Two of Walt's agents -- Two [Long time, no hear! Ed.] and Six -- have (independently) alerted us to the cautionary tale of how a scientist with Environment Canada has been put on administrative leave (with pay, fortunately for him) for the sin of creating a politically charged protest song calling for the ousting of Canada's Dear Leader, Steve Harpoon. Definitely a CLM -- Career-Limiting Move.
Tony Turner, a physical scientist at Environment Canada and longtime singer-songwriter in Ottawa's folk music scene, wrote the controversial tune "Harperman". He was sent home a couple of weeks ago, his union says, over concerns that his song "breached Environment Canada's value and ethics code".
The song touches on the trial (for bribery, fraud and being an asshole) of Senator Mike Puffy trial, as well as Harper's too-public feud Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada. It includes lyrics like "Who muzzles the poor scientist?" and "Won't buy into climate change until it's sold on the stock exchange." The chorus ends with the blunt line, "Harperman, it's time for you to go!" EVERYBODY SING ALONG!!!
Footnote: In case you didn't see it, here's the welcome message posted on YouTube along with the video. We appreciate all the attention we are receiving since the story broke in the national media on August 21. Comments are welcome but please keep it as positive as possible. The Harperman song and video are about optimism, about joyful protest, about looking forward to the coming federal election and the chance to send Harperman on his way.
No comments:
Post a Comment