Canadians don't know a lot about how their system of government works. This is, I feel, an extension of the powerful apathy that has taken hold in the population in regards to politics in general. It is not surprising then that Canadians also tend not to understand the role the monarchy plays in Canada. That is why when there is a chance for a teaching moment it should not be wasted. Back in February Premier Kathleen Wayne had such a moment when she created a video answering common questions students often asked her about government. While the rest of the video is accurate, the section dealing with the monarchy has glaring errors. Video starts at 3:03.
The question itself is flawed but a common error for a child to make. The Premier had a chance to educate and she missed it completely. Her Majesty serves as Queen of Canada and while it might have been too lengthy to discuss how this came about, it was not acceptable to leave the title 'Queen of England' unchallenged. This is because that title has not existed in a formal capacity since the 1700s! And even it did still exist it is proper to use the title that is applicable to Canada. This would have been an excellent opportunity to explain that the Queen is the sovereign of many countries, which explains the need for vice-regal positions such as the governor general. As I said, an opportunity was missed.
The next issue I had was the use of the word 'technically'. It is basically a filler word with negative connotations. A better way to put it is thus:
"The Queen is in charge but a long time ago it was found that the monarch needed help in governing. In time these helpers came to be chosen through democratic elections. The Queen has an important role in making sure there is always a premier or prime minister to govern for her. Her Majesty also carries out ceremonial duties that help bring the people of Canada together."
Finally, the Premier talks about the appointment of the lieutenant-governors and governor generals. Here she makes a final mistake in saying that both positions are appointed by the prime minister when in fact they are not. The Queen appoints the governor general and the governor general appoints the lieutenant-governors. Both are advised by the prime minister in who would be good at the job.
Perhaps in the future the Premier could ask someone knowledgeable before releasing a video that is going to be presented to school children.
Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour
The next issue I had was the use of the word 'technically'. It is basically a filler word with negative connotations. A better way to put it is thus:
"The Queen is in charge but a long time ago it was found that the monarch needed help in governing. In time these helpers came to be chosen through democratic elections. The Queen has an important role in making sure there is always a premier or prime minister to govern for her. Her Majesty also carries out ceremonial duties that help bring the people of Canada together."
Finally, the Premier talks about the appointment of the lieutenant-governors and governor generals. Here she makes a final mistake in saying that both positions are appointed by the prime minister when in fact they are not. The Queen appoints the governor general and the governor general appoints the lieutenant-governors. Both are advised by the prime minister in who would be good at the job.
Perhaps in the future the Premier could ask someone knowledgeable before releasing a video that is going to be presented to school children.
Loyally Yours,
A Kisaragi Colour
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