The Canadian flag has had a lot of exposure lately. Adopted in February 1965, the flag is a symbol of hope, peace, tranquillity, and neutrality dominant in the country.
Canada’s participation in the Olympics has meant managing a wide variety of cultural and educational programs promoting Olympic-like values in programs and communities across the nation: Canada, a world leader in sport, inspired by passion and performance.
Canada’s participation in military operations has meant the flag, displayed prominently on the uniform of Canadian Armed Forces personnel has deployed around the world to conduct search and rescue, peacekeeping, counter-insurgency, and international disaster response missions.
One of the most recognizable flags in the world, Canada has had no flag other than the Union Jack. Not the Freedom Convoy flag, the Freedom Not Fear flag, the Mandate Freedom flag, the F*CK Trudeau flag, the Fit in or F*uck Off flag, or any other derogatory sentiment blazoned across some polyester, nylon, or cotton material. And definitely not hate symbol flags that have made an unwelcomed appearance at many events over time.
Never has there been a time or place for swastikas, Confederate flags, and loathsome hate symbols at public demonstrations. Displays of racism and anti-Semitism are violent and hateful. This type of behaviour has prompted politicians to speak out, highlight the urgent need for action, and to make sure hate is not normalized or tolerated in any way.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part of Canada’s Constitution – and although some interpret the freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom of religion differently than others, the Charter protects every Canadian’s rights equally under the law. But have recent incidents morphed into something much bigger and more dangerous than one would have originally thought?
So where do you sit on grassroots protests and spontaneous eruptions to the new normal we are all trying to survive and thrive in? In June 2011, the Globe and Mail published an article ‘Why don’t more Canadians fly the flag?’ Consider this next time you stand to sing the national anthem before your favoured sports team takes centre stage. We are extremely fortunate to live in Canada.
These are unprecedented times. Don’t let the fringe of Canadian pride come unfurled. Please don’t fuel the anger and frustration that motivates these movements. Rather, be on the frontlines, building respect in all relationships, engaging among fellow Canadians, collaborating with other like-minded individuals, and be apart of the continuous improvement of Canada’s culture. #Respect
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This former politician, motivational entrepreneur, arts & culture enthusiast, and community leader provides unique insight on what it takes to drive innovation, leverage people’s potential, and lead successful initiatives with passion and purpose. Jacqueline was photographed by Lane Jensen wrapped in the Canadian Native Flag by Curtis ‘Mulidzas’ Wilson.
Jacqueline Biollo is a leading authority on innovative business solutions, political strategy, and community engagement. She balances her time between movie sets, the runway, the political arena, her home office, or the gym. Jacqueline writes, cooks, speaks, and shares ideas for nourishing one’s life with practical objectives.
