bout de papier, Vol. 15, No. 2 (1998) — Summer 1998 // Été 1998, p. 2
This issue of bout focuses on two disparate parts of the globe: Central and Latin America and the Czech Republic. And, in between, we look at Canada’s Foreign Service — from recruiting to relocation into the Pearson Building to same sex couples.
David Bickford reflects on the relationship Canada has had with Central and Latin America since the beginning of our diplomatic ties — how it has waxed and waned according to events in other parts of the world. And, how Canada now appears to be “On the Brink” of enhanced bilateral and multilateral relationships. This theory is further reflected through the thoughts of OAS Ambassador Peter Boehm and his recent address to the Ottawa Branch of the Canadian Institute of International Affairs: “The Road to Santiago”, the recent OAS Summit. To complete our Latin American trilogy, our Travel to Far and Wide takes us up to the dizzying summits of Mexico’s volcanoes, courtesy of Nicholas Coghlan. Most will agree that better him than we.
Two excerpts from our archives mark significant milestones in the history of the former Czechoslovakia. The first is an account of the funeral of Jan Masaryk, Foreign Affairs Minister and son of former Premier Tomas Masaryk, in 1948 by the chargé at the Canadian Legation. The second is a series of telegrams, newly declassified for publication in this issue, of the Soviet invasion of Prague in August 1968. Forget the instant news of CNN – these messages evoke powerful images even 30 years later. Rob McRae contributes his memories of his last encounter with Czech President Vaclav Havel. We also have a review of Rob’s new book, “Resistance and Revolution: Vaclav Havel’s Czechoslovakia”, courtesy of Secretary of State David Kilgour. bout Board member Hector Mackenzie has shared with us an extract from his paper on the recruiting practices at Foreign Affairs, highlighting what went on — and how one got in — during those early days when Mike Pearson et al joined the Department. Early recruits toiled in the East Block and the old Post Office on Sparks Street, no doubt as crowded then as are those who ply their skills in the Pearson Building today. If you have ever wondered why the cubicles are airless or about the works of art adorning the public areas, Gordon Brown’s behind-the-scenes details of its completion and official dedication will provide the answers. We also pay tribute to the late John Halstead, bout de papier Vol. military and diplomatic veteran, nationalist and teacher, through the words of his friends, Jake Warren, Ferry de Kerkhove and Colin Robertson.
In 1995 a foreign service officer won a landmark case at the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal about equality for same sex partners. I thought it was time to survey our colleagues to see if things had changed. bout Board member and foreign service spouse, Liza Linklater, acted as the conduit for submissions. That there were only two from members — who both requested anonymity — to me speaks volumes: the situation for same sex partners has not undergone a radical transformation, yet. Nonetheless, one of our colleagues provides some thoughtful comparison with other foreign services which may prove something of a surprise.
An issue of bout appearing on desks marks the end of the publication cycle and time to start on the next. We develop the lineup, gather together book reviews, solicit or confirm advertising. Our graphic designers, Acart, then begin their production magic. Photos, graphics, screens, fonts — Acart really pulls rabbits out of hats to be creative within our budget. The master magicians are Al Albania and Nancy Boland, two of a triumvirate without whom the editor would be completely and totally lost. The third is, of course, PAFSO’s Debra Hulley — Managing Editor (an all-encompassing title which includes advertising manager and unpaid volunteer). These three are primarily responsible for the look of bout, with a little help from the editor (who is responsible for the words, including any and all errors). To them all I owe a tremendous vote of thanks, it has been a fascinating and enjoyable experience. However, after three years on the Board and the last one as editor, I must now relinquish this role for an overseas assignment in …Prague. (Our plans for a Czech focus were well in place long before my posting came up, but perhaps it could be the beginning of a trend for editors-to-be…) To my successor, Neil Reeder, I wish the same degree of enjoyment as I have had. To our contributors and readers, thank you for continuing support.
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Originally published in bout de papier, Vol. 15, No. 2 (1998) — Summer 1998 // Été 1998, p. 2. Read the rest of this issue →
