After the racial reckoning during the COVID era, Canada faced its complex history, resulting in the removal of statues of key figures, including Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. Now, there is a movement gaining momentum to reinstate some of these monuments. Led by various stakeholders, including politicians, historians, and the public, the effort aims to restore symbols that had been taken down in the midst of societal unrest.
One positive indicator of this shift is the recent decision made by Wilmot, a community near Waterloo, Ontario, to reinstall statues of Macdonald and other prime ministers that had been in storage. The refurbished monument will now include educational plaques recognizing past injustices. Additionally, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, with bipartisan support, unveiled Macdonald’s statue at Queen’s Park by removing the protective hoarding that had covered it for years.
Former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole is actively advocating for Macdonald to receive recognition for his significant role in shaping Canada’s Confederation. O’Toole emphasizes the importance of embracing national pride and honoring the country’s founding leaders amidst current challenges to sovereignty and trade relations. He believes it is time to move beyond the trend of tearing down historical symbols and instead focus on acknowledging the complexities of the past.
Despite these efforts, several statues of Macdonald in cities like Montreal, Regina, Kingston, Charlottetown, and Victoria have been toppled in recent years. Critics argue that Macdonald’s involvement in policies that oppressed Indigenous communities, such as the residential school system, should not be glorified through statues. However, supporters of reinstating Macdonald’s tributes stress the need to educate future generations about both the positive and negative aspects of his legacy.
While opinions on Macdonald’s legacy vary, the debate underscores the nuanced nature of history and the importance of preserving a comprehensive understanding of the past. As the country navigates these discussions, the restoration of statues serves as a means to engage in dialogue, promote historical awareness, and advance the process of reconciliation.