An open letter to Bill Casey, MP (Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit, NS):

Mr. Casey,

While reading a Chronicle Herald story on Bill C-38, I was greatly disappointed to find that you plan to vote “no” on Bill C-38. As someone who grew up in Cumberland County but now lives in another province, I’ve watched with a measure of pride as Nova Scotia has become more accepting of homosexuality, becoming more accepting and, I believe, progressive. However, my pride is now tempered by the fear that your decision will serve only to hold back the province — and indeed the entire country — from this next step in realizing what Canada should aspire to be: rational, intelligent, understanding and inclusive.

The old saw of “different but equal” is an unacceptable position. Orwell beat you to such doublespeak decades ago. Please, I implore you to look beyond what tradition dictates, to detach yourself from the politics of the moment and reflect on the history of such decisions. Think of how politicians in conservative regions of conservative provinces must have voted on human rights issues in the past, and of how history will remember them only for clinging to a bygone tradition in the face of evolving social justice.

Sir, while I do not know you personally, I have heard that you’re a good man, one who does his best to lead your constituents. I humbly ask that when it comes time to vote on this bill, you do just that: lead them. Whether you lead them forward or in a circle is up to you.