Reaction to the B.C. government's appeal of the recent court ruling in favour of the BCTF
We live in a democracy, and one of things that makes this system work is a system of checks and balances. We vote for our legislature, but they are always held accountable, even when they gain a majority they are held in check by our judicial system. There have been times in human history where elected officials have been able to rule for a time as they please by manipulating or ignoring the judicial system, but that normally does not end well.
If we allow the B.C. government to appeal the recent court ruling regarding their failure to negotiate in good faith with the B.C. Teachers' Federation, we are treading on very dangerous waters. The judicial system has done its job. It has taken 12 years of careful deliberation. Our courts have heard the evidence and twice come up with the same ruling.
Democratic rights, a legislature that is accountable to its voters, free health care for all and free public education for our children, these are sacred rights to Canadians. Our sense of justice and our respect for diversity, these are the things that make Canada a great country. They cannot be sacrificed for any political agenda.
I study and teach history. I examine the darkest chapters of humanity with my students and point out how humanity moves forward and that the sacrifices made by the just are never for naught. They inspire us all to be better. Justice will triumph in the end, but by questioning the ruling of B.C. Supreme Court Justice Susan Griffin, the BC Liberals are showing disdain not only for the BCTF, not only for organized labour, but for our judicial system and for the Canadian way of life.
My favourite quote is from Gandhi:
"When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers and for a time they seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall - think of it, always."
If the BC Liberals continue to appeal this ruling, it is inevitable that the BCTF will continue to win in court. How long do we have to wait? What will be the cost to the children, to the teachers and to the citizens of British Columbia?
Gerry Chidiac
Prince George
