Dear Editor:
Your Aug. 10 story, Ship Protesters Demand Truth from Military was a great article. What a gift to have the freedom to protest in peace. Even here in Canada that is not always the case!
Too bad more information about the Canadian government's involvement - which represents Canadians both here and abroad - was not available.
Canadians opened their doors to Chilean refugees but never broke diplomatic ties during this brutal 18 year regime. During this time of human rights violations, Canada built a relationship with the Chilean navy and in many ways economically, socially and militarily supported Pinochet's government.
Personally, as a Chilean/Canadian, I was glad to have the opportunity to speak with the sailors about this history, pay my respects to those who suffered on the ship by going on board and sharing the common space, and most importantly having the opportunity to educate my son as to the history of the ship and the atrocities committed during this dark chapter of Chilean history while standing on the deck of this magnificent vessel. I am certain the lesson was better understood because of this opportunity.
Alvaro Peralta North Vancouver
