I enjoy a beer, especially on summery days, but I'm not impressed that this has become the "2-4" weekend, a reference to a case of suds. Mind you, it is rather odd that we have a holiday weekend in Canada which celebrates Queen Victoria, whose lengthy reign was during the 19th century. Victoria has undergone an image upgrade thanks to a popular television series but that doesn't change the fact that is was during her reign British imperialism and colonialism was at its height.
It's unusual that this holiday Monday actually falls on May 24th and this year we're "all dressed down with no place to go" because of pandemic restrictions. Is this a good time to ask what this day should mean for Canadians, beyond a barbecue and a case of beer?
During Victoria's reign the expansion of empire meant that Indigenous groups in many parts of the world were marginalized and subjugated. While the premise was that civilization was brought to these peoples the truth is that cultures were destroyed and those who inhabited the lands were treated with contempt. Treaties were established recognizing Indigenous sovereignty, only to be broken almost immediately.
Several years ago a group of well-known Canadians which included then Green Party leader Elizabeth May and celebrated author Margaret Atwood began a petition calling for this day to be called Victoria and First Peoples Day. According to a 2013 Globe and Mail article the petition addressed to Prime Minster Harper had just over 900 signatures:
The group argues changing the name will continue to honour Queen Victoria's birthday but will also recognize the role that First Nations, Inuit and Metis people played in the development of Canada and the country's history.
According to the petition, "The newly named holiday would be an opportunity to commemorate that venerable relationship, to celebrate unique Indigenous cultures, to revisit our shared history, and to provide an opportunity for all Canadians to participate in the diverse and extraordinary heritage of our country.
I don't recall hearing about this petition, and apparently it wasn't embraced, but I appreciate the focus. And as a Christian who is part of a denomination which was allied to empire rather than those First Peoples for far too long, God knows we'e still doing a lousy job at honouring those Crown treaties.
I would hoist a brew in support of a name change.
What do you think?
2 comments:
I would be happy to get rid of all things royal. Colonialism never did any of the colonies any favours. The recent "Victoria" series just amplifies the lack of understanding the Brits - and Victoria herself - had, of the real situation in the lands they took over. Today's modern royals do not help me to change my mind about that institution either.
I think many of us have lost our patience with the monarchy, although even the members who quit seem to hang on forever, please Harry and Meghan, just get on with your lives! Thanks Judy.
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