WHEREAS freedom of speech is an inseparable element of a democratic society; and
WHEREAS Canada is a nation whose founding principles stand for inclusivity, multiculturalism, and free speech; and
WHEREAS the Charter of Rights and Freedoms entitles citizens to the fundamental rights and protection of freedom of conscience and religion, freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expressions; and
WHEREAS currently in some theocratic nations, free speech is met with punishments ranging from detainment to execution;
NOW, THEREFORE I do hereby proclaim the day September 30th, 2016 as “International Blasphemy Rights Day” in the CITY OF VICTORIA, CAPITAL CITY of the PROVINCE of BRITISH COLUMBIA, the TRADITIONAL TERRITORIES of the ESQUIMALT AND SONGHEES FIRST NATIONS.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand this 22nd day of September, Two Thousand and Sixteen.
Lisa Helps
Mayor
City of Victoria
British Columbia
No Harm Spilt 