A good thing is happening for Canadians as a result of the Iraq war (and many more wars to come, compliments of the Bush doctrine)... like me, I think more of us are discovering the Canadian identity. Instead of lulled pretentiously into thinking we are pseudo Americans, bathing unabashedly in the neighbourly culture of Married in America, American Pop Idol, American Academy Awards, Jerry Springer and Ricky Lake, and not the least, the never-ending episodes of the afternoon soap operas, we are now examining who we are. With the border closing, we can no longer dismiss Canadian programming as dismissively as Bush regards Canada.
Watching CBC to CNN is an eye opener. The Juno awards this evening is another eye opener. Canadians have some of the best female entertainers in the world, among them Shania Twain (who unfurled the maple leaf flag this evening), Avril Lavigne, Alanis Morissette, Chantal Kreviazuk, Jann Arden, Kathleen Edwards, and of course, Celine Dion. You'd notice all these ladies have a distinct Canadian personality - one of quiet independence managing their artistic talent without the "in your face" attitude of some of their American counterparts. Sarah McLachlan is perhaps the best embodiment of the Canadian personality..... an unpretentious chanteuse who could rustle strong independent egos south of the border for her Lilith Fair.
As for documentaries on the why, what, where, when, an how of the Bush doctrine, watch CBC. You won't find the real truth by watching CNN or any other U.S. stations. CBC's reporting is impartial, providing insights from both sides of the fence. Passionate Eye has shown (they will repeat again, I think) a whole series of documentaries, including the one this evening on Bush's star war program. Tomorrow evening, is an important one to watch ... terrorists and nuclear bombs. The Iraq war may not bring the security or peace as Americans hope. The aftermath may not be one of fear of the U.S. war machinery, nor one of temporary anger. It could be a long-lasting hate by two-thirds of the world's population. This will be bad not only for our neighbour, but also for us Canadians, even though we are peace loving. |
