This is in response to the article by Kevin Ma, Aug. 31 edition.I believe we should have memorials of all genres in our schools, parks and public places. They can promote awareness, foster discussion and help those affected to process and heal. Paula Power has said, "that having permanent memorials can hinder the process of grief by those unaffected by the death". How would anyone unaffected be impacted? It would have no bearing whatsoever on that individual.
Furthermore, as a society, we have permanent memorials in abundance (headstones, war/vetrans memorials, murals and statues.) Should we shield every child to such a great extent that there is no awareness? People, both great and small pass away every day. A public memorial in honour is society's true form of appreciation.
Also, if all permanent memorials are removed, what of the dedication plaques that are at every entrance to our schools and public places? This feels and appears to be a knee-jerk reaction to a half-thought plan.
R. Girardin, St. Albert
