Canadians Celebrate ‘National Flag Day’
January 24, 2021
Ottawa Journal (January 24 – January 28, 2021)David Tilson, M.P. (Dufferin-Caledon)
An important day in Canadian history occurred on February 15, 1965. Our nation’s red and white maple leaf flag was hoisted to the highest point on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and indeed, in hundreds of communities across Canada for the very first time, marking the beginnings of a brand new symbol that Canadians could call their own and be proud of.
The colours red and white, as well as the maple leaf image, had already been in use to distinguish Canada for some time. Canada’s official colours were proclaimed by King George V in 1921 and the leaf had been used as an emblem in Canada since the eighteenth century.
Therefore, it seemed only a matter of time that one day the two would come together and provide our country with a meaningful national flag. Since that February day, our flag has become an even stronger representation of the values that many Canadians hold dear – freedom, justice, and democracy. We are the “true north strong and free,” and the world knows it.
Canadians can proudly display our flag as a badge of honour on their backpacks when travelling the globe. Internationally, it is a symbol known to represent one of the greatest places on earth to live, work, and play.
This February, our Government encourages all Canadians to show patriotism and fly their Canadian flags with pride. It’s a great time to reflect upon the true meaning of what this national symbol represents; a glorious and free nation that is the envy of many around the world.
Celebrate Canada’s national flag on February 15 and be proud of the values it stands for: freedom, democracy, and justice.