The Chief did not say that, but he probably would have.
Friday, August 16, 2019, a modest Tudor Revival style home at 246 19th Street West in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan was named a National Historic Site. The previous owner would have been pleased, and, certainly, he would be pleased if the ‘whole world’ did drop by. So, feel free to do just that – drop by.
The moving and meaningful ceremony that was held on the front lawn of 246 19th St. W. accomplished much. Not only was a local museum given national prominence, a distinguished Canadian was remembered for his efforts to make our country a worthy one.
The ceremony was hosted by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. The Board selects Historic Sites on the basis that, “...a proposed subject has had a nationally significant impact on Canadian history...”
During the ceremony it was made most clear that 246 19th Street West has indeed met the above stated requirement. For that residence was the home of John G. Diefenbaker, “...as he rose through the ranks to become the leader of the federal Progressive Conservative Party and Prime Minister of Canada.”
The day chosen - August 16th_ for this national recognition had meaning itself – it was the 40th anniversary of Mr. Diefenbaker’s death in 1979.
Dr. Leo J. Omani, a Dakota Knowledge Keeper/Elder, opened the ceremony with a prayer in his native Dakota language. Dr. Omani went on to make some personal remarks as to the significance of Diefenbaker in his life. Diefenbaker, at his own expense, interceded on behalf of the Omani family when there was a danger the family’s custody rights might be challenged. Then Dr. Omani pointed out that in 1960 the Canadian Parliament finally granted the First Nations people of Canada federal voting rights, a right Omani cherishes each time he goes to a polling booth. Diefenbaker was the Prime Minister at the time. ( Diefenbaker’s relations with the Indigenous people of Canada resulted in the naming of Diefenbaker as an honorary chief – a title that led to him being referred to as ‘Dief the Chief’).
Diefenbaker was famous for his strolls in downtown Prince Albert where he would stop and talk with the people – who were often amazed at ‘The Chief’s’ ability to recall their names and particulars of previous talks with them. Yes, he was truly The Man From Prince Albert. John Diefenbaker was revered for his personal charm.
In the late 1970’s, however, I was witness to a time when that charm was challenged, not by a political opponent, nor by some partisan heckler. No, it was by a polite, but determined, grade 12 student.
The occasion occurred during a session of a Model United Nations Assembly at Carlton Comprehensive High School. The students present represented some 70 nations and were debating serious world issues. I was on staff at Carlton and assisting with the Assembly’s proceedings. Unexpectedly, Mr. Diefenbaker and his entourage showed up at the back of the Assembly Hall. We stopped proceedings when Mr, Diefenbaker agreed to speak to the delegates.
The Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker, ex prime minister, stepped to the podium. He began by telling the delegates that they were fortunate to live in Canada where they were allowed to state their views freely, unlike nations such as The Soviet Union (Russia).
Immediately a delegate went to a side microphone and energetically indicated she wished to interrupt the speaker.
The chair reluctantly asked The Right Honourable Mr. Diefenbaker to pause so that the delegate could state her point.
The delegate stated that as she represented the Soviet Union she felt the speaker had insulted her country and she expected an apology.
An audible gasp went through the room.
A tension filled pause occurred. Then the ex Prime Minister looked at the young woman and with a gracious grin and nod said, “You make my point young lady. You are free to speak your mind.”
The incident ended with a spontaneous applause for Mr. Diefenbaker and the courageous young delegate.
Perhaps we all should pause and applaud when we visit Prince Albert’s new National Historic Site at 246 19th Street West. Applaud the man who did much for Canada and the city he loved – Prince Albert.