Meaning: The quote you provided is from a speech delivered by Gordon Sinclair, a Canadian journalist, on June 5, 1973, as a commentary on the state of affairs in the United States. The speech, titled "The Americans," was delivered during a time of social and political turmoil in the U.S., including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. In the speech, Sinclair expressed his admiration for the American people and their resilience in the face of adversity.

Sinclair's quote about draft dodgers reflects the sentiment that even those who had evaded the military draft in the U.S. were not being actively pursued or hounded in Canada. This was a reference to the significant number of young American men who had crossed the border into Canada to avoid being conscripted into the military during the Vietnam War. These individuals became known as "draft dodgers," and their presence in Canada was a source of tension and controversy at the time.

Sinclair's assertion that the draft dodgers were "here on our streets" reflects the reality that Canada had become a safe haven for many young Americans seeking to avoid military service. The Canadian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, had implemented a policy of welcoming American draft dodgers and deserters, viewing them as political refugees. This policy was in stark contrast to the stance taken by the U.S. government, which sought to prosecute and punish those who had evaded the draft.

The quote also alludes to the fact that many of the draft dodgers in Canada were receiving financial support from their families back home in the U.S. This highlights the personal and familial sacrifices made by these individuals as well as the ongoing support they received from their loved ones, despite the controversial nature of their decisions. The mention of "getting American dollars from Ma and Pa at home to spend here" conveys the idea that the draft dodgers were able to sustain themselves while living in Canada, thanks to the support of their families.

Sinclair's commentary on the treatment of draft dodgers in Canada can be seen as a reflection of the country's humanitarian and compassionate approach to those seeking refuge during a tumultuous period in American history. By highlighting the relatively lenient treatment of draft dodgers in Canada, Sinclair sought to contrast the perceived harshness and divisiveness of the political climate in the United States at the time.

In summary, Gordon Sinclair's quote about draft dodgers in Canada provides insight into the welcoming and accommodating stance taken by the Canadian government and society toward American individuals seeking refuge during the Vietnam War. It also reflects the broader themes of compassion and empathy during a time of social and political upheaval.