By: 
I will stay inside my small circle, but I am not cancelling my Christmas celebrations, and I still plan on making some New Year’s resolutions.
The year 2020 will best be remembered for the novel coronavirus pandemic and the impact it had around the world. Even with modern technology and advances in healt care, hundreds of thousands of people died as millions were infected. Countries have been closed to outsiders, economies have been shut down and people have been asked to stay home, all while essential workers continue to support our communities.
Christmas is around the corner, and people across Canada are being asked to stay home this year so that we can better minimize the negative impact of the coronavirus. The holidays are looking different than they ever have.
While we are not visiting homes and attending Christmas and holiday parties this year, Christmas has not been cancelled and we should still celebrate the New Year later this month.
On Christmas day this year, I will likely be having a plate of perogies, some chicken, corn, and for dessert I am thinking about toasting a cinnamon bun and having it with a Coke Zero and maybe a little ice cream. Connecting with family and friends will be a virtual experience for, as it will be for countless others.
Past Decembers have always been busy, as there are so many Christmas and holiday events — activities which often allow me the opportunity to meet many of my constituents. This December I am trying something different and will have a special Christmas Facebook live event on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m. I encourage you to check it out.
Remember: We’re all having a tough time this winter, and many people are feeling isolated. Reach out to your friends, family, neighbours and elders (from a safe distance) to wish them a happy holiday — and remind them that they’re not in this alone.
As we wind up 2020 we can see there are brighter days ahead. Earlier this month the first COVID-19 vaccines arrived here in Canada. They’ve already been distributed across the country and our most vulnerable populations are already being vaccinated. It will take a while to vaccinate all of us but the program is a priority for me.
The Government of Canada has fought to secure more vaccines per capita than any other country on earth. Our scientists and doctors have worked around the clock to ensure that the vaccines are safe and effective to use. Now they will be available — for free — to every Canadian, starting with those who need it most.
Someone asked me when I would be vaccinated, and I said not before everyone who lives in Winnipeg North that is older than me (58) has been offered the opportunity.
No matter your faith, or the holiday you happen to celebrate, I hope God blesses you and your family this season. Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
Kevin Lamoureux
Winnipeg North constituency report
Kevin Lamoureux is the Liberal Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North.