We often take our liberties for granted, especially those of us who live where tolerance is common and sensitivity is expected.

But there is a time to reflect on the price that people have paid in places where differences are justification for oppression, or in times that were not so enlightened as these.

Exhibit #1  Memorializing 2011

Memorializing 2011 lists trans people murdered around the world.

I am struck by the fact that these people died simply for doing what I do any time I feel like it with nary a second thought.

Not unnoticed, at least by me, is the marked preference among assailants for the intimate personal touch of killing imparted by the use of a knife rather than a gun.
It leaves a pit in my stomach.

Exhibit #2: Remembrance Day.

Lest we forget, our freedom did not come cheaply; it was won with the blood of our soldiers, and the anguish of their loved ones, and yes, the resolve of our leaders.  And, it is maintained by the same bravery and service of country, without which there would be no equality of the sexes, human rights commissions, transgender days of remembrance, pride parades, etc.

There would be no Fantasia Fair, no sexual freedoms of choice, no blog of this kind; we would all be running for our lives.

Listed in Memorializing 2011 was the killing, in Turkey, of a transwoman by her brother, who calmly told police moments later, “I killed my brother as he was a transvestite. I cleaned my honour!”

Lest you think that stuff doesn’t happen here, a man is on trial in the very tolerant city in which I live for having drowned his three daughters because the eldest wanted to be part of Western society.  His son – their brother – assisted in the deed.

Take that moment of silence seriously

Let’s stop apologizing for people like that, “understanding” them, or accommodating their culture.  Their culture is incompatible with our freedoms, and it is time we got that obvious and simple point.  Let us not undo with politics what was won with dear lives.

Take that moment of silence today seriously, and reflect – really reflect – on all that was given so that we may live better.  And, never forsake our countries’ protectors – our men and women in uniform – for their well-being is ours too.

Peace be with us all.