This is a copy of the letter I wrote to Jennie King, Managing Director of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo: 

Dear Ms King,

I have been a big fan of the Tattoo for many years; attended at least 15 performances and have  always admired how the show skillfully navigates the challenge between glorifying war and honouring those who have served our country in a variety of ways. I enjoyed each show immensely, looking forward to old favourites and new acts. Yesterday, July 29th,  was no exception, but found myself disturbed by part of it.

In this time of #MeToo and the ever growing awareness of sexual harassment, assault and exploitation, including that of children, I wonder at the appropriateness of having a number of male veterans, figures of authority, walk in, accompanied hand in hand by young girls dressed identically in virginal white? Why only young girls to accompany the veterans? Why only male veterans? With part of your themes Women in Service, why wasn’t there a woman veteran included? Was it only this particular show other performances are different?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Catherine MacDonald