The assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti, the first Federal Minister for Minorities in Pakistan, may not have caught your attention a couple of weeks ago.

As the only Christian Cabinet Minister in Pakistan, Bhatti fought for basic, fundamental liberties that we sometimes take for granted, including freedom of religion and freedom of speech.

Bhatti knew full well that one day he would be killed for defending these basic rights. As we in Canada approach a possible spring election, I wonder how often we take our political rights for granted.

Many Canadians, particularly our War Dead and Veterans, have sacrificed so that we can have basic liberties.

The rule of law and representative and responsible government may sometimes seem dry and dusty concepts. However, these principles have made Canada a place where all peoples can live without fear.

We owe it to both past and future generations to use and protect our freedoms.

I’m Brad Trost, your Member of Parliament in Saskatoon-Humboldt. You can call my office in Saskatoon at 975-6133 or drop by our two offices to visit: Saskatoon Monday-Friday or Humboldt Tuesday and Wednesday. I always appreciate your feedback.