I recently attended the National Aboriginal Day celebrations at Fort George Park with my father and my four young boys (ages seven, five and twin infants). After the festivities we decided to join the dozens of children and parents at the Water Park for a couple hours and during a quick stroll in the park before calling it a day.
My seven year old requested to stop and use the port-a-potty along a path. As we walked up to the portable restrooms I noticed an elderly native gentleman approaching in the opposite direction. Thinking nothing of it my son entered a stall and a few feet away I tended to his infant brothers who were more than ready to go home. I then heard this elderly man say something and as I turned to look he had the door to the stall my son was in open and repeated himself nonchalantly, "Can I watch?" Horrified I slammed the door to the stall shut and while holding it closed said a few choice words to the man. He then proceeded to walk towards Exploration Place. After my son finished his business we quickly walked to the vehicle while paying attention for security, a police officer, or anyone of authority in the park as I had not had my cellular phone on me.
Later that evening I began to question my reaction and if I had done enough. But what else was I to do? I rarely ever see a security guard or police officer at any of the parks we attend. Not to mention no security systems. I think all local parks should have some camera or surveillance system in place (whether it be electronic or frequent patrols). It's horrifies me to think of all the children that were at that park on that particular day and the many others that will be there this summer.
The city needs to do more to protect its citizens and their children.
This is just one mom's opinion.
Lori Gauthier
Prince George
