The Importance of Freedom of Expression
Thursday, January 8th, 2015
The morning of January 7th will be remembered for the horrible actions of a group that thought that a Sword is more powerful than a Pen. The massacre of 12 people in Paris in an attempt to silence free thought and expression, will not be accepted by those who believe in democratic and free speech.
All over the world, people gathered in silent vigil to show that we will not bow to this horrible attack. There will be no fear, there will be no silencing of free expression, nor the freedom of press. For those that use terror to control their own people and try to control those who do not follow their beliefs, they have accomplished the opposite. Yesterday’s actions have angered most of the world and proved that we cannot be silenced.
In the age of social media and the internet, more is shared, faster and wider than ever. We know what people are thinking all over the world in an blink of an eye and a click of a mouse. I found out about the Vancouver Vigil via social media and knew that I needed to attend. The horror of the events in Paris struck me very deeply and I wished to show both my respect and defiance by attending.
When I arrived, I was struck by the cross section of people already there, from children to seniors and all walks of life. The silence was overpowering and the signs and pens held by the crowd said volumes.
I chose to record and share what I saw. I am not a photojournalist but felt compelled to document and tell some of the story and feeling of the Vancouver Vigil. This is part of my stand against what happened…
The pen is mightier than the sword will ever be.
“Je Suis Charlie’ Slient Vigil at Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014
“Je Suis Charlie’ Slient Vigil at Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014
“Je Suis Charlie’ Silent Vigil on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014
“Je Suis Charlie’ Silent Vigil on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014
“Je Suis Charlie’ Silent Vigil on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014
“Je Suis Charlie’ Slient Vigil at Vancouver Art Gallery Jan 7 2014