From Pierre to Justin: A Jamaican-Canadian Perspective on Leadership, Resilience and Grace

Lest We Forget

As a beneficiary of Pierre Trudeau's amnesty in the early 1980s, I know firsthand the joy of receiving such a privilege. Scripture tells us that there is a time and a season for everything under the sun—a truth that seems to have been overlooked by many in their harsh critique of Justin Trudeau. As I mentioned in a previous article, no leader is infallible. That is an attribute only God possesses. Lest we forget the story of Moses and the Israelites, we should remember that leadership often comes with immense challenges and imperfect outcomes.

While some will acknowledge the many benefits provided by Justin Trudeau’s government, including the pandemic relief, they are also quick to pivot sharply and call for his repentance.

COVID-19 and Economic Challenges

First, let me say, neither Justin Trudeau nor Joe Biden imposed a recession on us; the COVID-19 pandemic did that. Name one country that escaped the global impacts of the pandemic. Let’s be realistic. Justin Trudeau cannot be blamed for the economic crisis we are facing. Greed causes that. Trudeau's policies saved many Canadians from starvation, homelessness, and the looming recession. Compared to many nations, Canada weathered the pandemic relatively well.

According to a paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, Canadians were better vaccinated compared to many Western countries, experienced fewer infections, fewer COVID-19 deaths, and lower mortality from all causes (BMJ).

Additionally, research indicates that during the pandemic, both COVID-19 cases and deaths per capita were substantially higher in the U.S. than in Canada (PMC).

Housing Crisis

Canada is made up of ten provinces and three territories. The federal government does not have sole jurisdiction over housing issues—all levels of government in Canada are involved. While it is true that Toronto has struggled under the weight of Syrian refugee resettlement, history reminds us that Jamaicans and other Caribbean immigrants once received similar support under Pierre Trudeau, Justin’s father. Few may recall or even be aware of it. At the time, those living in Canada undocumented for 10 years or more were called in for permanent resident status. My mother and I were among the beneficiaries.

So, if giving refuge to oppressed foreigners is what makes Justin Trudeau “deeply unpopular in Canada,” we should reflect on our desires. As Jamaicans often say, “What goes for the goose, goes for the gander.” Some people seem to care only about their communities. Immigration itself is not the problem—selfishness is.

It’s natural for long-term immigrants to feel frustrated when newcomers receive benefits that seem inaccessible, such as monthly stipends, Costco cards, housing, and other amenities. However, these are often provincial or municipal issues, not federal ones. The deeper issue is: who is sitting at the negotiation table? When there are all heads and no hearts at a table,?or those in power lack empathy or personal experience of hardship, we end up with chaos, blame, and inequitable solutions.

Jamaican-Canadian (Jam-Can) Contributions

As a Jamaican-born Canadian, I share the concern about the perceived decline in government efforts to support the Black community. An article in the Jamaican Gleaner noted “the government’s disregard for the Jamaican community’s contributions to Canada.” I, too, have observed a shift in focus toward the Indigenous community, which has resulted in fewer resources directed to us. I would love to see more continued effort in the Black community.?

However, this is not a time to compare and despair. Both communities have been wronged historically, and both require sustained, thoughtful efforts toward restoration. Every BIPOC community has shown great “resilience and excellence in various fields.”

Trudeau's administration did not marginalize Jamaican heritage; marginalization is a systemic issue. The Trudeau administration focused on the Indigenous community, which was fully due. So kudos to him and his administration for their efforts in righting that wrong. Any marginalization we as Jamaicans or Black people feel is a systemic issue, not a Trudeau administration issue. Canada’s commitment to righting past wrongs is overdue and necessary.?No oppressed community should be left behind.

A Call for Grace and Perspective

The bishop pleaded "for a Christian response of grace and prayer, hoping Trudeau would 'seek repentance and future leaders would govern with integrity and respect for all communities.” Every leader needs repentance—and so do us all.

I have not seen any grave wickedness from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. While some of us may feel slighted by his policies, I don’t believe his policies were intentionally harmful. No government is perfect, and it’s doubtful any other leader could have done better under these circumstances.

Let’s not forget the 1990s, during a period of fiscal austerity, when the Progressive Conservative Party, outlined their "Common Sense Revolution" and suggested single mothers on social assistance could survive on 69-cent canned tuna and Kraft Dinner. By comparison, Justin Trudeau deserves recognition for navigating challenges with integrity.

In Sum

As concerned citizens, we must remember that leadership requires tough decisions, especially with limited resources, vision, and compassion. In my view, given the circumstances, Justin Trudeau deserves an A for his efforts.

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