Symbolism Of The Canadian Flag

By Rupert Johnson 

Sunday, February 15, 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of our Canadian flag which has become a powerful symbol of freedom, democracy and diversity. Therefore, on this historic day we should pause and reflect upon the symbolism of this red and white Maple Leaf flag, and what it really means to us.

For me, the display of the Canadian Maple Leaf represents not only independence, freedom and democracy, but compassion, generosity, and opportunity. It is also a symbol of hope and racial integration. In these respects every Canadian should be a proud standard-bearer. We should, therefore, salute the Maple Leaf flag anywhere it is flown.

On the first day of July when our surroundings are adorned with an impressive array of the Maple Leaf flag, and the night skies are lit up with brilliant fireworks, my heart is always filled with pride and enthusiasm.

But my respect and admiration for this beautiful country is not limited to the celebrations of July 1. This feeling of admiration remains with me all the time.

First of all let me say that Canada is not an idyllic paradise. No country is. But when I compare and contrast Canada with all the other countries in the world today there is no other place that I would rather be.

In terms of diversity, health care initiatives, educational opportunities, universal old age security, economic and political stability, and democratic rights and freedoms, it is hard to find a country that parallels Canada’s record.

One of the many things that really endears me to Canada is the fact that it has proven itself to be a very caring and compassionate society. This positive attitude towards the less fortunate has manifested itself in the enshrinement of not only a universal health care policy, but the preservation of universal old age security. These two initiatives have gone a long way in helping the poor and downtrodden with their basic needs.

In addition to these two initiatives, free education for all elementary and secondary school children, along with free literary and skills training for adults have certainly made Canada the nearest thing to an egalitarian society within the boundary of capitalism.

Although Canada has embraced the free enterprise system, it has also embraced the policy of direct government involvement in such things as the country’s infrastructure, and also the establishment of regulatory agencies. This pragmatic blend of both private and public initiatives has certainly put Canada in the category of a balanced country.

We must also not forget that Canada’s parliamentary democracy, and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms have provided this country with the necessary tenets for political stability and untrammeled liberty.

Like all other countries, Canada has its list of shortcomings such as pockets of covert and overt racism, but it is by far the best country of the world in which to live. We should, therefore, stand tall and be proud bearers of our Canadian Maple Leaf flag for it enshrines the symbol of hope, freedom, and democratic values.

Rupert can be reached at: r.b.johnson@sympatico.ca.