Peter T:

I agree with parts of your post and disagree with others, and it occurs to me that we may have regional differences. I grew up in Ontario, and well remember the Orange Parade - it was the only time my father ever remembered he was of Irish stock.

I now live in BC, yeah, Lotus Land, and honestly, the people here are so much more laid back about issues like "foreigners," immigration, race, creed, colour. Live and let live is cheerful here.