Canada Day 2020 is truly unlike any other. We will miss the traditional annual celebrations in Meaford, Bognor, and Annan, the mass singing of Oh Canada, the fireworks that light up the night sky. This year of unprecedented change, has brought into sharp focus how much we have to celebrate as Canadians, and perhaps, how much we have taken for granted in the past.

A celebration is in order for the many ways we have changed and grown over the last year. We have adapted to new and uncertain circumstances. Our first responders, governments and public health units have been extraordinary in their response to this pandemic. You’ve risen to the challenge by taking the situation very seriously. You continue to comply with health unit protocols to keep our community as safe as it is, and you’ve come together to take care of each other. As we begin the long process towards recovery, let’s remember and be grateful for the incredible effort that was so necessary – and so relatively successful in our area - and the lessons learned about what is really important in our lives.

Although we won’t be getting together for the popular car show, live music, family games and fireworks this year, here’s an idea to show community spirit: Dig out the Christmas lights for the front door, wear red and white as you bike, hike and enjoy the parks and trails that make Meaford so special.

And you may notice some changes in downtown Meaford as restaurant patios pop up along Sykes Street. Partnering with the Meaford business community as they work through provincial restrictions, we’re now able to enjoy a meal and a drink in the sunshine, just a block from our beautiful waterfront – and just in time to celebrate our community and to support our economy in honour of Canada Day.

We have so many things to be grateful for. As we join with Canadians of every culture on July 1, let us say a heartfelt thank you for the democracy that protects our safety, and freedoms from coast to coast to coast. Let’s truly appreciate our beautiful natural surroundings, our peaceable way of life, and our caring community – especially all those who risked their own safety to serve their community and their country.

Let’s celebrate how far we’ve come, and the bright future that lies ahead. Whatever you do to mark this special occasion, please stay safe. Happy Canada Day everyone!

Mayor Barb Clumpus
Municipality of Meaford