Ever since I was a small child, I have always been interested in seeing a safe and just society.
And I was convinced that I would have a role to play in achieving that goal. I wanted to see a society where every citizen is free, and can enjoy the services that they need.
I was born in an era when we began to see the weakening of racism, sexism and homophobia, as well as other societal ills. I was convinced that my outlook was shared by everyone.
However… At an age where I should be thinking more about retirement than about picking new fights, I’m under the impression that we’re a long way from getting there. Inside my young head, the old questions remain, reverberating through my thoughts.
How can politicians grease their friends’ palms without being held accountable for their actions?
How come an average citizen can’t access justice? Think of all those on legal aid whose lawyers demand that they spend more, or else be left without legal representation.
And all the while, members of organized crime can afford to hire top-flight lawyers also paid, in part, with that same legal aid.
Why do certain multinationals accept millions of dollars in subsidies by promising to create jobs, and then slip out of the country without fulfilling their obligations?
Lady Justice, where are you?
First seen in: Reflet de Société, Vol. 28 no. 1, February 2020, page 4
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