Parading for the first time in a lifetime
They came, they waited, they watched and cheered. Today, the Saint Patrick’s parade returned to the streets of Quebec City, for the first time since 1926. Or, in clearer terms, for the first time in their lives, for the great majority of those standing on the sidewalk.
A bit of history: the first St. Patrick’s parade in Quebec City took place back in 1837. Then, being Irish was ordinary. Not quite a majority, but still a part of the city spirit. Parades continued until just after the creation of an Irish state, and then other priorities saw the annual event relegated to the archival memory.
Imagine the changes in this city, after eight decades! My call to attention came from a Facebook group, although we did receive an official invitation at work, from our beloved mayor. I didn’t spot him, but the Grand Marshal, Marianna O’Gallagher, was the best possible candidate for the chair of honour. After all, if you want to learn about the history of the Irish in Quebec, her books are the reference of choice.
Guests came to the party, from far and wide. Where else would the NYPD Marching band follow a Chinese Dragon, on behalf of the Celtic pride?
Even the Irish wolfhound was watching intently, as the pipes and drums (and dancers) made a joyful noise.
This wasn’t a long parade; most renewed efforts aren’t. I now know that trying to photograph something like this isn’t made easier by standing several rows back in the crowd. Shooting at arms’ length is an exercise in futility, for the main.
No, I didn’t wrap myself in green tissue, and I didn’t shout exuberantly; I’m far too shy for public outbursts of song, even if I know the words by heart from an early age. My inherited BIS robe will wait until I have the right to wear such a thing. I did get “out of the house” and attend a public event. And that makes me part of this historic event.
