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What is it to be a Canadian?

KINSELLA: What are and are not Canadian values? Back to video

Perhaps the best way to answer that is to describe what isn’t Canadian. What is unwelcome here.

In the week we celebrate Canada Day, we know this: We know that Canada is not a place to come to with hate in one’s heart. It’s not a place to bring bigoted creeds from afar — beliefs that cause division and discord.

Canada is not a place where lawlessness is favoured or desired. It is not a place where the rule of law should be ignored without consequence.

Canada is not a place where one can wear a mask and terrorize the innocent, and demonize people because of their faith or convictions.

Canada is not a place where hate and enmity is wanted. Canada is not a place for those who do not appreciate the values we share (or shared).

Canada is not a place for those who oppose democracy — or for those who do not understand the principles upon which this country is based.

Canada is not a place where violence is ever a substitute for dialogue and discussion and debate. It is not a place where a balled fist ever replaces an extended hand of........

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