Burns Lake Councillor Charlie Rensby used his Canada Day remarks at Spirit Square to call for reflection on what it means to be Canadian in a time of global and domestic uncertainty.
Rensby said he has long pondered the question of national identity.
“What is a Canadian? What unites us and what sets us apart from other Western nations?” he asked.
Referencing a recent statement by the Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet, Rensby noted the claim that Canada is an “artificial country,” and that some have called Canadians “non-American Americans.” In response, he called for renewed focus on the values that form the foundation of the country.
Rensby said Canadians are not bound by a belief in “divine exceptionalism,” but by “humility and accountability,” and by the idea that “facing our failures makes us stronger.”
“We do not celebrate individualism at the expense of society. We uplift each other,” he said. “We believe compassion is a form of strength, not weakness.”
He contrasted Canada’s historical development with that of other nations.
“We are not a country born in the fires of revolution, but in the quiet strength of cooperation and law,” he said.
He described Canada’s armed forces as a symbol of care, not conquest.
“Our armed forces are not used to project global dominance but to protect the powerless, not to conquer but to care,” he said.
Rensby emphasized Canada’s diversity, saying the country is “a nation of nationalities brought together by our shared belief in fairness, freedom and opportunity for all in a democratic way of life.”
As global tensions rise, Rensby urged Canadians to see their country as a global leader in values.
“Now more than ever, Canada must stand as a bastion of freedom and justice in the world, no matter the cost,” he said.
He closed his remarks by quoting former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker: “I am Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, free to choose those who shall govern my country.”
“For Canada, it's not just a place. She is an idea,” Rensby said. “And we're all gathered here today because we believe in that idea still.”
“On behalf of the Village of Burns Lake, I'm deeply, deeply honoured to welcome you all here as we celebrate this great, great country we all call home and the brighter future we know still lies ahead.”
Some locals were moved by Rensby's speech. Leona Peden of Burns Lake commented on a video of Rensby's speech on Facebook.
"Very well said, Charles. Thank you," she wrote.
The Canada Day celebration at Spirit Square also featured several live bands and a breakfast hosted by the Legion.
"Loved the Canada Day celebration! Thanks to the Village staff for all their work. The cake was delicious, enjoyed meeting old friends and the entertainment was great!" Paula Van Tine wrote on Facebook.
