NDP MP pushes to make Remembrance Day a statutory holiday

Today in the House of Commons, Member of Parliament Dan Harris (Scarborough Southwest) introduced a Private Members’ Bill titled: An Act to Make Remembrance Day a National Statutory Holiday.

“Our veterans risked and lost their lives in service to our country,” said Harris. “It’s important to honour them for protecting and fighting for the freedoms we value today.”

On the one year anniversary of the armistice signing that ended World War I, King George V began the tradition of remembering those who had been killed during the war. This later became known as Remembrance Day.

Currently, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Prince Edward Island have passed similar legislation and have seen increased attendance at local ceremonies and more engagement with the country’s newest generation.

“When families attend ceremonies together, they are able to teach their children about the sacrifices and bravery demonstrated by our veterans and military,” said Harris. “Having November 11th made into a statutory holiday will allow every Canadian an opportunity to attend their local Remembrance Day ceremonies and participate in this important day.”