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On February 15, 1995,
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien proclaimed that every
February 15th from then on would be known as Flag Day in
Canada to commemorate the first time the maple leaf flag
was raised over Parliament Hill thirty years prior.
Below is the text of that proclamation.
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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
"O Canada" was proclaimed
Canada's national anthem on July 1, 1980, 100 years
after it was first sung on June 24, 1880. The music was
composed by Calixa Lavallée, a well-known composer;
French lyrics to accompany the music were written by Sir
Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The version on which the
official English lyrics are based was written in 1908 by
Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir. The official English
version includes changes recommended in 1968 by a
Special Joint Committee of the Senate and House of
Commons.
Official Lyrics of O
Canada! O
Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
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