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Articles by Louise Mignault
Louise Mignault: We need to stop pretending when it comes to Doug Ford
People should be concerned, angry, and present in opposing the way Ontario Premier Doug Ford is governing their province. 'Fight Ford' demonstrators gathered in front of Stormont--Dundas--South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn's constituency office on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Cornwall, Ont. Photo by Greg Peerenboom /Special to the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder Article content I’ve been to several protests in my life.
Louise Mignault: We need to stop pretending when it comes to Doug Ford
People should be concerned, angry, and present in opposing the way Ontario Premier Doug Ford is governing their province. 'Fight Ford' demonstrators gathered in front of Stormont--Dundas--South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn's constituency office on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Cornwall, Ont. Photo by Greg Peerenboom /Special to the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder Article content This column has been edited to correct a sentence missing a word.
Louise Mignault: We need to stop pretending when it comes to Doug Ford
People should be concerned, angry, and present in opposing the way Ontario Premier Doug Ford is governing their province. • • 'Fight Ford' demonstrators gathered in front of Stormont--Dundas--South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn's constituency office on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Cornwall, Ont. /Special to the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder This column has been edited to correct a sentence missing a word. I’ve been to several protests in my life. We apologize, but this video has failed to load.
Louise Mignault: We need to stop pretending when it comes to Doug Ford
People should be concerned, angry, and present in opposing the way Ontario Premier Doug Ford is governing their province. 'Fight Ford' demonstrators gathered in front of Stormont--Dundas--South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn's constituency office on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Cornwall, Ont. Photo by Greg Peerenboom /Special to the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder Article content This column has been edited to correct a sentence missing a word.
Identifying the Greedy War Profiteers in Control
I saw a meme recently that said, “Fight the war profiteers, not their wars.” It hit me like a ton of bricks. Not because it was shocking, but because it was SO obvious, and yet, I never thought about it. We talk about war, poverty, climate disasters, medical bankruptcies, and call them “systemic problems.” We blame capitalism, the economy, or the military-industrial complex. But we almost never stop to look behind the curtain to see who is actually pulling the levers.
The Politics of Evil: When Power and Profit Matter More Than People
Until the last few years, I have always viewed the Conservative Party of Canada as a viable political choice. Not my choice, to be sure, but a choice—not a threat. Well, not anymore. I’ve spent the past 2 years writing about my antipathy towards the modern-day Conservatives. I’ve done it since Pierre Poilievre became visible as a wannabe leader. I’ve done it because I watched his boorish style, his lack of platform, his nastiness, his disdain for the press and his resemblance to Trump evolve.
Doug Ford’s Election Mandate Was a Fraud
Before the 2025 Ontario Elections, Doug Ford was mandated to govern Ontario until June 2026. That meant he had an additional 15 months left on his term of 48 months. But instead of using the power he already had to fight tariffs or do his damn job, he called a snap election on February 27, 2025, winning himself a third term and extending his power until 2029. Let’s be clear: This was never about getting a “mandate” to stand up to Trump’s tariffs. Ford already had that authority.
Natalie Mehra’s Powerful Message on Women’s Rights, Economic Justice, and the Fight Ahead
At the Cornwall & District Labour Council’s International Women’s Day 2025 dinner, Natalie Mehra, executive director of the Ontario Health Coalition, delivered a speech that wasn’t just insightful—it was a call to action. A room full of women listened intently as she laid out, in no uncertain terms, just how deeply women’s rights are under attack—not just in the U.S., but right here in Canada. Mehra didn’t hold back.
Doug Ford's Report Card
A political opportunist, Doug Ford, is hedging his bets by calling for an unnecessary and expensive snap election next week. He’s chosen well – he plans to bamboozle an exhausted electorate amid the turmoil of Trump’s first weeks, Trudeau’s resignation and the Liberal search for a new leader. The reason? He needs a “mandate” to fight Trump’s terrible tariffs. But does he? The last I heard, it was the federal government that negotiated international trade in this country – not renegade provinces.
What's wrong with Marxism?
I was scrolling through Facebook last night, checking out reactions to my recent piece on Jagmeet Singh, when I chanced upon an utterly charming reaction that called Jagmeet a “piece of s*** – Marxist to the core.” Naturally, I couldn’t resist jumping in. Out of curiosity, I threw down the gauntlet: “What’s wrong with Marxism? What’s right about Capitalism?” I was expecting reactions like I’d just proposed replacing hockey with synchronized knitting.
Jagmeet Singh Squandered a Moment to Inspire Canadians
Yesterday, I watched the various leaders comment about Trudeau’s resignation and I was dismayed at Mr. Singh’s response. This is the letter I’m sending to him. Dear Mr. Singh, I think it’s time that you wake up and read the room. Your comments yesterday about Trudeau’s resignation were mean and, quite frankly, classless. Very similar to those made by Pierre Poilievre – a politician I loathe. I volunteer for my local NDP riding. I used to vote Liberal, and I have voted for Justin Trudeau.
On Guard For Thee
In recent weeks, Donald Trump has “joked” about turning Canada into a 51st state. Citing supposed concerns about illegal immigration from Canada and drug trafficking (fentanyl), Trump met with our PM Justin Trudeau on November 29th to discuss his proposed 25% tariff on all imports from Canada, effective January 20, 2025. Neither issue is particularly valid, and this move would raise prices on Canadian and Mexican goods for Americans while causing Canada and Mexico to lose important export revenue.
The Billionaire’s Swamp: Trump, Greed, and the Threat to Democracy
Despite his billionaire status, Trump claims to be “a man of the people” and a fearless leader who will Make America Great Again. The question is: For who? Donald Trump’s election is not a win for Americans but a successful attempt by the rich and powerful to maintain control in a crumbling system. It had nothing to do with an informed electorate making educated decisions, which is what you would hope for.
The Billionaire’s Swamp: Trump, Greed, and the Threat to Democracy
Despite his billionaire status, Trump claims to be “a man of the people” and a fearless leader who will Make America Great Again. The question is: For who? Donald Trump’s election is not a win for Americans but a successful attempt by the rich and powerful to maintain control in a crumbling system. It had nothing to do with an informed electorate making educated decisions, which is what you would hope for.
Lies, Corruption, and the Betrayal of Trust
It’s a sad state of affairs when we, the electorate, must take matters into our own hands to protect ourselves from the predation of our “leaders.” However, it is a reality.
Beware the Trojan Horse: How Doug Ford’s Healthcare Plan Is Undermining Ontario’s Public System
On Monday, November 4, 2024, I attended a healthcare protest in front of the Cornwall Community Hospital featuring a striking symbol of public resistance: a 15-foot-high metal and resin Trojan Horse. This towering figure, a vivid reminder of the Greek tale of deceit and hidden agendas, is driven from town to town to alert Ontarians to the dangers embedded in Doug Ford’s healthcare privatization plans.
Where were you?
Last night, from 6pm to 8 pm, I attended Dr. Heather Short’s SDSG Greens-hosted talk about global warming, at the Library. Where were you? City Councillors were all invited. Not one showed up. Where were you? Other than a handful of Green Party members and myself – no one from a visible political party showed up. Where were you?
I Don’t Care Which Party Wins… As Long As…
… they govern with compassion, fairness, and a commitment to improving life for all Canadians. I will vote for any party that is focused on creating a society that values dignity, equality, and the well-being of its citizens. So, what does the winner look like to me? I want a government that guarantees timely public healthcare for everyone. It shouldn’t be a privilege just for the wealthy. We need universal healthcare that covers everything from mental health to dental care, to prescription drugs.
Thanksgiving - Gratitude in Practice
Giving thanks is a warm, comforting feeling that expresses appreciation for what we have. But, when truly understood, gratitude is more profound than a fleeting sense of contentment and the smell of roast turkey at Thanksgiving. It asks us to reflect on who we are, our values and how we shape each other’s lives. While it’s easy to list the material things or comforts we enjoy—a safe home, good health, financial stability—another layer of gratitude speaks to the best of who we are as a society.
Vinegar and Milk: Homemade Cheese in 10 Minutes!
Cheese-making might sound like an artisanal craft best left to professionals; however, with just two simple ingredients—vinegar and milk—you can confidently whip up a fresh batch of delicious cheese in under ten minutes! This quick and easy method is perfect for enjoying homemade cheese while saving money. Here’s how to do it.
Hate in Cornwall pt. 4 - Cornwall Police
You can read PART 3 Here, PART 2 Here and PART 1 Here Sam, a 26-year-old trans man, and his family have faced repeated harassment for displaying a Pride flag outside their home. During the Covid pandemic, they decorated their house with Pride decorations for Pride Month, which led to them being targeted multiple times. Initially, the attacks were limited to their flag being torn down, but the vandalism escalated significantly this summer. Their story was shared in the first two parts.
Hate in Cornwall pt.3
You can read PART 2 Here and Part 1 Here Sam, a 26-year-old trans man, and his family have faced repeated harassment for displaying a Pride flag outside their home. During the Covid pandemic, they decorated their house with Pride decorations for Pride Month, which led to them being targeted multiple times. Initially, the attacks were limited to their flag being torn down, but the vandalism escalated significantly this summer. Their story was shared in the first 2 parts.
Hate in Cornwall pt.2
You can read PART 1 here Sam, a 26-year-old trans man, and his family have faced repeated harassment for displaying a Pride flag outside their home. During the Covid pandemic, they decorated their house with Pride decorations for Pride Month, which led to them being targeted multiple times. Initially, the attacks were limited to their flag being torn down, but the vandalism escalated significantly this summer.
Hate in Cornwall pt.1
Sam, a 26-year-old trans man, and his family have faced repeated harassment for displaying a Pride flag outside their home. During the Covid pandemic, they decorated their house with Pride decorations for Pride Month, which led to them being targeted multiple times. Initially, the attacks were limited to their flag being torn down, but the vandalism escalated significantly this summer. Their experience is shared through a series of questions answered by Sam and his mother Amy.
A day in the life of a Canadian Dad by Pierre Poilievre
Ah, Pierre Poilievre strikes again with another improbable video! It was so unpopular that the Conservatives pulled it from circulation when it was met with fact-checking and ridicule. But videos can be saved to other platforms like YouTube and shared. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPFNKvM06fU Pierre might be forgiven for romanticizing the past but painting this junk as the picture of tomorrow under his leadership is not only inaccurate – it’s dangerous. Why?
The Uninvite Fiasco: Politicians Play Hardball with Pride
On the 14th of July, Diversity Cornwall (DC) sent letters asking MP Eric Duncan and MPP Nolan Quinn to refrain from participating in this year’s Pride Parade. Rather than being handled discreetly between DC & Duncan and DC & Quinn, it appears that Mr. Duncan passed his letter on to DC’s funders – the City of Cornwall and the Counties SDG – in the hopes of reversing DC’s decision. I received this correspondence from a third party.
"Enough Already"
There once was a statesman named Eric, Whose hate for the (carbon) tax was epic. He’d rant and he’d rave, And sounded most grave Dreaming in tax-free hysterics. By night he would turn, With a belly that burned “Why must they tax air?” He’d scream in despair, As he plotted his next manuscript. His friends would take note, Of the harsh way he spoke “Down with the tax!” He’d shout in the cracks, Leaving them all in a choke.
How to Build a Preparedness Bag for Car Travel
As the weather warms and Canadians thaw, a trip in the car (or bike) is a common way to get out of the city. Or maybe you need to be on the road and want optimal safety and comfort. Preparing for unexpected situations while on the road can make all the difference in a safe and smooth journey. A well-equipped preparedness bag can help you handle emergencies, stay comfortable during long trips, and be ready for anything that comes your way.
Community Rallies for Public Healthcare: Ontario Protests Push Back Against Privatization
The Ontario Health Coalition held a demonstration on May 30th in front of Nolan Quinn’s office, urging the Ontario Government to stop the privatization of healthcare and restore public healthcare services. Approximately 40 people attended the event, showing strong community support for the cause. This gathering was part of a province-wide initiative, with similar demonstrations occurring that day across Ontario.
Cornerstone Organics - Aquaponic Farming
If you like salads as much as I do, you look for the best lettuce and greens. Among its many offerings, Cornerstone Organics grows and distributes great salad greens. They are fresh and flavourful and during the cooler months, grown in an Aquaponic system. I recently visited Cornerstone’s 200-acre farm with a friend and got a fantastic tour of the aquaponics setup from the owners Matt Lalonde and Jamie McRae.
Fire Up Your Grill Game: The Art of Homemade Charcoal
As summer nears and the barbecue covers come off, many people head to the hardware store for a bag of charcoal. From a lighthearted barbequed meal to survival scenarios, learning how to make charcoal is a skill that can significantly enhance one’s life. And it’s pretty easy to make. This article delves into the traditional method of charcoal production, offering a step-by-step guide tailored to situations where modern conveniences are out of reach.
Welcome to the Resilient Life!
“The Resilient Life” is a new DIY, Homesteading, and Preparedness column that celebrates local craftsmanship and self-sufficiency. In an expensive world that relies on convenience and mass production, there’s a growing movement towards greater independence, sustainability, and resilience. This includes healthy frugality for those who must extend their dollars, natural and homemade versions of food prep and a holistic approach toward self-care. It’s great to be able to do things for yourself.
Transitional Housing: Addressing Community Fears
According to homelesshub.ca the types of homelessness are: Unsheltered: living on the streets or in places not intended for human habitation. Emergency Sheltered: overnight shelters and shelters for those impacted by family violence. Provisionally Accommodated: temporary or lacking security of tenure (couch surfing). At Risk: people whose current economic and/or housing situation is precarious or does not meet public health and safety standards.
Conservative Disappointment: A Twitter Thread
Do you ever read a post or thread on social media that really resonates? That could almost speak for you? This one does for me. It’s a Twitter thread (X) written by “AnnaSova” who is from a small community in Alberta. I don’t know her real name or the name of her town because she has been “physically threatened in my small community for not supporting conservatives” but I got her permission to post it here in its entirety. This is her commentary.
When Leaders Fail Us
Leaders of all stripes exert a profound influence on individuals and societies, shaping norms, values, and behaviours. We unconsciously align our behaviours with the expectations – high or low – set by our leaders, be they in business, religion, academia, or politics. But what happens when our leaders forsake us? These days we’re charged exorbitant prices for necessary goods and services while business leaders profit immensely.
Same Party; Different Voices
I am known for my politics. I am not a Conservative voter. Before Trump got into power in the US, I was sanguine about being governed by different parties. I felt that while I had my perspective and had voted accordingly, I could live with it if the Conservatives (or Liberals or NDP) gained power. Apart from the threat of separation in Quebec, I have felt the same my whole life – until recently.
THE CARBON TAXES ARE UPON US!
Poilievre’s Axe the Tax campaign revolves around a theory that Canadians would be better off financially if they did not pay carbon taxes (henceforth referred to as CT).
New Year’s Resolution 2024 - Educate Yourself
Most of the time I think New Year’s resolutions are for the birds, but there is one I am advocating for in 2024: allocate time daily or weekly to educate yourself about what is going on in Canada and the world and get involved. We, as a collective, need you to participate. If you think your voice counts for nothing and you can’t make a difference, look around. Your lack of attention compounded by the same lack of attention from a sea of others has created a world that can be downright frightening.
Brainy Bashing: Poilievre’s (extra)”Ordinary” Narrative
In a recent set of “campaign” videos like this one (@38 minute mark) Pierre Poilievre whips up his audience’s enthusiasm by commenting on ordinary people who are, in his estimation, “extraordinary”.
Tampon Tantrum
A recent political stunt is sparking “debate” in social media circles thanks to the desperate efforts of Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri. With a camera person in tow, Michelle waltzed into the men’s washroom near her office in a Parliament building to illustrate a potentially wasteful use of OUR taxes. The extravagance in question was a small basket of tampons & pads (3-4 of each) left near the sink.
Political Bullying on the Rise: The Case of Senator Bernadette Clement
Anyone interested in Canadian politics is witnessing a concerning trend – the rise of political bullying and harassment within the corridors of power coupled with dishonest attacks. Since when is it acceptable for Canadian politicians and political parties to engage in such behaviour?
The Evolving Notion of Common Sense
What was once regarded as straightforward and logical evolves as society’s understanding and knowledge expand. Today, our notion of common sense is not confined to the wisdom of the past; it also incorporates recent scientific and social advancements. The Evolution of Common Sense with Knowledge Common sense is not static; it evolves alongside our collective knowledge. For example, consider the issue of global warming.
The Perils of Privatizing Healthcare: The Case of Ontario's Bill 60
Today I attended a press conference for a new report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives called “At What Cost? – Ontario Hospital Privatization and the Threat to Public Health Care” by Andrew Longhurst. The presser was co-hosted by Michael Hurley, President of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions. Mr. Longhurst’s report and the press conference today revolved around the threat to Ontario public healthcare through the privatization of Ontario hospital services.
Winning at Our Expense - Corporate and Political Manipulation
Friends of mine hold monthly dinners to discuss current events.
Nobody should have to live in a tent
A newish resident of the city of Cornwall, Phyllis Sarault, was on a bus downtown when she noticed a young woman sitting in a little tent next to city hall. It bothered her all night. The next day she returned to the tent with things she thought the young woman might need. The young woman explained that she was camped in the tent to raise awareness about homelessness but that she herself would be moving that day. Rather than walk away feeling like “job done”, Phyllis got mad. The best kind of mad.
The Puppeteers' Tool: How Political Surveys Enable Manipulation and Control
I have been a paid member of Canada’s 3 main political parties this past year because I want to know how and what they communicate to their members. All three parties send out regular surveys and all three ask for donations in their survey emails. We tend to believe that surveys have a purpose, are objective tools to gauge public opinion and are essential for creating public policy. Are they?
Public Hospitals in Ontario - then and now
Based on the writing of Nathalie Mehra of the Ontario Health Coalition. The history of public hospitals in Ontario spans over a century, with many institutions founded by municipalities, charitable organizations, and religious orders. In the early 1900s, hospitals gained popularity among the middle class due to advancements in medical technologies such as x-rays, sterile surgeries, and birthing procedures.
Full Bellies comes to Cornwall Square
If you talk to Amy Willis about the Full Bellies concept she will tell you that her progress has been an organic experience. Three years ago Full Bellies was essentially a group of friends buying food in bulk. As Amy is the mother to 8 kids, I can certainly understand this effort! Amy grew her bulk food group into a small business that served 40 people by operating out of her van. She then moved to a 37-ft bus serving a hundred but outgrew this in mere months.
Celebrating International Women’s Day: why it matters
Every year on March 8th, we celebrate International Women’s Day where we recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural and political achievements. We take this opportunity to also raise awareness of the progress made in achieving gender equality while looking at the remaining work to be done. According to UNWomen, gender equality is “equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities” for all genders. It doesn’t mean that everyone should be the same.
The Project Veritas Pfizer story is all about greed
I used to be an intentional innocent; someone who didn’t want to know what was going on in the world because I felt that even if I did, I was powerless to do anything about it. That complete lack of control stressed me. So I chose ignorance. I was MUCH happier not reading the news. From my bubble, the world was a better place and the people in it were nicer. But, despite all my efforts to shield myself from reality, reality crept in.
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