Is it only in Quebec that politicians deserve a badge of courage for treating Muslims with respect and fairness, or are politicians all across the country at risk for doing the right thing? The underlying assumption as to its rarity and attendant risk is an affront to the vast majority of Canadians who open their doors and hearts to people of all cultures, races and faiths around the world. 

Among the revelations of a recent Environics poll is that more Canadians think Canadians are hostile to Muslims than Muslims think Canadians are hostile to Muslims. I’m not surprised. Too many Canadians are willing to put Canada down – despite it being one of the most open, compassionate and accepting countries on earth. 

Battling bigotry is commendable but not to the point of seeing boogeymen around every corner. It gives way to reverse discrimination. The widespread innuendo that voters of St. Apollinaire acted with malice is a prime example.