In an opinion piece published June 29, 2026, Caroline Elliott calls on Canadians to celebrate Canada Day without the obligatory nods to guilt and grievance. She argues that the country has only one day a year dedicated to celebrating the free, democratic, and tolerant nation built by predecessors, and there are plenty of other days for social justice causes favored by left-leaning politicians.
Elliott criticizes political leaders for tying Canada Day to colonial guilt
Elliott points to statements by B.C. Premier David Eby as examples of this trend. In his 2025 Canada Day statement, Eby referred to Canada's “troubled and complicated history” and called the day “an opportunity for reflection on the impact of colonialism on generations of Indigenous Peoples.” In 2024, he said “Canada's historical wrongs against Indigenous Peoples make today difficult for many,” and in 2023, he described Canada Day as “an opportunity to acknowledge the impact Canada's colonial history has had on generations of Indigenous people.”
Elliott notes that Eby has previously lamented B.C. as a “colonial mistake,” his government describes the phrase “British Columbians” as exclusionary, and his MLAs refer to non-Indigenous Canadians as “uninvited guests.” She argues that Eby is not alone in tying national celebration to guilt-laden reprimands.
Museums also urge decolonization of Canada Day
The B.C. Museums Association has long contemplated scrapping Canada Day celebrations altogether. The association explains: “Questioning colonial narratives and seeking to respond to the needs of Indigenous, racialized, and marginalized communities applies not only to Canada Day but to the majority of statutory holidays in Canada as well.”
They provide a multi-step guide titled “How Museums Can Support Reflection, Reconciliation and Redress on July 1st,” which includes steps such as “Take action on reconciliation and decolonize your space” and “Acknowledge your role as a settler.” The association even warns against flying the maple leaf, stating: “The Canadian flag is a symbol that holds different meanings for different people. What can represent freedom for some can represent oppression for others.” They advise that if using the flag, institutions should “reflect on the different — and often conflicting — meanings this symbol can have and how its use might exclude participation from certain groups and individuals.”
Elliott urges focus on Canada's achievements
Elliott emphasizes that Canada is a beautiful country forged by generations who tamed a vast land, gave their lives in defense of freedom, built prosperous communities, and established stable democratic institutions. She notes that millions of prospective newcomers seek to come to Canada each year for refuge, opportunity, and a better life. She argues that political leaders should be able to say “Happy Canada Day” without a diatribe condemning the past.
