On the day after Quebec’s national holiday, we must admit that it is increasingly difficult to celebrate what brings us together without some emphasizing what separates us.
Faced with the rise of the far right in Europe, I worry to see so many politicians and citizens in Quebec placing the burden of all our ills on immigrants.
Uninhibited intolerance
Times are tough wherever you are. In these difficult times, Quebecers have always stood together. Our society is said to be tight-knit, and that’s not for nothing.
In the words of one of our most appreciated immigrants, Boucar Diouf, Quebecers are a tightly mixed people.
However, it is less and less rare that we read on social networks individuals who attack companies that employ people of color or who courageously learn French as if they were participating in the crumbling of our social fabric rather than our survival as a people.
When our Prime Minister directly attacks newcomers and blames them for the collapse of our common language, our institutions and our infrastructure, there is cause for concern.
The European wind blows on Quebec
The European elections and the campaign taking place in France should warn us against the rise of the far right.
It would only take a little for this option to no longer be marginal here just as it is no longer there.
Listen to the French tell you why they think it is “very good” to “give a chance” to Marine Le Pen’s National Rally, as if it were a party like any other.
Listen to the commentators explain to you that this racist and identitarian right is not extreme.
Quebecers, let us refuse to fall into the trap of intolerants who try to normalize racism and xenophobia.
