When you work for someone else, your employer ultimately decides whether your conduct reflects their brand. In the case of Manitoba’s NDP Premier Wab Kinew, that decision came into focus after “Families Minister” Nahanni Fontaine posted controversial comments on social media about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
Fontaine reshared an Instagram post describing Kirk as “racist, xenophobic, transphobic, [and] Islamophobic,” adding that she had “absolutely no empathy” for him. Although she later apologized and deleted the post, the remarks drew widespread criticism.
Rather than remove her from cabinet, Premier Kinew said he believed it would be “too easy to show her the door.” Instead, he framed the moment as an opportunity for dialogue and reflection, stating that a healthy democracy requires empathy even toward those we disagree with.
Cancel Culture vs. Censorship
It is important to distinguish between cancel culture and censorship.
- Cancel culture is the social pressure to fire, boycott, or silence individuals for statements they have made.
- Censorship, by contrast, involves the suppression of ideas or speech by law or policy.
Critics note that the NDP has long supported restrictive measures on speech, often framing opposition voices as harmful or unacceptable. This makes the government’s rejection of “cancel culture” in Fontaine’s case appear selective.
At its root, the debate comes down to freedom of expression, accountability, and the political branding of those in power.
The Christian Perspective on Speech and Leadership
The Bible teaches us that words carry power: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). As Christians, we are called to use speech to build up, not to tear down (Ephesians 4:29). Fontaine’s remarks, while protected in a democracy, failed to reflect this principle.
Jesus Himself was condemned and crucified for what He said, not for violence or hatred. He spoke truth that the established order despised. This should remind us that persecution often begins not with physical action but with words—and how societies choose to handle dissent.
History also shows us the danger of politicized speech. Dictators like Hitler were not remembered for their slogans but for the violence they unleashed against those they dehumanized with their words. Christians must be especially cautious not to embrace rhetoric that legitimizes contempt for human life.
Responsibility in Leadership
If Fontaine worked for a private company, her employer would have had the right to dismiss her for misrepresenting their values. In choosing not to dismiss her, Premier Kinew signaled that Fontaine’s remarks are not inconsistent with the NDP’s broader brand.
This raises an important lesson for believers: the people we align ourselves with reflect our witness. Paul warned in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” Whether in politics, business, or ministry, tolerating words that demean or divide reflects back on the institution itself.
Seek the Kingdom of God First
Democracy can often slide toward demagoguery, where power and popularity become idols. When leaders embrace or excuse speech that fuels division, it shows how intoxicating power can become.
For Christians, the response must be different. We are not called to echo the anger of the age but to seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). Our loyalty is not to parties, slogans, or worldly movements, but to Christ, who commands us to love even our enemies (Matthew 5:44).
At times, the best response is silence—simply saying “rest in peace” rather than fueling more division. At other times, it is to speak truth gently, reminding people that Jesus never mocked or killed His enemies, but instead bore the cross on their behalf.
Conclusion
Nahanni Fontaine had the right to say what she said. But in retaining her, Premier Kinew has tied her words to the NDP brand. For Christians, the lesson is clear: our words and affiliations matter. They reflect who we are and, more importantly, whose we are.
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)
Consider making Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior today. Only in Him can we find the truth, compassion, and courage needed to live faithfully in a divided world.