VICTORIA, B.C. - Today, we honour the memory of the more than 22,000 Canadians who lost their lives to COVID-19 and extend our condolences to everyone who is grieving. Sonia Furstenau, leader of the B.C. Green Party and MLA for Cowichan Valley has issued the following statement:
“A year ago today, COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic and our lives were changed in ways we could never have imagined.
“Acknowledging the people we’ve lost further allows us to heal, though I know that process is only just the beginning. Being unable to gather to grieve this year is a staggeringly cruel element of this pandemic. Today, I hold everyone who has passed in my heart. Soon, I hope we will once again be able to safely gather, embrace, share a meal, and follow the customs, religions, and ceremonies that have guided us through tragedy for generations.
“I would also like to acknowledge those who have survived COVID-19, but are struggling with long-term symptoms. We will strive to better protect and support you every day.
“It has been a horrible, horrible year, but we are finding our way through thanks to the continued dedication and service of frontline workers - health care workers, teachers, first responders, janitorial staff, those who care for our elders and children, the people who feed us and those who ensure essential goods and services get to where they need to be.
“After all we’ve been through our world will be forever changed. We have learned, unequivocally, that everything is interconnected. That nothing matters more than the health and well-being of the people we love. And that we are all willing to make incredible sacrifices to protect people we have never met. I have a glimmer of hope that some of the changes we’ll carry forward will make our province a kinder, healthier, more just and caring place.”
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Media contact
JoJo Beattie
Press Secretary
B.C. Green Caucus
+1 250-882-6187 | [email protected]