What Does it Mean to be a True Canadian?
Canadians, in my view, are not simply born within the borders of this country; rather, they are individuals who, through choice or circumstances, dedicate themselves to living north of the 49th parallel. Being a true Canadian is a full-time commitment to duty, common values, and national unity. This journey is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a deep understanding and embrace of the country’s rich cultural tapestry and its values.
Real Canadians
A true Canadian is committed to tirelessly upholding the responsibilities and obligations that come with citizenship. This dedication is seen not only in the birth of one’s ancestors but also through personal choices and actions.
I understand that the motivations behind naturalization can vary widely, and sometimes those who obtain citizenship and later return to their birthplaces might be called into question. However, regardless of their background or past actions, those who follow our laws and actively strive to improve Canada for all its inhabitants are, in my opinion, true Canadians. The essence of true Canadian identity lies in acting as a responsible member of the community.
Critique of Citizenship Requirements and Exam
There has been a push for changes in the citizenship process in recent years. For instance, the reduced residency requirement of three years has drawn criticism. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the watering down of the citizenship exam and the proposal to make it online to address backlogs. These changes concern me, as they may make it easier for individuals to become citizens without fully understanding the values and responsibilities that come with it.
While I appreciate that efforts have been made to improve the process and facilitate the application, it is equally important to ensure that the standards of knowledge and commitment remain high. The Canadian citizenship exam should be both challenging and informative, reflecting the true essence of Canadianism.
It is worth noting that while the United States also requires its citizens to pass a similar exam, they have maintained a more rigorous and comprehensive process. Canadians should strive to do the same to ensure that our citizenship remains a symbol of deep respect and understanding for our country.
The Diversity of Canada
Canadians come from diverse backgrounds and demonstrate remarkable diversity in various aspects of their lives. From ethnicity and religion to gender identity, career, and language, our nation is a vibrant mix of different cultures and perspectives.
Some individuals may have a single ethnic background, while others might have a blend of multiple cultural heritages. Whether you are of Scottish, Filipino, Inuk, or Brazilian descent, or identify as Muslim, atheist, Christian, or Buddhist, you bring unique experiences and viewpoints to our shared national identity. Similarly, your gender identity, whether male, female, transgender, or cisgender, adds to the rich tapestry of Canadian society.
The diversity of professions in Canada is equally impressive. You might be a banker, social worker, student, stay-at-home caregiver, taxi driver, roughneck, or fisher, each contributing to the overall fabric of our community. Moreover, the linguistic diversity in Canada is one of its greatest strengths, with languages like French, English, Oji-Cree, or Hindi representing the rich linguistic heritage of our nation.
Canadians are not just diverse; we are proud of our diversity. This diversity of cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles is one of the hallmarks of our nation and is what makes Canada so special and beloved. By celebrating our differences and working together, we can continue to build a country that is strong, inclusive, and respected around the world.
In conclusion, being a true Canadian means being part of a community that values diversity, promotes unity, and works tirelessly to ensure that Canada remains a shining example of multi-cultural harmony and inclusion. Whether through the laws we follow, the values we uphold, or the personal commitment we make to serve others, every Canadian has a role to play in shaping the future of our great nation.