Members of Parliament recently returned home to their constituencies to celebrate Canada’s 144th birthday. Throughout our large riding, numerous communities organized events to commemorate Canada Day. My family and I went to events in Drumheller, Strathmore, Donalda, and spent the evening in Camrose.
Since the earliest days of our history, Canada has been a land of promise. Today, we celebrate our country’s achievements.
All across Canada, our celebration brings us together and strengthens our sense of community. Canadians young and old teach and learn about the significance of the citizenship we all share. In doing so, communities across our country are showcasing our symbols; our identities; our traditions; and, the talent of our local artists. As a nation, we have good reason to be proud and to express our pride - loud and clear.
We can be proud of the peaceful way we live. Citizens of Canada enjoy freedom. We respect each other - from coast to coast to coast. We benefit from our differences in our large geographic territory, and when we come together, our differences bring us strength.
Our great nation was built by previous generations of Canadians. Together, we try to build on Canada’s past achievements. We work to protect Canada’s accomplishments and standards and provide for future generations of Canadians.
Canada was one of the last nations to be affected by the recent global recession. Canada was one of the first nations to emerge from it. In the midst of the economic crisis, many nations envied Canada and the strength and integrity of our economy.
In 2011, we have seen Middle Eastern and African nations striving to secure the very core values that Canadians have also fought and died for: Freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Canadians have built on these values and created a nation that qualifies to be a member of the G-8 group of nations. We embrace our role working with our allies and partners in the international community.
Throughout the country, we have also built prosperous communities that are enriched by the hard work and contributions of our citizens who are ready to meet the challenges of our century.
