Bill C-21 is in a holding pattern for the summer, before Parliament resumes for the Fall session, and the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs (SECD) begins their study of the Bill.
It is CRUCIALLY important that every gun owner in Canada use this time to contact as many Senators, both on SECD and off, as possible. Inundate their offices with letters, emails, and voicemails. Ensure that whatever component of C-21 you take particular issue with is communicated clearly to these representatives in our House of Sober Second Thought. In fact, ensure that every issue possible is communicated to every Senator possible, so that we at least know they have the best information available when SECD studies the bill and recommends amendments, and when the Senate at large inevitably votes on it at the third reading (barring the dissolution of government, of course).
This page will play host to an updating list of form letters that we welcome you to copy, modify, or otherwise use to contact Senators and increase awareness of C-21's issues. Some are generic, and some speak to specific issues, please use them as you see fit but please maintain a respectful tone, and ensure your emails and letters are addressed correctly.
And a quick reminder to those new to this sort of advocacy: You can send paper letters to the Senators for free. Seriously. All you need to do is print it off, stick it in an envelope, and put one of their addresses on it, and your return address, and drop it in the mail. If you like, you can write "No Postage Required" where you'd normally put a stamp - but it's not required. I say this because the conventional logic has always stood that paper letters are generally weighted more heavily in government offices. The effort it takes to send a letter is respected over emails - but, in the immortal words of one of the worlds best memes:
Seriously, this isn't the time to leave anything on the table. So without further ado, the letters (and please read them, one of them has a specific recipient in mind and you'll look like an idiot sending it to the wrong person):
Subject: Urgent Request to Remove Unconsulted Components of Bill C-21 Contravening Indigenous Rights and UNDRIP Obligations
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the inclusion of unconsulted components in Bill C-21, which directly infringe upon the rights of Indigenous peoples, and violate Canada's commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
Although initial consultations occurred when the bill was introduced, it was made clear to SECU members that no additional Indigenous consultation was sought by the government prior to the government introducing significant amendments to the bill in committee - amendments that so dramatically reformed the bill's intent so as to cause some to question whether there were even within scope.
This absence of comprehensive consultation with Indigenous communities, as pointed out by Chief Jessica Lazare of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake, is evident in the bill's inconsistent and incoherent nature. This lack of consultation undermines the voices and rights of Indigenous communities, potentially impacting their lives and traditions. Vice Chief Heather Bear of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has also raised concerns about how Bill C-21 and its proposed amendments infringe upon Indigenous hunting rights on reserve lands and traditional territories.
I urge you to reconsider the approach and address the root causes of gun violence instead of further restricting Indigenous peoples' practices, as emphasized by Chief Lazare and Vice Chief Bear.
Furthermore in December, after the Liberal's intent was made known with their first round of amendments, First Nations leaders at the AFN General Assembly directly voted against Bill C-21, viewing it as yet another infringement on their rights, as highlighted by Cat Lake First Nation Chief Russell Wesley. Instead, a motion was adopted calling for the AFN to advocate for amendments to Bill C-21 that would remove long guns from the list of prohibited weapons as long guns are commonly used by First Nations in exercising their inherent right to hunt for food.
Given the constitutional duty of the Government of Canada to consult Indigenous peoples, it is disheartening to witness the absence of meaningful consultation in this case. I strongly urge the Senate committee reviewing this bill provide a platform for all Indigenous witnesses to be heard, and their perspectives seriously considered.
In conclusion, I urgently request the removal of the unconsulted components of Bill C-21, respecting Indigenous rights and Canada's commitment to UNDRIP. It is imperative to prioritize genuine consultation and ensure that the voices and rights of Indigenous communities are properly acknowledged and protected.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will consider the concerns raised and take necessary action. I eagerly await your response and a resolution that upholds the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Oppose Handgun Ban in Bill C-21
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed handgun ban in Bill C-21 and seek your support in preventing its enactment.
The ban unfairly targets law-abiding firearms owners, including Indigenous hunters. It infringes on Indigenous rights to hunt on reserve lands and traditional territories.
Instead of focusing on the root causes of gun violence, the ban penalizes responsible firearm users. Criminals largely use illegal firearms that this ban won't impact significantly.
Proper consultation with Indigenous communities has been neglected in the bill's development. As the Senate reviews the bill, I urge you to consider Indigenous voices.
Investing in alternative measures to combat crime is more effective than restricting law-abiding citizens.
Please oppose the handgun ban in Bill C-21 and work towards comprehensive solutions to address gun violence without infringing upon rights.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Oppose Handgun Ban in Bill C-21
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed handgun ban in Bill C-21 and to seek your support in preventing its enactment.
The core issue at hand is gun violence, and while we recognize the need for effective solutions, we firmly believe that the proposed ban unfairly targets law-abiding firearms owners, including Indigenous hunters. As Vice Chief Heather Bear of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations points out, Bill C-21 infringes on Indigenous rights to hunt on both reserve lands and traditional territories, with specific provisions targeting legal handgun owners.
The proposed freeze on the sale, purchase, or transfer of legal handguns would affect more than 1 million law-abiding firearms, many of which are used responsibly by competitive shooters and collectors, including Indigenous individuals, who have upheld these traditions for generations.
However, it is crucial to understand that this measure will have little impact on criminal gangs who predominantly rely on illegal firearms, easily acquired from across the border. The focus on restricting legal firearms ownership instead of addressing the root causes of criminal activity is misguided and ultimately ineffective.
Vice Chief Bear's statement about the use of handguns in the far north highlights the importance of these tools for safety, particularly when facing unexpected threats from wild animals. Handguns offer advantages in close-quarter encounters, such as protection against bears, where rifles may not be as practical.
Additionally, it is disheartening to witness the lack of proper consultation with Indigenous peoples in the development of this bill. As the Department of Justice acknowledges, the Government of Canada has a constitutional duty to consult Indigenous communities when measures may adversely impact their potential or established rights. Sadly, this duty appears to have been neglected, and it is vital that Indigenous voices are heard and respected.
As the Senate committee reviews Bill C-21, I urge you to consider the concerns raised by Indigenous leaders and stakeholders. If the government fails to fulfill its promise of proper consultation, it becomes the responsibility of the Senate to ensure Indigenous perspectives are adequately represented.
The proposed handgun freeze, as mentioned by Deputy Chief of Police Myron Demkiw, would do little to address the root cause of crime, as most crime guns are smuggled into Canada. Investing in alternative measures, rather than penalizing law-abiding citizens, is essential to effectively combat criminal activity.
In conclusion, I respectfully request your support in opposing the handgun ban in Bill C-21. Let us work together to find comprehensive and effective solutions to address gun violence without infringing upon the rights of law-abiding individuals, including Indigenous hunters.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that you will give careful consideration to the impact of this proposed ban on Indigenous communities and the broader implications for public safety. Your support in protecting the rights and well-being of all Canadians is crucial, and I look forward to hearing your stance on this critical issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Request to Amend C-21, Refocus on Criminal Use of Firearms
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am a gun owner who has been watching Bill C-21's progress, and I am very concerned about its continued focus on gun owners like myself rather than the criminal element. So I am writing to request your support in amending the bill to change that and refocus its efforts on addressing the criminal use of firearms rather than burdening law-abiding gun owners unfairly as it currently will (and is).
The current approach taken by the government in Bill C-21 is gravely concerning, as it appears to lack a thorough understanding of the complexities of the issue at hand, or even the existing laws. Relying on slogans like "stop crime before it starts" and unknowingly scapegoating legal gun owners as the primary cause of gun crime fails to address the root causes of violence effectively - as too many Canadians are tragically learning.
Instead of focusing on law-abiding gun owners, addressing the criminal use of firearms by strengthening measures against repeat violent offenders and tackling the root causes of violent crime is essential. As you know, the number of murders in Canada has increased significantly in recent years, with a quarter of these homicides being gang-related, predominantly involving illegal firearms.
The prevalence of illegal firearms in gang-related homicides underscores the need for targeted solutions to combat the illegal trade and possession of firearms. Rather than targeting responsible gun owners, we must prioritize strategies to prevent illegal firearms from reaching the hands of criminals.
I strongly urge you to consider amending Bill C-21 to ensure it refocuses on the criminal use of firearms and incorporates measures that effectively combat violent crime. Mandatory minimum penalties for gun crime can play a role in deterring offenders and protecting the safety of our communities.
As you deliberate on this matter, I encourage you to engage in open dialogue with experts and stakeholders to develop comprehensive and evidence-based solutions to address gun violence.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this critical issue. Your leadership and support in advocating for a balanced and effective approach to firearm legislation will undoubtedly make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Opposition to the Handgun Ban Component of Bill C-21
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my strong opposition to the handgun ban component of Bill C-21 and to urge you to stand against its enactment.
The proposed national freeze on handguns is a deeply concerning measure that, in reality, will do little to enhance public safety. As you are aware, the primary issue with gun crime lies in the illegal possession and use of firearms by criminal gangs. The Deputy Chief of Police of the Toronto Police Service, Myron Demkiw, testified that approximately 86% of crime guns seized were smuggled into Canada. An astounding 90% of gun crimes in Ontario were committed with smuggled guns.
Deputy Chief Demkiw's statement emphasizes that the handguns causing problems on Toronto's streets are not domestically sourced but are instead internationally smuggled, primarily from the United States. Restricting legal handgun ownership, as proposed in Bill C-21, will do little to address this crucial issue of illegal firearms.
The proposed handgun ban unfairly targets law-abiding citizens, including responsible handgun owners and competitive pistol shooters who have abided by existing laws and regulations. Banning legal gun owners from buying or selling handguns will not improve public safety. Instead, it will only burden law-abiding individuals without effectively addressing the root causes of gun crime and lead to eventual confiscation, as C-21 means a child cannot even inherit a parent's heirloom firearms.
It is concerning that the government seemingly disregards expert opinions and fails to consult with relevant stakeholders while developing firearm legislation. The lack of consideration for the perspectives of those closely involved in public safety measures raises doubts about the effectiveness of this proposed ban.
I implore you to carefully review the implications of the handgun ban component in Bill C-21 and to advocate for evidence-based solutions that address the real challenges related to illegal firearms and criminal activities.
As a responsible citizen, I urge you to oppose the handgun ban in Bill C-21 and instead prioritize comprehensive strategies that effectively combat illegal gun trafficking, enhance community safety, and safeguard the rights of law-abiding gun owners.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. Your leadership and support in advocating for balanced and effective firearm legislation will undoubtedly contribute to the safety and well-being of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Please Pivot C-21 to focus on criminals; stop spending resources going after me!
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the spending associated with Bill C-21 and implore you to consider amending the law to refocus its efforts on criminals rather than law-abiding gun owners.
While I understand the need for effective measures to address gun violence, it is troubling to see the government allocating substantial resources towards a bill that disproportionately targets responsible gun owners instead of addressing the real issue at hand - criminal activities involving firearms.
The proposed spending in Bill C-21, which aims to enforce new regulations on law-abiding gun owners, is concerning, as it diverts government resources from combating the root causes of gun violence. Criminals, not law-abiding citizens, are responsible for most gun-related crimes, as indicated by various law enforcement officials and statistics.
Investing in measures that solely target law-abiding gun owners without addressing the illegal possession and use of firearms by criminals, will not reduce gun violence. Instead, it places undue burdens on law-abiding citizens while neglecting to tackle the primary source of the issue.
As a responsible and pragmatic representative, I urge you to consider redirecting government resources and efforts toward strategies focusing on the criminal elements involved in gun violence. By allocating funding and attention to initiatives such as intelligence-led policing, enhanced border control, and targeted interventions, we can more effectively combat the illegal trade and use of firearms by criminals.
Moreover, meaningful collaboration and consultation with law enforcement agencies, legal experts, and stakeholders will provide invaluable insights into developing evidence-based strategies that prioritize public safety without infringing upon the rights of responsible gun owners.
As a concerned citizen, I implore you to take a leading role in amending Bill C-21 to refocus its efforts on criminals rather than law-abiding gun owners. By doing so, we can ensure that our government's resources are utilized wisely and that our communities are safer and more secure.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter. I trust that you will carefully consider the concerns raised and take the necessary steps to support amendments that genuinely address the core challenges of gun violence in our society.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Please amend C-21 To Focus on Criminals, not me!
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am writing to express my concern about the spending associated with Bill C-21 and urge you to amend the law to prioritize efforts against criminals rather than burdening law-abiding gun owners.
Diverting resources towards regulations on responsible gun owners without addressing the criminal use of firearms, is ineffective in curbing gun violence. I urge you to redirect government resources towards intelligence-led policing and targeted interventions that address the root causes of gun crime.
Meaningful collaboration with law enforcement agencies and stakeholders will ensure evidence-based strategies that prioritize public safety without infringing upon the rights of responsible gun owners.
Please lead in amending Bill C-21 to focus on criminals, not law-abiding citizens, for a safer and more secure society.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Oppose Bill C-21 and Its Detrimental Impact on Gun Ranges
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I am writing to you today to express my concern over what I feel may be an understated issue with Bill C-21, should it come to pass; an issue that may give rise to tremendously deleterious effects on our country's public safety.
By no longer allowing restricted firearms to be bought or sold, the number of restricted firearms owners is already declining, as older gun owners pass away and their firearms are destroyed - unable to be inherited by loved ones (but that's another matter). This will lead to the closure of most gun clubs across the country, as most are operating as not-for-profit community associations, and most rely on Restricted firearms owners to stay solvent. Restricted firearms, such as handguns and AR-15s, have only ever been allowed to be used on gun ranges in this country and so their owners form the majority of gun club members.
The closure of gun ranges will have a profoundly detrimental effect on the training of crucial law enforcement personnel, including conservation officers, border guards, corrections employees, and federal and provincial armed staff. Many regions rely on local gun clubs to host training, practice and qualifications. With the impending closure of these clubs, the question arises of how our police officers (and other armed public servants) will maintain their shooting skills to ensure public safety.
Will communities go further underserved by law enforcement when officers can no longer serve due to lapsing firearms qualifications? Or will communities go underserved by law enforcement because every week a new batch of police officers needs to be bussed hours away to qualify or train with a firearm in an adequate setting?
And in which case are Canadians made safer?
The lack of consideration for the practical consequences of this bill, especially its impact on law enforcement and public safety, raises serious doubts about its effectiveness and justification.
As a responsible representative, I implore you to oppose Bill C-21 and advocate for evidence-based solutions that prioritize public safety without jeopardizing the vital training needs of law enforcement professionals.
Please consider the far-reaching implications of this legislation and work towards finding more balanced and effective approaches to address gun violence while preserving the rights and essential training capabilities of law-abiding citizens and law enforcement personnel.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Your leadership in safeguarding the interests of Canadians and our safety is of utmost importance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Please remove the handgun ban from Bill C-21, or amend it so at require fair market value, voluntary compensation program for owners
Dear Senator [Senator's Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to express my profound concern about the ramifications of Bill C-21, particularly the lack of compensation being offered to current owners of handguns. As we navigate through these challenging economic times, it is imperative to consider the financial burden imposed on law-abiding citizens by this arbitrary decision.
The government's sudden and unexpected decision to prohibit the legal buying and selling of 1 million handguns without offering any form of financial compensation has exacerbated the hardships faced by citizens already grappling with the economic repercussions of the ongoing pandemic and economic uncertainty. While addressing the issue of gun violence is undeniably important, it is crucial to ensure that legislative actions do not unjustly burden law-abiding gun owners, who have dutifully complied with existing laws and regulations. The lack of financial compensation for these individuals underscores the need for a fair and just approach to firearms legislation.
As we contemplate the potential closure of shooting disciplines and handgun clubs across the country (due to declining membership figures resultant from these bans), it becomes apparent that law-abiding citizens invested in these activities may face significant financial losses, in addition to the restrictions on their legal rights to engage in their chosen sport. This lack of compensation is especially concerning given the economic hardships currently faced by many Canadians, and is only feeding resentment and divisiveness among those directly impacted - all while offering no apparent benefit to public safety.
Legislators need to assess the financial implications of Bill C-21 on Canadians critically. Ensuring fair and reasonable compensation for handgun owners who choose to pursue it can at least help mitigate the economic hardships imposed by the prohibition on buying and selling handguns.
I urge you, as a distinguished representative, to advocate for an equitable and compassionate approach that considers the economic well-being of law-abiding citizens. By addressing the lack of compensation in Bill C-21, we can ensure that the legislation reflects a balanced and socially responsible response to gun violence, while safeguarding the interests and financial security of our citizens.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Your leadership in advocating for a comprehensive and fair approach to firearms legislation will undoubtedly serve the best interests of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Thank You, Senator Plett
Dear Senator Plett,
As a gun owner who wants their kids to inherit the firearms with which we've made so many memories, thank you for everything you've done to speak against Bill C-21.
It is so very much appreciated, so again, thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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