We are more than just “not American”

RE: Injustice still exists in Canada (July 5)

I take great exception to the negativity in this letter. Because I was born in this country, I am included in what the letter writer refers to as “Canadians”. She has assumed, among other things, that the point of pride in being a Canadian is not being like “our American neighbours”. The condescension implicit in this is appalling. I would argue that there are many and varied positive reasons for Canadians to take pride. Suggesting that Canadians are defined only by comparing ourselves to others is demeaning.

Looking at history through the eyes and mores of today has become a popular pastime. Looking, in particular, for examples of inequality and victimhood is not difficult. The writer has pointed out several “low points in our history”. Apologies have been made and, most likely, will continue to be made in today’s politically correct climate. I know that those of Italian heritage in our community are still waiting for one.

Continuing education, for me, is important. I agree that learning about an “unedited version of our history” is necessary and that “open conversations’ are key. But apologies for what may be considered as offenses in the past by applying standards of today’s construct is a form of revision, of editing, the very thing the writer seems to rant against.

The sesquicentennial celebration on July 1 was replete with apology and low on celebration. How ironic, then, that our own Prime Minister found himself later needing to apologize to Albertans for a real slight. Henrietta Wasik, Stoney Creek