Canada Day, on July 1, is a day set aside to celebrate this country and the things that make it special.
The country has a population of more than 41.5 million, who represent a vast array of heritages, faiths, ideologies and opinions. These differences are one of Canada鈥檚 defining characteristics.
This country promotes inclusion and a respect for diversity, at home and abroad. Over the years, the emphasis on inclusion and diversity has become a prominent part of Canada鈥檚 identity.
English and French are the country鈥檚 official languages, but many more languages are spoken in homes across the country. There are more than 450 ethnic groups in Canada, according to the 2021 census, each with their own unique traditions.
Hockey is Canada鈥檚 official national winter sport and lacrosse is Canada鈥檚 official national summer sport, but not everyone cheers for the same team. Some follow other sports, or none at all.
Canadians do not all agree on religion, politics or other potentially divisive topics, and sometimes the disagreements can get vocal.
At the same time, Canada is big enough to accommodate a diverse population.
This is something former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau addressed in 1971 when he said, 鈥淎 society which emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate.鈥�
Earlier, in 1960, John Diefenbaker, the prime minister of the day, offered a similar sentiment.
鈥淚 am a Canadian, a free Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship God in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.鈥�
And, more recently, in 2016, Justin Trudeau also expressed this attitude.
鈥淭he North American idea that diversity is strength, is our great gift to the world. No matter where you are from, or the faith you profess, nor the colour of your skin, nor whom you love, you belong here. This is home.鈥�
The Canada Day celebrations are a time to reflect on this country and on a place where inclusion and diversity are valued.
To celebrate Canada is to celebrate these values, and to show the spirit of inclusion and diversity this country represents.
鈥� Black Press
