This is why I do it, people

A few days ago, I wrote a letter to three members of Parliament–three women who had the courage to vote against the Tories’ shameful motion to scrap the long-gun registry, and to protest the mere lip service paid to the victims of December 6. Here’s what I wrote to them:

Just wanted to say thank you…

…for not supporting the Tories’ mockery of women on Tuesday. I was a student at Queen’s University at the same time the Montreal Massacre occurred, and it shook me to my core. It also confirmed for me that there is still a crying need for feminism, and that women’s rights are by no means a done deal.

It also confirmed for me that we need gun control–MORE, not less. If residences and motor vehicles are all registered, there is no reason why firearms, whose sole purpose is to be used for killing, should not also be.

Once more, THANK YOU!

Today I heard back from one of them:

Dear Sabina,

Thank you so much for your email message. As I’m sure you understand, the day of the vote was very diificult. Your kind words helped and I appreciate that kindness very much. You are the next generation of activists; we will need you in the struggle for equality and justice.

In Solidarity,

Irene

Why do we do these seemingly futile things? Because we know they are not futile even if there is a momentary setback. Notice has been served to other members of Parliament: The gun registry is popular with ordinary Canadians. Especially the women over 40, who, like me, have personal memories of what it was like to be terrorized in the wake of the Montréal Massacre–a terror that went deeper than 9-11 ever could.