Flying a Kite on Canada Day
Canada Day reflection.
I flew a kite and thought about nationalism, patriotism, and me.
I don’t like nationalism and patriotism, because they speak of ‘us and them’ - otherness - and because of all the hurt and injury that has been perpetrated in their names, because they have so often been attached to bigotry, exclusivity and hate.
Then I think about where on this planet I would rather be, and found none. I’m attached to this country, this province and this community where I live.
So what does that mean?
For me it I think it’s about inclusiveness, freedoms, opportunities and rights, and the responsibilities that come with them.
These are worth my engagement and commitment – vigilance and putting myself out in some way to advance such humane qualities, and to oppose those other human qualities which erode them.
Indigenous Peoples especially need us to be allies, not oppressors. Typically and inadvertently, we continue to sanction the oppression of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Many write and speak frankly about cultural genocide by ….. us. It’s not hard to find information. Start with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission .
It’s harder to do something about it. Try even a little something. Ask someone an uncomfortable question. Ask yourself an uncomfortable question.
So I hope you are thoughtfully celebrating what we have, are re-iterating your commitment to make it better and not let it get worse – for our children’s sake, for the sake of people still coming here because they seek something they don’t have and are looking for, and for the sake of people oppressed here in Canada.
