National Flag Week

Devolin Column (February 23, 2006)


Last week, February 15th to be exact, Canadians from coast to coast celebrated National Flag of Canada Day. It marked the day in 1965 when our red and white maple leaf flag was first raised over Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and in hundreds of communities all across this great nation.

What a perfect opportunity to celebrate our flag and all that it stands for. In our often understated ways, be it instructing students in a school classroom, taking time to listen to the stories of veterans, or volunteering at the local community centre, Canadians share their pride in our flag and our common values.

According to many historians, the maple leaf began to serve as a Canadian symbol as early as 1700. In 1914 - many Canadian soldiers wore the maple leaf on their military badges, and it was the dominant symbol used by many Canadian regiments serving in World War I. In 1939, at the beginning of World War II, numerous Canadian troops once again used the maple leaf as a distinctive emblem, displaying it on regimental badges and Canadian army and naval equipment. 

I believe the National Flag of Canada - the Maple Leaf - also represents exciting challenges and opportunities in our future. At the same time, it speaks to all that we have accomplished together as a people and to those moments that have served to define us. The creation of our flag in 1965 was such a moment.

In fact, one of the people responsible for the flag we have today, retired Judge Reid Scott is a resident of this riding (Fenelon Falls). Scott was the sole NDP Member of Parliament for the Flag Committee that came up with the flag design.

Over the course of history, many would argue there have been five key moments that have made us who we are as a country and a people: Confederation (1867), The Battle of Vimy Ridge (1917), The Statue of Westminster (1931), The National Flag of Canada (1965) and The Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982).

I want to congratulate all the local community groups and the numerous volunteers who helped organize National Flag Day of Canada events across this riding. I had the pleasure of attending a dinner at the Lindsay Legion hosted by Community Care of Kawartha Lakes. I hope this show of national pride will become an annual event and that more people get involved to make each year bigger and better.

While we are still a relatively young country, our rich and fascinating history is only equaled by our incredible spirit and vitality that will define our future. National Flag of Canada Day is the perfect opportunity to share our pride in Canada and being Canadian.
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