Whether on flagpoles, lapels, or in the hands of small children, the red and white symbol of our country will fly proudly on July 1st.

Many constituents will recall the flooding that struck the Yorkton area on Canada Day exactly a year ago. I gratefully commend the heroic efforts undertaken since to recover a community literally taken by storm. But on Canada Day, in the Yorkton-Melville riding and every other, many Canadians, as they have done for decades, will make time to set aside local concerns to celebrate Canada’s 144th birthday.

We will speak of many things at our gatherings, including the heritage passed down from previous generations. We will remember what we have survived and celebrate those things we hold in common. We will rejoice in our discoveries and our successes and commemorate our history. And under (hopefully) blue skies, surrounded by friends and enjoying the goodness of wholesome Canadian products on our picnic tables, we will realize that in spite of inevitable difficulties, we are a blessed nation.

For 144 years, Canadians have worked together to build a place of peace, dignity, and freedom. Our country is one of the most envied in the world. Its beauty, stability, and potential have drawn people of all nationalities and backgrounds to our shores. They have come as to a promised land, and those who come respecting our laws of entry have been welcomed with graciousness and generosity.

Some say that the older a country (or a person) becomes, the more there is to celebrate—and the longer they should do it. Some constituents may not realize that Canada’s official birthday celebration takes a full eleven days. Celebrate Canada, the celebratory lead-up to Canada Day, includes:

• National Aboriginal Day on June 21, a day to celebrate the accomplishments of Canada`s Aboriginal and Inuit peoples and their contributions to our country.
• Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, an opportunity for French Canadians to express their cultural pride and rich heritage through colourful parades and lively parties.
• Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, when citizens take time to appreciate the contributions of the various multicultural groups and communities to Canadian society.

The remembering of past history and traditions and the showcasing of talents that happens on Canada Day and the days leading up to it tightens the links between all Canadians. The citizenship we share is a precious family bond, and indeed something to celebrate—and do so together.

I join you in celebrating Canada`s 144th Birthday, and wish a safe and happy Canada Day to all.

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The audio version of Garry's June 27, 2011 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here