It's official: next autumn Mr. Michael C. Hogeterp will be teaching Introduction to Political Science (POL 121) at Redeemer University College during my upcoming sabbatical. He thus becomes the first Redeemer alumnus to teach in the department. Hogeterp is research co-ordinator for the Committee for Contact with the Government of the Christian Reformed Church of North America. Here is an excerpt from his testimonty before the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights of the House of Commons last year:
When the Charter [of Rights and Freedoms] is understood to be inflexible on a given point, opportunities for conciliation are suspended. This absolutizes rights and hinders the dynamic conciliatory interchange that gives rights meaning in the long term. Using rights claims as trump cards is not a recipe for social cohesion, inclusivity, or justice.
Living in a community with our differences is made possible by open conversation directed toward just policy and not by defences that absolute rights claims set up. We certainly hope Canadians are committed to an open, inclusive, and respectful dialogue.
One more protégé to take pride in.
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