Each year on February 15, Canadians celebrate the National Flag of Canada Day, honouring the red-and-white maple leaf flag that’s symbolized our nation since February 15, 1965, replacing the previous Canadian flag, which bore the Union Jack, after much debate. While the bold design of the flag may seem simple at first glance, it is rich with meaning and carefully chosen to reflect Canada’s identity, history, and values. Let’s look at the hidden symbolism behind Canada’s national flag.
The Maple Leaf: A National Emblem
Indigenous peoples relied on the tree for its sweet sap, and by the 19th century, the maple leaf became a familiar emblem among Canadian military regiments. It officially became part of Canada’s coat of arms in 1921. When the search for a new flag began in the 1960s, the maple leaf was the natural choice to represent the unity and diversity of Canadians from coast to coast.
The Red and White Colors: More Than Just Aesthetic
The combination of red and white makes the Canadian Flag instantly recognizable worldwide. These colours were officially designated as Canada’s national colours in 1921 by King George V. The red signifies Canada’s bravery and sacrifice during World War I and II, and the white embodied peace and honesty, capturing Canada’s reputation as a diplomatic and inviting nation on the global stage.
The Two Red Bars: Unity from Coast to Coast
The vertical red bars on either side of the maple leaf symbolize the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and represent how all provinces and territories — a rich tapestry of cultures and regions unite and coexist harmoniously within a singular national identity.
The Flag’s Unique Design: A Masterpiece of Simplicity
The Canadian Flag does not incorporate British or French elements and a bold declaration of our independent identity on the global stage. Simple in design, it tells our story of unity, history and pride and represents a shared vision of peace, strength and diversity.
How will you celebrate the National Flag of Canada Day?
This year, I’m wearing red and white and making arrangements to proudly replace the Canadian Flag on my flag pole.
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