Proclamation by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien:

National Flag of Canada Day February 15.

At the stroke of noon on February 15, 1965, Canada's red and white maple leaf flag was raised for the very first time.

The flag belongs to all Canadians; it is an emblem we all share.

Although simple in design, Canada's flag well reflects the common values we hold so dear: freedom, peace, respect, justice and tolerance.  Canada's flag is a symbol that unites Canadians and expresses throughout the world and always our pride in being Canadian.

The maple leaf flag pays homage to our geography, reflects the grandeur of our history and represents our national identity.

Our flag thus honours Canadians of all origins who through their courage and determination, have helped to build and are continuing to build our great country: a dynamic country that is open to the future.

Therefore, I, Jean Chrétien, Prime Minister of Canada, declare that February 15 will be celebrated henceforth as National Flag of Canada Day.

Let us be proud of our flag!  Let us recognize how privileged we are to live in Canada, this magnificent country that encompasses our history, our hopes, our future.

Jean Chrétien
Prime Minister of Canada
February 15, 1996