Precedent

April 1, 2007

Meriam Webster defines precedent as: something done or said that may serve as an example or rule to authorize or justify a subsequent act of the same.  In other words, a precedent opens a door, sets a tone, and directs a culture. 
In Canada, lately, these precedents are being set by our courts; judges are reinterpreting our laws and setting social policy, judges who are not elected, or accountable.  Let’s take a look at the precedent set by the re-definition of marriage in Canada.

  • A new report shows that more than half of recorded gay weddings have involved couples traveling to Canada from other countries
  • Many of these couples have used their “Canadian” marriages to advance legal fights in their own nations
  • When this data was collected, Canada was the only nation in the world that allowed same sex marriages between people who were not residents.
  • Egale Canada, a gay rights organization, has said, “It’s a positive thing for Canada because it enhances our reputation as a country that is very open and progressive.”

Read more: cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2007/01/18/pf-3401264.html
So, we’ve set international precedent, how about here at home?

Four years ago, the Ontario Court of Appeals tried to erase the definition of marriage; a few weeks ago they followed up with an attempt at erasing the definition of parent.  The “three parent decision” was celebrated by Egale Canada who sees it as recognition of the reality of lesbian couples who are already raising children with the father’s involvement.  What precedents will be set by this ruling? On January3, 2007 parenthood in Canada was redefined….what next?

  • If marriage cannot be restricted to one man, and one woman, how can it be restricted?
  • If a child in this country can have three parents, can a man in this country have three wives?  Or a woman three husbands?

Read more: cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2007/01/04/pf-3156316.html

How does your Member of Parliament feel about this issue?  Can the Canadian people do nothing about a social policy established in courtrooms instead of parliaments?  Maybe it is time to make a phone call.