What about the Brits?

Re: Celebrate Canada by celebrating our heritage — June 30

I was disappointed to learn from Martin de Groot’s column that Heritage Canada, the federal department that includes culture, heritage and history in its mandate, has identified a sequence of four days in which we share our pride in what it means to be Canadians.

The four days with the “Celebrate Canada” designation include National Indigenous Peoples Day, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, Canadian Multiculturalism Day (on June 27) and Canada Day.

I think we should have five days recognized, starting with Victoria Day in May.

With these days we recognize and celebrate the culture of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, the cultural pride and rich heritage of French-speaking Canadians and appreciate the contributions of the various multicultural groups to Canadian society.

What happened to the English, Scots and Irish? They most certainly should have been recognized as part of our founding fathers by including Victoria Day in the “Celebrate Canada” days.

It is sad that so many Canadians have no knowledge of the Seven Years War, in which the French and English fought for supremacy in the new world. In 1759, British General James Wolfe defeated the French commander, Louis-Joseph de Montcalm on the Plains of Abraham outside Quebec City.

This battle changed the fate of New France and influenced the future creation of Canada.

Diana Esmits

Cambridge