Reviving the Canadian Identity: Anthony Furey’s Call to Action

July 2, 2024 TruthUSA

Commentary

My family and I had a wonderful time this past Canada Day long weekend. We spent one day up north, exploring the woods and embracing the beautiful outdoors. The following day, we returned to the city for a Canada Day parade and the festivities that ensued. After a community barbecue, a friend and I headed to the boardwalk to watch the fireworks on Toronto’s waterfront.

Flags were waving, people from all backgrounds were smiling, there were cold beers in the cooler, and meat on the grill. Everything was perfect.

However, recent public surveys indicate that not everyone shared the same positive sentiment this Canada Day. This is concerning. It is crucial that we acknowledge this issue, understand why it is happening, and take steps to improve the situation.

An Ipsos poll released before Canada Day asked Canadians whether they believed that “Canada is broken.” Surprisingly, seven in 10 respondents answered yes.

This revelation is disheartening but not entirely unexpected.

Challenges such as financial strain, lack of infrastructure development, and obstacles in accessing basic services like having a family doctor are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Another troubling aspect of the poll was the responses regarding the celebration of Canada Day and national pride.

Respondents were asked if they felt more or less inclined now, compared to five years ago, to take pride in being Canadian, participate in Canada Day events, or display the Canadian flag around July 1. Surprisingly, the majority of respondents expressed being less inclined to partake in these celebrations.

The survey did not delve into the specifics of why individuals felt this way, but the reasons are likely varied.

Some individuals may unfortunately align with false convictions that view Canada negatively and call for continuous apologies for its existence. Others might desire to demonstrate patriotism but are disheartened by recent challenges, making it difficult for them to muster enthusiasm.

While a sense of brokenness plays a role in these sentiments, broader issues of national identity also come into play. It is crucial to cherish our nationality and celebrate our Canadian heritage.

Another recent dataset attracting attention is the report released by Statistics Canada, which examined responses to census questions related to national identity.

The report highlights Canada’s diverse ethnocultural landscape, with over 450 different ethnic or cultural origins reported in the 2021 Census of Population.

While diversity is a strength, it is essential for citizens to recognize “Canadian” as the predominant national identity. Unfortunately, only a fraction of respondents identified themselves as Canadian in the census.

These findings underscore the need to rekindle a sense of Canadian identity. It is our hope that a collective effort will revitalize national pride and unity in our country.

Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

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