Espousing the virtues of a united nation of “40 million strong,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a Canada Day statement today.
His statement is published in full below, followed by statements from federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
No matter where you are, July 1 is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the country we call home, the people we share it with, and the future we're building together.
We can – and we should – take pride in all those things. After all, Canada is the envy of the world: people fleeing violence and persecution dream of a life here, businesses open headquarters in our cities and manufacturing plants in our towns, and world leaders look to us for leadership in times of crisis.
Wherever our flag flies, it's recognized as a symbol of democracy, of freedom, and of hope. It represents the values we all hold dear. And it is a promise. A promise of a country where newcomers are welcomed with open arms, where differences are celebrated and diversity is embraced, a country where you're free to be who you are and love whom you love, where everyone has a real and fair chance at success, and a country where we acknowledge historical wrongs and learn from the past in order to build a better future – for everyone.
Canada has withstood incredible challenges throughout our history, and we've always made it through by working hard together and staying true to our values. We did it when our grandparents stood up to fascism on the beaches of Normandy and across Europe. We're doing it now when we step up to help those affected by wildfires. And we do it every day when we take a stand against hatred and discrimination.
We are from far and wide, but united we are 40 million strong – and there is no challenge we cannot overcome together. So today, let's celebrate each other, and let's celebrate as we continue to build this great country. And let's continue to seize every opportunity we can to make this country even better for our children and our children's children.
Happy Canada Day, everyone!
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh:
Today, New Democrats join Canadians everywhere in celebrating Canada’s 156th anniversary, where families and friends will get together to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate and spend time with one another.
It’s a day to acknowledge what makes Canada so tremendous. Our rich multiculturalism, diversity, and strong social programs that help every Canadian, from our cherished universal health-care system to public education.
It’s also important to use Canada Day to reflect on the work ahead of us to continue building a more just and inclusive society.
Part of that is remembering that today is a difficult anniversary for Indigenous communities, as it celebrates the formal displacement and the start of the genocide for the first people of this land.
We cannot mark this day without a solemn and respectful acknowledgement of Canada’s history if we are truly in the spirit of reconciliation.
On this Canada Day, let us celebrate the values we continuously aim to aspire to while remembering the past and committing to working for better days for all.
On behalf of all New Democrats, I wish you and your family a fun and happy Canada Day.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford:
Throughout Canada’s history, people have made incredible sacrifices to come here to start a new life and build a better future for themselves and their families.
Regardless of whether your family arrived in Canada recently or has a long history here, Canada Day is a time for all of us to come together and celebrate the amazing things we’ve accomplished as a country.
It’s a time to embrace and value our diversity as we continue to work towards reconciliation and ensuring that every Ontarian has the same opportunity to thrive and prosper.
It’s a day to reflect on everything that makes our province and country the best place in the world to live, work and raise a family.
So today, however you’re celebrating, I want to wish you all a very happy and safe Canada Day.