View From the Legislature

It can be difficult to judge the heart of a community just by driving through. But, if you are around for a while, you can quickly get a sense. The friendliness of the people and expressions of support tell you something about a community. Local food drives, clothing drives, and community clean up efforts all help to paint a picture about the nature of a community.

In the southeast, this is also demonstrated annually by statistics that show that our residents are among the most generous in all of Canada in giving to charitable causes. As a life-long resident of Steinbach and the area, I have seen innumerable acts of public and private generosity and compassion that have provided me a very clear understanding of how much this region cares for those near and far.

But this past week has been a trying and testing time for the region and Steinbach in particular. While there are many difficult times in the existence of a community it would be fair to say that this is among our most difficult. With a transmission rate of COVID-19 that is among the highest in the country, the past few weeks have seen a number of local residents pass away from the virus. The high transmission rate has not just left many families grieving the loss of a loved one, but it has left healthcare workers in the region, particularly at Bethesda Hospital, incredibly busy and increasingly stressed.

This past week several media reports, local, provincial, and national, highlighted the heavy toll that COVID-19 has taken on Steinbach and its healthcare workers. By the beginning of this week, doctors in Steinbach had written an open letter to residents emphasizing the importance of health measures to curb the spread of the virus and the consequences to the healthcare system if the rate of infections is not reduced.

And, this past weekend, Steinbach was the location of a protest against health measures that are intended to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The protest itself resulted in tickets being issued because of violations to health orders and it sparked a good deal of anger and frustration both from those in the region and far beyond. And for healthcare workers themselves, working hard on the front lines not far from the protest, it was disheartening.

And yet, while the protest was held in Steinbach, it was not a Steinbach protest. And it was not a general reflection of the City or the region. In fact, during the same weekend, more than $17,000 was raised in fundraisers to show support to local healthcare heroes. Countless expressions of support were posted for our healthcare workers. Myself, the Mayor of Steinbach and the Premier of Manitoba all spoke about the real heart of the community. One that cares for the wellbeing of their neighbors and a spirit of faith and support.

The heart of our city and communities is being tested during this pandemic. Like in many places in the world it has caused hurt and division. But there should never be any doubt that the foundation of our region was built upon faith, hope, optimism and caring for one another. That foundation may have some stress put upon it, but it remains intact and will emerge stronger than ever as we focus on supporting each other, our healthcare workers, and our most vulnerable.