When you sign this open letter you'll be joining with Sarah McLachlan, Bryan Adams, Sacha Trudeau, Pierre Berton, Bruce Cockburn, Stompin Tom, Steven Page, Susan Aglukark and many more of Canada's superstars.
And please forward this e-mail to ten friends, co-workers and family members.
Sincerely,
Steven Staples
www.ceasfire.ca
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An Open Letter to Prime Minister Martin
We, the undersigned, are deeply alarmed that our government continues to pursue Canadian involvement in the development of the U.S. missile defence system.
Canadian involvement in U.S. missile defence would undermine decades of Canadian efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons. It would represent our acquiescence and willingness to become an active participant in a permanent nuclear future. As such, it would directly collide with the wishes of the Canadian people who have expressed overwhelming support for nuclear disarmament.
It would require the reversal of a 30-year Canadian policy opposing the weaponization of space. The Bush administration's plans for missile defence expressly include the placement of space-based weaponry. The most recent U.S. budget specifies an intent to develop a space-based missile "test bed," beginning as early as 2005.
While we understand the government's desire to improve Canada-U.S. relations, we firmly believe that the political and economic benefits of Canadian integration in missile defence would be far outweighed by the long-term negative consequences for global security, and for Canadian sovereignty over future foreign affairs and defence matters.
The pursuit of missile defence is enormously expensive, with current expenditures in the range of US$8-12 billion per year and climbing. It is based on unproven technology and has dangerous implications for strategic stability. A new global arms race is a likely consequence, as existing nuclear powers seek to maintain a credible deterrence by strengthening their retaliatory arsenals of missiles and warheads.
By devoting vast resources to developing a missile shield, the United States is ignoring the real causes of insecurity, and is likely to aggravate existing grievances. Security for us all would be much better served by rejuvenating multilateral efforts to stop the spread of nuclear weapons and uphold international law, and by addressing the root causes of conflict and terrorism such as civil strife, global inequality, and environmental degradation.
As a good neighbour, Canada should be working to convince the U.S. that true and lasting security cannot be achieved through military might. No missile shield could ever ensure the safety of North America. If the front door is closed, someone will find a way in through the back.
True security can only be achieved by establishing relationships of mutual respect and co-operation, free of exploitation, with nations and peoples throughout the world.
That is what we, as Canadians, have always believed and proudly stood for. And that is the kind of Canada that we want now and in the future. Mr. Martin, we implore you - and all Canadians - to keep Canada out of missile defence.
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** You're invited to add your name to the open letter to the Prime Minister.
Go to www.ceasefire.ca to sign your letter today**
Note: www.ceasfire.ca
www.ceasfire.ca
www.ceasefire.ca
Stumble It!
We can be in the room voicing our opinions to the Americans as a sovereign nation or pout outside like little children.
Your choice.
It is so ridiculous to think that because we are at the table we will be listened to...we have already said and signed a treaty against this crap...who is listening? I think the scene describe above is a little assuming since anon is saying we'll be at the table like the adults, but actually we'll be under the table like the lap dog waiting for a nod or pat on the head!
I know. And because the US will do what it wants when it wants why jeopradize our own reputation and safety as a tag along or appendage to their bad behaviour? Why contribute in any way?