Canada Day 2021
OPEN LETTER TO THE CITIZENS OF
ST. STEPHEN, NB
June 23, 2021
RE: Canada Day in St. Stephen
Friends, Family, Visitors,
July 1st is a significant day for many of us. It is a day which marks the anniversary of the founding of a great, albeit flawed, nation. The recent discovery of the unmarked graves of over 1,000 indigenous children has forced our country to come to terms with our country’s past. While no person, or country, should be defined solely by the decisions of their, or their ancestors, past, the best learn and grow from those decisions. This can best be done through quiet contemplation and reflection.
Recently I have had opportunity to speak with representatives of the Peskotomuhkati Nation regarding the upcoming Canada Day. Additionally, I have worked with Council and staff to determine the best course of action for our community. The Town has determined that this is a time for reflection, contemplation, and empathy. To this end, the Town of St. Stephen has cancelled all planned Canada Day activities.
While we all long to recapture the celebrations of the pre-Covid days, this year is not the year to reach that goal. This year is the year for Canadians from coast to coast to coast to demonstrate the kindness and heart that characterizes the very best of Canada. I encourage everyone to use July 1st as an opportunity to gain an understanding of our past, so that we all may work together to build a Canada that is inclusive, diverse, and demonstrates the very best of who we are as Canadians.
Respectfully,
Mayor Allan MacEachern.