Prime Minister Jean ChrŽtien came in for quick criticism with his recent declaration that “if Canada is divisible, Quebec is divisible.” By some interpretations, the statement is just likely to inflame separatist emotions and could lead to bitter confrontation.
There was also concern that it could encourage the feeling that separation is inevitable and it’s time to start negotiating terms.
In this case, however, the critics are wrong. The prime minister was fully justified in bluntly spelling out one of the major problems with Quebec separation.
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Such statements do not mean surrendering the goal of national unity. On the contrary, they may be essential to preserving national unity.
If the people of Quebec vote again in a referendum on separation, the national government must make it clear what they are voting on.
During last fall’s indecisive referendum, there were disturbing indications that many voters thought they could still send members of Parliament to Ottawa even after independence.
If more Quebecers realize what they would lose through independence, then maybe the option of slow-paced, boring constitutional conferences would be a lot more appealing. Canadian provinces already have extensive powers to help foster culture and distinct societies. More adjustments could be made through compromise rather than looking for magic solutions in ripping a country apart.
Quebec is divisible, and areas of native self-government could be the first to seek their own independence, or to remain part of Canada.
The potential for violence must also be remembered. Regardless of whether Quebec chooses to stay in Canada or leave, there will be extremists unhappy with the result. The bombings and political kidnappings that rocked the province a quarter-century ago could be repeated.
If Quebec chooses to leave Canada, it will take restraint on all sides to permit that to happen without violence. People may have to swallow some pride and allow international tribunals to determine boundaries. Thinking about such issues should be sobering for all but the most zealous separatists.
Perhaps most importantly, the ugly aspects of separation enhance the positive appeal of national-unity arguments. The campaign for Canada is not yet lost. We are still a peaceful, comparatively prosperous democracy. We need to remind ourselves of that, and of achievements like the national medicare system.
There is so much more we and coming generations can build and achieve as a nation. To let it fall apart through inaction would be a tragedy.
