Letters to the Editor, March 18, 2025

Federal Justice Minister Sean Fraser expressed openness to potentially including the term “femicide” in Canada's Criminal Code, responding to advocacy for better recognition of gender-based violence. While police departments vary in their classification of such killings, Fraser's acknowledgment is seen as a positive step towards addressing and accurately reporting these crimes. Need More Context? 🔎

Forty years after the Air India bombing, which killed 329 people, over half of Canadians believe it has not been treated as a national tragedy, with 32% unaware of the event. A majority support a memorial exhibit and education on the bombing, but knowledge is particularly low among younger Canadians, highlighting an urgent need for awareness about this significant incident in Canadian history. Need More Context? 🔎

Ontario's civil servants have advised the province's new municipal affairs minister that the government's target of building 1.5 million homes by 2031 may fall short of demand, suggesting that up to 2.1 million new homes are needed to enhance affordability. This recommendation comes as part of ongoing discussions on addressing housing challenges in the region. Need More Context? 🔎

Bob Rae, Canada's UN ambassador, emphasized the need to recognize the Air India Flight 182 disaster as a significant Canadian tragedy during a memorial visit in Ahakista, Ireland, marking 40 years since the bombing that killed 329 people. He highlighted the emotional impact on victims' families and criticized the lack of acknowledgment of the event's severity, advocating for better education about this pivotal moment in Canadian history. Need More Context? 🔎

Pe'er Krut, a Canadian intern in Jerusalem, faced peril as Iranian missiles struck Israel, prompting her evacuation through the Birthright organization after days of sheltering in bomb shelters. Criticism arose regarding the Carney government's delayed response, with Krut and others finding safe passage only after the government announced an evacuation plan on June 20. Need More Context? 🔎

Families of Air India Flight 182 victims gathered in Ahakista, Ireland, on June 21, 2025, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the bombing that killed 329 people. Padmini Turlapati, who lost her two sons, and other relatives found solace at the memorial, reflecting on their loved ones and the support from the Irish community, while preparing for a larger gathering on June 23 involving dignitaries and bereaved families. Need More Context? 🔎