The Royals: Protest Pomp and Prejudice

“Oh no, there are going to be anti-monarchy protestors at City Hall, on Sunday,” read Dominic. “This cannot be happening in our country, not in Canada! This is a demonstration against our British, royal visitors.”

Marie, Dominic’s wife, looked over his shoulder and was shocked as she read the first line. “But, they have come here in peace.”

“It is demonstrators who oppose the newlywed couple’s representation of the monarchy,” continued Dominic. “Can you imagine? They will be carrying signs and chanting slogans. This should not happen in a free land that is a democracy.

He read on. “Canadian broadcaster CBC reports that Quebec’s relationship with the monarchy has often been strained, with the Queen met by booing protesters on a visit to the province in 1964. That was so many years ago!”

“I love the excitement, pomp and circumstance associated with the young royals, even though they are not our king and queen yet,” said Marie. “It is so wonderful to see a newly married couple being welcomed in Ottawa by so many people, on Canada Day. Why do a few protesters have to spoil it for everyone?”

“Protests happen all around the world,” replied Dominic, sadly. “What if they were our children?  We would feel terrible. That beautiful, young bride could be our only daughter. We would be terrified for them.”

“I am terrified for the royals,” replied Marie. “We live in a supposedly civilized country. Have we not learned to love one another yet?”

Just then, Dominic and Marie’s daughter came in the back door, with her boyfriend. “Dad, Mom, we are going to the protest. Come with us!”

“Excluding people from our country because of their race, creed and color, that is prejudice,” replied Dominic. “Or because of the monarchy. That is so wrong!”