Ten reasons for monument

Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 18/07/2024 (415 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I have followed with interest the pros and cons regarding the issue of what to do with the Ten Commandments monument at Assiniboine Park that was removed and placed in storage to make way for the Leaf.

I particularly write in support of its reinstallation in the park as recommended by Gail Asper and reported by the Free Press July 2 (Gail Asper calls on city council to reinstall Ten Commandments monument in Assiniboine Park) and the thoughtful and sensible report and commentary by John Longhurst in the Faith section on July 13 (Ten Commandments monument in spotlight).

I especially would like to add 10 further important considerations and important facts that should be taken into account on this issue and reasons to support its reinstallation:

1. Removal of this monument from the park would be an affront to the Fraternal Order of Eagles who donated this to our city back in the 1960s.

2. The Eagles are not a religious organization, but are an international organization active throughout the U.S. and Canada whose main purpose is reflected in their motto “People helping people.” This organization supports the major health charities and promotes peace and prosperity under the principles of liberty, truth, justice, equality and understanding. They considered that the Ten Commandments represent these important principles, and they have donated similar monuments to various cities throughout the United States.

3. The heritage aspect of this monument should also be respected. Along with the many Ten Commandment monuments the Eagles have donated, it should be recognized that they were also responsible for the founding of Mother’s Day and were a driving force behind our social security system.

4. The original settlers or colonists who came to this continent were mostly from Europe and shared this land with the Indigenous First Nations people who were here well before. The makeup of these new settlers in Manitoba at time of installation of this monument for them were predominantly Christian, hence the importance of the Ten Commandments to them.

5. Over the last 75 years or so, things have changed dramatically to the makeup of Canada with the influx of people from all continents and all faiths. We have become not only a multilingual but also a multi-faith country. Over this period of sharing this country with Indigenous people, we have also formally acknowledge the need for a reconciliation that is in process.

6. Replacing this monument in a meditation section of the park where all faiths can be recognized as suggested by Gail Asper and supported by John Longhurst is a very appropriate solution.

7. I suggest that this special section of the park be called “Canada Multi-faith Garden,” with specific designated areas set aside for the many faiths of the world where other monuments can also be placed.

8. A prominent section next to the Christian section, I suggest, be dedicated to our Indigenous partners to representing the seven principles of their faith: love, respect, honesty, courage, truth, wisdom and humility, with each represented by a different animal. This section would also reference the respect for Mother Earth, and the environment. All of these principles are very much in line with ours.

9. I agree that planning of this Canada Multi-faith Garden by the park be done as suggested by John Longhurst in consultation with the City of Winnipeg Multi-faith and Cultural Liaison Circle created by our mayor, Scott Gillingham. Additionally, I suggest that the province of Manitoba and government of Canada be involved, and that this be promoted as a major tourist attraction for our city. This would be very much like the International Peace Gardens, to bring economic benefits for our province and our city.

10. Much of the current unrest and conflict between countries or within countries is not always caused by political reasons but frequently is due to religious differences and intolerance.

The creation of this multi-faith garden, in my opinion, would contribute greatly to world peace and understanding.

William Hanuschak writes from Winnipeg.