We wish to express our gratitude to the writer of the editorial Banner Issue Is About Free Speech (The Daily News, Oct. 13). It is heartening to read such a firm defence of freedom of expression in our politically correct times.

Actually, our banner has been displayed for at least nine years, and this is the first time objections have been raised. The message on our banner is positive, emphasizing the value of every human life and the unique contribution that each of us can make to society.

Not all of society agrees with us, but our views should also be allowed a voice in the public square, as provided for in the Canadian Charter as you mentioned.

In response to being “a very religious organization,” as stated by Bill Ligertwood, our constitution makes no mention of religion but focuses on educating our community on the worth of human life. We believe the pro-life position is a human rights issue. Of course, some of our members may be pro-life because of their particular religious convictions, however, within the diverse spectrum of faiths and denominations there are also pro-abortion and pro-euthanasia views.

We of pro-life persuasion pay City taxes, as do those who are opposed. If the Kamloops Centre for Rational Thought wishes to have a banner displayed, their payment of tax dollars will permit them to do so.

TONIA HOWELL

Kamloops Pro-Life Society