baby before it is born or at life's the idea of freedom of tile individual is small start) is worth the effort. end; whoever advocates those things alive and well North of the border. Keep won't have the blessing of God! To q uell any doubts about what has been up the good work! accomplished by Freedom Party, we invite Even if you have everything else Patrick K Robb, readers to visit our world wide web site at right, this one thing shows that your party [email protected], March 16, 1998 "www freedompart~ " or to ask for a subscribes to the liberal philosophy of __ 1 _ .& :_.: ______L _ A. ______L _ I : ___ _ : _ _ :_L..& (;0p)i oi V Li f pu0iicCitivn, 'Git T:'oC ::;ccv. d , I I CIClllYI~IIJ, WllCllCYCI yuu UCIICYC I~ .tYIIl which literally li sts those accomplishments on for you is ok! There is such a thing as The IDEA is alive and well .. [rm] a month-by-month basis, from the founding of right and wrong, and abortion and ass- the party in 1984, to present. [Ikw; rm] (FEEDBACK confd on next pg.) Page 20 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998 parties who force you to pay for it, not with the IIJ LEAVING CANADA policy of any political party which mayor may feea6acl( not support the rigb1 to make such a choice. It is with regret that I must inform you that I will no longer be making financial w, get ktttT5. .. ) { However, we're glad to hear that you contributions to Freedom Party because I think we 'have everything else right', and have decided to emigrate to the USA. I would remind you that our policies on every have accepted a position as a program (... conl'd from prevo page) issue, including abortion, are based on the mer/analyst with a firm in South Carolina same philosophy of individual rights and to start on July 1,1997. isted suicide are the wrong things to dol responsibilities. Freedom Party, unlike the That is so basic it is beyond arguing! major parties, does not ENCOURAGE abortion There have been many factors affect This point alone will sink you! (through government subsidy) ; we DIS ing my decision, but I have concluded that COURAGE it, but without a policy of prohibi there is simply no future for young profes Eivind A. Eide, tion. Popular or not, we think that's the RIGHT sionals in this country. I am convinced [email protected], January 28, 1997 thing for a political party to do. that the American south will offer a much better standard of living that I could hope You may be interested to know that The rest is up to individuals. [rm] to have here. Freedom Party and the Family Coalition Party are the only two Ontario provincial • Some examples: political parties who have publicly stated that IIJ RIGHT WING LOONIE they would withdraw government funding of TUNES 1. Without taking exchange rates into abortions. However, Freedom Party would account, my salary will be $3000 per year, lower than what I am currently earning, not prob.ibit abortion, unlike the Faml(y Coalt~ Just what this country needs -- lion Party which is the only party which has Another Ultra-Right Wing Group of but a calculation by my new employer's stated it would do so. Looney Tunes --- Isn't the Reform Party payroll department showed that my net Enough?????? pay will be the same, even after paying for Ontario's three major political parties sup health insurance. Bottom line: With the port something quite different from freedom of Have you guys not found a remote exchange rate, I'm about $10,000 ahead. cb..oi.c.e in abortion --- they support FREE Montana farm house yet??? abortions on demand, thus forcing people like 2. Thanks to lower gasoline taxes and . Jay Winkler, lower insurance rates, I will be able to yourself to fund the very practice you abhor. [email protected], January 3, 1997 This policy, with which we disagree, certainly afford a car. has not 'sunk' them, politically. It is part of the Sorry Jay, there are no Montana farm 3. My new employer is emphatic in its socialist philosophy and mentality which drives houses in Ontario --- they're in Montana! But policy of not instituting mandated racism most POPULAR political parties in Canada. what would make you think that Freedom in hiring and promotion. Party is right wing? We recognize that there are many people 4. Thanks to _ the absence of rent who feel as you do, and we regard it a For example, 'right wingers' support cen control, landlords are competitive. Luxury violation of your freedom of conscience and sorship. Freedom Party supports freedom of apartments are quite cheap and a deposit association when our government forces you speech. of $150 is considered high. (Nobody asks to fund the abortions of others. Freedom 'Right wingers' support drug prohibition. for first and last.) Due to lower rents, Party's policy on abortion would certainly Freedom Party opposes prohibition. lower taxes and lower real estate costs, I never force you fund abortions. will be in a position to purchase a home 'Right wingers' support prohibition on Freedom Party's philosophy is not within two years. abortion. Freedom Party supports freedom based on relativism, but upon an objective of choice in abortion. Although I have found that Canada code of values that defines each individual's has much to offer, it has definitely become right to his or her own life. Though it may be 'Right wingers' support business sub a 'paradise lost.' This point was brought accurately argued that each human's LIFE sidies. Freedom Party opposes government home to me during the federal election begins at conception, individual RIGHTS do business subsidies. Etc. Etc. campaign: It is frightening to realize that not begin accruing until birth, since this is the the political 'center' has shifted so far that As to the Reform Party: While Freedom first moment a human life becomes individual. the Reform Party, which would not end the Party may agree with several Reform policies, state-run health care monopoly nor give Rather than prohibit abortion, we prefer to we have just as many disagreements. In fact, people the right to choose whether to encourage s'ocial conditions which would the Reform Partydisagrees with us in three out invest for their retirement, is nevertheless make the perceived necessity of abortion of the four examples just cited. branded as a force of right-wing extrem obsolete. Sexual abstinence, better contra ception methods, and adoption would cer Nevertheless, one thing that we've lear ism. ned from our own political experience is that tainly be preferable to abortion, but it is not the Even though I will no longer be invol labels (i.e ., 'right wing', 'left wing', and even legitimate right of any political party or govern ved in Canadian politics, I do wish you 'Ioonie tunes') give their users an easy and ment --- in a free society --- to force some every success in your continued efforts to convenient way to avoid discussing the i.ss.u.es. people's preferences upon others. educate the public about the importance Morality has a greater strength than law, So if there's a particular issue you don't of personal liberty. happen to agree with, please let us know; we'd and issues of 'right and wrong' are only John LeBlanc, be happy io address your concerns. What this applicable to those areas where freedom of TORONTO Ontario, May 29, 1997 choice exists. If most Canadians felt as you country definitely ~ need, is more people do, abortion simply wouldn't be an issue, legal who paint all political parties with the same Sorry to hear that Canada is losing yet or not. Your argument is with those who make brush. [rm] another citizen who understands what indivi- the choice to have an abortion and with those (FEEDBACK cont'd on next pg.) June? 1998 Freedom Flyer 33 Page 21 [email protected] January 1, 1997 jeetf6ack Thank )'Q.U for your } Wt Sd faters ... { encouragement. The essay in question was originally written as a (... conrd from prevo page) brief to the Reform Party of Canadas AborigInal dual freedom is all about. Your story is just one Affairs Task Force on of many that have crossed our desks at Party Tillle! February 26, 1995, and Freedom Party of late. was received quite Join us. However, on the brighter side, you may warmly. Unfortunately, be interested to know that many of our as you have clearly illus members who have moved out of province or trated, there are still to the United States still continue to support political interests who Freedom Party, even though they cannot benefit from what you take advantage of Ontario political tax credits. have appropriately cal led the 'land claims in Since individual freedom is a universal dustry: They want no concept for us at Freedom Party, contribu part of any vision that tions and subscriptions received from out of would suggest all Cana province are used to help maintain our educa dians, aboriginal and Fp tional and lobby efforts on behalf of individual non-aboriginal alike, freedom everywhere. That includes the main work together to get the tenance of our website, the publication of our government to entrench literature and newsletters, and the proviSion of private property rights public speakers for interested groups any for all. where in North America. Anyone interested The United States you describe today in 'sharing the vision' was once the Canada _of yesterday. The can find this essay on Canada of today may be the United States of Freedom Party's world tomorrow. Freedom requires eternal vigilance wide web site, or by wherever free individuals exist, and we need writing us for a back-issue of Consent #23. oneself from the ideas of one's ideological as many contacts and supporters in the United opponents is perhaps the only way to defend States as we do in Canada and in Ontario. Marxist dogma. IlJ WRONG ADDRESS Here's wishing you all the best with your endeavors in the US, but we hope this isn't the I'm looking for a socialist party· to IlJ OFF TRACK last we've heard from you. Perhaps in the connect with. Is the Freedom Party sym future, you may rediscover Canada as a pathetic to Marxism? If so, tell me more. If I'm dismayed by your bit of emotional 'paradise regained'. Looks like that's up to us the Freedom Party is closer to the Ameri discharge entitled "Railroaded". It trivial though, because nobody else seems to want can system, please let me know so I can izes the experience of actual political .the job. [rm) distance myself. Thanks. prisoners, and gives a pretty good idea of why some public service workers become John Leiper-Laing, IlJ ABORIGINAL VISION thick skinned ("appropriately" --- boos, [email protected] January 27, 1997 Subject: "Drawing the Line - Property jeers, etc? Give me a break.) What about Rights and the Aboriginal Question" by There are many socialist parties from civility? Perhaps. you might have learned a Robert Metz which you can choose. They include the bit more about what the problem was if Communist Party of CanadttlOntario, the New the atmosphere was a bit more polite. Thank you for providing this essay. In Democratic Party of CanadttlOntario, the BC, I work endlessly toward the goals It sounds like you expect servants, Liberal Party of CanadttlOntario, the Progres not service --- that doesn't sound like espoused in this essay. My immediate sIVe Conservative Party of Canada, and to a rewards usually come in the form of verbal good grounds for a "freedom" party to lesser degree, the Progressive Conservative take! Although I live south of the border, I abuse and criticism from the Indian lea Party ofOntario . ders who stand to reap the rewards of ride Via at every opportunity (about continued land claims industry machina The only sympathy we have regarding 10,000 miles in the past year) and find the tions. The more long term rewards come Marxism is for the victims whose lives and staff civil and professional (and particu in the form of the quieter thanks and property it has destroyed. larly good with kids). Most trains arrive support I receive from those Indians who, promptly, even ahead of schedule seems As to the American system, it is a mixed like myself, choose to live in modern day to be the norm on the eastern corridor. economy, a concept which Freedom Party So, what;s up? Think a bit about what you Canada. does not support. We consistently support mean by freedom before writing this stuff. Please keep sharing this vision; the individual freedom of choice, and the moral self respect of an entire race of people principles of a free society on which it rests. Jennifer Sarah Tiffany, RN, MRP, depends on the courage of those who will jsI5@cornelledu, January 1997 On the basis of our reply and your stated thwart the current crop of Indian 'leaders'. preferences, we can only offer this advice: Deb Logan, distance yourself. Come to think of it, isolating (FEEDBACK conrd on next pg.) Page 22 Freedom Flyer 33 June? 1998 jeecf6acl( } W'Sd fat.,S. .. { (. .. conr d from prevo page) Freedom Party of Ontario Thanks for taking the time to send along your comments about our December 1989 essay, 'Railroaded' by Marc Emery. Rest 240 Commissioners Rd. W., assured that we DO take freedom seriously. However, that won't stop us from taking a lighthearted or humorous approach to the LONDON, Ontario issues. We're pleased to hear that 08 Rai/ has N6J 1Y1 improved its service since that article was written. Perhaps the improvements in service were in some way a result of all the criticism levied against 08 at that time. That would 519-681-3999 mean that you are now benefitting from past actions, and that pleases us greatly. 1-800-830-3301 The fact that you have had one particular experience with 08 does not in any way FAX: 519-681-2857 negate the experience of any other individual. One may find oneself in great disagreement with many people when displaying such an attitude toward the experiences of others. Mailing Address: Box 2214, Mr. Emery's experience with Via Rai/ was not unique. Around thesame time that 'Rail LONDON, Ontario N6A 4E3 roaded' was written, Fp president Robert Metz reported an experience with 08 which was far more uncomfortable than anything Mr. Emery related --- a veritable page out of At/as Shrugged However, that was not the point of the article. Rail consumers lack choice in Ontario. True competition in rail service is still not permitted in Canada and that's unfortunate. There have been reports of private rail services from around the world bidding to bring their high-speed 21 st-century rail technology to our part of the world, but who are experiencing bureaucratic delays and rejections. Even if marginally improved, Canadians I highly agree that privacy of the still do not have freedom of choice in this basic [0" PROBABLY PAID BY individual is very important, but the argu service. 08 Ral/should still be privatized, and CONRAD BLACK ments put forth by these two people make open comp~tition should be the rule of the rail. I have a strong feeling that the Free me shudder. Taken at face value, the Those who browse through Freedom dom Party exists to solely to keep the suggestions and the context of the argu Party's web site or newsletters will generally discussion of politics from ever veering ments lead me to believe that the FP is discover articles of every caliber and tone: too far to the left. People like Mr. Metz racist, sexist, and anthropocentric to the Serious. Humorous. Angry. Sad. Happy. and Mr. Block are probably paid by extent that all other forms of life and our Funny. Simple. Complex. Emotional. Rea people like Conrad Black and other pro causal relationship is nothing but a farce. soned. sperous millionaires and gazillionaires to If this is the kind of "freedom" you're make sure that no truthfully thought out talking about, I have no doubt that it But all are about the theme of individual discussion takes place. freedom, and written by people who deeply would end up being a totalitarian state. care about, and have a passion for, freedom. If you hadn't donated any money to Some of what you say makes me the Clay case that's before the courts I think of the "good ole" days like the We hope you take the time to check out would have never taken the time to read 1860's or so, when those with the gun and some of our other essays (bearing in mind about your party. It is commendable that the ruthlessness could go to any home their originally published dates), and see for you are behind this cause, but I would not steader and forcibly remove them from yourself whether or not what we've just told be one to accept money from you. you holds up to scrutiny. [rm) (FEEDBACK conrd on next pg.) June? 1990· Freedom Flyer 33 Page 23 prevent any 'truthfully thought out discussion' OJ FAKE PHONICS ON is way off mark. Strictly speaking, Freedom SESAME STREET? jeecf6acl( Party is neither a 'left' nor 'right' wing party, w, gd fLtt.,s ... since we believe in both economic (unlike you) I believe you may want to update "10 { and personal (like you) freedom. What we find Alibi's" in your Whole Language section puzzling is why a person like yourself, who [on Fp's web site - ed) because you state sees the value of personal freedom, seems to Sesame Street has been exposing the C.. conl'd from prevo page) have a problem with the concept of economic children to phonics. Well, they used to do their land. Hey, I'm all for a little privacy, freedom. Perhaps you'd like to let us know. phonics, but now their "reading" vig but the playing scales are hardly balan nettes are instead presented as some If you really believe our discussions are ced in my best interest. There is no way form of whole word recognition, which as not 'truthfully thought out', then on what that the present economic market could you know, is the method used in Whole grounds would you explain our support of go from what it is now to what you people Language. At least, that's the Sesame hemp activist Chris Clay? envision without the playing field being Street we see down here. The only real totally skewed towards those that are You have stated that the arguments put concession Whole Language has made to already in power. And by that I don't forth by Dr. Block and Mr. Metz make you phonics is to teach the initial consonant mean the "G". Big business already runs 'shudder'. What arguments? We'd certainly sound, and so maybe that little bit of the "G" far too much as it is. appreciate an opportunity to allay your fears, phonics has led some to believe the but without any specifics, how can we? Most "Sesame Streetteaches phonics." You have to be joking when you say importantly, what possible arguments put forth that through private property everyone is Background: Mother of 5, whose chil by us would lead you to conclude that Fp is going to become responsible; if there dren hated reading and couldn't read, 'racist, sexist, and anthropocentric'? wasn't any "G" around to dampen the write or spell, eitherl After I trained them economic interests of the big companies, We believe that all individuals are equal in phonics, all love reading, and only one they'd be raping the earth and its inhabi before and under the law, and we repeat this can't spell very well still (probably lazy). tants even faster than they are now! This message constantly. Those interested in a Love the work you are doing up there is probably not even going to be read by 'truthfully thought out discussion' bear the --- best wishes always! you so I'll stop now. It was worth a try. obligation to let us know what specifics are being referred to. Jeanne Harri~ Marc Bowes, MOISER, Oregon USA, March 1997 [email protected], June, 1997 Your comments are symptomatic of many criticisms levied against the philosophy of Thank you for your kind comments and Thanks for taking the tfme to write us, but freedom: Labeling, evasion of specifics, and a for taking the time to write us. Your observa we sure would appreciate it if you could let us misrepresentation of the oppositiorl are three tions are consistent with many that we have know what we've said that led you to your clear signs of an argument that has no interest received about Sesame Street no longer conclusions. Certainly, based on what you've in truthfully thought out discussion. teaching 'real' phonics. Our original article on written above, your conclusions appear totally the ten alibis for whole language was written in based on assumptions, even to the point of A prime directive behind Freedom 1992, and our example of your assumption that we 'probably' won't even Party's philosophy is that no individual, group, read your mail. While we do not always have or government has any right to INITIATE force Sesame Street was used simply to coun the time to respond to all the mail we rece·ive, against any other individual, group, or govern ter the alibi that '''too much lV" is a cause of rest assured that we do read all our mail, and ment. To suggest that such a philosophy of illiteracy. Of course, whole language taught on that many of our letters find their way to a individual freedom could possibly lead to lV can be just as harmful as whole language permanent position on our website, as will totalitarianism would be a contradiction in taught in the schools. Similarly, phonics taught yours. terms. Again, if we've said or printed anything on lV can be as beneficial as phonics taught that contradicts this aspect of our philosophy, in schools. Your suggestion that Dr. Block and Mr. please let us know. Metz are in some way paid by 'people like However, in the near future, we will post Conrad Black' is certainly fanciful, and we at Your reference to criminals forcing people your comments on our site as an update and Fp would certainly welcome such funding. from their land seems to indicate that you footnote with a link to our Sesame Street Unfortunately, it just isn't so. It is a fact that the value the institution of private property. Howe example. Thanks again for writing to bring this largest recipients of corporate political contri ver, you seem to suggest that private property to our attention. [rm] {END} butions are the Liberal and Conservative par means that there wouldn't be any government. ties, while the NDP is the main recipient of big Quite the contrary. union contributions. Freedom Party is totally funded through the voluntary contributions of Protecting property rights is one of the individuals, and we are unaware of any who prime legitimate functions of government. It is jeecf6acl( the failure of government to do so that has led claim access to vast amounts of wealth. Nor w, gd fLtt.,s." would it matter, since contributions to political to unnecessary pollution and environmental { parties are severely limited to minuscule problems. It is no coincidence that environ amounts. Financial records of all political mental problems are worst in those countries where the government owns and runs every parties are also open to public scrutiny, In" thing. Readers are encouraged to though in light of the contribution restrictions, send their letters to we would prefer to see that contributors to If you would provide us with evidence of Feedback_ Write: Box 2214, political parties retain their privacy. your conclusions about Mr. Metz, Dr. Block, and/or Freedom Party, we'd sure appreciate London Ontario N6A 4E3; Your statement that Freedom Party Fax: (519) 681-2857; e-mail: exists 'solely to keep thediscussion of politics hearing from you! Then we could address your from ever veering too far to the left' and to concerns more directly. [rm) feedback@freedomparty_org Page 24 Freedom Flyer 33 JuneI 1998 " Have more than one political party voting. But his bottom line was clear: Roots or Change Conrerence... exist, but find ways to work "Endorse candidates who endorse pro (... FREEDOM FIRST conl'd from pg. 7) together." portional representation!" Vezina concluded. or concern. Subjects ranged from organiza tional software solutions for the 'right' in [D" DEMOCRACY, EH? Canada (Tim McKay), to a call for lowering [D" COMMON GROUND the voting age to 16 (by 15-year-old Karl Possibly the best mechanism for parties and individuals to work together on issues Roots of Change organizer Craig Baldauf, whose compelling arguments will Chandler wrapp.ed up the two day conference find their way to the pages of Consent where they can agree is proportional repre sentation. That was the bottom line of a most by calling upon attendees to arrive at some magazine in the very near future). entertaining and animated presentation made consensus on the issues they could all agree Toronto Sun money editor Linda Leath by author, writer, and political activist Greg to support, despite their many fundamental erdale kicked off the whole event by distribut Vezina, whose book (co-authored by John differences in philosophy and areas of con ing Canadian flags to all attendees in com Deverell) Democracy Eh? - A Guide to cern. Surprisingly, support was virtually unani memoration of the "flag flap" in Ottawa. Voter Action, may well be the only publica mous on six key issues, all of which are tion to earn the endorsements of people supported by Freedom Party policy: "We have the fastest-growing tax burden ranging from Mike Harris to Judy Rebick. in the western world," she marked with alarm. (1) End government funding of abortion; "I don't understand why · Canadians aren't Using a healthy dose of humor, cynicism, (2) Seek an alternative to Canada's first screaming in the streets. " and sarcasm, Vezina aptly demonstrated how past-the-post electoral system; (3) Repeal the " our Canadian democracy makes it impos Charter of Rights and Freedoms; (4) Oppose London South MPP Bob Wood offered sible" to effect any meaningful change. We the Calgal)/ Framework in its current form; (5) an excellent electoral history (1985-1995) of have "Liberals for life" under the current Promote less government, lower taxes, more the Ontario Progressive Conservative constituency system of Canada's first-past individual freedom; (6) Limit law-making to Party, using that party's history as a way of the-post system, he argued, and then offered those issues that protect individual rights. demonstrating how it managed to appeal to ways of defeating that electoral system. the "three kinds of conservatives" required to We are pleased to report that the last item build an electoral base: economic conserva "Don't beat them, join them! " Vezina (#6) was included at the behest of Freedom Party founding member Mary Lou Gutscher, tives, populist conservatives, and social con suggested. "Nice guys don't even finish, let servatives. Wood's suggestions were both alone finish last. Politics is for animals, not who was quick to warn all that item #5 was too vague and could be interpreted in ways not practical and useful, based on his experience people. Some people actually think it's to do with the "theory, history, and science" of the right thing! Politics is about obtaining consistent with individual freedoms. political activity. POWER. Period." Chandler vowed to integrate these recom mendations into PGIB's lobby platform when He warned attendees to avoid arguing Until we have proportional representation, he returned to Calgary following the con about " minor issues" in public, or "all three Vezina recommended that individuals take voting groups will stop listening to you." over existing party executives and candidate ference. Our thanks and appreciation are Uniting under a single political party is not nominations. Other tactics recommended in extended to both Mr. Chandler and the Pro necessarily a solution to the issues people cluded the formation of a new amalgamated gressive Group for Independent Business want resolved, Wood reminded the audience: party, and/or a focus on strategic or negative for hosting a most provocative and stimulating event. {END} FREEDOM FLYER No. 33 (Volume 6 Number 3), June, 1998, is published by the Freedom Party of Ontario, a fully-registered Ontario political party. Editor: Robert Metz; Subscription Rate: $25 per year (six issues). FREEDOM PARTY OF ONTARIO Freedom Party of Ontario is a fully-registered Ontario political party. Contributions are tax-creditable. Statement of Principle: Freedom Party is founded on the principle that: Every individual, in the peacefulpursuit ofpersonal fulfillmenC has an absolute dgM to his or her own life, liberty. and property. Platform: that the purpose ofgovemmentis to protectour fundamental freedoms, not to restrict them. Annual Membership & Support Level: $25 minimum (tax-creditable); Provincial Executive: Ontado Pres/Gent· Robert Metz; Ontado Vice-preS/Gent· William Frampton; Ontado Secretary: Barry Malcolm; ChiefFinancialOlficer:Patti Plant; Executive Officers: Gordon Mood, Paul Blair; Party Leader: lloyd Walker. We are aware that, due to their reduced size, many of the reproduced articles or letters in this newsletter may be difficult for some to read_ FULL-SIZED REPRODUCTIONS ARE THEREFORE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST_ TO ORDER TRANSCRIPTS, REPORTS, OR OTHER REPRODUCTIONS mentioned or published in this newsletter (or simply to request more information on Freedom Party) please call or write: FREEDOM PARTY OF ONTARIO, Box 2214, LONDON, Ontario N6A 4E3; Phone: 1-800-830-3301 (toll-free in Ontario only); Outside Ontario, or in the London area, please call: (519) 681-3999; Fax: (519) 681-2857; Website: http'/lwww freedomparty org; OFFICES: 240 Commissioners Road West, LONDON, Ontario, N6J 1Y1; E-mail: feedback@freedomparty org