Will & Kate Should Skip Calgary Stampede

Without question, Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge (formerly known as Kate Middleton) are two of the most beloved figures in the world at this time. After all, they are embodying the ultimate in fairy tale – the handsome prince, the patient, but (pseudo) virtuous gorgeous girl who waited until the prince plucked her from relative obscurity and bestowed a crown (or tiara in this case), a title, unimaginable wealth and a life of extreme privilege.

Kate Middleton’s popularity also stems from the fact that she is the ultimate embodiment of the princess myth that has been rammed down so many young girls’ throats for the vast majority of our lives.

Currently touring North America, the young couple is attempting not to put a well-shod foot wrong – from the diamond Canadian flag brooch (on loan from the Queen no less), to the planting of a tree to symbolize their love, meeting with happily married couples (who the hell arranged this boring PR stunt?), to spending time playing street hockey in Yellowknife.

I can’t help but ask myself though, why, when everything seems to be so perfectly orchestrated to keep the couple as uncontroversial (and frankly boring) as possible, have they agreed to participate in the Calgary Stampede on July 8th, dressed up in western gear no less?

Now, the Royal family do have a long history of supporting vicious blood sports from fox-hunting to killing stags and shooting pheasants – animal rights and welfare has never been a strong suit with the royals - who also seem quite content to stuff themselves on foie gras and veal whenever the occasion calls for some decadent and cruel cuisine.

Look, I am happy for the young couple and wish them well, even though I do believe their sheer amount of privilege is obscene in light of so many people having so little, but I definitely am turned off by their choice to participate and support, even in some small way, in the horrifically cruel Calgary Stampede. Every year many animals are injured or die during this extremely violent ‘sporting’ event.

I can’t help but hope that instead of the adoring throngs of people lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the Royal couple, they will be meet by groups of animal welfare activists loudly booing their stupid choice to participate in an event that has long divided Canada.

Let’s just hope that their PR blunders stop at the Calgary Stampede and their Alberta portion of the trip doesn’t include a trip to the Tar Sands or a visit to see Monsanto’s thousands of acres of genetically engineered crops.

Valerie Williams is a writer living on Salt Spring Island.

Comments (4)

Show/Hide comment form