Victoria Day: Celebrating Our British North American Heritage
Commentary
This Victoria Day, there will be critics of the holiday, citing decolonization. However, acknowledging that Canada’s creation should not be condemned is essential as long as its existence contributes positively to the world.
The formation of a united Canada, from sea to sea, was made possible through its affiliation with Queen Victoria’s Empire. Many of Canada’s political ideals and principles originate from Britain, influenced by both the actions of those who migrated from across the Atlantic and the enduring impact of British ideologies.
One significant aspect is the constitutional monarchy that Canada adopted. Comparing constitutional monarchies like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand to republics such as South Africa, India, and Zimbabwe reveals the advantages in guaranteeing human rights, democracy, and stability offered by a monarchy.
Having a politically weak but symbolically powerful monarch within a Westminster-style democracy has effectively prevented populist demagogues, providing a substantial advantage to Canada.
Our foundation is rooted in ordered liberty. Although Canada has not always upheld this ideal perfectly, British anti-slavery efforts and ideals of liberty have shaped the country in significant ways, differing from other European counterparts.
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Historically, anti-colonial movements sought to secure these rights rather than denounce British values. Leaders like Joseph Howe in Nova Scotia and reformers like Robert Baldwin and Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine in Canada advocated for responsible government, aiming to enjoy British rights within their own territories.
Australia and New Zealand, like Canada, share similar ideals and expectations rooted in their British heritage, leading to stable governance and peaceful histories post-independence.
In contrast, former Spanish and French colonies faced challenges like authoritarianism and political violence due to erasing their colonial past entirely.
Although Canada is an independent modern state with unique characteristics, its British heritage has played a significant role in shaping its identity. Recognizing and celebrating this heritage on occasions like Victoria Day is essential to understanding Canada’s rich cultural tapestry.
Without the influence of Queen Victoria’s Britain, Canada’s identity and values would be vastly different. Embracing our heritage as British North Americans is integral to appreciating the essence of Canada.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
