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Change: The 1980s

Decent Essays

Fear, afraid and something new are words that many people think of when they hear the word change. Many people are afraid of change and fear the unknown and when given the opportunity for change they dismiss it, but change is one of the most important factors, especially in the development of a country. Attempts at change whether they fail or not, is important because they provide as learning experiences for the country and can help them develop further. The 1980s was a decade full of opportunities for change in Canada and taught many the importance of taking chances, using the opportunity when given and learning from failure. The 1980s is the most important and influential decade in Canadian history. The 1980s contributed to change that can …show more content…

The Meech Lake Accord was an opportunity for change that was missed, but provided as a lesson for change in the future. Since, Quebec did not sign the Constitution, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney wanted to fix the relation between the country and Quebec’s dissatisfaction (Colyer, et al, 2010, p. 371). He wanted to unify the country together, so in 1987, The Meech Lake Accord was formed, it would give the provinces more power, and recognize Quebec as a distinct society and a minority (Gall, 2015, online). At first there was much support for this Accord, but soon this dwindled, as Former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was opposed it, saying it would encourage the separatists in Quebec by making Quebec feel like less of Canada (Colyer, et al, 2010, p. 371). Additionally, many women stood up and argued that Quebec being a distinct society would allow Quebec to override the Charter of Rights and Freedom and deprive them of their rights (Colyer, et al, 2010, p. 372). Indigenous people also argued if Quebec was distinct society they should be too, and it ignored their rights and place in Canada. In order to change the Constitution all 10 provinces had to sign in a three year period. Elijah Harper an indigenous chief and member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, voted NO and this was part of the failure of The Meech Accord and a turning point for the indigenous people of Canada, Phil Fontaine an indigenous leader said, "We came to the realization very quickly that our voice mattered. We could make history, we could change the course of history. We knew and understood what was possible." (CBC News, 2016, online). Although The Meech Lake Accord was a failure, it reflected the diversity of Canada and proved as a valuable lesson that still applies today. It showed how Canada wanted to change and this attempt provided

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