In Depth
Sikh politics in Canada
E-mail from MP Jim Abbott
From: "Abbott, Jim - M.P."
To: Terry Milewski
Subject: Response to CBC TV News Story
Date: April 17, 2007 1:22 PM
Hi Terry:
I am writing to correct the record on the unjustified attacks and allegations made by on your newscast last night.
There are a few points that should be repeated that your story omitted.
The Vaisaki event on April 7th was key to the Indo Canadian community in British Columbia. I was happy to attend along will other politicians from all levels of Government and various political parties such as MP from Surrey Sukh Dhaliwal, NDP MP from Surrey Penny Priddy, BC Liberal Premier Gordon Campbell, and Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts.
Greetings were also sent by Prime Minister Harper and by other federal leaders in support of the celebration. Canada's New Government has worked on historic Sikh Canadian events. I have great respect for the Sikh community, their family values, hard work and commitment to Canada.
Vaisaki is an important Sikh community celebration. I disagree with the CBC's coverage that portrays this event in a negative light by associating it with suspected terrorists in the community. I will vigorously defend this event along with thousands of Canadians of Sikh faith who won't tolerate such a linkage
Jim Abbott, MP
Kootenay Columbia.