“The maze design features the iconic RCMP 150 logo, with the Mountie proudly saluting. It’s an opportunity for visitors to recognize and honor the invaluable role the RCMP has played in shaping Canadian history and serving our communities across Alberta.”
The company said the RCMP has “played a vital role in shaping Canadian history” and invited visitors to “learn about the various ways in which the RCMP serves and protects our communities” as people navigate through intricate paths cut into a field of corn.
‘We Are Sorry’
Despite dozens of gestures and comments expressing appreciation for the 2023 design, including from individuals identifying themselves as serving RCMP officers, the venue posted a Facebook statement on July 28 apologizing for that design, reported CTV News in Edmonton.The company said its intention was to honour the service and dedication of RCMP members throughout the years.
‘Polarized Society’
In response to a request for comment from The Epoch Times, the company said via email on July 30 that it “did delete the initial statement,” referring to the apology.“We thought it was important to recognize the sometimes problematic history of the RCMP and the impact it has had on different communities over the past 150 years. We will continue to acknowledge this,” said the emailed statement.
“What was missing from that response was our support for the men and women who are serving and have served in the RCMP and law enforcement in general. We in no way wanted to diminish or devalue the good work that they do. The maze design recognizes this 150 year milestone. We thank them for their service.”
“As a serving RCMP member, it is gestures like this that go a long way when we mostly see negative all the time. I appreciate this gesture and know many colleagues do as well. Men and women of the force today do a lot of good for communities across our nation,” said one user.
Some other users expressed disappointment that the organization issued an apology.
“I appreciate the maze as an active rcmp member, the apology makes me feel sad though,” said another user.
Another user said: “Many many RCMP officers have given their lives in service and continue to do so every day …. are some ‘bad’ ? of course…they are people….the 99% that are not bad have been treated unfairly in this post/ apology.”
In the now-deleted apology, the company said it had received feedback that “opened our eyes to the impact of our choices,” and promised it would be “more thoughtful” in its design decisions going forward, “ensuring that they resonate positively with all members of our community.”
In its response to The Epoch Times, the company said it remains committed to “looking for ideas that will be as inclusive as possible and will consult with others in the process going forward. We realize that we live in a polarized society and people seem to be offended by anything.”