RE: Beth Johnson letter Wednesday, March 3, 2010.
I was embarrassed for Ms. Johnson and this paper while reading her letter “French-first insults Canadians.” Her facts have to be corrected. The Olympics organizers did a phenomenal job to try and include everyone.
First, Canada is a bilingual country. This means that each language is esteemed equal. English may be Ms. Johnson’s first language, but for many it is not.
Second, after living in Quebec for four years, as a B.C. Anglophone, I noted that no one there believes they are owned by France. However, attitudes from people like her help the separatists. She helps make them believe they are not wanted. This is a shame because many of the athletes she cheered to medals are from Quebec, trained in Quebec, or have family there.
Third, we are a celebrated multi-cultural, including multi-religion country. Furthermore, Francophones have a deep connection to their Christian roots. I served this country and was never briefed on our being just a Christian country. I served with soldiers of all faiths.
Her closed-minded comments failed to take into account our country’s true First Nations with their beliefs and languages. Perhaps our anthem should have been sung in Haida, Mohawk, Dene, Inuit, Salish, etc. I would have also been proud of that.
Fourth, the English did not settle this entire country. In case you did not hear, Quebec city celebrated its 400th birthday recently. Quebec trappers came across the northern prairies first. Pioneers from other European countries helped settle this great land and their legacy is still in place.
If she listens carefully to the languages her fellow Kamloops residents are speaking, she would soon realize that many people of French background live here.
Fifth, the anthem is always sung in half-French and half-English in Quebec, in order to acknowledge both official languages. Federal services are available there in both languages. A large number of their population speaks both official languages. However, in English Canada, and yes here in Kamloops, B.C. we only sing the anthem in English. Our services are offered sparsely in French.
I have lived in just about every province in Canada. I do not share her opinion, but I served my country to preserve her right to it.
K.J. TREMBLAY
Kamloops
