So there's this again:
http://canadamotoguide.com/2016/05/...nce-again-lobbying-for-sikh-helmet-exemption/
This time around the proposal has the backing of both the NDP and the PCs (!!).
Thoughts:
a) Riding a motorcycle is a privilege, not a right. It is also not a required way for anyone to get around; bicycles, cars or public transportation can easily replace the motorcycle as a way to get around (and most often do during the winter months in most of Canada...) If you need to choose between a hobby (especially one that is so comparatively dangerous) and the mandatory tenets of your religion, one would think the religion would take precedence.
b) How will insurance work if this goes through? I don't think it will -- at least not while the Libs are in power -- but suppose it did: Will insurance companies charge gazillions for SABs for those that opt to ride without helmets (i.e. Sikhs) and will we see then HRC proceedings claiming discrimination? Will be interesting to see how that plays out.
c) Will Pastafarians be allowed to replace DOT-approved helmets with pirate hats and/or colanders? If this Sikh exemption is allowed expect all manner of exemption seekers based on "religion".
d) According to this site, the reasons for Sikhs wearing a turban include "is to take care of the hair, promote equality, and preserve the Sikh identity." It also states:
"Sikhs do not cut their hair as a respect towards God and the turban protects the hair from dust. Some people might ask the question that if Sikhs cover their hair on head, why don’t they cover their beard? Dirt is not a big problem for beard. The beard can be cleaned very easily while washing the face. Covering of the head by turban also symbolizes respect towards God. People form many other religions including Hindus, Jews, and traditionally many Christians including Catholics cover their head while visiting their church ... Since Sikhs believe God to be present everywhere, they cover their head not just in church but everywhere else as well."
If this is about covering the head out of respect for God and protecting the hair from dirt and bugs and ****, why can't the helmet serve that purpose while a Sikh is out on their ride?
Would that this politician were fighting for motorcyclists to be able to filter or use HOV lanes instead of being granted the option of being front-running Darwin Award candidates in the name of religion.
http://canadamotoguide.com/2016/05/...nce-again-lobbying-for-sikh-helmet-exemption/
This time around the proposal has the backing of both the NDP and the PCs (!!).
Thoughts:
a) Riding a motorcycle is a privilege, not a right. It is also not a required way for anyone to get around; bicycles, cars or public transportation can easily replace the motorcycle as a way to get around (and most often do during the winter months in most of Canada...) If you need to choose between a hobby (especially one that is so comparatively dangerous) and the mandatory tenets of your religion, one would think the religion would take precedence.
b) How will insurance work if this goes through? I don't think it will -- at least not while the Libs are in power -- but suppose it did: Will insurance companies charge gazillions for SABs for those that opt to ride without helmets (i.e. Sikhs) and will we see then HRC proceedings claiming discrimination? Will be interesting to see how that plays out.
c) Will Pastafarians be allowed to replace DOT-approved helmets with pirate hats and/or colanders? If this Sikh exemption is allowed expect all manner of exemption seekers based on "religion".
d) According to this site, the reasons for Sikhs wearing a turban include "is to take care of the hair, promote equality, and preserve the Sikh identity." It also states:
"Sikhs do not cut their hair as a respect towards God and the turban protects the hair from dust. Some people might ask the question that if Sikhs cover their hair on head, why don’t they cover their beard? Dirt is not a big problem for beard. The beard can be cleaned very easily while washing the face. Covering of the head by turban also symbolizes respect towards God. People form many other religions including Hindus, Jews, and traditionally many Christians including Catholics cover their head while visiting their church ... Since Sikhs believe God to be present everywhere, they cover their head not just in church but everywhere else as well."
If this is about covering the head out of respect for God and protecting the hair from dirt and bugs and ****, why can't the helmet serve that purpose while a Sikh is out on their ride?
Would that this politician were fighting for motorcyclists to be able to filter or use HOV lanes instead of being granted the option of being front-running Darwin Award candidates in the name of religion.