There is still honour in politics, and one of the truly honourable ones recently announced their retirement. Let’s start with this.
In mid-October, MP Filomena Tassi announced she will not seek re-election in the next federal election.
Tassi is a faithful public servant and statesperson.
In our hyper-nasty, hyper-partisan political environment, she refused to engage in attacks, refused to go over the top, and maintained her lifelong practice of dignified hard work.
She understands governing is complex and ultimately about achieving the greater good.
Outside of Hamilton, it is extremely rare to see opposition party politicians at government announcements – the governing party never invites them.
Tassi changed that in Hamilton.
When the Government of Canada announced non-partisan funding, she ensured that Conservative MP Dan Muys and NDP MP Matthew Green were invited. When they talk about Tassi’s “Team Hamilton” approach, it is sincerely a team approach.
She was forged (yes, I’m choosing a steel-making term) as a law student when few women were in law. She left the practice of law to become a Catholic high school chaplain. She brought her values and experience to Parliament, building relationships that transcended politics.
MP Green’s public statement summed it up best: “You’ve left a legacy that Hamilton can be proud of, and I wish you nothing but the best in your next chapter..”
I encourage you to read Green’s complete statement; it captures how special Tassi is in today’s politics.
This was first published in TPR's Email Edition Email Edition Date: November 25, 2024 Link to this Newsletter Edition Subscribe to the Newsletter here.