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Decentralized Democracy

Ontario Assembly Bill

Ontario Bill 81

43rd Parl. 1st Sess.
April 25, 2024
Croatian Heritage Day Act, 2023
  • This bill is about proclaiming May 30th as Croatian Heritage Day in Ontario. It recognizes the contributions of Canadians of Croatian heritage to various fields such as business, politics, medicine, science, sport, and culture. Croatian immigrants came to Ontario in the 1920s seeking a better life and established vibrant communities across the province. Ontario is now home to the largest Croatian population in Canada. The bill highlights notable individuals of Croatian descent who have achieved success in their respective fields, such as Robert Herjavec, a well-known investor, and George Chuvalo, a renowned boxer. By proclaiming Croatian Heritage Day, Ontario acknowledges the significant contributions and the important role that people of Croatian heritage have played in shaping the identity of the province.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • The steelman argument in favor of Bill 81 2023, the Croatian Heritage Day Act, is as follows: Recognizing and celebrating the contributions of different cultural communities is an important aspect of fostering inclusivity and diversity within a society. The Croatian community in Ontario has a rich history of making significant contributions to various fields, including business, politics, medicine, science, sport, and culture. By proclaiming May 30 as Croatian Heritage Day, the Province of Ontario acknowledges and honors the remarkable achievements and positive impact of Ontarians of Croatian descent. The Croatian immigrants who arrived in Ontario in the 1920s were seeking a better life and worked hard in various industries, such as steel mills, mines, and construction sites, contributing to the growth and development of the province. Their vibrant communities, established across Ontario, have added to the cultural fabric of the region. The Croatian community in Ontario is the largest Croatian population in Canada, with over 100,000 people of Croatian descent. This significant presence highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating their heritage and contributions. Notable individuals of Croatian descent, such as Robert Herjavec, a successful entrepreneur and television personality, and Asaf Durakovic, a renowned scientist in nuclear and radiation medicine, exemplify the achievements and success that can be attributed to the Croatian community. Furthermore, the Croatian community has made significant contributions to the world of sports. Athletes like George Chuvalo, who had an impressive boxing career, and the Mahovlich brothers, who achieved success in the National Hockey League (NHL) and won the Stanley Cup, have brought pride and recognition to Ontario. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to future generations. By proclaiming Croatian Heritage Day, Ontario acknowledges the values and cultural identity that the Croatian community has brought to the province. This recognition not only honors their contributions but also helps shape the identity of Ontario as a diverse and inclusive society. In conclusion, the Croatian Heritage Day Act, 2023, is a positive step towards recognizing and celebrating the remarkable contributions of Ontarians of Croatian descent. It promotes inclusivity, diversity, and cultural appreciation, while also acknowledging the important role the Croatian community has played in shaping the identity of Ontario.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill 81 2023: While it is important to recognize the contributions of various immigrant communities in Ontario, the proclamation of Croatian Heritage Day through Bill 81 raises concerns from a right-wing anti-government perspective. Here are some key points to consider: 1. Government Overreach: The proclamation of a specific heritage day for a particular community is an example of unnecessary government intervention. It is not the role of the government to dictate which cultural groups should be celebrated and when. This kind of legislation only serves to expand the reach and influence of the government, which goes against the principles of limited government advocated by right-wing ideologies. 2. Identity Politics: The proclamation of Croatian Heritage Day can be seen as a form of identity politics, which is often criticized by right-wing individuals. This legislation promotes the idea that certain groups deserve special recognition based on their heritage, rather than focusing on the contributions and achievements of individuals as Canadians. It is important to promote unity and a shared Canadian identity, rather than emphasizing divisions based on ethnicity or heritage. 3. Selective Recognition: While it is true that Croatian immigrants have made significant contributions to Ontario, so have many other immigrant communities. Singling out one specific group for recognition can be seen as unfair and exclusionary. It is important to treat all communities equally and avoid favoritism or preferential treatment based on ethnicity or heritage. 4. Distraction from Real Issues: Proclaiming Croatian Heritage Day may divert attention and resources away from more pressing matters that require government attention. Instead of focusing on symbolic gestures, the government should prioritize addressing economic, social, and security concerns that affect all Ontarians, regardless of their heritage. 5. Cultural Assimilation: The celebration of specific heritage days can inadvertently promote cultural separatism and hinder the process of assimilation into Canadian society. While it is important to acknowledge and appreciate diverse cultural backgrounds, it is equally important to encourage newcomers to integrate into Canadian society and adopt Canadian values and traditions. Emphasizing specific heritage days may inadvertently discourage this process. In conclusion, while recognizing the contributions of Croatian immigrants is important, the proclamation of Croatian Heritage Day through Bill 81 raises concerns from a right-wing anti-government perspective. It promotes unnecessary government intervention, identity politics, selective recognition, distraction from real issues, and potential hindrance to cultural assimilation.
Royal Assent
  • April 25, 2024, noon
  • Read
Third Reading
  • March 21, 2024, noon
  • Passed
Second Reading
  • Sept. 25, 2023, noon
  • Passed
First Reading
  • March 20, 2023, midnight
  • Passed