Musings From Upper Canada

I believe every link to the monarchy is a reinforcement of an outdated, anti-democratic, elitist system which betrays the basic notion of equality, success as a function of talent, skill or achievement and a modern society where all citizens have input. I also realize, that in Canada, many entrenched monarchist ties are hard to undo, institutionalized, complete eradication challenged by simple practicalities. However, in noting the rationalization for the latest regressive move by these Conservatives, I'm struck by the absurdity in logic:

"The country that forgets its history does so at its own peril," said MacKay in Halifax

This argument, a common thread noted by most proponents yesterday. It's a false distinction, as though without the name somehow the brave sacrifices, victories of the past are lesser in stature. Anyone with a ounce of common sense can see beyond simple labelling to note the "proud tradition", my impression of what Canadian soldiers did at Juno Beach doesn't even digest the relevance of name, nor do I see a disconnect from the bravery displayed in present day Afghanistan. This "issue" is a fabrication, a concoction that relies on misplaced romanticism and flawed logic to argue we MUST embrace our past, as though it really is a choice. Such bullshit, such dribble, insulting to think we need "Royal" again to fully appreciate our history.

Unfortunately, history can sometimes be a hindrance to progress, reverence for the past a shackle which prevents evolution. The monarchy is a historic relic for all practical purposes, now reduced to all day discussions about fashion and robotic adherence to ancient protocols, stuffy, unrepresentative, trivial and no longer relevant in a modern society. Taking this position doesn't distract from acknowledging the past, doesn't fail to recognize the importance of "Royal" speeches during war, doesn't reject history, it just understands that it is history. When you cut through the psychological reverence which is now more about celebrity worship than anything, you are left with people who's only achievement is lineage, representative of power which rules over people, rather than serves their interests, based on inputs. I can walk and chew gum, I can remember our past, applaud past achievements, "never forget", without former designations, the whole issue is beyond irrelevant, in terms of appreciating.

That people have now attached monarchist labels to notions of patriotism and acknowledgement of sacrifice and achievements is unfortunate, unnecessary and a false premise. A society can move forward without betraying its past, to suggest otherwise is simplistic and wrongheaded. I assure you, how I view my grandfather's service during World War II isn't altered by a designation, a more trivial concern I can hardly fathom. The Conservatives have instituted a regressive move, and the only real value I take from the decision is it's symbolic of their wider vision, or lack thereof as the case may be.