Monday August 7, 2023 | LANGFORD, BC [Updated 9:40 am]
Commentary by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Today is BC Day. The first Monday of every August is when it happens.
That makes for a 3-day long weekend, usually the most relaxing opportunity in summer for some time off.
BC Premier David Eby says in a statement today that BC Day is “an opportunity to celebrate this wonderful place we call home”. He mentions the rapidly increasing population as well as the impact of drought and wildfires. He remarks on the continuing need for consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples.
A case of complexities:
Indeed, BC offers an abundance of outdoor recreational and natural opportunities, as well as a vibrant social discourse in which to participate.
Yet the economy has pockets of difficulty and there are sociocultural challenges, mostly notable a rapidly increasing population and the challenges presented by that including a housing shortage, competition for employment opportunities, and strain on the health-care system.
The impact of climate change on infrastructure and public safety are two increasingly important concerns, as is the sustainability of food supply that is home-grown. Broad scope issues include the aging demographic (with impacts on housing, health-care and the provincial budget) and the things that rot a society from the inside out such as systemic racism and misogyny.
There is also an unforgiving impact of inflation on the overall cost of living for many if not most people in BC. That problem stems from national and global factors but it strains the enjoyment of life in this west coast province.
Overall this is one of the most amazing places on the planet in which to live — mostly because we still respect the natural outdoors in this part of the country. But the social and economic structures that we’ve laid on top of that are fraught with challenges.
Premier David Eby’s statement on BC Day:
“B.C. Day is an opportunity to celebrate this wonderful place we call home and the people who make it so special. We’re fortunate to live in a place known for its stunning scenery, incredible opportunities and warm, hard-working people.
“British Columbia welcomes people from around the world, whether as visitors or newcomers looking to build a good life for themselves and their family. B.C. is now home to people from more than 200 countries, alongside Indigenous Peoples who have lived on this land for generations. Our diversity is one of our defining features and one of our greatest strengths.
“This B.C. Day comes at a challenging time as we face severe wildfires and drought conditions. Once again, British Columbians are demonstrating their strength, resilience and willingness to lend a hand to their neighbour – whether across the street or the province.
“We’ve seen restaurants preparing meals for firefighters and first responders returning home from a long day on the front lines. We’ve seen individuals and businesses make changes to cut back on water use – so everyone has access to water when it’s needed. And we’ve seen thousands of firefighters and emergency personnel go to heroic lengths – and make exceptional sacrifices – to keep their fellow British Columbians safe.
“Our hearts are with the families, friends and colleagues of the two firefighters who lost their lives battling fires in B.C.’s forests. To all those continuing this brave work, thank you for your selflessness and your service.
“We also have much to be grateful for this B.C. Day. In consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples, we’ve made meaningful progress on reconciliation and implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We’ve taken significant steps to tackle climate change and protect our environment. At the same time, our economic recovery continues to lead the country.
“I encourage everyone to take some time to enjoy our beautiful province this B.C. Day, whether it’s going camping with your family, hiking to your favourite lookout or cooling off with a swim in a nearby lake.
“I wish you all a happy B.C. Day.”
==== RELATED:
Premier Eby’s statement on BC Day 2023 (August 7, 2023)
Premier’s statement on BC Day 2022: climate change, pandemic, reconciliation (August 1, 2022)
Premier’s statement on BC Day 2021 during pandemic economic recovery (August 2, 2021)
Premier Horgan’s statement on BC Day during COVID-19 (August 3, 2020)