After two years of virtual celebrations for Canada Day during the Covid-19 pandemic, Manitobans were excited to gather in-person again for neighbouhood parties, backyard barbeques, and fireworks shows.
This July 1st was also a day of reflection, in recognition of some of the dark colonial history that our country is founded on, and the hard work ahead for reconciliation with First Nations. Inuit and Metis peoples.
Despite the important conversations that we will continue to have about the meaning of Canada Day, it is still a day of celebration for many people who want to express their love of country and enjoy a summer holiday with friends and family.
In my home riding of Winnipeg South, we had a wonderful array of Canada Day events throughout the community. Thousands of our neighbours came out to enjoy a beautiful Manitoba summer day.
I was lucky enough to attend celebrations in Bridgewater Lakes, St Norbert Farmer’s Market, St. Vital Park, Burland Park, Kirkbridge Park, Jinnah Park, and more. I was excited to see friendly faces and meet new and long-time constituents at every stop.
The event held at Bridgewater Lakes was hosted by the Winnipeg Chinese Seniors Association and was a highlight for many. Hundreds of families showed up to enjoy the festivities, which included bouncy castles, face painting, a petting zoo, a dragon dance, and a barbeque.
The Bridgewater festival also featured a drumming event where participants joined other communities across Canada in a virtual drum line. We broke the Guinness World Record for “most people performing in a drum line online simultaneously.”
Seeing so many of our neighbourhoods rally together to celebrate Canada Day was an inspiration after two long and confining years of necessary health restrictions. It shows that Manitobans are resilient as we cautiously move forward from the Covid-19 pandemic, and that our community spirit is as strong as ever.
