Those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Canada Day fireworks across the river in Sarnia will have to wait another year. Today is Canada Day however according to Sarnina Mayor Mike Bradley, the city yet again will not be celebrating the holiday in usual fashion. Speaking to our Paul Miller, Bradley says coronavirus restrictions are part of the reason why.
“Ontario is still under restrictions… you can’t gather with more than 25 people,” said Bradley. “We had no choice but to cancel the fireworks and the big parade that takes place here.”
Bradley says today’s holiday has a somber tone this year, due to recent revelations regarding the treatment of indigenous youth. Some are using the holiday to raise awareness for the hundreds of first nation children who’s remains were recently found in unmarked mass graves at boarding schools across the country.
“That has shocked the nation,” Bradley told WPHM. “There’s a real movement across this country for places that were having Canada Day (celebrations) … and to find some way to recognize the first nations community, and there are at least two ceremonies I’m aware of in Sarnia.”
Speculating on when the international border may reopen to the public, Sarnia’s Mayor says there may be some partial border openings in August. He would like to see a staggered reopening approach, with priority given to those with family or property on either side of the border. Currently the US-Canada border remains closed to all but essential traffic through at least the 21st of the month.
