June 30, 2000
One hundred and thirty-three years later... - THE COMMENTARY
By Joseph Planta
VANCOUVER -- Since tomorrow is Canada Day, let me be very brief in today’s column. It’s a momentous event, the anniversary of one’s nationhood, yet Canadians simply regard it as another long weekend. Perhaps that is the Canadian way, but that is neither here or there for me to dissect today.
Canada is not a homogeneous country. Far from it. It is a mosaic and tapestry created by the hands of many people. Peoples indigenous to the land, and those coming to it much after. Canada isn’t a clearly definable entity and good on us for letting that be the way it is. Canada could never be just another country, even though we are regarded as one many times.
Let me hope that you’ll spend a portion of your holiday Saturday and ponder the great mystery and complex nature of being Canadian. This is a special place and no one yet has succeeded in explaining or defining it. Good on us for that.
Even though I am not Jean Chrétien’s biggest fan, here’s an excerpt of his comments for tomorrow’s momentous occasion. I thank the PMO for providing me with this text before hand, lemme include it here:
“Today is the first Canada Day of the 21st century. Together, we stand at a crossroads in time. Together, we are ready to embrace a century of endless possibilities.
It is a time of boundless opportunity. Our economy is stronger than it has been in decades, creating thousands of new jobs. And for the 7th straight year, Canada has been chosen by the United Nations as the best country in the world in which to live.
Canada Day affords us an opportunity to come together -- as a people -- to celebrate the great Canadian success story. A story conceived in the bold vision and shared values of our forebears. A story written in almost every language and through the contribution of new Canadians. A story handed down through the generations by our writers, poets, artists and singers. A story enshrined in the gallantry and sacrifice of our soldiers in the cause of peace and freedom.
Let us rejoice with pride in our past and look forward to a bright future together.
Aline joins me in wishing all Canadians a happy, safe and healthy Canada Day."
I’ve learned never give a Liberal the last word. So, have a pleasant and happy Canada Day.
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An archive of Joseph Planta's previous columns can be found by clicking HERE .