Understanding Canadian Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day in Canada, also known as “National Remembrance Day,” is held annually on November 11. The commemorative activities on this day originate from the Armistice Agreement signed at the end of World War I, which officially came into effect on November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m. Over time, the Canadian government officially designated this day as a national holiday in 1931 to commemorate Canadian soldiers who died in wars around the world. Since then, Canadians have observed this day every year to remember those heroes who sacrificed for the country and to reflect on the importance of peace.

In Canada, on November 11 at 11 a.m., people observe two minutes of silence to express their sorrow and respect for the fallen soldiers. Grand memorial ceremonies are held across the country, with veterans, active military personnel, and ordinary citizens participating. During these activities, people often wear red poppy flowers, symbolizing the remembrance of soldiers who lost their lives in wars. Additionally, many cities hold parades, memorial speeches, and wreath-laying ceremonies to honor those who sacrificed their lives. Schools and community organizations also hold various commemorative activities to educate the younger generation about this history. This day is not just a memorial day but also a profound reflection on the social and cultural values of Canada, emphasizing peace, freedom, and respect for life. For many international students in Canadian primary and secondary schools, this might be one of the few times they are required to gather in the school auditorium or stand up in their classrooms for a special event and hear the Canadian national anthem for the first time. Typically, the homeroom teacher will explain the origins of this day and the school’s commemorative ceremony process to the students in advance.

Although Canada’s Remembrance Day and the United States’ Veterans Day fall on the same date, their meanings and ways of commemoration differ slightly. Canada’s Remembrance Day focuses mainly on commemorating soldiers who died in wars, with activities centered on mourning and remembrance. On this day, people revisit history, observe moments of silence, lay flowers, and wear red poppies as symbols. In contrast, Veterans Day in the United States honors all veterans, including those who survived the wars. Therefore, U.S. commemorative activities include not only mourning but also gratitude and congratulations to active and retired military personnel, with more diverse forms of celebration. Grand parades, gatherings, and even community celebrations are held across the United States to engage more people. Although the two countries share the same commemoration day, their focus and forms reflect different historical backgrounds and cultural connotations.

Remembrance Day in Canada is not only a commemoration of soldiers who died in wars but also a strong call for the value of peace. Through the commemorative activities on this day, Canadians revisit history and remember the importance of peace. Compared to the U.S. Veterans Day, Canada’s commemoration activities carry a deeper sense of sorrow and gravity. Though the commemorative days in both countries differ, they both express profound respect for the selfless dedication of military personnel. Through these activities, we not only inherit the legacy of our predecessors but also cherish the hard-won peace and freedom even more. Remembrance Day in Canada reminds us that no matter where we are, peace is a precious value that needs to be carefully maintained. We should continuously strive to promote world peace, avoid the recurrence of wars, and allow future generations to live in a better world.