On February 15, 2025, Canadians across the country marked the 60th anniversary of National Flag of Canada Day with a renewed sense of pride and unity, as the iconic red and white maple leaf became a powerful symbol of defiance against recent U.S. annexation threats.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the flag’s significance as a unifying emblem of Canada’s resilience, diversity, and shared values. “The maple leaf represents our breathtaking beauty, our history, and the dreams of all Canadians,” Trudeau said. He emphasized its role in pivotal moments, from battlefields to Olympic podiums, and called on Canadians to continue building a fairer, more prosperous nation under its banner.
The celebration took on added meaning as former prime ministers and citizens alike urged Canadians to fly the flag in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs and annexation. Flag retailers reported a surge in sales, with many Canadians displaying the maple leaf as a statement of national pride and sovereignty.
Beaconsfield resident Ike Partington, who immigrated to Canada 50 years ago, shared her personal connection to the flag. “In today’s climate, it’s important to show where we stand,” she said. Similarly, Marc-André Bazergui, owner of Le Flag Shop in Quebec, noted an increase in demand, even among Québécois who traditionally fly the provincial flag.
As Canadians raised their flags high, Trudeau’s message of unity and resilience echoed across the nation. “Let’s stand together, work together, and grow together, as the true north, strong and free,” he declared, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to sovereignty and independence in the face of external challenges.
The 60th anniversary of the maple leaf flag not only celebrated Canada’s past but also served as a rallying point for its future, reminding the world of the nation’s unwavering pride and resolve.