Canadians don’t typically bang the drum when it comes to showing national pride, but in light of U.S. president Donald Trump’s threat to make Canada America’s 51st state and impose punishing tariffs in March, Canadians across the country celebrated the 60th anniversary of Canada’s iconic maple leaf flag on Feb. 15, showing pride in the true north strong and free.
The RM of Gimli festooned Centre Street with the national flag in recognition of the anniversary and to bring the community together in a show of unity and patriotism.
“It’s important for all of council to show we are proud to be Canadian. And in my mind, it doesn’t matter who you are, this is our home in one way or another and our flag is a symbol of that,” said RM of Gimli councillor Andy Damm.
The RM was proud to join Canadians across the country celebrating National Flag Day, said the RM’s manager of community engagement Christine Payne. The RM shared a special message on its website and on social media to highlight the “enduring importance of our national flag and encouraging community participation in the celebrations.”
“The RM of Gimli remains committed to supporting Canadian enterprises, promoting community spirit and celebrating our shared heritage,” said Payne.
The Maple Leaf design was adopted in 1965 with a proclamation from Queen Elizabeth II in January of that year. It was then inaugurated with a ceremony on Parliament Hill on Feb. 15. The National Flag of Canada Day was proclaimed on Feb. 15, 1996, according to the federal department of Canadian Heritage. The flag represents Canada’s sovereignty and connects Canadians to their national identity and values such as respect, equality and generosity.
Prior to the adoption of the maple leaf flag, Canada flew the Union Jack (U.K.) and the Canadian Red Ensign, a red flag with the Royal Union Jack that saw design variations over the course of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.
