Imagine living in a place that is so dangerous and war-torn that you would take your family on an inflatable raft across a treacherous stretch of water at night so that your children could have a better life: This is the backdrop to the story that broke yesterday of a young boy washed-up on the shore in Turkey. The heartbreaking photo of his little body has moved many people. He, his brother, and his mother all drowned while the family fled Syria seeking a new life.

Immediately, there were accusations that it was Canada’s fault, because these refugees had been denied entrance to Canada. According to government sources, it was not this family but the uncle who was denied refugee status.

Our hearts go out to this man whose wife and two sons, were buried in Syria today. Any loss of life is a cause for grief particularly in such tragic circumstances.

During this federal election, the heartbreaking plight of the Syrian refugees has become the source for some political grandstanding and finger-pointing. Two days ago, no one was talking about refugees, but yesterday, things were different.

While grieving the loss of these three lives, along with the many other lives lost while fleeing for safety, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that in our own country we kill through abortion over 100,000 Canadian babies each year. Each one of them is also a tragedy and worthy of receiving a public outpouring of grief.

These babies also deserved a warm Canadian welcome yet our society denies them that right.

We must find a better political solution for both the homeless refugee and for families torn apart through abortion.

These tragedies should make us consider how we treat vulnerable people in our country, including those seeking refuge among us.

CHP Canada has continually affirmed — that all human life is valuable, and that we should always work to protect it.

May God give comfort to those who mourn.

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