Re: the wrong side of history

Julia Schall | Nov 17, 2021

In the 100 years it took to reach Canada's current flag design, the one continuous element was the maple leaf, which was chosen to represent Canada's national identity. In the words of Prime Minister Pearson who oversaw the flag's design, it represents those "who remain united in freedom and justice … sensitive, tolerant and compassionate towards all.” During the inception of our current flag in the 1960s, people in the LGBTQ+ community were vilified and considered abominations by those in power. Times have changed. We live in a country working to embrace and protect all people. We are leaders internationally in promoting diversity and the protection of human rights. This is what the maple leaf was chosen to represent. Flying a rainbow maple leaf is not meant to disrespect or replace our red and white flag. It's a celebration, a recognition and reminder to students, residents and passers-by that we live in a nation that is working to move forward together. That, in my opinion, is the right side of history.

Julia Schall