Canada's history might not be all that 'strong, proud, free'

[Oscar]

Canada's history might not be all that 'strong, proud, free'

[ http://rabble.ca/blogs/bloggers/views-e ... proud-free ]

By Matt Henderson | January 9, 2015

As a species, we excel at inventing anniversaries and special dates that are meant to signify historical significance and moments of remembrance or celebration. These are human constructs based on our imaginations and designed to make meaning out of our brief and complex lives.

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Strong, proud, free?

Now in 2014 and as we head toward the 150th anniversary of Confederation, we see a new political campaign on the horizon -- oddly positioned in the midst of an impending federal election.

The Government of Canada has now released a "strong, proud, free" campaign, enshrined with vignettes, contests and political posturing.

Strong, proud, free? Are we being sold sport utility vehicles or enlisted into the marines? Where did this concept come from? Granted, the ideas of strength and freedom are mentioned in one line in our national anthem, but this has nothing to do with our national motto (from sea to sea), any of the more than 30 documents which constitute our constitution, or even the idea of peace, order, and good government -- the latter originally envisioned as peace, welfare (happiness), and good government in such minor statutes as the Royal Proclamation and the Quebec Act.

Pride? This word communicates a sense of completion. What, then, in 2014 are we being told by our government that we should be prideful of? I can understand peace, welfare, and good government; these are ongoing goals that require continued stewardship, reflection and care.