God save the king

For the first time in seven decades, citizens of the realm will celebrate the coronation of a new monarch. On May 6, His Majesty King Charles III will celebrate his coronation along with Her Majesty Queen Camilla.

The historic connection between Canada and England remains, although satisfaction with the monarchy has waned in this country. Recent polling suggests 60% are not amenable to the new king and wish Canada to abolish the monarchy.

This should come as no surprise. The school system has diminished the standing of the crown for a generation or two. Even current politicians from time to time show their ignorance of our constitutional monarchy.

As in many times past, whether it be royal weddings or the funeral for Queen Elizabeth II, we hope to rise early with family to watch the event. It is history after all in the making.

Later that morning our MPP Ted Arnott who is Speaker of the House will be hosting an event at Queens Park with Premier Doug Ford, Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell and Indigenous leaders. There will be a 21-gun salute, a drum circle and flag raising at 11:15am.

While the monarchy may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it remains a reality and important part of our form of democracy in Canada.

The accompanying photograph (left) we captured during a 2019 trek returning from a newspaper conference. Never having had the opportunity to stroll around London, it was quite an eye-opener. Places and names that we had only ever seen on television or read about in books sprang to life. The walk along the Mall was very impressive featuring flags of the Commonwealth and a canopy of trees.

Leading up to the big event this Saturday Brits and visitors from around the world will show up along the Mall and pick a spot for the best views. Some were stationed there this past weekend already, camping out to see their King.

May the day be filled with revelry and good will for His Majesty King Charles III. God save the King.