Trudeau must match words with action in Trump era, say critics, rights groups

Published in The Hill Times on January 31, 2017

The prime minister’s “diversity is our strength” tweet sent the message that “regardless of [their] faith,” those seeking refuge will find an open door to Canada as the one in the U.S. temporarily closes.

So far, the potential for a working relationship with the U.S. doesn’t appear to have been jeopardized by Mr. Trudeau’s tweet. Mr. Trump has not—so far—replied to it on Twitter.

Joe Gunn, executive director of the Ottawa faith-based social justice organization, Citizens for Public Justice, hopes it stays that way.

“Whether it’s responding to the U.S. position on such issues as refugees or cross-border security, Canada needs to show leadership through policies and programs, and not by having Mr. Trudeau engage in any back-and-forth with Mr. Trump on social media,” he said.

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