Episode 46: The Dichotomy of Canada Day

Written By Andrea McCoy

July 1st in Canada - a.k.a creation of the Constitution, a.k.a. The Chinese Exclusion Act, a.k.a. Dominion Day, or as we presently know it, Canada Day. So much painful history in this country. And so much joy at the same time. How do we make sense of this colonial holiday while making space for those who truly value the rights and freedoms they have found here? 

Andrea and Hostion will unpack the complex feelings, the ones that seem to oppose each other but actually inform us fully to posture our humanity with collective equity and justice. As immigrants to Canada, we recognize the many privileges that we have. We recognize that there are certain rights and freedoms we have that other countries, even the ones we originated from, don’t offer. 

We also recognize that the history of Canada, the oppression, and racism and lack of equity still exists among Indigenous communities, among people and immigrants of colour. 

Holding the duality of emotions and reflections isn’t unique - it’s being human. It’s having gratitude and advocacy, thankfulness and resistance, celebration and sorrow. It's making space for those who are grieving and angry while at the same time holding space for those who've sought refuge and safety here.

May we continue to work hard for future generations and remember those who went before us to create the future we have now. 

Andrea McCoy https://www.janklin.ca
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Episode 47: Canadian “Values”
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Episode 45: Music - The Other Immigrant From Home