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Prime Minister Proclaims February 15 Flag Day
February 12, 1996
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today that February
15 will be officially designated National Flag of Canada Day.
"Our flag has become a source of tremendous pride for Canadians,"
the Prime Minister said. "As the anniversary of the flag,
February 15 will be an opportunity to officially honour this marvellous
symbol of Canada."
The Prime Minister will participate in a flag raising ceremony
on February 15, 1996, the 31st anniversary of Canada's maple leaf
flag. The ceremony will take place at Jacques Cartier Park, in
the National Capital Region, at 11:30 a.m.
Since 1965, a number of Members of Parliament have advocated
recognition of a national flag day. The Prime Minister paid tribute
to their efforts, and in particular, the work of Jesse Flis, MP
for Parkdale-High Park, a leading advocate of flag day in recent
years.
"Our maple leaf flag is a symbol that unites Canadians,"
the Prime Minister said. "Associated with the values of
freedom, peace, justice, and tolerance, Canada's flag honours
Canadians of all origins who have helped build one of the best
countries in the world. Our flag represents a country which has
demonstrated throughout its history that it can grow by recognizing
and respecting its diversity."
The maple leaf flag was raised for the first time at noon on February
15, 1965, in the presence of Governor General Georges Vanier,
Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, and thousands of Canadians.
National Flag of Canada Day will not be a statutory holiday;
it will be a day of official recognition of this important national
symbol.
PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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