It seems as though it were just yesterday that Alberta was alive with provincial election frenzy, yet here we find ourselves in October already – gearing up for one of the most contentious federal elections of our lifetimes. There is a lot on the line this election: support for our oil and gas sector, small business relief, aid for veterans, and – in my opinion – the choice between either being a respected dominion or a continued laughing stock on the global stage. But there is something even more critical on the line this election. It is something you will not find in a party platform, but that you will only hear on the streets and in cyberland: the future of Canada as a nation. They say history repeats itself, and surely here we are again having the quiet discussion of western separation under another Trudeau government. Funny how that works.
That is why, as we gear up for the contentious date of October 21st, I want to say it loud and clear: I am a Canadian Nationalist. I always have been, and I always will be. From the day I wrote a paper self- identifying as a nationalist back in grade school, to my ongoing boycott of both A&W and Heinz Ketchup, I will always be a proud Canadian. We are a champion of human rights. We have an international reputation for our exorbitant friendliness. We developed paint rollers, garbage bags, peanut butter, and javascript. We conquered Vimy Ridge. We encompass mountains, open prairies, big cities, forests, and frozen tundra. And from coast to coast to coast we share a quiet but unwavering bond with each other. “Canadian” is a badge we should wear with honour.
The word nationalist has seemingly acquired itself some negative connotations as of late, however the official definition of a nationalist according to the Miriam-Webster dictionary is one who exhibits “loyalty and devotion to a nation”. We have so much to be thankful for living in Canada, and the least we can do is show loyalty and devotion to the wonderful place that raised us all. This election, and every day for the rest of our lives, I encourage everyone to work a little harder to show that loyalty and devotion to this place we call home. Talk about it with pride. Support the companies, products, and inventions that operate and are produced here. And after all we have already accomplished, always remain optimistic for what is yet to come.
Us Westerners are rightfully frustrated with much of the treatment we receive within the federation, but that doesn’t mean we should outrightly give up on our federation. Tough times don’t last, but tough countries do. I beg you: do not give up on Canada.
As our Premier Jason Kenney so perfectly stated, “Rather than focusing on Alberta separating from the Canadian federation, [let’s] focus on separating Justin Trudeau from the Prime Minister’s Office”. I don’t think we should allow Justin Trudeau to push us out of our own country”.
I love my Canada. I hope you all do, too.
By Miranda Rosin, MLA
