Opinions, everyone has one:
Canada, oh? Oh! Canada
by TheFWord editorial Staff
Canada is complicated. My relationship with Canada is complicated.
I own a Canadian flag, I decorate on Canada day. I cheer for Canadian athletes and teams in sports. I am proud when Canadians achieve success internationally. I wore a flag on my backpack as I explored Europe. I do all the stereotypical “proud of my country” performance art.
But am I really proud of Canada? Our current international affairs is less than stellar. Our financial support of the military men and women who protect our country is lacking. Our beloved Medicare is coming up short (for a variety of reasons). Our treatment of indigenous communities has always been poor by any measure. The list is long of things we must do better. This isn’t a partisan political rant, there is enough blame to go around to all parties Federal and Provincial (and voters). Canada is far from perfect.
Canada is a kaleidoscope, a fusion of cultures. More so today than yesterday. We celebrate Pride in this country. Canadians want free (yet better) health care, Canadians want less poverty. Canada cares about it’s beautiful landscape, waterways and mountains and hopes to preserve them for future generations. These, in my opinion, are all things to celebrate and to be proud of.
I can be proud of an imperfect country knowing that so many Canadians want to make it a better place. The fact that we are looking to improve these things and not accepting the status quo is something to be proud of. Canadians question our leaders and politics because they care. Apathy and indifference are the enemy of progress.
Our disagreements with our neighbours, family friends, and social media strangers regarding politics and social issues are not because we hate Canada. It’s because we want to be proud to be Canadian and want to make Canada better.
For Canada Day, my ask is that you embrace the performative, fun, cliche Canadianisms that make YOU happy (watch some fireworks, eat some poutine, fly the flag, drink a cold beer, hike in the woods). Also, understand that some of us have more privilege than other Canadians and some people need a helping hand. Be proud of where we are (it could be worse, we did legalize marijuana after all) but recognize the difficult journey to becoming a better country we can all be proud of.
Happy Canada Day!
OR
Counterpoint….Just Blame Canada
Thank you! Hospice Fredericton
As a follow-up to the last issue of The Fredericton Word, team Lois’ Legion raised over $5800 for Hospice Fredericton helping Hospice raise a record-breaking $70000.
Thank you to the many readers of this newsletter for contributing. You have helped Lois’ Legion raise over $65000 in the past three years. We are humbled and grateful.
This issue sponsored by:
FOMO: Canada Day Weekend and more!
Duck Day (Saturday June 29) a unique event at Ducks Unlimited Conservation Centre and adjoining Carleton Park. From 10am til 4pm, there will be critter-dipping, nest-box building, face painting, bouncy castles, guided walks from their many partners, games, crafts, raffles and much more.
Garrison Fest ( June 28-July 1st) - This weekend line up celebrates both CanadaDay weekend and the grand re-opening of Officer’s Square. I can’t say enough about the revitalization of Offciers Square. The centrepiece of our downtown now has the flexibility to host bigger events like this and more of them, rain or shineAnd why yes there will be a beer garden and the ability to sell beverages including the alcoholic type for those who abide. As someone who loved the old Officers Square of the 80’s 90’s and 00s I feel it retains its historic charms with a modern twist for amenities. Check it out this weekend.
To be frank this appears to be the best musical lineup ever brought together in Fredericton for Canada Day. Each day has can’t miss acts. If you have to choose one artist not to miss, my personal favourite is Adam Baldwin but also must sees are the Jimmy Swift Band and local musicians Grand Theft Bus, and the amazing Tony Lepage. Jeremy Dutcher also performs who is on my bucket list of must sees along with the Hello Crows. SO MANY CHOICES!
Pioneer Days Canada Day Parade (July 1st) Everyone loves a parade? (do they really?) but one of the last Canada Day parades being offered in this area is just one of many events (including the famous Pioneer Pubs) offered all weekend in Oromocto.
River Jam (Friday July 5th) One of Fredericton’s longest-running summer music events (22 years!) , River Jam 2024 will feature 18 bands on five stages, playing everything from blues, R&B, funk, country, jazz, and more.
Jazz on Wolastoq (July 11th -23rd) This 2nd annual up and coming festival is bigger and better than the original. Many unique venues. Free outdoor shows and paid passes are only $50
