On this day in 1996, anti-poverty protester Bill Clennett confronted Prime Minister Jean Chretien at a Flag Day celebration.
It became one of the most famous political moments of the 1990s.
Let's learn more about the Shawinigan Handshake!
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It became one of the most famous political moments of the 1990s.
Let's learn more about the Shawinigan Handshake!
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Comments
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As he walked to his limo and shook hands with the crowd, protester Bill Clennett approached Chretien and yelled "Chretien, you should be unemployed!"
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Chretien said:
“Some people come my way, and I had to go, so if you’re in my way.”
Phil Nolan, a Global cameraman captured the incident.
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Most saw the incident in a humorous manner.
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“Before you do anything. I want to tell you I’ll do what you want.”
The RCMP offered to pay Clennett's $560 dental fee. He took the money and bought an newspaper ad to criticize the government.
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Due to Chretien's hometown of Shawinigan, the incident became known as The Shawinigan Handshake.
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That's the difference. Talk vs action.
(And yes, it was hilarious)