To all District 5080 Rotarians
March 12, 2025
When Paul Harris founded Rotary in 1905, he envisioned an organization that would bring together people from different backgrounds in fellowship and service. Today, as tensions sometimes arise between our two nations—whether over trade policies, environmental issues, or border security—Rotary reminds us that real progress comes from dialogue, mutual respect and shared service.
Our district stands as a living testament to Rotary’s power to build relationships across international lines. With clubs on both sides of the border, we engage in service projects, youth exchanges, and friendships that embody the spirit of peace and cooperation. While governments may face diplomatic hurdles, we as Rotarians should continue to strengthen the people-to-people connections that truly define Canada-U.S. relations.
As your District 5080 Governor, I agree with these words. However, they were not written by me. I thank my friend, District Governor Bill McGregor, from District 5020, which encompasses western Washington and Vancouver Island. This is another cross-border district facing the same challenges as we are in District 5080. Bill goes on to say:
The Four-Way Test: A Guide for Stronger Relationships
As we reflect on the relationship between Canada and the U.S., let us apply Rotary’s Four-Way Test in all that we do:
- Is it the truth? – Honest and open dialogue fosters better understanding.
- Is it fair to all concerned? – Fairness and mutual respect are key to any strong partnership.
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships? – Cross-border collaboration strengthens our shared future.
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned? – Rotary’s service projects improve lives on both sides of the border.
District Governor Bill and I agree that Rotary and Rotarians are aligned with these principles. I also believe that most citizens in both the US and Canada are similarly aligned. We recognize that we are members of a great organization that acknowledges the independent sovereignty of both of our countries. We are not a political or a faith-based organization – we are focused on doing good in our communities and around the world. We strive to live up to the Four-Way Test. Rotarians have been successful at achieving this for 120 years.
There are several reasons to belong to Rotary. We have much to offer. High on that list is the value of friendships. Apart from the friends that I have made in my club, there are those in District leadership and beyond our own district in neighbouring communities. My fellow governors within Zones 26 and 27 are a constant source of inspiration and support.
Different clubs, even within our own district, have different cultures. Their focus and their structure may vary from club to club. Still, when we gather as a larger group, such as our upcoming Spring Assembly or our District Conference, there is camaraderie and curiosity about what the clubs are involved with; what’s been accomplished; and what lessons have been learned. This is healthy and helps strengthen our clubs, and us, as individuals.
If you want to see those differences in a bigger way, you need only attend a Rotary International Convention, such as the one in Calgary, Alberta in June.
The challenges we face as citizens of our countries should not deter us from building on what we have accomplished as members within clubs, within districts and our impact around the world.
As Bill thanked his District, I also send my thanks to you and all Rotarians in District 5080 for your continued dedication to Rotary’s mission. Let’s continue to work together to connect our District and our nations, proving that service and friendship know no borders.
The foundation upon which Rotary is built is friendship; on no less firm foundation could it have stood.
-- Paul P. Harris
In Rotary Service,
