Update: Call from MLA Mark Wasyliw
I received a call this afternoon from Mark Wasyliw, NDP MLA for Fort Garry. He gave me his full assurance that the provincial NDP has instructed caucus to cease all dealings with Ethnorama News. Mr. Wasyliw informed me that the party was on top of the issue earlier, and the appearance of any advertising from members in the November issue was a function of poor communications.
Mr. Wasyliw also mentioned how personally offensive he found the content of Ethnorama News, both as a Ukrainian-Canadian and as an ardent supporter of Ukraine's fight against Putin's aggression. He thanked me for bringing to the party's attention what he referred to as Ethnorama's "invasion denialism."
I am heartened by the provincial NDP's choice to rectify this situation, and stand strong against the spread of disinformation. On a personal note, I want to say I was impressed by Mr. Wasyliw's candor, his sense of responsibility, and his concern for the Ukrainian community - this was my first interaction with him, and he struck me as sincere.
I will continue to follow this story as it develops. As well, I will be releasing two more essays responding to Ethnorama News' November issue.