National Flag of Canada Day

National Flag of Canada Day, informally known as Flag Day, is celebrated on February 15 in Canada, commemorating the adoption of the National Flag of Canada on that date in 1965.

Related Topics:
Flag Day - February 15 - Canada - National Flag of Canada - 1965

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National Flag of Canada Day was instituted in 1996 by the government of Prime Minister Jean Chrétien.

Related Topics:
1996 - Prime Minister - Jean Chrétien

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At the very first Flag Day ceremony in Hull, Quebec, anti-poverty activist Bill Clennett attended to protest government cuts to social programs. He approached Chrétien, who grabbed him by the neck and pushed him aside. Chrétien was criticized for this incident, which came to be dubbed the "Shawinigan Handshake".

Related Topics:
Hull, Quebec - Shawinigan Handshake

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Numerous Canadians feel that National Flag of Canada Day should be declared a national statutory holiday, as there is a long period early in the year (between New Year's Day and Good Friday) without any holidays.

Related Topics:
Statutory holiday - New Year's Day - Good Friday

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