It’s Christmas and everyone deserves peace, joy and good health

Published in Ottawa Citizen on December 22, 2020

By Natalie Appleyard

For years we have repeated holiday well wishes to one another. But for all our well wishes, many today are left “out in the cold.”

Youth, Indigenous Peoples, people of colour, women and queer folks, and those with disabilities face poverty, poor health and exclusion at disproportionate rates compared to the rest of the population.

The burdens and barriers facing millions experiencing poverty and adversity in Canada are not merely matters of charity. They are a matter of justice. Food, shelter, and access to health services are not generous gifts. They are rights.

What hope is there that all might one day enjoy peace, joy and good health?

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