2017: Canada’s next good year?

Andrew Cohen, contrasting preparations, events and resources for Canada’sC Centennial in 1967 to the meagre offerings in 2017.  I am old enough to remember the Centennial train, visiting Expo 67, and the various nation-building projects.

Changing times,  governments then had a larger nation-building role, the current government has a more minimalist approach, and a general weaker sense of national identity (the 60s were a decade of affirmation of Canadian identity). And of course, in 1967, physical events were the main way to reach people; now one has to be in cyberspace as well.

A good reminder of what was, and suggestion of what could have been. With the risk that we will wake-up in 2017 asking: “Is that all?”

2017: Canada’s next good year?.

Canada’s 150th anniversary plans big on battles and birthdays

Not surprising, and consistent with the narrative of Discover Canada, our guide for new citizens, focussing on an arsenal of battles and wars, a smattering of sports and a nod to the Arctic. A bit narrow, however.

Canada’s 150th anniversary plans big on battles and birthdays | Toronto Star.

Canada at 150: Ethnic communities to mark 150th by focusing on ‘Canadian’ values

Canada at 150: Ethnic communities to mark 150th by focusing on ‘Canadian’ values.