On September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom passed away at the age of 96 years old, She was both the United Kingdom’s longest reigning sovereign and the Head Of State  of Canada for 70 years. I’m not sure how I feel.

When I think of Queen Elizabeth II being mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to many, I also think about the families affected by the James Smith Cree Nation & Weldon mass stabbings on September 4, 2022. Each person who was injured and each person who died was someone’s loved one. As a first generation Canadian and a person of mixed ancestry, I find this and many other violent events troubling. The Canadian Creed states “Canada is free and democratic, based on tolerance and Respect for human rights of all people”. I’ve observed and experienced many disrespectful and intolerant actions in Canada. Many of these events are motivated by racial hatred and others are motivated by a more general hatred for “the other”.

Some Canadians believe that there is not such thing as systemic racism. Others believe that it is their right to treat others with disrespect. Others are complacent when those around them are being disrespected. While this is the Canada I’ve experienced, it’s not the Canada that I endeavour to live in. Regardless of our race, religion, culture, social economic status, abilities, gender or sexual orientation, we are all human beings who deserve to live with respect and dignity. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms should guarantee these rights for all Canadians.

If you’ve been victimized or traumatized or have witnessed someone being victimized or traumatized, I encourage you to tell someone. If they can’t help, tell someone else.

The war in Ukraine continues.

September 11, 2022 was the 21st anniversary of the World Trade Centre bombing.

On September 19, 2022 Canada will hold a National Day of mourning for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

On September 30, 2022, Canada will mark the second annual National Day For Truth and Reconciliation.

Tanya