“O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.”
This week a special shout out to the good neighbors to the north. Yes, The first week of July marks two important dates in the US and Canadian histories. Independence Day on July 4th and Confederation or Canada Day on July 1st are, for lack of better words, the birthdays of two free and allied Nations in North America.
But what do Americans and Canadians really know/think about each other’s country?
Well not many Americans learn about Canadian history, their Film Board and media systems that help comprise its national identity and stories of its people. And in Canada, for example many American films, media broadcasts, combined with cable and satellite technologies have transcended its boarders throughout the years.
Hmmm, I guess images of a Maple Leaf or Hockey Action could be considered fairly generic stereotypes of a country that is much more culturally rich than meets the eye.
But, at least, it can extend a hand, a friendly gesture, or maybe just lead to good discourse. This, so we will always continue working hard to better understand our neighbors and continue to respect each other and what makes national identity so delicate yet so powerful at the same time.
rankinimages
I gained a great appreciation for Canada, going to school 15 minutes from the border, and crossing it often. You make a great point about being culturally rich. Canada has a great history that has many parallels with the U.S. Many times they become our forgotten neighbor to the north, which is unfortunate. I would encourage anyone that has not visited to do so at their earliest opportunity!
By: Josh on July 7, 2009
at 2:34 am
Our family has been involved in the Rotary Youth Exchange program for over 20 years. Rotary District 5060 is an international one, extending from Central Washington, across the border, and into Central Canada.
Through Rotary we have had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful Canadians. They know how to enjoy life, but also know how to work hard for what they believe in.
Through countless volunteer hours, they join their American neighbors in making possible a year of study abroad for young people from around the world. To be in the presence of a group of exchange students, with their smiles that know no boundaries, is to have hope for the world becoming a more peaceful place.
In July, Americans and Canadians proudly celebrate their great nations represented by the Stars and Stripes and Maple Leaf. Let us also remember the flags of all nations and the people, history, and culture for which they stand. As the song says, “We are the world…”
By: Sara on July 7, 2009
at 3:01 pm