People fear [Police] reaction to even modest, responsible dissent

I recently met other concerned citizens anxiously trying to halt the Ontario government’s rush to deregulate electricity, which will dramatically change many aspects of our lifestyle. Most people have no idea of how serious this is, and how expensive it will be.

Our group was discussing various methods we could use to get the public’s attention, such as a demonstration using signs expressing our concern.

One participant, a very respectable, middle-class man, was reluctant to do so, lest we become targets of the police.

Although he was reassured by others that we had no reason to be concerned, it’s a sad day when decent citizens, in expressing legitimate dissent, fear retaliation from those they employ to protect them.

I believe this is an example of how widespread the concern about free expression has become.

Rosalie Reynolds, Ottawa