PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday issued the following statement on Canada Day:
“Happy Canada Day!
“No matter where you are today, I hope you are celebrating the incredible people, the land, and the story that is Canada. It’s a story that began more than 157 years ago – with Indigenous Peoples who’ve called this land home since time immemorial.
“It’s a story of sacrifice. When Canadian soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, they knew they were risking their lives. But freedom – even for those across an ocean, even for generations of people they would never meet – was worth fighting for.
“It’s a story that includes injustices, ones that we are confronting on our path of reconciliation. It’s a story of learning – learning that we are stronger not in spite of our differences, but because of them.
“And it’s a story that is still being written, by incredible Canadians who step up for their community and country. From the workers and volunteers who cared for our most vulnerable during the pandemic, to the brave first responders who, right now, race toward danger to protect homes from wildfires, to the members of the Canadian Armed Forces who stand on the frontlines, defending democracy and freedom.
“Together, let’s keep improving this incredible place we all call home. Let’s make our communities more vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive. Let’s break barriers and create opportunity for everyone. Let’s build a future where every generation has a fair shot, no matter who you are, where you come from, how you pray, or who you love. And let’s work together to fulfil the promise of this country – a promise of peace, freedom, prosperity, and fairness.
“On this Canada Day, let’s celebrate everything we have achieved together and reaffirm our work to make Canada even better.”
Photo: Eby website
PREMIER David Eby said:
“Canada Day is a time to come together with family, friends and neighbours to celebrate this wonderful country we call home.
“Canada is rightly known as a place of safety, a place of opportunity and a place of beauty, and people from around the world come here to build a better life.
“Our diversity is a strength, and we are at our best when everyone is free to be themselves – no matter their faith or background, who they love or how they identify.
“Canada’s historical wrongs against Indigenous Peoples make today difficult for many, and we must all continue to learn from the past to build a better future for everyone based on reconciliation, respect and the recognition of Indigenous rights.
“Today, let us celebrate our country, reflect on what it means to us and look for ways we can make it a more welcoming place for all.
“From my family to yours, happy Canada Day!”
Official photo
FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said:
“Today, families, friends, neighbours and loved ones will be getting together, having BBQs, going to the beach and spending time together to celebrate the beautiful country we call home.
This is a time to appreciate what makes Canada unique: our rich multiculturalism, diversity, and our willingness to take care of each other. We must ensure that the strong social programs that make Canada a good place to live are always there when people need them. This includes universal, public health care, dental care and pharmacare coverage that will help millions of Canadians stay healthier.
This is also a day where we must recognize that, for many Indigenous peoples and communities, today can be difficult as we reflect on the history of displacement and genocide for the first peoples of the land. It’s crucial for us all to recognize the past and work toward real, meaningful justice for Indigenous peoples.
Today, as Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast mark Canada Day, let’s commit to building a country where everyone can live in dignity and peace. Let’s work together to ensure that Canada can be a safe welcoming place, where our children and grandchildren can thrive for generations to come.
On behalf of all New Democrats, Happy Canada Day!”
