That said, I shouldn't be afraid of speaking the truth as I see it even if it is likely some people will not like what I say. Ultimately, differences of opinion and the right to disagree should be respected. I sometimes come across bullies who can't respect other opinions and who love to dish it out but can't take it back. I find they hate freedom of speech and having their behaviour exposed, including on this blog on occasion.
"Last week
was truly terrible for France and for Paris in particular. We were all shocked
and appalled at the very upsetting events. Unlike the UK and other European countries
such as Spain and Norway, France had not been the victim of such vile atrocities
for some decades.
Writing
after watching coverage of the national unity march, this feels like a
watershed moment and the implications for France and Europe feel profound. After
this terrible week, it was very heartening to see French people of all backgrounds
and religions marching together, putting their shared freedom, democracy and
French national identity before any differences.
The unity march
was the largest ever protest in French history, with an estimated 3.3 million
people across the country. France and its people have taken a stand against
those who seek to destroy its liberties and rights. The freedoms of expression
and of faith are absolutely fundamental to our way of life in the free world.
This is nowhere more precious than here in Europe which saw the end of World
War II seventy years ago, where these freedoms were seriously at risk.
It is easy
to forget how close Paris is to us. Geographically, Paris is a similar distance
from Crawley as Manchester is. Obviously, language is a barrier to many of us
but I prefer to focus on what unites us than what divides us. People here have
had great sympathy for France and have shown solidarity with our French cousins
in the wake of the assault on their freedoms.Last week was not a time for politics but this will return and it remains unknown how this will play out politically. Here in the UK, we are sometimes told to celebrate diversity but I prefer to respect diversity and to celebrate what unites us. I hope that going forward after the French attacks and unity rally, that people in all European countries from all backgrounds can have a greater sense of shared national identity and will look to celebrate their unity. Ultimately what unites us will always be greater than what divides us."
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