Every November 5th in England, they celebrate Bonfire day, also know as Guy Fawkes day. For those of you unfamiliar with this holiday, thirteen men sought to overthrow the government and kill the king by blowing up Parliament. The one who was caught in the basement of the Palace of Westminister with 35 barrels of gunpowder he was trying to light was named Guy Fawkes - hence the name of the holiday. Back then, as now, people didn't take well to anyone - no matter how 'pure' (in their own minds anyway) their intentions were - blowing up Parliament.
Fast forward to today, where another disaffected group has decided to attempt to blow up Parliament in their own special way. This time the weapon of choice is legalistic as opposed to explosives. Like in 1605, the plot itself was uncovered prior to its execution. Unlike 1605, however, drawing and quartering is off the table.
If we manage to set things right, we should consider setting up a Canadian version of Guy Fawkes day to be celebrated in rememberance of this attempt to subvert democracy and to remind us to never again take our democracy for granted - ever. Since there are three heads to this, giving them equal billing would make for a very cumbersome name. Dion, Layton and Duceppe day just doesn't roll off the tongue, nor does it give credit to many of the other players who helped make it happen like Jean Chretien and Ed Broadbent. It would hardly be fair to not give everyone the credit they are due in this sordid affair - and this was supposed to be all about a fairer Canada don't you know.
So, gentle readers, I am looking for some suggestions here:
What do you think we should call this potential holiday and when should it be celebrated?
My own thoughts: Since this happened so close to Christmas, what about calling it Coupmas? We can gather around big bonfires, sing Coupmas Carols, and roast hotdogs, marshmallows and effigies of one or more of this sorry bunch.
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