Let’s stop all the royal bashing

Re: “Royal visit a reminder of colonial past,” letter, Sept. 18. As a Canadian, I am proud to live in a Commonwealth country. There is little tradition left in this world. There are a few role models, but not many for our young.

I think the letter-writer forgot about all the charities the royals bring to the forefront of the news. The Duke of Edinburgh Award was founded in Canada in 1963 and its slogan is “Equipping young people for life.” Charities of which William, Harry and Kate are patrons bring light to everyday problems such as bullying, cancer, conservation and sustainable development, not to mention their work with veterans and military families.

I applaud every member of the Royal Family who pledge service to the monarchy. They don’t have the option of saying: “Sorry, I don’t feel like going to open a homeless shelter today.”

Next time you are at the store and see a magazine with the royals on it, think of your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. They can learn something about homelessness, bullying and cancer. Maybe they can relate.

Comparing the royals to Bill Gates is hardly a valid comparison.

Having the royals visit this city is an honour and if people complain, they should give up coffee for a week, which probably costs more. Kathy Cook Victoria