“If you don’t make those quotes in the paper, I’m going to leave you alone”

Don't speak out and I'll leave you alone. Don't be quoted in the in the paper and I won't bother you. Be silent. Those words echo in my brain.

I WILL NOT BE SILENT

1/

These words were an attack by a delegate at last night’s Wilmot Township Council meeting, directed at a Council member who dared to speak publicly and acknowledge that racism is a problem in this community.

I WILL NOT BE SILENT

2/

They were his defense against being told that his verbal tirade prior was not acceptable behaviour.

I WILL NOT BE SILENT

3/

Be quiet. Be a peacemaker. Be gentle. Don't make a scene. Nice girls don't cause a fuss. These are the messages I and many women grew up with as girls and into adulthood.

I WILL NOT BE SILENT

4/

These are the messages that have kept women oppressed. These are the messages that have kept Indigenous, Black and People of Colour oppressed. These are the messages that have kept LBGTQ2+ people oppressed.

I WILL NOT BE SILENT

5/