May 3, 1942
Last week, our Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King finally announced a national plebiscite (a vote by the electorate determining public opinion on a question of national importance) to ask the citizens of Canada if they would or would not support conscription. Even though King promised that conscription would not happen in this war as it did in the first World War, I knew it was inevitable. I, as well as many other English speaking Canadians, understand King’s compassion for a strong bond between English Canadians and French Canadians. Unfortunately, the bond between the French and English is almost unrecognizable; it is quite possible it doesn’t even exist. So when I heard the news of this vote for conscription, I already predicted the outcomes. And they were remarkably accurate. Around 60 percent of Canadians voted in favor for conscription. 79 percent of the English population voted in favor, while 73 percent of the French populated voted no conscription. I, being English Canadian, feel that in order for Canadian’s to survive through this war we are going to need everyone to help one way or another. I really do not appreciate that the French do not take this World War seriously at all. If a nation is at war, every citizen in the nation is part of it. Even women like me have joined the army to support the war, why don’t they feel the need to do something, anything to help Canada win the war? I think the French are cowards, or in other terms, zombies. Even though they are alive, they do not contribute to Canada in any way. Well, not in the a way which helps Canada win the war. I completely support William Lyon Mackenzie King, because if the English Canadians and the women are making such an effort to fight for Canada, the French Canadians should too.
-Emma Bailey
I'm With you Emma Bailey. If men like my Dad are doing their part and risking their necks, it is their duty to do the same.
ReplyDelete-Richard Sharpe
I absolutely agree with you, Emma. I applaud your teamwork concept. This war requires all fronts, men and woman, English and French. Even the single-parent mothers are helping out with the war effort, and yes, they should too.
ReplyDelete~ Patricia Meyer
You are undoubtedly right! I'm a female factory worker. I even stepped out of my traditional roles to support the war effort. The French Canadians should really think again about the true value behind patriotism.
ReplyDelete-Marilyn Anderson
Emma, you are absolutely right. Everyone in Canada and here over seas have put some much effort and contribution into this war, even the ones who are at home have done something. I really think the French Canadians should stand up and fight for us because we need all the support we can get. The more help the sooner in getting our loved ones back home safe.
ReplyDelete- Shirley Reynolds
My son did not die for nothing. He died for this nation! I am 100% with you kid. This war requires every living soul to contribute. We shouldn't be working our butts off while those darn French Canadians are doing nothing. Something should be done!
ReplyDelete-Gurt Bachett