SASKATOON — The current political climate between Canada and the United States made this year’s Canada Day celebration more special for many Canadians, who take pride in living in the True North, a strong and free nation.
During Canada Day celebrations in Saskatoon, Geoff Passy, Cate Francis, Tim Yaworski, Arlene Teves and Sharon all shared their thoughts on what the day means to them — especially with Canada’s identity perceived to be threatened by President Donald Trump’s “51st State” rhetoric and the ongoing trade war with Canada's southern neighbours.
Passy, president of the Martensville Lions Club, said he is proud of his Canadian roots, which are reflected in the lyrics “The True North strong and free” from the national anthem. Other Lions Club members joined him as they sold tickets for a fundraising raffle.
“It allows us to do this fundraising so we can give back to our communities. Being Canadian means helping those in need. We raise money to help charities, something we have been doing for years,” said Passy, who will mark his 20th year as a Lions Club member.
Francis, a local entrepreneur who operates Canto Hot Sauce with her husband, Scott Hamilton, said she loves Canada — especially Saskatchewan — where they have been growing their business using locally grown and sourced ingredients.
“Although we’re here running a business, for me it has always been a great celebration. Many people are here with their families and friends. The nice thing about being a local business is that everything is grown in Canada. We want to stay as local as possible,” said Francis.
Yaworski, who moved from Edmonton to Saskatoon when London Drugs opened a branch in the city in 1986, said the celebration serves as an annual reminder of how fortunate he is to have been born in a country that values the rights of every citizen.
“It is something that we should not take for granted. Especially in what we’re dealing with right now, the world political climate, from my standpoint, it heightens my sense of community through helping others, my love of Canada, and my gratitude for living here,” said Yaworski.
He added that while Canada may not be perfect — given how certain groups were mistreated in the past — he believes things are improving. He also commented on the current trade tensions with the U.S., which he feels have boosted Canadian patriotism and support for locally made products.
“Buying groceries has become a patriotic act. Patriotism increased, especially with the ridiculous ’51st State’ talk. When I walk into a store and see a maple leaf on the packaging, that's what I'm going to buy. I also look for products from countries that were friendly to us.”
Teves, who immigrated from the Philippines in 2014, said her family is thankful for Canada being their second home. Canada Day became even more meaningful after they recently became citizens through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program.
“Canada became our second home. Canada Day is a day to remember that Canada opened its doors to us and celebrate the special day with our family and newfound friends, who treated us as their own family here in Canada,” said Teves.
Sharon, who recently graduated from high school, believes the annual celebration commemorates Canada as a country. She added that even though it has its flaws, there are many aspects worth honouring.
“We did great things, but we also recognize that we did something bad. Moving forward, it is a great day, as it brings communities and families together. It is more special, with a lot having more pride celebrating due to what’s going on with the U.S.,” said Sharon.
