Michael Moore backs page after ‘Stop Harper’ stunt

A high-profile American activist has become a cheerleader of the Senate page who lost her job for her stunning protest against Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Michael Moore has posted a giant photo on his website of 21-year-old Brigette DePape holding up a “Stop Harper” sign in the Senate chamber during Friday’s throne speech.

Moore has also shared a link to a news story describing DePape’s stunt, calling for U.S. students to “take note.”

In an interview Sunday, DePape told The Canadian Press she’s excited her protest has attracted attention from a high-profile activist like Moore.

The University of Ottawa graduate was fired from her job for the move and was criticized by many Parliamentarians who suggested it was disrespectful.

But DePape said she has no regrets about the incident and remains convinced the best way to stop the Harper government is through protests like the one she staged.

“I really think it’s only through inappropriate action that you can challenge the status quo and have real change,” she said, adding that she’s been overwhelmed by positive feedback from Canadians.

“It’s been really inspiring.”

DePape said she initially joined the Senate page program to learn more about politics, but became convinced that the Conservative government’s agenda was disastrous on everything from the environment to social programs.

She said she’s received several job offers but hasn’t decided her plans yet, though she will be participating in anti-Harper rallies and social movements.

DePape stood in the Senate chamber for about 20 seconds holding the sign on Friday before she was ushered out by security.

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