View From the Legislature

This Canada Day will feel a little different than the ones most of us have come to expect and enjoy. Instead of the traditional fireworks that usually end the national celebration across the country, most communities have opted for some form of virtual celebration given the current global COVID-19 pandemic. No doubt, this will be disappointing to many, but it is certainly not the first Canada Day in which our country has faced challenges and change.

Whether it has been war or economic depression or previous pandemics, past generations of Canadians have faced many challenges. And while each of those challenges are quite different from one another, the common element is that Canada emerged stronger from them. Each has also helped, in some way, to shape Canada into being one of the greatest countries to live in the world. And so even as Canadians today are dealing with the challenge of COVID-19, there is great reason for optimism and much to celebrate in Canada.

While much of the country has been significantly impacted both from a health and economic standpoint because of the pandemic, reopening of the economy is also happening across Canada as case numbers have been decreasing in the hardest hit areas. In Manitoba, Phase 3 of reopening began on Sunday of this week which makes our province one of the leaders in reopening in North America while being able to maintain some of the lowest COVID-19 cases and deaths.

Through these past few months, Canadians have demonstrated many of the attributes of our country that make it such a desirable place to live. For example, Canadians have been quick to support one another. While it is true that we are all in the same storm, it is also true that we are not all in the same boat. Many people have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and Canadians have been quick to do their best to support them. There are countless acts of individual kindness and giving that have happened in every part of Canada. Canadians have also been quick to find ways to adapt, whether through online faith services or drive by birthday parties or drive in graduations. Physical distancing has not stopped the displays of kindness that our country is so well known for.

Yes, there will be much to miss this Canada Day. It will not feel the same. But even so, there will be a great deal to be grateful for, perhaps more than ever. That we can come together and support each other, even during a difficult time, is what many generations of past Canadians have done. And we have emerged stronger, more free, and better connected each time.

This Canada Day take that extra time to remember how fortunate we are to live in this spectacular country populated by incredible people. There is much to celebrate. Happy Canada Day!