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easter bunny

Saturday April 19, 2025

April 19, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Pierre Poilievre's plan to invoke the notwithstanding clause threatens Canadian democratic norms and sets a dangerous precedent for federal governance.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 19, 2025

Poilievre’s Notwithstanding Gamble: A Risky Precedent for Canada

The concerns regarding Pierre Poilievre's casual use of the Notwithstanding clause include the potential undermining of the balance of power, diminishing the importance of Charter rights, the risk of misuse and abuse, and setting a dangerous precedent for future governments.

May 4, 2024

In a political landscape increasingly characterized by divisive rhetoric and the erosion of democratic norms, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s pledge to invoke the notwithstanding clause of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a troubling signal. His proposal to use this powerful constitutional tool to impose consecutive life sentences for multiple murderers may tap into populist sentiments, but it sets a dangerous precedent that should disqualify him and his party from gaining the reins of power.

December 14, 2022

The notwithstanding clause, or Section 33 of the Charter, allows federal and provincial governments to override certain Charter rights temporarily. Traditionally, its use has been confined to provincial matters, such as Quebec’s secularism laws, where it has already sparked controversy. No Canadian Prime Minister has ever used this clause at the federal level, and for good reason. It represents an extraordinary measure intended for exceptional circumstances, not a tool for advancing populist agendas.

December 6, 2022

Poilievre’s willingness to be the first Prime Minister to wield this clause reflects a concerning alignment with tactics seen south of the border under Donald Trump. Trump’s efforts to undermine the judiciary and politicize the courts have led to a weakening of the checks and balances that are foundational to American democracy. Canadians should be wary of similar trends taking root here.

News: Poilievre’s pledge to use notwithstanding clause a ‘dangerous sign’: legal expert

Critics, including legal experts and political leaders, have voiced strong opposition to Poilievre’s plan. They warn that normalizing the use of the notwithstanding clause for routine legislative purposes could erode the Charter’s protections and lead to further politicization of fundamental rights. This slippery slope could extend beyond criminal justice, potentially threatening academic freedom, reproductive rights, and other areas where individual liberties might clash with political agendas.

Pierre Poilievre faces challenges adapting his strategy against the fresh leadership of Mark Carney, as Canada's political dynamics shift from opposition to unity.

March 15, 2025

Public sentiment, as reflected in reader comments and broader discourse, reveals deep apprehension about Poilievre’s intentions. The use of the notwithstanding clause is seen not only as an overreach but also as an indication of Poilievre’s authoritarian tendencies—a “trumpy” approach that prioritizes personal opinion over established legal norms. Such a path risks alienating those who value the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

News: Poilievre says he’ll use notwithstanding clause to ensure multiple-murderers die in prison

While both Trump and Poilievre use populist slogans and insults to galvanize supporters, Poilievre has thus far avoided Trump’s more extreme policies, opting to focus his populist messaging on economic concerns.

November 9 2024

Poilievre’s tough-on-crime rhetoric may resonate with certain voter bases, but the implications of his proposals extend far beyond immediate policy goals. They strike at the heart of Canada’s democratic values and the delicate balance of power that protects citizens’ rights. As we approach the upcoming election, it is crucial for Canadians to consider the long-term consequences of granting power to a leader willing to circumvent the Charter for political gain.

In a time when global democratic institutions face unprecedented challenges, Canada must stand firm in upholding its principles. Poilievre’s promise to invoke the notwithstanding clause is a stark reminder of the stakes at play. It is a promise that, if fulfilled, could fundamentally alter the landscape of Canadian governance. For this reason, it stands as yet another compelling argument.


“Notwithstanding Clause” no doubt instantly triggers eye glazing in vast swaths of Canadians, a nation where many voters remain unaware of its implications until they feel the impact firsthand. Pierre Poilievre, echoing Trump, is using populist outrage to justify potentially overriding judicial independence with the notwithstanding clause, signalling a troubling shift towards authoritarianism. What might have been seen as fear-mongering before an election becomes irrelevant once a movement takes power. When these accusations no longer trigger instinctive reactions, they solidify into harsh realities. Just look south for proof of this. Timbit Trump’s promise to enforce life sentences by bypassing court decisions raises concerns about future threats to constitutional rights, drawing unsettling parallels with recent U.S. politics. Today, Poilievre targets criminal sentencing, but despite denying admiration for Trump, he emulates many strategies from the Trump playbook, suggesting he might next challenge academic freedom, women’s rights, or other constitutional protections. This commitment to undermining judicial independence to consolidate power is the pivotal issue of this election, as it echoes the U.S. pattern of filling the judiciary with like-minded judges and defying court rulings, reflecting a desire to centralize authority. Sure, just what democracy ordered: another leader eager to override court decisions with his own, thanks to the trusty notwithstanding clause. Vote for this at your peril.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 19, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

YouTube: Easter Bunny Rejection  https://youtu.be/jDyQEaocYGc

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, authoritarian, Canada, Charter, clause, Democracy, Donald Trump, Easter, easter bunny, election, federal, freedoms, governance, Independence, Judiciary, justice, Lady Justice, Notwithstanding, overreach, Pierre Poilievre, populist, precedent, rights, Substack

Friday April 18, 2025

April 18, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The absence of costed platforms from major Canadian political parties leaves voters without crucial fiscal insights, posing risks to informed decision-making.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, Unpublished – Friday April 18, 2025

A Disservice to Canadian Voters

Pierre Poilievre's plan to invoke the notwithstanding clause threatens Canadian democratic norms and sets a dangerous precedent for federal governance.

April 19, 2025

In the throes of an election cycle, Canadian voters find themselves navigating a landscape devoid of fully costed party platforms. As advanced polls open, the absence of detailed fiscal plans from major political players like the Liberals and Conservatives is not just a minor oversight; it’s a reckless disregard for the electorate’s right to informed decision-making.

Party platforms serve as a blueprint for governance, offering insight into priorities and fiscal strategies. They are essential for holding future governments accountable. Yet, here we are, mere weeks from casting ballots, and the fiscal blueprints remain elusive. The Conservatives have pledged to collaborate with the Parliamentary Budget Officer, while the Liberals promise a release before the advanced polls close. However, these assurances come too late in the game, leaving voters with little time to digest and debate the implications of proposed policies.

Opinion: Where are the Costed Party Platforms? The Clock is Ticking

The recklessness of this approach is underscored by the current economic climate. With Canada facing a third major economic shock in less than two decades—following the 2008 financial crisis, the 2020 pandemic, and now the 2025 US trade conflict—the need for transparent and credible fiscal planning is paramount. Proposals to cut taxes or increase spending should be weighed against the backdrop of economic uncertainty and potential deficits. The lack of detailed platforms raises questions about how these promises will be funded and whether they are fiscally responsible.

Despite this, the reality may be that the absence of costed platforms doesn’t significantly sway most voters. In an age where political campaigns often resemble theatrical performances, filled with grand promises and vague assurances, the specifics of fiscal policy may take a backseat to broader ideological alignments and emotional appeals. Many voters prioritize immediate concerns over long-term fiscal sustainability, trusting party rhetoric over detailed economic assessments.

Opinion: The hidden costs of Liberal and Conservative election promises

However, this complacency is a gamble. Without clear plans, voters are left to speculate on the sincerity and feasibility of campaign promises. It allows parties to make grandiose claims without accountability for their financial implications, potentially leading to governance that prioritizes short-term gains over sustainable economic health.

While the absence of costed platforms may not deter most voters, it represents a significant dereliction of political responsibility. It denies Canadians the opportunity to engage in meaningful debate about the future direction of the country. As citizens, we must demand more from our political leaders, insisting on transparency and accountability in their fiscal promises. The stakes are too high to accept anything less.

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, accountability, Canada, conservatives, debate, Easter, easter bunny, Economy, election, fiscal, Liberals, platforms, policies, priorities, promises, transparency, uncertainty, voters

Saturday March 30, 2024

March 30, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

The editorial cartoon depicts the Easter Bunny, holding a clipboard labelled "inventory," unimpressed by the soaring cocoa prices due to climate change, as it gazes at a small selection of boxed Easter chocolate amidst a pile of alternative treats. A human arm gestures towards the alternatives, suggesting, "maybe consider some alternatives?"

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 30, 2024

The Easter Bunny’s Warning: Climate Change and the Threat of Chocolate Shortages

April 3, 2021

As we prepare for the festivities of Easter, the iconic figure of the Easter Bunny hops into our consciousness, laden with baskets filled with colourful eggs and, of course, chocolate delights. It’s a tradition cherished by many, invoking feelings of joy, anticipation, and sweet indulgence. However, behind the whimsical facade of this beloved holiday tradition lies a troubling reality: the looming threat of chocolate shortages, yet another grim indicator of the costs of climate change.

For decades, chocolate has been a staple of Easter celebrations, symbolizing abundance, happiness, and the simple pleasures of life. Yet, as we delve deeper into the intricacies of chocolate production, we uncover a narrative tainted by the harsh realities of environmental degradation and climate instability.

News: Easter eggs are more expensive this year and climate change may be a culprit

April 20, 2019

The recent surge in cocoa prices, reaching unprecedented highs, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our global food systems. Poor harvests in West Africa, home to the majority of the world’s cocoa production, have been exacerbated by erratic weather patterns and the spread of crop diseases. The consequences are dire: dwindling cocoa supplies, soaring production costs, and dwindling incomes for cocoa farmers.

But let us not mistake this issue as merely a matter of economics. The chocolate shortage is but a symptom of a much larger crisis: the catastrophic impact of climate change on our planet’s ecosystems and livelihoods. From the decimation of insect populations crucial for pollination to the degradation of fertile land due to deforestation and soil erosion, the fingerprints of climate change are unmistakable.

April 4, 2015

As we savour each bite of our Easter chocolate, let us pause to reflect on the profound implications of its scarcity. It is a harbinger of a future where the simple pleasures we often take for granted may become increasingly elusive. The Easter Bunny’s deliveries, once a symbol of abundance and joy, may one day be overshadowed by the spectre of scarcity and uncertainty.

But amidst this gloomy forecast, there lies a glimmer of hope—a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers alike. We must recognize the urgent need to address the root causes of climate change and embrace sustainable practices that safeguard the future of chocolate production and the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.

Opinion: NOT another chocolate shortage article 

December 1, 2007

Furthermore, we must demand accountability from the major stakeholders in the chocolate industry, urging them to prioritize environmental stewardship, fair labour practices, and long-term sustainability over short-term profits. It is time for us to reevaluate our relationship with chocolate, not merely as a commodity to be consumed but as a symbol of our commitment to a more equitable and resilient future.

This Easter, as we revel in the delights of the season, let us heed the Easter Bunny’s silent warning—the shortage of chocolate is not just a logistical inconvenience but a sobering reminder of the urgent need for collective action to mitigate the impacts of climate change before it’s too late. (AI)

 

Posted in: International, Lifestyle Tagged: 2024-07, Chocolate, climate change, cocoa, Easter, easter bunny, food, inflation, prices, vegan, world

Saturday April 16, 2022

April 16, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 16, 2022

Ford wants masking in high-risk places, but optimistic wave has peaked

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Premier Doug Ford said Thursday he would like to see mask mandates continue on transit, in hospitals and other high-risk locations in Ontario, but he is optimistic the current wave of the pandemic might have peaked based on wastewater data.

Both the premier and Health Minister Christine Elliott also repeated Thursday that Ontario’s hospital system has the capacity to handle any increase in cases related to the current pandemic wave.

That was the message the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health gave to local public health officials who met with him late Wednesday to ask the province to take more action, such as mask mandates in schools, to reduce high rates of COVID-19 transmission across the province. The provincial government removed most pandemic restrictions last month and says there is no need to reinstate them.

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 1970s, 2022-14, board games, Chocolate, Doug Ford, Easter, easter bunny, Ontario, Rocketship Seven, Young Doug Ford

Saturday April 3, 2021

April 10, 2021 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 3, 2021

Ontario’s COVID-19 ’emergency brake’ shutdown takes effect on Saturday

January 13, 2021

An Ontariowide “shutdown” will be put in place to combat an “alarming” surge in COVID-19 infections, Premier Doug Ford said Thursday as intensive care admissions related to the virus surpassed those of the second wave of the pandemic.

Citing the need for drastic action, Ford said the change will take effect Saturday and continue for at least four weeks.

The government is asking Ontarians to limit trips outside the home to necessities such as food, medication and other essential services, but stopped short of imposing a stay-at-home order like it did in January.

Retail stores will see limits on capacity while restaurants will be restricted to takeout, delivery and drive-through service, the premier said.

April 11, 2020

The government has said schools will also remain open because they are crucial to students’ mental health.

“The decision was not made lightly,” Ford said in announcing the new measures. “I know the toll these restrictions continue to take on people’s mental health and well-being.”

The announcement came hours after the province’s science advisers said stay-at-home orders are needed to control the third wave driven by more contagious and deadly COVID-19 variants.

The Ontario Science Advisory Table said that otherwise, the province could see up to 6,000 new infection cases by mid-April. With the restrictions in place, the modelling data shows there will still be about 800 people in ICUs by the end of April.

December 1, 2007

“The decision was not made lightly,” Ford said in announcing the new measures. “I know the toll these restrictions continue to take on people’s mental health and well-being.”

The announcement came hours after the province’s science advisers said stay-at-home orders are needed to control the third wave driven by more contagious and deadly COVID-19 variants.

The Ontario Science Advisory Table said that otherwise, the province could see up to 6,000 new infection cases by mid-April. With the restrictions in place, the modelling data shows there will still be about 800 people in ICUs by the end of April. (Global News)

Every cartoon starts as a scrappy sketch

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2021-13, Chocolate, covid-19, Doug Ford, Easter, easter bunny, lockdown, Ontario, pandemic, shutdown
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This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

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