For the first time we had a location open in Bearspaw yesterday (and again today). I was amazed by the people that came. They were lined up at 1:30 so we opened early. We were to open at 2 pm. After the initial rush, it continued to be steady until closing.
What also intrigued me was we weren't getting that many local residents. But we got people from SE, SW, NE, NW Calgary. Many were recent immigrants. Some were second generation immigrants. I was happy for them to come. Several were from countries that had experienced Communism and were so eager to sign.
There was a lady there helping direct traffic. I didn't know who she was until she came over during a bit of a lull and introduced herself. She was the author of Thank You, Truckers! Canada's Heroes and Those Who Helped Them. Donna LaFramboise
She said the atmosphere around our petition paralleled the atmosphere during the Trucker's time in Ottawa. She was asking us what stood out to us as we talked/signed people. I mentioned the large numbers of new immigrants and one man, whose parents fled Nicolae Ceaușescu's reign of terror in Romania, became very eloquent stating we MUST leave Ottawa.
At the close of the day, a Chinese family came in and wanted to sign. Their English was broken - several who came had broken English - but when asked if they were Canadian citizens, they replied no. So, unfortunately, they were unable to sign. They seemed very sad not to be able to sign.
I know Donna LaFamboise would be very interested in your stories if you'd be willing to share. I think she wants to write another book this time on our Independence!
Her contact info: [email protected]