My nomination for Canadian of the Year

At least as far as defending life is concerned: Rod Bruinooge. He’s a young, talented, ambitious Metis MP from Winnipeg, which means in the Conservative Party, which is eager to grow in rural areas and attract more aboriginal votes and bring in fresh blood, the sky is the limit for him. And he is a proud supporter of life and defender of the unborn, who speaks not only for the most vulnerable among us, but also the two thirds of Canadians who want at least some restrictions on abortion in Canada (as compared to the current complete lack of them.) After picking off the heavily favoured Reg Alcock in the last election by 111 votes, he expanded his margin of victory to 4000 in October.

There are many different kinds of courage. By toeing the line and keeping quiet, Bruinooge could curry favour with higher-ups in the part and set himself up for a smooth climb through the party. He’s also got a young family (with his second child born yesterday – congratulations!) and therefore no end of claims on his time. But instead of playing it safe and keeping his mouth shut, as the CPC would prefer, he’s speaking his conscience, leading the most-unsecret-ever secret pro-life caucus, and setting an example more of us should follow. I know I have often chosen to keep my beliefs to myself, whether out of a desire not to cause social unpleasantness, alienate colleagues, or mark myself as an outcast in the extremely pro-abortion circles in which I spend much time. One of my New Years’ Resolutions is to be brave enough not to acquiesce, through my silence, when others speak of abortion as a women’s right. I have a feeling Rod himself doesn’t see himself as a hero for doing what he does and saying what he says, but I admire him, and look forward to what he’ll do in the years to come. We need more MPs like him.

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