Canadians rallied behind the flag across the country Saturday, displaying the maple leaf for Flag Day.
A patriotic reaction to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to hit Canada with punishing tariffs and to make Canada the 51st state, the country’s living former prime ministers united in urging Canadians to fly the flag on Feb. 15 with pride as “never before.”
“Let’s show the world that we are proud of our history and proud of our country,” the former prime ministers’ statement said.
Clint Bailey, a resident of Pigeon Lake, Alta., and a proud Canadian, supported the message behind this year’s Flag Day.
“It’s good. Let everybody know they stand for one thing,” said Bailey. “The government has made it to almost hate the flag — not raise it and be embarrassed to stand behind it. If everybody is united on one thing, then it’s good to stand behind it.”
Canadian flags are flying off the shelves, with a substantial increase in sales because of growing challenges to Canadian sovereignty.
“It’s a good thought. I don’t know how far it’ll go, but at least everybody can feel part of something,” said Bailey.
Bailey could not find a maple leaf flag in time for this year’s celebration due to the high demand, however he remains passionate about the statement.
New horizons
Bailey said not enough is being done on Canada’s behalf to build a stronger relationship with the U.S. As a result, he thinks Canada needs to begin exploring and building stronger trading relationships with other countries.
“Canada needs to stop trading as much with the U.S., start opening markets to Europe and wherever we can, and just bypass the states,” said Bailey.
Despite his Canadian pride, Bailey disagrees with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s response.
“He’s not doing anybody [any] favour[s]. It’s putting their head in the sand and not letting Canadians have a say, just doing what they want us to do,” said Bailey.
Canadian pride
Trump’s threats have sparked other patriotic protests. Canadians are also making their voices heard at sporting events. From booing the Star-Spangled Banner to proudly screaming O Canada in unity, Canadians are showing their patriotism.
In the Bailey household, Oilers games are not taken lightly and are a sacred part of day-to-day life. From standing in front of the television during O Canada to cheering their team on from the couch, family members pour into the home to watch the game together.
“I know that they’re booing because of Trump’s laws, not because of the people in attendance,” said Bailey. “It’s one of the few things we can do.”