Why it is great to be Canadian

by Dan della Penna

January 30, 2015
I am lucky to be a citizen of one of the worlds great countries. For
decades, the United Nations has ranked Canada as one of the best places in the
world to live, based on life expectancy, income, access to education, incidence of
violent crime and overall quality of life. Canada's health system and antidiscrimination laws are models to the world. Our commitment to protecting natural
resources and the environment is recognized and admired abroad. As a country
founded and built by immigrants, our social policies have ensured that the diverse
customs and traditions of new Canadians are preserved and respected, making ours
one of the most inclusive and peaceful societies on the globe. These are all realities
that make me proud of my country because they show a long-standing commitment
to working hard and working together to ensure a great future for all. So for me,
part of being Canadian is having confidence that our government will do right by all
citizens, and that we will do right by each other -- providing a solid framework
within which we can do great things.

Like most citizens of first-world countries I admit that I often take my good
fortune for granted. However, I was recently reminded that we enjoy peace and
prosperity today because of the sacrifice of others who came before us. While
attending Remembrance Day services at the Moro River Cemetery in Ortona I heard
moving words and heart-felt tributes from local residents who still today express
gratitude to our troops for their bravery and sacrifice in WWII. The pride I felt in
hearing the words Viva Canada will stay with me for the rest of my life. Our
military has made differences in the world. The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a pivotal
battle of the First World War, won with strategies conceived and executed by the
four Canadian divisions sent there to help the allies. In 1956 it was Canada that
proposed the United Nations maintain a permanent peace-keeping capability. So, I
am proud of our military past, and also that our government continues to insist that
our armed forces uphold an obligation to prevent war and that they defend not just
our own interests and security but also that of others around the world.

Canada is distinct because it is among very few nations in the world that
respects and defends human rights and freedoms, protects its citizens from illness,
discrimination and violence, and allows different ideas, consciences and
experiences to be freely-expressed -- fundamental liberties that we take for granted
but that are denied to millions and millions of other people living on our planet.
That makes my country a moral leader in the world and that makes me proud.