We’ve all just had statutory holiday for BC Day. What does it mean to you?
Did you take time with family? Put in time at work? Volunteer at your neighbourhood organization? Or did you reflect on the history of BC?
Here at BC Achievement, staff did a little of all of the above.
For most of us, BC Day has meant a day off – one where we can enjoy a summer day at the beach, outside reading a book or playing a sport with friends, or getting a task checked off that never-ending checklist of things to do.
Let’s take a little look at the history of BC Day, or Civic Day as it’s called in other provinces. Established in 1974, BC Day was officially established by the British Columbia government. The idea was to create a day to recognize and celebrate the heritage, culture, and achievements of the province.
Knowing a little more about the history of this province, the injustices put on Indigenous people by the original settlers, and our early history with immigrants, we could easily hide our head in the sand. But those things that make us uncomfortable, often make room for growth, realization and understanding. So, BC Day can be a good opportunity to reflect on where we’ve come as a province, how much we’ve learned, and a vision for the future that includes reconciliation, respect, and compassion.
The growth of a community is often dependant on strong foundations and systems to keep it running, but a significant piece of a community’s strength is in its volunteers. At every level of a town or city, you’ll find acts of service performed by those who wish to give back, or to contribute their expertise and time to a cause or event in their community. Without them, our cities would be black and white. Volunteers add the colour! With so many events, festivals, gatherings BC Day is a perfect time to volunteer your services.
It’s also an equally good time to get started on those tasks you’ve been procrastinating on, or haven’t yet had the time to tackle. Organizing your closet, fixing the squeaky door, tuning your bike, or catching up on a work assignment while no one else is at the office – each one can provide a great sense of accomplishment when completed.
I think the most favourite way to spend BC Day for our staff is to make memories with our families. This BC Day we collectively did some fun things: fishing, kayaking, long walks, and even longer dinner conversations.
Whatever you did this BC Day we hope you took the time to rest, recharge, learn and get ready for a new month.
Happy August from us to you!
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.