Remembrance Day and the Poppy Campaign
You have probably seen red poppies popping up on people’s jackets around your neighborhood, with many Canadians wearing the iconic flower this time of year. On the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Canadians remember those who risked their lives for a better future and to protect their country. Canada’s military history reaches back to events that occurred before World War I, more than a 100 years ago. You can find out more on Canada’s history and military contributions here.
The Poppy Campaign
The Poppy is worn as a reminder of those who fell in battle, both in the past and present. This flower became such a powerful symbol due to the many poppies that grew around the graves of soldiers in the area of Flanders, France. The Poppy is the Symbol of Remembrance, and by wearing it, you honour those who died in the war and sacrificed for freedoms. When you donate money for a poppy, you are also helping Veterans and their families. You can often find volunteers selling poppies at your local grocery stores, or you can create and dedicate your own digital poppy right from your computer or mobile device.
Why is Remembrance Day important for young people?
Remembrance Day is an important tradition for our country, and groups such as The Royal Canadian Legion strive to help younger generations understand the importance of Canada’s history. Canadians today enjoy the freedom and democracy from the sacrifices of our great-grandparents, grandparents, and in some cases parents. It’s also important to understand the past so that we can learn from it for the future. You can join in a Remembrance Day ceremony near you to continue the tradition of Remembrance.
Photo Credits: Joe Bunting
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