Tuesday May 27 2025

May 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday May 27 2025

King Charles III’s visit to Canada underscores the country’s sovereignty and distinct identity amid geopolitical tensions with the U.S.

Canada’s Sovereign Stand Against U.S. Pressure

May 6, 2023

As King Charles III arrives in Canada for his first visit as monarch, the event is rich with meaning and strategic foresight. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s invitation for the King to deliver the Speech from the Throne is more than a ceremonial gesture; it’s a powerful assertion of Canada’s independence and distinct identity. This move comes at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has been making dismissive remarks about Canada’s status, and it serves as a clear message that Canada stands proudly on its own.

When Carney was sworn in as Prime Minister, he described Canada as a country “built on the bedrock of three peoples: Indigenous, French, and British.” This statement captures the essence of Canada’s diverse heritage, highlighting a nation that neither leans towards American influence nor forgets its roots. By inviting King Charles III to read the Throne Speech, Carney underscores this foundation, setting a tone that is both inclusive and assertive.

Opinion: King Charles’s visit to Canada: A Commonwealth flex with an audience of one

May 17, 2025

Carney’s use of this royal visit as a diplomatic tool showcases his government’s approach to international relations. His first official trip to Paris, London, and Iqaluit mirrored this blend, reinforcing ties with France and the UK while acknowledging the crucial role of Indigenous communities within Canada. During his time in London, Carney extended the invitation to the King, who was eager to accept. This isn’t just about tradition; it’s about strengthening the bonds that link Canada to the Commonwealth and its constitutional monarchy.

The visit takes place at a critical time when Canada’s relationship with its southern neighbour is being tested. Trump’s repeated comments about Canada potentially becoming the 51st U.S. state have been met with widespread concern. In this context, the royal visit is a clear message to Trump—and the world—that Canada’s sovereignty is firm. It’s a symbolic gesture, reminding Trump that Canada’s path is its own.

BBC: King’s invitation to Canada sends a message to Trump – and the world

June 10, 2022

While the visit includes traditional ceremonies, like military honours and a ceremonial tree planting, it serves a deeper purpose. It highlights the ongoing role of the monarchy in Canada’s governance and its relevance today. Including Indigenous leaders and cultural elements reflects Canada’s commitment to reconciliation and acknowledging its diverse heritage.

Public opinion on the monarchy might be mixed, but the significance of this visit goes beyond individual views. It reaffirms Canada’s heritage and declares its future on the world stage. The monarchy, often seen as a relic, finds new relevance as a diplomatic tool in modern times. Carney’s actions show a keen understanding of the power of symbolism in global politics and the importance of defining a nation’s identity through its history and constitution.

News: Why King Charles’s upcoming visit to Canada is unprecedented in many ways

King Charles III’s visit to Canada is more than a ceremonial occasion; it’s a defining moment in Prime Minister Carney’s diplomatic strategy. It’s a bold statement of independence and a celebration of the diverse peoples that form Canada. As Trump watches, this royal visit serves as a reminder of Canada’s steadfast independence and commitment to its principles. This historic moment isn’t just about the past; it’s about a clear vision for the future, where Canada’s identity is proudly asserted on its own terms.

The Crown Reconsidered by The Graeme Gallery

Tuesday May 27 2025

Read on Substack

Monday April 28, 2025

April 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay – Monday April 28, 2025

Conclave 2025: A Crossroads of Tradition and Change

As the Catholic Church gears up for the 2025 papal conclave, the stakes are exceptionally high. This election follows the passing of Pope Francis, a pontiff renowned for his progressive stance on numerous issues and his efforts to globalize the College of Cardinals. The conclave, set to begin on May 7th in the Sistine Chapel, will see 135 cardinal electors participating from 71 countries, reflecting the international diversity championed by Pope Francis.

The conclave will determine whether to continue on the progressive path set by Pope Francis or pivot towards more conservative leadership. This decision will profoundly impact the Church’s stance on critical issues like climate change, social justice, and interfaith dialogue. With a significant number of non-European cardinals, there’s a strong possibility of electing a pope from the Global South, further emphasizing the Church’s worldwide reach and influence. The new pope will need to balance upholding traditional Catholic values with addressing modern challenges, such as declining membership in certain regions and the need for reform within the Church’s bureaucracy.

Analysis: The ‘Papabiles’: Six men who could become the next pope following the papal conclave

Among the leading candidates, Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy stands out as a seasoned diplomat and traditional choice, appealing to those seeking stability. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines is known for his progressive leanings, emphasizing inclusivity and social justice, which resonates with younger, more diverse segments of the Church. Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana is another strong contender, with his leadership in addressing global issues and his African heritage reflecting the Church’s commitment to diversity. Cardinal Péter Erdő of Hungary is recognized for his conservative theological views, appealing to those who wish to reinforce traditional Catholic doctrines.

The outcome of the conclave is unpredictable, and both media and betting markets are closely watching the proceedings. With security measures in place to ensure the conclave’s integrity, the gravity of this decision for the Church’s future cannot be understated. For further insights into the dynamics of the conclave and potential leaders who could shape the future of the Catholic Church, readers can explore detailed articles on Vatican Conclave 2025 expectations, potential candidates for the next pope, and the stakes of the 2025 papal election.

This editorial cartoon was first published March 7, 2013

Thursday May 4, 2023

May 4, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 4, 2023

Why Flying the Pride Flag Matters

January 17, 2012

Recently, a disturbing incident occurred outside a meeting of the York Catholic District School Board. Adults who claimed to be protecting Ontario’s children were actually endangering their well-being. Many of these adults, likely parents of school-aged children, showed up to the meeting to vehemently oppose the possibility of the board flying the rainbow flag in support of LGBTQ students in June. They even hurled insults at those who were in favour of flying the flag.

News: Advocates, protestors clash at York Catholic school board meeting over flying Pride flag

Although some of these adults claim that their objection was not specifically to the Pride flag but to what they believe it represents – the alleged corruption of children who are supposedly too young to learn about gender and sexuality – this notion is misguided. Everyone is capable of learning about gay, transgender, and non-binary people, just as they can learn about cisgender and heterosexual people. Queer people are not sexually explicit by their mere existence.

The belief that exposing children to queer people is harmful is nonsensical and is based on hateful, age-old myths about queer people as a corrupting influence on children. This belief is also derived from a particular brand of anti-LGBTQ politics typically associated with the United States. However, the events at the Catholic school board in York Region demonstrate that Canada is not immune to public displays of hateful rhetoric.

Pride celebrations are essential in schools to support marginalized kids who need it. Flying the Pride flag is not merely an act of virtue signalling; it is an official declaration of support for these kids. According to a recent survey conducted by the LGBTQ advocacy group EGALE, anti-queer discrimination is still prevalent in Canadian schools. For instance, 64% of all participants reported hearing homophobic comments daily or weekly at school. Moreover, 79% of transgender students who experienced physical harassment reported that teachers and staff were ineffective in addressing transphobic harassment. Lastly, over 30% of respondents who attend Catholic schools reported experiencing harassment based on their perceived sexual orientation.

October 30, 2018

We have made significant progress as a society regarding inclusion, but there is still much work to be done. It is critical that schools fly the Pride flag to signal to kids that even if their peers or parents reject them because of their identity, the school itself – and those at its helm – do not. Education Minister Stephen Lecce made it clear that he supports LGBTQ students, and we hope that York Region’s Catholic school board will follow suit. (AI)

Saturday September 8, 2018

September 7, 2018 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 8, 2018

Scientists urging people to stop dumping aquarium and market fish into Hamilton Harbour

Harbour scientists say they have been finding some strange new creatures in Hamilton Harbour this summer, suggesting people are dumping aquarium and fish market species into the waters.

June 24, 2015

“We’ve seen some fish that really should not be there and it’s really a sign of people purposefully and irresponsibly and illegally releasing fish into Hamilton Harbour,” said Becky Cudmore, senior science adviser on aquatic invasive species with Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Among the findings are four tilapia fish and a type of aquarium catfish. This is on top of an established population of goldfish, the outcome of untold numbers of people emptying their aquarium fish into the bay and Cootes Paradise.

“What we are seeing with goldfish is something we don’t want to see happening with other species,” she said.

She believes the tilapia, a non-native species originally from the Middle East and Africa, were bought at a fish market and then released into the harbour in a misguided effort to save the fish from being eaten.

“It’s not fair to the fish because they are not meant to be in that water,” said Cudmore. She urged people with unwanted aquarium fish to take the fish to pet rescue centres or back to the store where they bought them.

She expects tilapia in the harbour will die out over the winter because the species prefers tropical environments. But some could survive by using warm water effluent from Hamilton steel mills as an overwintering haven.

Tys Theijsmeijer, the head of natural lands for the Royal Botanical Gardens, says as well as adversely affecting native species, introduced species can bring new diseases to the ecosystem. (Source: Hamilton Spectator)

Friday August 17, 2018

August 16, 2018 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday August 17, 2018

Scheer cautions Bernier: Members of caucus need to work together

May 19, 2017

Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer issued an indirect warning to outspoken caucus member Maxime Bernier on Thursday: members of caucus are expected to be team-players, focused on the same goal.

“There is an expectation in our caucus, and on our team, that everyone is focused on working together to earn back the trust of Canadians and to replace Justin Trudeau as prime minister in the next election,” Scheer said.

“Every Member of Parliament should be, as their key priority, working towards putting out the types of policies that resonate with Canadians.”

His comments to reporters in Regina come after a few days of back and forth exchanges over the Quebec MP’s public remarks.

On Sunday evening, Bernier issued a series of tweets on diversity, saying that “Trudeau’s extreme multiculturalism and cult of diversity will divide us into little tribes,” and that “more diversity will not be our strength, it will destroy what has made us such a great country.”

September 22, 2015

Bernier then questioned the naming of a park after Pakistan’s founder; and criticized the federal government looking to make a statutory holiday in recognition of residential schools as a “cult of victimhood.”

On Wednesday night, Scheer issued a statement distancing himself and the party from the outspoken Quebec MP and characterized his comments as using identity politics to divide Canadians.

Bernier followed that up Thursday morning with another round of tweets denying he was engaging in identity politics.

Facing questions about whether he’s entertaining the possibility of Bernier’s removal from caucus—something Liberals and New Democrats have called for— Scheer said he wouldn’t talk about internal caucus matters but pointed out that it would be something decided on as a team. (Source: CTV)

Posted to Reddit. Posted to iPolitics.