"Canada is the homeland of equality, justice, and tolerance."

          Far too many people do not take their Canadian citizenship seriously enough. I have a great deal of respect for Canada and its history, and am extremely proud and nationalistic about being Canadian. Although there are formidable events in Canada’s past—for example, residential schools for First Nations—there are also events that make my heart pound in admiration for Canada’s founders, as well as those who inspired change to existing systems. The Famous Five (Emily Murphy, Irene Parlby, Nellie McClung, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Edwards) are a few of my favourite heroines, because they paved the way for women to be recognized as ‘persons’. The introduction of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982 was a pivotal event in creating the Canada we know today, with rights and freedoms for all people equally. The construction of the transnational railway was momentous in connecting the Canadian people and bringing unity to our great nation. I am proud of the vast and variable landscapes of Canada, as well as our system of governance. Democracy and the right to vote are irreplaceable concepts, and policies such as public healthcare and education improve our society significantly for all people. In addition, Canada’s reputation as peacekeepers, as well as a culturally diverse mosaic, is an admirable one.

            On the other hand, it is known that First Nations peoples have been treated abysmally by Canadians, even though they were the first people of the land. They were exploited and stolen from by European settlers; their culture and way of life were destroyed. Although there are actions taken by the government today to make up for past injustices, the damage is irreversible. As well, Canada’s multicultural policy is inadequately practiced and many refrain from accepting different cultures and traditions. Violation of guaranteed freedoms occurs when stereotyping and racism takes a place in society. In practice, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms is not followed acceptably, either. It is true that certain freedoms are adhered to; however, people who claim they are citizens do not follow through with their expected responsibilities. Neglected responsibilities include the exercising of suffrage rights and participating in the valuable democratic process. 

             All in all, I believe Canada to be the best country in which to live, namely for the guaranteed rights and freedoms for all individuals. Our reputation as being multicultural makes us accepting of all people, however culturally or religiously different they may be.

“As a people, we know what we can do, we know how to do it, and we just want to get on with it. How? By ensuring that Canada's place in the world is one of influence and pride.”—Paul Martin