Re: “AI strategy behind layoffs at Ssense, photographer says” (The Gazette, July 4)
Replacing workers with AI is not just a cost-cutting move — it is a stark preview of the future we are rushing into without adequate thought or protection for Canadian workers.
When AI can generate high-quality photography, design and creative content for a fraction of the cost, what remains for the creative industries that have long been an integral part our economy and culture?
People contribute something AI can’t replicate: human experience, emotion, cultural context, and originality.
This change cannot be seen as progress if it leaves hard-working Canadians behind. Governments must act with urgency to protect workers.
We also need a national conversation. In an AI-driven economy, where do people belong? What kind of society are we building if we prioritize efficiency and profit over human dignity and purpose?
Creative work is not just output. It is human expression, storytelling and connection. What kind of future will we have if creativity is taken over by intelligent machines?
Shannon Michelle Booth, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts
Apologies from a neighbour
Re: “A letter to our American friends” (Raphaël Melançon, July 3)
Raphaël Melançon’s column — a letter addressed “to our southern neighbours” — struck home with me. As one of those neighbours, I deeply regret the tariff war undertaken by our current president. His conduct resembles the intransigent authoritarianism of George III that led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Please accept my sincere apology, and those of many millions of Americans, for the follies of our deeply unpopular current leader. Instead of pointless feuding, we should be joining hands to address the countless international challenges of our day. Topping that list is climate change, which the current president famously described as a Chinese hoax.
Far better than the pointless antagonizing of Trump, I would praise the approach of a better president, Abraham Lincoln, from his inaugural address. “We are not enemies, but friends. … Though passion may have strained, it must not break those bonds of affection.”
The context was different then, of course, but the straining of present-day bonds will take much time and effort to undo. But undo it we must, both for ourselves and for the future of humanity.
Chris Wiegard, Chester, Va.
No sympathy for non-voters
I have trouble being sympathetic toward the American population. In the last election, nearly 90 million eligible Americans did not vote. The result is what we see now.
A lot of my summers were spent travelling to antique auto exhibitions in Vermont, New York, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. I have not gone to the U.S. since the new administration.
I hope the midterm elections make a difference, though I doubt it.
Ron Fitzsimmons, Montreal
We must talk about misogyny
Re: “Misogyny is more poisonous and pervasive than ever” (Allison Hanes, July 7)
Allison Hanes has rung the alarm bell on the danger our society faces with the rise of misogyny.
In a city that painfully remembers the École Polytechnique murders of 14 women on Dec. 6, 1989, last month’s killings in Côte-des-Neiges are a shocking reminder of the consequences of angry men fuelled by dangerous beliefs.
Hanes writes what many of us women, parents and teachers strongly agree with: “The simplest and most urgent need is for greater awareness, not only among parents, teachers, decision-makers and public-opinion shapers, but young men and women themselves.”
Such important and timely discussions must be added to school curriculums at the earliest possible time.
Vivianne M. Silver, Côte-St-Luc
Re: “ ‘Determined’ teen graduates with class — despite cancer” (The Gazette, June 27)
Susan Schwartz’s story about Adam Beaury, the boy who graduated with his class despite cancer treatment, is beautiful and heartfelt.
Adam is imbued with hope and remarkable resilience. I hope life continues to bring him strength, happiness and every opportunity to thrive.
Sandra Hendlisz, Montreal
Heartfelt thanks for a moving memorial
Re: “‘Montreal is crying’ for slain police officer” (The Gazette, July 8)
I am a chaplain with London Police Service and joined our members to attend the memorial service honouring Montreal police Const. Mohamed Lamine Benredouane.
It was one of the most authentically moving memorials I have experienced. The words spoken, music played and thoughtful reflections pointed to sensitive planning and a desire to make it meaningful for all.
I wish to thank the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) and the people of Montreal for their kind hospitality.
Jim Mockler, London, Ont.
No place in our society for assault rifles
Re: “PolySeSouvient wants SKS rifle banned” (The Gazette, June 26)
If anyone has the right and moral authority to demand a ban on the SKS assault rifle that is believed to have been used in the June 22 killing of a police officer and an innocent bystander in Côte-des-Neiges, it is Heidi Rathjen, a survivor of the horrific Polytechnique massacre in 1989.
As spokesperson for PolySeSouvient, she states it’s been 36 years that the group has been calling for a ban on assault rifles, only to face postponement after postponement by the federal government.
Despite the pushback by gun owners and lobbies, we must focus on the victims of gun violence — those killed and those left behind to mourn them.
Why anyone would think it’s OK to own an assault rifle, especially in a city, is beyond me.
One has to have been in the C.D.N. area or seen the long assault weapon pointed at people below through an open hotel window to feel the fear and apprehension at the horror that was unfolding.
Kudos to Rathjen for never abandoning the fight to rid us of these horrible weapons and never letting us forget the 14 women killed in 1989 — and all victims of gun violence — in her goal to ensure a safer world for future generations.
Goldie Olszynko, Mile End
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