A movement is gaining momentum in Canada to reinstate statues of historical figures that were removed during the racial reckoning of the COVID era. This effort, spearheaded by various stakeholders including politicians, historians, and the public, aims to bring back monuments that were taken down, with a specific focus on statues of Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.
Recent developments indicate a shift in sentiment towards restoring these statues. For instance, the town of Wilmot, located outside Waterloo, Ontario, made a decision this summer to reinstall statues of Macdonald and other prime ministers that had been in storage. Similarly, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, supported by members from different political parties, unveiled Macdonald’s statue at Queen’s Park by removing the protective hoarding that had concealed it for years.
Former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole is advocating for increased recognition of Macdonald’s contributions, emphasizing his pivotal role in the formation of Canada through Confederation and his nearly two-decade leadership as the country’s head of government. O’Toole believes that honoring national figures like Macdonald is crucial, especially during times of challenges to Canada’s sovereignty.
Despite the push for restoration, several statues of Macdonald in different Canadian cities, including Montreal, Regina, Kingston, Charlottetown, and Victoria, were dismantled. The removal of these monuments was part of a broader societal reflection on historical injustices, particularly Macdonald’s involvement in the residential school system, which the Truth and Reconciliation Commission identified as perpetuating cultural genocide against Indigenous communities.
While acknowledging Macdonald’s flaws and the harm caused by some of his policies, proponents of restoring his statues, like O’Toole, argue that it is essential to confront and learn from history rather than erase it. They advocate for a balanced approach that recognizes both the positive and negative aspects of historical figures like Macdonald.
However, critics, such as Indigenous studies professor Omeasoo Wahpasiw, oppose restoring tributes to Macdonald, citing his controversial legacy and negative impact on Indigenous communities. The debate surrounding Macdonald’s statues reflects broader discussions on how to navigate complex historical narratives and commemorate figures with controversial pasts.