Are Canadians Proud of Their Country and Its History?
During a 18-hour drive, my journey took me from the Arctic Watershed to the shore of Lake Ontario. While navigating through rocky hills and giant pine trees, there was a moment in the morning when the mist covered parts of the pine trees, creating a breathtaking view. It was during this brief stop that I shared my love for this scenery with a fellow traveler who had just become a Canadian citizen. Both of us agreed that we want to leave this country in good condition for our children.
Why Canadians Are Proud
Despite the challenging weather and a southern neighbor that occasionally considers an invasion, Canadians maintain a cheerful and courteous demeanor. They are well-traveled and well-informed, and their country consistently ranks among the top for the quality of life. However, this pride is often low-key and humble. Unlike other countries, we don't need to wave flags to express our pride, and we are generally more willing to address our shortcomings.
Comparisons with Global Leaders
We love to compare Canada to global leaders such as the UK, US, and France, and we aspire to match their standards in politics, society, and global affairs. While this mindset is beneficial for continuous improvement, it can also be harmful when we assume we have already achieved certain milestones. In matters that are still works in progress, we should avoid being overly self-critical, which can be counterproductive.
A Balanced Perspective
Canadians have every reason to be proud, but we also acknowledge our past mistakes, such as the dark aspects of colonial history that mirror the experiences in the US. We have managed multiculturalism better than the US and have avoided the violent gun culture that is prevalent in the US. However, it is crucial to recognize that Canadian settlers also committed wrongful acts, such as dispossessing indigenous peoples, reneging on treaties, and imposing cultural and religious practices.
Our country's history has not been without systemic racism, repression, inequality, and exclusion. Even today, the legacy of these issues continues. However, it is important to highlight the positive aspects of Canadian society, such as the peaceful nature of the country and the fact that we tend to be less demonstrative in our pride.
In conclusion, Canadians are indeed proud of their country and its history, but this pride is often tempered with humility and introspection. We can take pride in our achievements while striving for a better future.