The greatest threat to Canadian unity has, and always will be, political ambition. I don’t care what party you belong to, hands off my county. I will not not let any politician involve me in a partisan war against my country. I will not let politicians carve Canada up and divide the spoils for their unsustainable partisan agenda. I’m a Canadian first and last and always. My country before my party.
To be Canadian is one of the best gifts life gave us.
There are many views – and lively debates – on how our nation could be improved. But should never doubt that our diversity is a strength, a source of cooperation and a better life for all, from coast to coast to coast.
And although Canadian unity can never be taken for granted, we must always keep the faith alive. Some predict our nation’s explosion, arguing that it is too centralized, others that it is too decentralized.
And all the while, millions and millions of human beings around the world dream of being Canadian. We have built an admirable country, thanks notably to the powerful contribution of Quebeckers.
Together, we must keep improving Canada and showing the world how a great, diverse nation can keep moving ever closer and closer to the dreams and aspirations of all people of good will.
Long live Quebec, long live united Canada!
Stéphane Dion, April 24, 2012
