Three thousand people have already confirmed on Facebook that they will be attending the giant “Harperman” sing-along organized by a group of concerned citizens on Parliament Hill, Thursday, September 17 at 2 p.m. Similar events are being held across Canada.
CAPE is encouraging its members to participate in this fun event. It’s an ideal opportunity to remind the government that public servants are Canadians too and have a right to express their opinions.
Of course, public service employees should take certain precautions. You can read the two documents we have published on the subject. But for those interested in joining the “Harperman” Sing-Along, here are a few specific pieces of advice:
- Make sure that you participate in the event outside of working hours. Since the Ottawa event has been organized for 2 p.m., this poses a problem. You can apply for a few hours of annual leave on September 17 to join the sing-along in the afternoon.
- Don’t wear anything that might identify you as a public servant. Put your name tag or ID card away in your pocket or purse.
- There will be media coverage of the event. You are under no obligation to grant interviews to journalists who may approach you, but if you do, tell them you are a concerned citizen who wants to participate in an activity that celebrates Canadians’ right to free speech. There is no need to say that you are a public service employee.
- When you update your status on Facebook to celebrate your participation, simply point out that you participated in the event as a concerned Canadian. If you go back to work after the event, wait until you get home before updating your Facebook status!
In Ottawa, the “Harperman” Sing-Along will take place on Thursday, September 17, from 2 to 3 p.m. on Parliament Hill. To find a sing-along event near you, go to harperman.ca*.
Update: In Ottawa, soundchecks will start at 12:30; members are invited to take part if they wish to participate during their lunch break without having to take time off.
Editor's note: a previous edition of this article mistakenly suggested taking a volunteer day. To be clear, if your participation to this event is particularly important to you, an annual leave day would be more appropriate for this type of event.
*Link no longer available.
