Statement by the Green Party of Canada – National Flag Day

(OTTAWA) - Today marks the 50th birthday of the flag of Canada. The Green Party of Canada celebrates the rich cultural heritage that the Canadian flag has come to symbolize.

“Our flag embodies the many principles and aspects of our culture that we cherish, including a love of democracy and a commitment to human rights,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and Member of Parliament for Saanich – Gulf Islands. “The Canadian flag and its single ‎maple leaf speaks to a country and a people connected to the land. It is a symbol that unites all Canadians, regardless of region or partisan affiliation.”

National Flag Day commemorates the unveiling of the Canadian National Flag on February 15, 1965, by Lester B. Pearson, former Prime Minister of Canada.

In 1964, Pearson asked Canadians to take part in creating the new flag. After receiving sketches from nearly 2000 Canadians, the flag we see today was selected.

This year, Elizabeth May will celebrate National Flag Day at the nomination meeting for the riding of Esquimalt – Saanich – Sooke. Time will be set aside during the nomination process for a party in celebration of our flag, which will include a giant birthday cake.

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca