Canada: A Country for All of Us
On July 1st, Canada celebrates from coast to coast. It’s the country’s birthday — and you might be surprised to learn that it all began in 1867, when several British colonies united to form a new nation. That was the birth of Canada: still under the British monarchy, but with its own government and a clear desire to forge its own path. 
Today, with about 40.1 million people, Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area. But what truly sets it apart isn’t its size — it’s the way it embraces people. Diversity here is more than a value; it’s a foundation of national identity. Long before Confederation, this land was home to Indigenous Peoples — First Nations, Inuit, and Métis — who remain essential to Canada’s past, present, and future.
Toronto, the country’s largest city, is a living example of this diversity. Over half of its residents were born outside of Canada, and among the largest ethnic communities are Chinese, Indian, and Filipino, in addition to the traditional anglophone population — Canadians of British descent and other native English speakers.
Montreal impresses with its francophone charm, academic excellence, and vibrant cultural scene. Vancouver, known for its saltwater beaches and majestic mountains, is a model of sustainability and high quality of life. Ottawa, the capital, recently hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their royal visit. Canada is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy, currently led by Governor General Mary Simon and Prime Minister Mark Carney, of the Liberal Party.
In recent years, population growth has brought new challenges. The cost of living has risen sharply — especially in major cities — and safety concerns have grown in several regions. Even so, Canada continues to be admired for its stability, freedoms, and commitment to inclusion.
May this Canada Day also remind us of something essential: living in a free country requires a shared commitment to the common good. Respecting human rights, laws, and one another is how we build a society that is safe, fair, and truly inclusive. The Canada we all admire is built every day — through each act of respect, solidarity, and justice.