What Happened On February 15th?

On February 15th, 1965, the iconic Canadian national flag was changed from the previous Canadian Red Ensign (Union Jack), which was first used across British North America in 1867.

Thousands of Canadians in the freezing winter, had gathered in Parliament Hill, Ottawato for the raising of the nation’s brand new flag. After years of debate and design proposals, Canada was finally getting a distinct symbol to call its own, one that wasn’t merely an adaptation of British flags.

At noon sharp, the Canadian Red Ensign slowly descended. Then, the red and white flag unfurled, revealing the now-iconic eleven-pointed maple leaf in its center. Cheers erupted and echoed across the Hill as the crowd waved miniature versions of the new symbol.

Designed by George Stanley, the red and white represented peace and hope. More so, the white symbolized the snowy land, which accurately depicts the best hockey nation in the world. On each side, the two red streaks represented the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. The maple leaf, symbolizing the nation’s vast forests, stood for unity and resilience.

Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, a major figure in the flag’s adoption, spoke of the flag as a “symbol of national maturity” and a “beacon of unity from coast to coast.” His words resonated and unified all viewers who were tuning in.

Since then, the maple leaf flag has become a beloved symbol, flown with pride across the country. It adorns buildings, waves at sporting events, and even made its way into space with Canadian astronauts. Every year on February 15th, Canadians are reminded of “who we are.”

Even today, February 15th is still celebrated as National Flag of Canada Day. The maple leaf flag stands as a powerful symbol of unity, diversity, and hope, giving Canadians across the nation a unified identity.