Press Release

Please be advised that as of June 1, 2003 the Canadian Unity Flag, based on our National Emblem and after 9 years of existence, was renamed the Canadian Duality Flag.

It stills recognizes the French fact in Canada, but now using a linguistic term rather than a political one.

Communiqué de Presse

S.V.P. soyez avisé, que dès le 1er juin 2003, le Drapeau Unité Canadienne, basé sur notre emblème national et qui après 9 ans d'existence, a été renommé le Drapeau Dualité Canadienne.

Il reconnaît toujours le fait français au Canada, mais se servant maintenant d'un terme linguistique au lieu d'un terme politique.

Comité TRCF Committee

January 5, 1995 (Updated June 28, 2010)

Promote Canadian Unity and Harmony!

The following is a proposal to renew the Canadian flag, as means of a positive undertaking towards unity and harmony within our country, all without losing our own identity.

Some people have called it a bilingual flag while others, a unity flag. This is not a graphic design, an emblem, a logo, nor a Team Canada uniform which changes periodically for a new image, it is a sincere proposal to renew the Canadian flag with all due reverence to our present flag.

Renewing the Canadian flag is not an easy task nor is it an impossible one. If there were enough support from the Canadian people, then Parliament would have to address the issue.

Chronological Events:

This flag has been shown publicly outside the House of Commons on Oct. 24th. and Oct. 28th., 1994, where it received many compliments and encouragements, including some from MPs. It was also shown outside of the National Archives Library on Oct. 24, 1994 for the meeting and photo session of our present and former Prime Ministers.

Letters of acknowledgement and commendation of this effort, from the Prime Minister's Office, the Governor General's Office, Mr. Preston Manning personally and M. Jean Charest, have especially been encouraging. This issue is particularly important and of great concern to them, as to us all.

The CBC Newsworld reporters thought enough of the idea of the renewed flag, that they did a short news clip showing the flag Sunday Oct. 30th. on their show: Ottawa Inside/Out. Their editors placed the clip right after Mr. Joe Clark's interview regarding his book on Canadian unity, and the Prime Ministers' meeting and photo session at the National Archives Library on Oct. 24th..

It was also shown publicly during the Remembrance Day ceremonies on Nov. 11th. Many French and English Canadian war veterans who fought side by side, thought it was a good idea. Letters were sent to major newspapers in Canada, a vet from St. John's, Nfld. said he saw it the previous week in their newspaper, The Telegram.

Following an interview by CJOH-TV, a brief story of the renewed flag was aired on the local TV news BBS Nightline on Jan. 2nd. 1995, while CTV News televised it nationally on Jan. 3rd.

The renewed flag was also granted permission by Canadian Heritage to be displayed on Parliament Hill on Feb. 15th. 1995, before and after the 30th. anniversary celebration of our Maple Leaf flag. Three flags were present at the ceremony.

Several renewed flags also participated in the largest St. Patrick's Day parade in Montreal on March 19th., viewed by a crowd of over 500,000 people.

Roller-Blading through the streets of Montreal with the Canada Day Parade on July 1st. '95, the renewed flag was displayed flying in the wind, before hundreds of thousands of spectators.

The last week in October, the renewed flag was displayed in "Non" committee rallies in Montreal, Verdun Auditorium, at Place du Canada where over 100,000 Canadians demonstrated their love and faith in a united Canada. Eight flags flew at those rallies. Several million viewers saw three renewed flags at the referendum night headquarters in Montreal on Oct. 30th..

On October 26, 1995, a petition with over 240 signatures was presented to the House of Commons asking the government to consider renewing the flag to promote national unity.

The renewed flag was also displayed at the Remembrance Day ceremonies at the National Cenotaph in Ottawa on Nov. 11th., primarily to pay our respects to the many brave men who fought and sacrificed their lives to keep our country free, and secondly to encourage people to help keep our country united.

Two flags flew at the Flag Day ceremonies at Jacques Cartier Park on Feb. 15, 1996 where the Prime Minister was confronted with shouting union demonstrators bullying their way through the crowd of primarily elementary school children.

Ten flags flew in the 1996 St. Patrick's Day parade in Montreal where they were viewed and applauded by some of the record crowd of over 500,000 people.

Ten flags flew in the 1996 Canada Day parade in Montreal before over 200,000 people and two flags were present on Parliament Hill in Ottawa before 10,000 people, one for the morning ceremonies and one in the evening before the concert and fireworks.

Five flags flew on Oct. 25, 1996 at Place du Canada before 3000 people commemorating the Oct. 27, 1995 huge pro-Canada rally the previous year.

Six flags flew in Quebec City on Oct. 27, 1996 during the Unity Train voyage to the provincial capital while three flags flew in Montreal and four in Ottawa/Hull as part of the "Bridge Canada for Unity" activities.

Another flag flew on Nov. 11, 1996 at the Cenotaph in the National Capital commemorating Remembrance Day and paying our respects to those who sacrificed their lives for our country and thanking the ones who served to safeguard our freedom.

A huge 15 foot flag flew 18 feet above the ice carried by skaters on the Rideau Canal during Winterlude to commemorate Flag Day on Feb. 15, 1997.

This 15 footer Unity flag blew in the wind down Ste. Catherine St. in Montreal, in this year's St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16, 1997, to the view of a couple hundred thousand and to the cheers of tens of thousands.

The huge flag was in front of l'Hotêl de Ville de St. Laurent on May 13, 1997 during the city councillors' unity resolution which expressed the city's preference to remain Canadian.

The 15 footer greeted the five federal leadership candidates at the CBC studio on May 18, 1997 during the retake of the Leaders' French debate in Ottawa before the June 2, 1997 election.

The 15 footer was in vivid view for the 45,000 cyclists near the Dorval airport during Montreal's Tour de l'Ile on June 8 1997.

During the Grand Prix of Canada on June 12, 1997, the 15 footer was mounted to a grandstand in the Senna curve and was paraded down the start/finish line in front of the pits, after the race.

On Canada Day, 1997, this huge flag flew 18 feet above the estimated crowd of 30,000 on Parliament Hill during Her Majesty's visit to commemorate our 130th. anniversary. What a symbolic comparison to the Union Jack which recognizes the members of the British Union, the blue in their case representing the Scots, in ours the French-Canadians.

The huge flag also greeted the 100 students from across Canada who came to Hull for a one week conference regarding national unity. It was organized by the Co-Operators' Insurance Group of Guelph, Ontario and took place the week of August 9.

On August 23, 1997, this huge flag greeted the participants of a national unity think-tank conference held at the University of Ottawa.

A single flag flew as part of another Remembrance Day ceremony on Nov. 11, 1997.

The huge 15 footer flew again for the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Montreal on March 15, 1998 before the cheering crowd and positive comments from some of the media.

Two flags flew in the Canada Day Parade at noon on July 1, 1998 in Montreal while the 15 footer flew at the cake-cutting ceremonies after the parade. The 15 footer then ended the afternoon and evening on Parliament Hill in Ottawa for the Canada Day celebrations. The 15 footer displayed its slogan banner velcroed across the bottom of the flag. "French and English together. Anglophones et francophones ensemble".

The Unity Flag flew on the grounds outside Rideau Hall, Ottawa, after 4PM on Oct. 22, 1998 when the 'Rocket' Maurice Richard and Jean Béliveau were promoted to Companions in the Order of Canada. The Unity flag was flying on Parliament Hill in the early afternoon.

The Remembrance Day ceremonies on Nov. 11, 1998 were special in that the Unity Flag flew behind the youth choir which sang during the ceremonies. The choir with the flag blowing in the wind were seen across Canada on national television. Following the ceremony, many fully-decorated vets asked the significance of the flag and when told the story, they wholeheartedly stood behind what it symbolized, gave their blessing and urged me not to give up on the idea. I told them they could count on me.

The large Unity flag was installed across the street from the Prime minister's residence on Feb. 4, '99 from 7:30AM to 4:00PM during the Social Union talks which was attended by all Premiers before they signed the social contract (less Premier Bouchard). A separate Unity flag on a pole, was jogged up and down Sussex drive and stickers and cards were handed out.

A Unity flag flew during the celebration of Flag Day on Parliament Hill on Feb. 14, 1999. The celebration coincides favourably with Winterlude in Ottawa which attracts thousands of people.

The Unity Flag met the United Alternative at the Ottawa Congress Center on Feb 20, 1999. It was a way of reaching out to westerners who would otherwise not have the opportunity to see it. That afternoon, a single flag on a pole was skated up and down the Rideau Canal, still during Winterlude, where thousands more were made aware of it. About 10 young Canadians skating abreast, arms on shoulders, and just behind the flag, started singing O Canada as we skated up the canal. A touching moment! After the skate, the flag was flown in the street between the Canal and the Congress Center until dusk.

The Unity Flag cheered the Old-Timers Hockey Legends at the Molson Center on Feb. 28, 1999. Guy Lafleur/ Frank Mahovlich, Marcel Dionne/ Lanny Macdonald, Gaston Gingras/ Steve Shutt, etc.. What class!! What could be more convincing that Canada is the red and the blue, always has been.

On March 14, 1999, the huge Unity flag soared high in the air as it made its way down St. Catherine's St. for the 175^th. St. Patrick's Day parade viewed by the estimated crowd of 500,000. It even had a few seconds showing on Global TV which was telecast nationwide on March 16 at 10 PM. Hats off to the Irish.

On March 30, 1999, the Unity flag flew outside a banquet hall where Intergovernmental Affaires Minister Stéphane Dion gave a speech regarding the economics of Canadian unity to the St. Laurent Chamber of Commerce. The flag was present because the meeting took place in my home riding, with my deputy at our local Chamber of Commerce. As it turned out, I foiled an attempt by "Entartistes" to throw a cream pie in Mr. Dion's face. Later, the Unity flag was flapping in the beautiful sunny sky outside the large second-story window of the banquet hall. The next night, a Unity flag clip regarding this outing was seen on TQS' TV program "La fin du monde à 7 heures".

On May 12, 1999, the Unity flag greeted politicians making their way to Parliament. After 4 1/2 years of promoting the Unity Flag outside the House, Ms. Elsie Wayne M.P., Leader of the Conservatives, broke protocol and entered the House of Commons wearing a Unity Flag decal on her lapel during Question Period. It must have been interesting to see her sit across from the Liberals and with the Reform and Bloc Québécois to her sides.

On July 1, 1999, Canada Day, 2 Unity flags greeted Julie Payette on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. The tribute to Julie Payette televised on national TV was headed by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, Governor-General Romeo Leblanc and Heritage Minister Sheila Copps. Our newest astronaut had just returned from her mission in space. Unfortunately, the night time show was cancelled after 10 minutes due to heavy rain.

On July 28, 1999, the Unity Flag was shown to the Charlottetown Guardian newspaper. Reporter Mike Gauthier granted an interview and pictures were taken outside the P.E.I. newspaper. It was of particular interest to The Guardian since it was pointed out that the idea of a renewed Canadian flag for unity was founded during the Charlottetown Accord talks and submitted to the Hon. Joe Clark, then Minister for Canadian Unity.

On August 11, 1999, the Unity Flag was flying outside the Château Frontenac in Quebec City during the close of the annual Premiers' meeting hosted by Québec Premier Mr. Lucien Bouchard. It had the opportunity to personally greet Premiers Roy Romanov of Saskatchewan and Mike Harris of Ontario as well as CTV's Mike Duffy. Hundreds of Unity Flag cards were passed out outside, by Samuel de Champlain's monument. At 7:30 pm, the Unity Flag attended the departure of the large catamaran on the wharf in the Old Port. The remaining premiers and their guests were taking a boat trip up to Pointe-au-Pic.

On Nov. 11, 1999, the last Remembrance Day of the millennium, the Unity flag flew for the sixth year during the ceremony honouring our veterans and paying homage to those who never made it back.

On Jan. 29, 2000, four hundred Unity Flag cards were handed out to participants of the Canadian Alliance conference at Ottawa's Congress Center and then the Unity Flag was put on display. People from across the nation were introduced to this idea. Many came by to inquire about it and many openly voiced their support for its symbolism.

On Feb. 20, 2000 the Unity Flag once again cheered the Legends of Hockey at the Molson Center. This time, the Unity Flag had the honour of cheering one of the greatest hockey players of all time: Maurice 'The Rocket' Richard who was on hand as honourary coach of the Legends hockey club. He had fire-red eyes when he played, but that night he was true 'blue'.

On March 19, 2000 the huge Unity Flag and several regular ones participated in the 176^th. St. Patrick's Day Parade in Montreal in the presence of over 400,000 people lining the streets. It was the first time the Unity Flag had its own continguent, our gratitude is sincerely extended to the Irish.

On May 31, 2000 a Unity Flag bearing the no. 9 on it, paid a tribute to Maurice 'The Rocket' Richard outside Notre Dame Basilica in old Montreal. Thousands lined the streets to wish their last good-bye to the Rocket who was the pride, courage and heart of French Canada. The no. 9 flag was seen across the nation and in most newspapers, it really symbolized a great 'Canadien' who believed in 'French and English together'.

See article "The Rocket: a hero for a nation" in The Ottawa Citizen: www.ottawacitizen.com/sports/000601/4200154.html

On June 16-18, 2000 the no. 9 Unity flag was flying at the Montreal Grand-Prix for the whole racing weekend.

On June 30, 2000, 2 Unity flags were installed at Ritchie's Sports on Sparks St. near O'Connor in Ottawa. They joined the previously installed Unity Flag which flew there for the past year.

On July 1, 2000 the large Unity Flag followed the Parade of Flags at 9:30 AM from the Supreme Court Building on Wellington in Ottawa to the grounds on Parliament Hill. It was lowered at 11 AM and replaced by the no. 9 flag for the remainder of the day. Many people recognized the tribute to Maurice Richard. 800 unity cards and 350 stickers were passed out between the heavy rain during the afternoon.

On Aug. 14, 2000 the Unity Flag greeted the Trans-Canada Trail's Relay 2000 runners in Dorval, QC. Many cards and stickers were passed out at the event.

On Aug. 15, 2000 the Unity Flag greeted the Relay 2000 runners in St. Laurent, QC.

On Sept. 27 a Press Release, along with an Open Letter to the Leaders of the federal parties, was distributed by the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery. The Letter asked the Leaders to recognize the 'French Fact' in Canada by renewing our national emblem.

A Press Release to be issued on Nov. 1 will outline the Leaders' responses. See page 4 of this site.

On Sept. 30, 2000 the Unity Flag paid tribute to our former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau by flying on Parliament Hill as Mr. Trudeau laid in state while tens of thousands of Canadians were paying their last respects to this great man. Over 300 cards and 740 copies of a 'Press Release' (Oct. 1⁾ were handed out to people who inquired about the Unity Flag. The Press Release suggesting a 'fitting tribute' to Mr. Pierre Trudeau, is linked on page 4 of this site.

On Oct. 2, 2000 the Unity Flag flew outside Notre Dame Basilica for the funeral service of Pierre Elliot Trudeau in Montréal which was attended by thousands of people and diplomats. What a fitting symbol for a man who instituted our 2 official languages.

On Oct. 20, 2000 the Unity Flag was filmed on Parliament Hill by Carleton University's School of Journalism. An interview tells the story of the Unity Flag and goes right back to 1964 when the great flag debate took place. An original Pearson Pennant is filmed as well as the big Unity Flag with its banner "French and English together. Anglophones et francophones ensemble."

On Nov. 1, 2000 the Press Release outlining the Leaders' responses is issued through the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery. An 'Open Email' addressed to the Leaders indicated that only one Leader showed leadership by answering our letter. See page 4.

The Unity Flag honoured the Veterans on Remembrance Day, Nov. 11, 2000, at the renovated Cenotaph war memorial in Ottawa. The veterans marched between a Canadian flag and the Unity flag at the end of the ceremony and the glorious procession was seen on national CBC Television.

The Unity Flag greeted Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson on Jan. 30, 2001, along with a military reception, outside the Parliament Buildings for the Speech from the Throne following the return to Parliament after the Nov. 27, 2000 federal election.

The TRCF Red and Blue Marching Group participated in the 177^th. St. Patrick's Day Parade in Montreal on March 18, 2001. Five Unity Flags made their presence along with the huge 15 footer floating high above Ste. Catherine Street before an estimated crowd of 620,000 spectators. The huge flag had the familiar 9 ft. banner hanging under it: "French and English together….Anglophones et francophones ensemble". Cheers and positive comments such as "What a beautiful flag!" were abundant. Over 300 hundred cards and decals were distributed along the route. This was the 7^th. consecutive year for the Unity Flag in the parade, our gratitude to the Montreal Irish Society.

Three Unity Flags which were flying for the last year at Ritchie's Sports on Sparks St., were replaced with brand new ones on May 12, 2001.

On May 17, 2001, the Unity Flag greeted people on Sparks St. at lunch hour and later over 500 cards and decals were handed out on Parliament Hill to visiting student groups from London, Guelph, Hamilton, Toronto, Walkerton, Ontario and Laval, St. Hubert, Longueuil, Quebec. One student group from Hamilton asked for a real size flag to take back with them to promote unity. That's leadership.

On June 27, 2001, the famous No. 9 Unity Flag was present for the ceremony held by Canadian Heritage to commemorate the legacy of Maurice "The Rocket" Richard by unveiling a bronze statue of "The Rocket" in Parc Jacques Cartier in Hull. After the ceremony, Maurice Richard Jr. was offered the No. 9 flag for the family. He said that the family thought that it was a very beautiful flag and that they would dearly love to have it. And so it was retired in their safekeeping.

Canada Day 2001 was celebrated by two Unity flags on Parliament Hill for the nationally televised CBC noon time show. The show centered on the French culture in Canada with the advent of the Games of the Francophonie in mid-July. Impressive performances were staged by the Franco entertainers. It also paid a fine tribute to the new territory Nunavut which was represented by Inuit singers and dancers. Later that day, three Unity flags were present at the evening "Thrill on the Hill" concert and show. Over 2000 unity cards and stickers were handed out July 1^st. among the crowd. Many inquired where they could obtain these flags.

The Unity Flag flew outside Lansdowne Park Stadium in July, 2001, the evening of the opening ceremonies of 'Les Jeux de la Francophonie'. It was viewed by many thousands of fans as they made their way into the south side of the stadium.

It was a quite period for the Unity Flag following the Sept. 11^th. attacks in the USA. A short visit to Parliament Hill took place on Oct. 2, 2001.

The Unity Flag once again honoured the Veterans on Remembrance Day, Nov. 11, 2001, at the renovated Cenotaph war memorial with the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier', in Ottawa. The veterans marched between a Canadian flag and the Unity flag at the end of the ceremony.

An appeal to promote Canadian unity was forwarded on Jan. 6, 2002 to Her Excellency, Governor General Andrienne Clarkson, in the form of an 'Open Letter'. A link to this letter is found on page 4 of this web site.

On March 17, 2002, for the St. Patrick's Day Parade, a group of artists and show promoters from Sherbrooke joined our group to promote the Unity flag. The fifteen people marched with 7 Unity flags as the huge 15 ft. Unity flag soared over Ste. Catherine St. to a crowd estimated at over 500,000 people. The group from Sherbrooke is promoting the Unity flag in their region as well as on trips across Canada. There is a link to their web site on page 4 of this site. They call themselves "Le Comité Québécois pour l'Unité Artistique Canadienne".

On March 19, 2002, the Unity flag was once again at the Legends of Hockey game, but this time at the Verdun Auditorium. The huge 15 foot flag was draped across several rows behind one goal net, visible to all in the arena. The banner was clearly displayed showing "French and English together….Anglophone et francophones ensemble" which typifies the Legends themselves.

On April 15, 2002, 2 Unity flags flew at the noon ceremony at the Museum of Civilization, in Gatineau Québec, which honoured our Canadian athletes who won medals at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. It was an opportunity to reach out to a multitude of people who came from across the country. Marc Gagnon, the five-time Olympic medal winner, delivered an inspiring speech on the greatness of our country and why we should continue to make it work together.

Canada Day, July 1, 2002, was celebrated with the Unity Flag in both Ottawa and Montreal. The Unity Flag joined in the 11AM parade in Montreal followed by the cake-cutting ceremonies in Place du Canada Square and further on to the Old Port celebrations. It also flew down crowded St. Denis St. from the sunroof of a car to the delight of many.

In Ottawa, two Unity Flags flew in the wind during the flag-raising ceremony at 9:30AM on Parliament Hill, followed by the nationally televised noon celebration of Canada Day, and later that evening, during the "Thrill on the Hill" show and fireworks. The flags were present on Parliament Hill most of the day and over 1700 Unity Flag cards and 800 stickers were handed out to the general public. Hundreds of questions were answered to the acceptance of many once they knew what the Unity Flag stood for.

Following our national holiday and the subsequent exposure, the Unity Flag was adopted by l'Académie Westboro Academy which is an elementary private bilingual school in Ottawa. It is now displayed along with our Canadian flag in the school's main lobby.

The Unity Flag was flying on Parliament Hill grounds in a vigorous rainstorm on Sept. 30^th, for the Speech from the Throne delivered by the Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson.

Again On Oct. 3, 2002, with the visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to our National Capital in celebration of her 50^th. Jubilee, two Unity Flags flew in the pouring rain, well above the umbrellas on Parliament Hill to greet the Queen. It was well displayed on national television.

That same day, we may proudly say that the Unity flag was the only Canadian flag flying in the streets of Gatineau this October for the arrival of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at the Museum of Civilization, for a state dinner that evening. And with the hundred screaming separatists assembled to denounce Queen Elizabeth II setting foot on Quebec ground, the Unity flag stood ground amid the vulgarities directed towards it in the 4 hours it was there, until the event was over. The Unity flag touched a soft spot on these separatists, as they started asking questions about it and what progress was being made with it.

The Unity Flag proudly paid tribute to our war veterans for the ninth year in a row, on Remembrance Day Nov. 11th, 2002, at the Cenotaph, our national capital's war memorial. At the end of the ceremony it flew above the marching troops, both French and English-speaking soldiers who fought side by side in war, and who brought honour to our country.

The Montreal Alouettes were greeted by the Unity Flag, on Nov. 27, 2003, when a large crowd gathered in downtown Montreal to celebrate the Alouettes' Grey Cup win in the CFL. The Unity Flag was paraded around by Jean Chrétien or at least a close resemblance to him in a full Chrétien mask. People asked to have their pictures taken with Mr. Chrétien, and the Prime Minister obliged them.

Unity Flag cards and letters were distributed at the McGill conference "The Future of Canada" held at the Omni Hotel in downtown Montreal in mid February, 2003. This event featured the Governor-General as the lead guest speaker. A little latter on, unity cards were distributed at the McGill University Campus' main gates to students rushing by to get to class.

The Unity Flag along with the TRCF Banner, were greeting dignitaries to the Federal Government's news conference for the enhancement of bilingualism across Canada. This conference was held on March 12, 2003 at La Cité Collégiale in Ottawa. The Unity Flag and Banner were planted in the snow banks at the entrance to the college on Airport Road. Unity cards were passed out to motorists and their companions as they entered, or existed, the grounds to the conference. The conference was presided over by our Official Languages Minister Mr. Stéphane Dion and also present was our Prime Minister, the Honourable Jean Chrétien.

On March 16, 2003, for the 179^th. St. Patrick's Day Parade in Montreal, the large Unity Flag with 8 standard Unity Flags marched down Ste. Catherine Street with our group of 15 people. We were accompanied by Pody, the blue and red mascot from the Sherbrooke World Youth Games which will take place this summer for young athletes from 177 countries around the world. Our group was captured on Global nationwide and the commentators described our movement for unity. 2000 Unity cards were passed out to the crowd of over 500,000 people watching the parade. The TRCF banner, as seen on our home page, led our group for its first showing in public.

Our Committee applied for Funding for the Unity Flag from the Official Languages Linguistic Duality Support Program in April, 2003. The Unity Flag recognizes our two official languages and promotes "French and English-speaking together". It was at this time that it became apparent that while the Official Languages program has been around for over 30 years, there is not one symbol that characterizes our 2 official languages. Our Unity Flag fits this description perfectly yet it may be perceived as a political message rather than a cultural or linguistic one. We decided to change our flag's name for that very reason. Unfortunately, on May 5^th, the Linguistic Support Program did not deem our initiative important enough to fund. To date, the Unity Flag has no sponsorship nor funding, nor any ties to any political parties. It is purely a citizens' movement.

June 1, 2003

Press Release

Please be advised that as of June 1, 2003, the Canadian Unity Flag, based on our National Emblem and after 9 years of existence, will be renamed the Canadian Duality Flag.

It stills recognizes the French fact in Canada, but now using a linguistic term rather than a political one.

Communiqué de Presse

S.V.P. soyez avisé, que dès le 1er juin 2003, le Drapeau Unité Canadienne, basé sur notre emblème national et qui après 9 ans d'existence, sera renommé le Drapeau Dualité Canadienne.

Il reconnaît toujours le fait français au Canada, mais se servant maintenant d'un terme linguistique au lieu d'un terme politique.

Comité TRCF Committee

June 30, 2003

The Canadian Duality Flag flew proudly, alone, and above all others, at CelaFête on June 30th. Monday night in the Old Port of Montreal, amidst a partially nationalist crowd flying Fleur-de-lysés and Patriotes flags in defiance of La Fête du Canada celebrations.

July 1, 2003

Another beautiful day and a great way of celebrating Canada's 136th. birthday.

The Canadian Duality Flag enjoyed another great success at the noon time ceremonies as well as all day and during the fabulous evening show. We must admit that we were disappointed by the speeches of Her Excellency and the Prime Minister at noon when this year's theme was "Share the Land" and <linguistic duality> was not mentioned, but rather only multi-culturalism.

The "Duality" name of our flag went over even bigger than the former "Unity" name since it bore no political connotations. The young people in particular were very enthusiastic about the Duality Flag.

Three Duality flags were forwarded last week to Cardston and Lethbridge Alberta so they could fly for our national holiday. Flags are flying from Summerside PEI, Shediac NB, St. Jean de Matha QC, Montreal, Casselman ON, Ottawa, all the way out to Alberta.

Leadership is required to avoid another unity crisis since we all lose from it. Ex-militant sovereignists and die-hard Canadians are warming up to this Duality Flag. It may bring us all together.

Now is the time to bridge the gap between East and West, French Canada and English Canada. The evening celebration ended beautifully with the Maritimers (Leahy), the Quebecers (Kevin Parent, La Bottine Souriante) and the Westerners (The Guess Who) singing "Share the Land……we can shake a hand and all live together." A touching moment of national pride. Hats off to the organizers.

Also on another note: TRCF adopted the Guess Who's "Share the Land" song for the renamed "Canadian Duality" flag's theme song replacing the Canadian Unity flag's theme song "Do What You Gotta Do" by Garth Brooks.

On Sept. 9, 2003, the Canadian Duality Flag flew on the ramps of the Dorval airport where the ceremony to rename the airport in honour of Pierre Elliott Trudeau took place. Many from the media asked what was the significance of the Duality Flag being there. "Pierre Elliott Trudeau transformed this country from a country of two predominant languages, each spoken in their respective regions, to an integrated bilingual country".

This is what the Duality Flag represents. Many cards and decals were handed out to the media and to travellers. A little further on the ramp were about 50 Quebec nationalists and separatists shouting and denouncing the renaming of the airport after someone who they strongly dislike. Montreal Gazette's John Mennie wrote an article the next day about the different points of view between the Duality Flag and the separatists.

Sept. 27, 2003, the Canadian Duality Flag flew at the Pierresfond SportsPlex center when the RCMP Musical Ride show came for a fund-raising event lasting 4 days. Over 300 Unity/Duality cards were handed out to the spectators which were mainly youths from the inter-city soccer teams. The event was hosted by George Springate.

Oct. 1, 2003, more Canadian Duality Flag cards and stickers were handed out at the same SportsPlex for the breakfast served by the RCMP to the public.

Oct. 10-12, 2003 was the annual convention of Nava (37) which was being held in Montreal. The North American Vexillological Association deals with the flags, banners and heraldry. Some of the leading Canadian experts attended and many have already expressed interest in talking about the Canadian Duality Flag. A Canadian Duality Flag was auctioned off to members at the end of the convention. Another flag went home with Kevin Harrington of the Canadian Flag Association, a flag historian living in Toronto.

Oct. 23^rd. 2003 the eve of the 9^th. anniversary of the first public showing of the Canadian Duality Flag was celebrated in Quebec City where the First Ministers of the provinces held their "Council of the Federation" conference. The Duality Flag flew outside the Chateau Frontenac besides the statue of Samuel De Champlain. Cards and decals were handed out to the public as well as to the Premiers who were also given a Canadian Duality flag for their Council.

On Nov. 5^th 2003, the Canadian Duality Flag flew on Parliament Hill just prior to the closing of Parliament as the Liberal leadership race was coming to a close. Prime Minister Jean Chrétien will be resigning while Liberal hopeful Paul Martin is almost guaranteed the leadership win. On the Hill, a senator took a flag home with him and vowed to fly it at his country cottage. Many people from across Canada, namely Alberta and Manitoba, stopped and inquired about the flag.

On Nov. 7-8^th 2003, Canadian Duality Flag decals and cards were handed out in Toronto, namely to The Mayor's Office, the Hockey Hall of Fame, CBC TV's The National, Ken Dryden's office, (General Manager-Toronto Maple Leafs-Air Canada Centre) and at the "360" restaurant in the CN Tower.

Remembrance Day, Nov. 11, 2003, was the tenth straight appearance of the Canadian Duality Flag at the Cenotaph War Memorial in Ottawa to commemorate the veterans who sacrificed their lives and who fought side by side, English, French, Native, to liberate others and to keep our country free.

On Dec. 12^th, 2003, the Canadian Duality Flag flew outside 24 Sussex Drive for the last time with Jean Chrétien as Prime Minister. It was the day he resigned as the head of the Canadian Government with his last official visit to the Governor General's residence Rideau Hall. The Canadian Duality Flag flew outside Rideau Hall while the Prime Minister resigned and the new Prime Minister Paul Martin and his new cabinet were sworn in.

The Canadian Duality Flag flew over the Christmas/New Year holidays at the country cottage of a senior member of the Canadian Senate. He thought it would provoke a positive response.

On Feb. 2^nd. 2004, the huge 15ft. Canadian Duality Flag flew on the grounds of Parliament Hill for the Speech from the Throne prepared by our new Prime Minister. The flag was a great backdrop for the Canadian troops being reviewed by Governor General Andrienne Clarkson while MPs, Senators and the public looked on. M.P. Peter Goldring of the Canadian Alliance had a picture taken with himself and the flag for publication in the Alliance newsletter.

Québec's senior political figure and newspaper publisher, Mr. Claude Ryan, passed away and a "National Funeral" was held on Feb. 13^th. 2004 at Montréal's Notre Dame Basilica. The Canadian Duality Flag was the only flag present and it symbolized, outside the Basilica, what Mr. Ryan's eulogy said on the inside. It was a message of unity among our cultural and linguistic communities in English and French Canada. Québec lost "un grand homme" that day.

Flag Day, Feb. 15^th. 2004, saw the Canadian Duality Flag on a ten-foot pole, skate up and down the Rideau Canal in Ottawa while Canadian Duality Flag cards were passed out to hundreds of the thousands of skaters who participated during Winterlude. Beavertails and hot chocolate were great!

Our TRCF group joined the St. Patrick's Day Pararde on March 14th. 2004 for the 180^th. consecutive running parade. In all we had 4 Canadian Duality flags mounted on the top of our bus as well as our red and blue maple leaf banner in front, 6 walking flags and our large 7.5x15ft flag which we carry on two 18 ft. poles. The crowds, that gathered along Ste. Catherine St., cheered when reading the banner "French and English together ... Anglophones et francophones ensemble". It is estimated that 350,000 people lined the streets to watch the parade. It was our 10th. year in the parade.

A Canadian Duality Flag and cards were presented on June 9^th. 2004 to the mayors of the big cities meeting in Montreal at the Hyatt Regency for their National Forum on Economic Development of Big Cities. Mayor David Miller of Toronto was asked to share this vision with the other mayors.

On June 12^th. 2004, the Canadian Duality Flag flew outside the gates of the Canadian Grand Prix, on the Concord Bridge, to greet Formula One fans and dignitaries as they inched their way to the parking lots and to the grandstands. Cards were handed out to people as they entered the grounds.

The Canadian Duality Flag flew outside the National Arts Centre on June 13^th. 2004 as the politicians entered to duel in the French Language Leaders’ Debate in the run up to the 2004 federal election. A sign also accompanied the flag which read “Official Bilingualism…..Bilinguisme Officiel” written in red and blue words. Cards were also handed out to hundreds of party supporters who lined the street outside the NAC.

An open email was forwarded to the Leaders on June 22^nd. 2004 asking that they give serious consideration to adopt the Canadian Duality Flag as a Secondary National Flag which would be used on special occasions such as celebrating the 400^th. Anniversary of Acadian roots here in Canada this year. Please see “Secondary Flag” on home page.

July 1^st. 2004, Canada Day had 2 Canadian Duality Flags and our red and blue maple leaf banner mounted on poles on Parliament Hill for the noontime ceremonies. The flags and banner were shown on the large overhead projector screens on each side of the ceremonial stage to the crowd of over 20,000 people. The flags were also shown on CBC nationwide during the afternoon. The many Acadian flags on the Hill blended in perfectly with the Canadian Duality Flag for the Acadian’s 400^th anniversary celebration.

The flags flew again for the nighttime show and again were displayed on the large screens for the crowd of over 75,000 people. Many people from across Canada came by to ask about the flags and were encouraging with their remarks. Two flags went back with people who will fly them in Yarmouth NS and near St. John, NB. The flags were also shown on nighttime CJOH news.

On July 2^nd. The Canadian Duality Flag was walked around the old port of Montreal with cards and stickers being handed out. The night was to feature some of Canada’s outstanding Acadian performers including Roch Voisine. All this to coincide with the 400^th. Anniversary of Acadian roots in the New World.

World Cup of Hockey 2004

On August 28^th. a Canadian Duality Flag, cards, decals and a poster of Team Canada’s uniform where all the black was changed to blue, was forwarded to the attention of Wayne Gretzky and Team Canada at the Corel Centre in Kanata. This was the same concept proposed to Hockey Canada’s Bob Nicholson back in 1998 before the Nagano Winter Olympic Games. The Duality flag then flew outside the Corel Centre as fans were making their way to the last exhibition game against Slovakia before the start of the tournament. The Canadian Duality Flag sat in the second row behind the glass during that game and was visible by all.

On Aug. 30^th. the Canadian Duality Flag made a presence to the Olympic Stadium in Montreal for an Expos-Cubs game and was shown on the giant screen in the stadium.

On Aug. 31^st. the Canadian Duality Flag was at the Canada-USA game during the first round of the tournament. It was shown on the jumbo screen at centre ice on several occasions.

On Sept. 1^st. the Montreal Gazette posted an article “Out with the black, in with the blue” that showed Mario Lemieux wearing a red, white and blue uniform instead of the red, white and black. This was to represent our English and French heritage. The picture and article are shown on the home page of our site. That night, the Canadian Duality Flag flew outside the Bell Centre for the Canada-Slovakia game and was prominently displayed during the game.

The Canadian Duality Flag made 2 more appearances at the games with the last one being the Canada-Finland final at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre on Sept. 7^th.. Team Canada won the Cup and our hearts that very night.

Health Care Agreement

On Sept. 13^th the Canadian Duality Flag attended the Prime Minister’s Health Care meeting in Ottawa with the Premiers of all the provinces as well as the Leaders of Aboriginal people. A historic deal was signed at this conference and the start of asymmetrical federalism which accepted the distinctive differences of needs in our provinces. The flag was shown nationally on CTV television during the demonstrations outside the Ottawa Congress Centre. The 80+ yr. daughter of Tommy Douglas gave a fiery speech during the demonstration to urge Canadians never to dilute MediCare.

Oct. 5^th 2004 two Canadian Duality Flag were present for the Speech from the Throne on Parliament Hill. Hundreds of Duality Flag cards were distributed to visitors during the day. The flags were seen on national TV as the Governor General inspected the Canadian forces troops assembled in front of the Peace Tower for the ceremony. Revision Oct. 15^th. 2005: Now that former Governor-General A. Clarkson has stepped down, we can mention publicly that Her Excellency Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralston Saul slowed down their limousine as they were leaving the Parliament grounds and shouted to us “Keep it up, keep it up!” Their encouragement made us realize that we were finally making favourable impressions on our government.

On Nov. 11^th 2004, the Canadian Duality Flag was present to pay respect to the war veterans at the National Cenotaph in Ottawa for Remembrance Day. Again the Duality Flag was shown on National TV while the veterans were marching past the Governor General and the Prime Minister at the end of the ceremony.

National Flag Day, Feb. 15, 2005, was also the 40^th anniversary of our Maple Leaf Flag and two Canadian Duality Flags were present on Parliament Hill. Along with them were an authentic 1964 Pearson Pennant and the ‘Flag That Never Was’ with full blue borders and the large red maple leaf in the centre. This was the flag most Canadians wanted in 1964 but lost out due to bickering between politicians. See file “40^th. Anniversary”, on this page, for further information. Over 400 Duality Flag cards were handed out to field-trip students from Kitchener, Kingston ON and Lachine QC. The Lachine students took pictures on the steps, in front of Parliament, with the Duality Flag and banner.

On March 5^th, the Canadian Duality Flag made an appearance at the annual national convention of the Liberal Party of Canada in Ottawa. With the Duality Flag stretched out over a sunny window, over 500 hundred Duality cards were distributed among delegates attending the convention. Many ministers came by and greeted us. The Youth Wing was particularly enthusiastic about the proposal. They were eager to promote the idea before the Conservatives had a chance to promote it themselves.

Our 11th. consecutive St. Patrick's Parade on Sunday, March 13th., was another stunning success. Thousands cheered as our float and marching group made its way down Ste. Catherine Street before 250,000 people. We were near the end of the parade line-up which leaves a lasting impression on people. As our flag-decorated bus and huge flag, carried on poles, sailed down Ste. Catherine St., many thumbs up signs, cheers and bravos were seen and heard. On one corner, some in the crowd broke out signing 'O Canada'. One man said that ours was the best thing he had seen in the whole parade. Another wanted to contribute to our cause but we told him it was alright. Still he insisted on giving us something so he dropped a loonie in our pocket. He was very pleased and felt proud.

On March 18^th the Canadian Duality Flag flew outside the Palais de Congrès, on a beautiful sunny day in Montreal, for the first national convention of the Conservative Party of Canada. Prior to flying outside, over 700 hundred Duality cards were handed out to some of the 2000 delegates attending the convention. Many Tories were particularly excited about the Duality Flag and some from the Barrie/Lake Simcoe region, north of Toronto, brought a Duality Flag back home, with them, to help promote the idea.

On April 20^th. 2005, the Canadian Duality Flag was introduced to the Assembly of First Nations Communications Director during the Assembly’s meeting at the Sheraton Centre in Montreal. It was stressed that the Duality flag needed the backing of the National Chief of the First Nations, Phil Fontaine, to be a viable proposal for Canadian unity.

The former Canadiens played the Legends of Hockey on April 23^rd. at the Bell Centre in Montreal. The Duality Flag seemed a little bias for the former Habs as it displayed the famous bleu, blanc, rouge. It is right at home here in particular. The Habs won the day led by Guy Lafleur.

The Canadian Duality Flag was featured in the Spring/Summer ‘The Flag and Banner’ magazine published in June 2005, by The Flag Shop which is headquartered in Vancouver BC. We were invited to write the Guest Editorial. You may download the magazine from our web site, see page 8, or it is available from www.flagshop.com. The cover story in the Flag and Banner featured the article “Flags Tell the Story of Canada, “Des Drapeaux qui nous racontent l’histoire du Canada”.

July 1, 2005, Canada Day, was another annual pilgrimage for the Duality Flag on Parliament Hill. The show started at 9AM with the Parade of the Flags with a special tribute to the veterans who were celebrating the 60^th. anniversary of the end of World War 2. Following that, the RCMP held their musical ride which terminated with their ceremonial charge across the Parliament grounds. Next the noon time show featured the Snowbirds who flew past the Parliament buildings on 2 occasions. The noon show rocked in particular with the East coast appearance of the Mudmen and Quebec’s ‘Crazy Mama’ Lulu Hughes. This year was dedicated to the 100^th. anniversary of Alberta and Saskatchewan joining the confederation. The Duality Flag was shown on national TV during CBC’s coverage.

Fina 2005 held the World International Swim and Diving Championships in Montreal in the last weeks of July. On July 31^st. the Duality Flag flew for the morning heats leading to the final competition before the closing ceremonies of that day. The Canadian Swim Team manager was contacted to express our suggestions for our team colours. The swim team copied the hockey team and wore red, black and white. Blue was suggested instead of the black as had been done by our gymnast team, the speed skaters, and the cycling team. Canada got back on the podium during these championships with a young team which promises good fortune for Canada in the future.

The Canadian Duality Flag was front and centre at the inauguration ceremony of our new Governor-General Michaelle Jean on Sept. 27^th. 2005 on Parliament Hill. The ceremony was covered by the CTV television network since the public broadcaster CBC-TV was on a labour strike. The ceremony was fabulous with many Haitian-Canadians attending in support of one of their own representing the Head of State of Canada. Much controversy surrounded the nomination of the new GG, but Ms. Jean won the hearts of Canadians with her first speech in office. Her motto ‘Breaking down the solitudes’, forgetting past injustices and all living in harmony, took courage on her part. The Duality flag was shown nationally on CTV many times when the Parliament grounds were shown. This prompted many Canadians to write or call CTV asking for an explanation of the Canadian flag with two blue strips on it. On Friday’s late news, Oct. 30^th., Lloyd Robertson explained the meaning of the flag during CTV’s “Ask Us” segment of the news. CTV tried to contact TRCF for information but when we didn’t connect, they interpreted the event and said that we were present because the new GG was French. This is not the case since we are on Parliament Hill for most ceremonies and special events. However, the Duality Flag came under attack by George Springate in an editorial in The West Island Chronicle, Oct. 13^th.. We have since replied in a letter to the Chronicle which will be published on Oct. 19^th. The editorial and our reply are available on our web site, page 4.

Remembrance Day Nov. 11^th 2005 was again commemorated at the Cenotaph in Ottawa in the presence of the Canadian Duality Flag. This was the first Remembrance Day Ceremony for the new Governor-General. As the veterans marched out for lunch at the Château Laurier, the Duality flag flew across the parade route. Familiar faces of the veterans were seen and unfortunately, some familiar faces were missing, no longer able to attend the ceremonies or having passed away. They will not be forgotten.

Shania Twain was awarded the Order of Canada at Rideau Hall on Nov. 18^th. 2005. The Canadian Duality Flag was there on the Rideau grounds to welcome her. As a matter of fact, no other fans showed up, what disappointment. The history of the Duality flag was given to her by correspondence at the reception desk. Congratulations were in order for Shania.

The Liberal Government of Paul Martin was defeated on a vote of non-confidence and an election was called by the Prime Minister for Jan. 23^rd, 2006. During the Leaders’ Debates in Montreal, the Canadian Duality Flag was there to greet them to Maison Radio-Canada. On Jan. 9^th. for the French debate, the Duality Flag flew outside among all the poster-carrying supporters from the different parties. The purpose of the Duality Flag being there, was to show visibility to the 4 leaders, in particular, the 3 English-speaking leaders. Their support had been asked for, in the past years, and visibility creates credibility. However, the Bloc Québécois supporters took issue to a stylized Canadian flag being present and sent for 2 Fleur-de-lisés (Quebec flags) to show dominance. On Jan. 10^th. for the English debate, the Duality Flag again greeted the leaders on their way in, again for visibility, but this time there were at least 8 to 10 Fleur-de-lisés present in the Bloc-Québécois’ apparent flag war. Never before have any flags been flown by party supporters rooting for their leaders during a federal election. The Duality Flag was present on its own, no affiliation to any political party.

The Jan. 23^rd. election was won by the Conservative Party of Canada. On Feb. 6^th, 2006, Tory leader Stephen Harper was sworn in as Prime Minister at Rideau Hall by the Governor-General. The Canadian Duality Flag flew outside the Hall during the swearing in ceremonies and saluted the new Prime Minister on his way out of Rideau Hall grounds. The Duality Flag was seen on television coverage of the event.

Boom-Boom Geoffrion, Hockey Great – St. Patrick’s Parade March 19^th 2006

TRCF’s participation for the 182^nd running of the annual St. Patrick’s Parade in Montreal was preceded by the unfortunate death of former Montreal Canadien great Boom-Boom Geoffrion. The Canadiens were honouring him by retiring his No. 5 jersey and raising it to the rafters in the Bell Centre, next to his father-in-law’s Howie Morenz. The day before he was to be honoured on Saturday night March 11^th. 2006, he passed away. The ceremony can be reviewed at: http://www.cbc.ca/story/sports/national/2006/03/11/Sports/geoffrion_sweater_retired060211.html

His sons, Daniel and Robert gave a wonderful tribute to their dad, one spoke in English and the other in French, a show of respect for their dad’s long-time admirers. His family characterizes what being Canadian is all about, French and English together.

As a tribute to Boom-Boom, the No. 5 was added to some of our Canadian Duality Flags for the St. Patrick’s Parade on March 19^th. 2006. He was special to me personally, because as a youngster, I would attend 11 o’clock Mass at St. Hippolyte Church in Ville St. Laurent, and often I ended up right next to him. A Mass will be said for him, at the church, on July 2, 2006.

At a Blood Donor’s Clinic held by the Canadiens on March 16^th, just before the parade, the Duality Flag (with No.5) had the privilege to be viewed by Montreal Canadiens’ GM and coach Bob Gainey. He thought the flag was just so beautiful. We mentioned that the flag would fly in the St. Patrick’s parade on Sunday and asked if the Canadiens would help us forward the flag to the Geoffrion family in Atlanta before Boom-Boom’s funeral on Thursday March 23^rd. Mr. Gainey was kind enough to arrange this matter for us.

We flew five flags with his No. 5, in the middle of the Maple Leaf, to honour him in the parade. There were ten Duality Flags in all, amongst our group in the parade. Following the parade, we gave one flag to the Canadiens who looked after shipping it to the family.

39^th. Parliament

The 39^th. Parliament was called and initiated by the Speech from the Throne on April 4^th. 2006. The Canadian Duality Flag was present for the ceremony including the inspection of the ‘Guard’ by the Governor-General and the arrival of M.P.s, Senators and the media to the Senate. The Duality Flag was again seen on national television and following the ceremony, had the opportunity to meet some of the M.P.s and Senators, notably new Senator Romeo Dallaire, former Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces.

The Canadian Duality Flag greeted about 300 high school students on Parliament Hill, on June 22^nd. 2006, just as the House was adjourning for the summer break. The students came from the Perterborough, Barrie, Toronto, Mississauga, St. Catherines and Niagra regions. They were on a last field trip before the summer break. Many expressed approval for the concept of the Duality Flag and about 350 cards were passed out to the students and other visitors to the Hill. One flag is reserved for flying in the Yukon Territories by an interested Canadian.

June 25^th. 2006 saw the Formula One cars in Montreal for the Grand Prix du Canada. The Canadian Duality Flag flew at one of the entrances to the race track in view of over 25,000 people. Most people liked the idea of the Duality Flag symbolizing French and English Canada together.

Four Canadian Duality Flags flew on Parliament Hill for the noon celebration of Canada Day July 1, 2006 and were seen on national TV. This was the first Canada Day festivities for new Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor-General Michaelle Jean. Again the show reflected our true heritage with performers from all parts of Canada and in both official languages. One Duality Flag flew in the afternoon and during the evening show. “Share the land” was performed by both French and English language singers, a fitting anthem for Canadian unity.

The Canadian Duality Flag flew outside Cecep Maisonneuve, on Oct. 21^st, 2006, in Montreal’s East End for the Leadership Debate of the Liberal Party of Canada. The candidates aspiring to be the new Liberal Leader, were all in attendance. The Duality Flag greeted leading candidate Mr. Michael Ignatieff upon his arrival. Many participants to the debate questioned the meaning of the flag.

The Canadian Duality Flag made its 13^th. consecutive appearance for Remembrance Day ceremonies at the National Cenotaph in Ottawa on Nov. 11^th. 2006. Sacrifices and losses cannot be imagined of the courageous men and women who dutifully went off to war for the honour of our nation and to liberate others from tyranny.

The Liberal Leadership Convention was held at Le Palais des Congrès in Montreal on Dec. 3rd. 2006. Leading up to the convention, the Canadian Duality Flag was mounted across the street from Le Palais, on a second story balcony, overlooking the convention centre. Unfortunately, some construction workers removed it as they were probably sympathetic to the separatist cause. The next day, the Canadian Duality Flag flew from our car, on an 8 ft. pole, in the parking lot across from the convention centre. The car also had our Canadian Duality Flag banner, with red and blue Maple Leafs, stretched across the side of the car, in plain view of the leadership convention registrants. Another flag flew on the next street corner, again right across from Le Palais, and well placed to be seen by most participants, shuttling back and forth, inside. Liberals from across the country came out to inquire about the flag, none objected to its symbolism.

The Canadian Duality Flag meets the Stanley Cup at Rideau Hall on Feb. 3, 2007 on the starting day of Ottawa’s Winterlude Festival. The Rideau grounds are always open to the public for this event, but the real treat was to have the Stanley Cup present in Rideau Hall, for the general public to view. It was accompanied by Mr. Phil Pritchard, who is the Curator for the Cup at the Hockey Hall of Fame. A picture of the Stanley Cup with the Duality Flag next to it, reminds us of our shared heritage, French and English Canadians, who were so instrumental to our national sport’s success.

For the 13^th. consecutive year starting in 1995, the Canadian Duality Flag has appeared again in the 183rd St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday March 18^th, 2007. Our contingent displayed 7 Canadian Duality Flags along with our shamrock decorated van and TRCF banner to a crowd of over 200,000 spectators. Many thanks again to the Montreal Irish Society who’s roots have intermingled with Quebec society for close to 200 years.

On June 10^th. 2007, the Canadian Duality Flag greeted dignitaries and Formula One fans on the Concord Bridge leading up to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Many spectators asked about the meaning of the flag and were open to its symbolism. Rookie driver Lewis Hamilton won the race to the delight of the F1 fans and racing teams.

On July 1^st. for the 140^th. Anniversary of Canada, the 4 Canadian Duality Flags were on Parliament Hill starting at 9:30 in the morning to 11:00 in the evening. The flags celebrated our 140^th birthday and joined the festivities and shows, namely the noontime show and the evening show, both shown on CBC TV across the nation.

Remembrance Day was observed for the 14^th. consecutive year at our National Cenotaph in Ottawa on Nov 11^th 2007. While no ‘Maple Leaf’ flag flew during the two World Wars, the Canadian Duality Flag reminds us of the sacrifices made by both French Canada and English Canada alike.

Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s Federal Budget was delivered on Feb. 26^th, 2008, while the Canadian Duality Flag flew on the grounds of Parliament Hill. The Finance Minister was asked to put some money aside to renew our National Colours to include ‘blue’ representing the French fact in Canada, in line with our shared heritage. The issue of Hockey Canada wearing ‘Red and Blue’ was also emphasized in particular due to the upcoming International Hockey Federation’s Tournament taking place in Halifax and Quebec City for the first time in North America. Quebec City is celebrating its 400^th anniversary as the French capital of North America and the birth of Canada. The Canadian Duality Flag drew the attention of hockey legend Senator Frank Mahovlich who inquired about its symbolism.

The Canadian Duality Flag’s 14^th. appearance in the 184^th. St. Patrick’s Day Parade, on March 16th 2008, was warmly welcomed and cheered by many of the 300,000 who came out to watch the parade. This year’s parade was met with a little anticipation as a separatist group requested entry into the parade and threatened to disrupt the parade when they were refused entry. The Irish parade is strictly a non-political event. This controversy placed more focus on the Canadian Duality Flag which symbolizes our linguistic duality, and for this reason our marching group with 8 flags was well received.

In mid February, a Canadian Duality Flag flew over the Métropolitain, one of the major expressways connecting east and west Montréal. The sole symbol of the ‘Bleu-Blanc-Rouge’ flying over the city. But by mid April, the whole city is flying Bleu-Blanc-Rouge as the Montreal Canadiens are in the playoffs and these colours are seen on cars, buildings, and generally everywhere across Greater Montreal.

In the month of May 2008, the International Ice Hockey Federation IIHF held its first ever World Tournament in North America. The games were shared between Halifax and Quebec City, with the final being played at the Colisé Pepsi in Quebec City. The reason being was that this world-class event would also help celebrate Québéc’s 400^th. anniversary.

Outside Le Colisé before the game, on May 18^th 2008, there were a couple of Canadian flags but they were completely outnumbered by Russian flags from fans who were bused in for the game.  But upon the arrival of the Canadian Duality Flag, it completely dominated the others, flying higher than all the Russian flags who struggled to compete, but could not.  Though the Canadian Duality flag and the new Russian flag have the same colours, the Maple Leaf Duality Flag is much more impressive and beautiful.  The same would have been said of Team Canada's hockey uniform had they chosen to accept TRCF’s design, offered to Hockey Canada, instead of our lame design lacking any inspiration and, in particular, lacking mutual respect for French Canada. On those grounds, Hockey Canada are as clueless as the Canadian Olympic Committee who welcomes and sends off French Canadian athletes in unilingual English, and in ‘red and meaningless black’ to boot.  No class at all.

On a positive note, as a flag-waving bystander, it was heartening to see so many Québécois/French Canadians attending the games and rooting for Team Canada. Hockey unites Canadians like no other, putting politics aside.  Now just imagine the fury had Hockey Canada dressed the Canadian team in 'bleu-blanc-rouge' during Québec's 400th. anniversary celebration.  Russian flags would have been lost in the crowd instead of ever present.  And it would have done a tremendous amount of good for national unity.  Identity instils pride and pride builds nations.  Give Canadians enough credit to understand that.

On June 8^th. 2008 for the Canadian Grand Prix, in Montreal, The Canadian Duality Flag greeted thousands of visitors to Circuit Gilles Villeneuve before the start of the race. The flag flew brightly and briskly on the Concorde Bridge of Ile Ste. Hélène. The Snowbirds made a few awesome fly-bys over the circuit, to everyone’s applause, doubling back over the old port of Montreal. What a thrill when the Snowbirds banked hard right at Victoria Bridge and flew directly over the Canadian Duality Flag as it stood alone on Pont de la Concorde.  Awesome, a sight never to be forgotten!!! As the planes flew over the flag, at about 500ft., people around thought that the flag was a marker for the Snowbirds.  "Red and white with a streak of blue".

On July 1^st. 2008, two Canadian Duality Flags once again celebrated Canada Day on Parliament Hill for the noon ceremonies with various artists from all across the country, performing on national TV for CBC’s coverage of the festivities. The Canadian Duality Flag was televised, flying in the background, as Peter Mansbridge was wrapping up the noon-time show on national televison.

The Canadian Duality Flag made a special, yet very significant, trip to Quebec City on July 3^rd. to commemorate the 400^th. anniversary of the founding of Quebec City as the French capital of North America and the birth of Canada. Despite the very poor rainy weather, where flags were drooping rather than flying, a good shot of the Canadian Duality Flag was shown on CBC’s Mark Kelly’s special report of the official ceremonies from Quebec City. The location was at the foot of Samuel de Champlain’s statue near the Chateau Frontenac where Prime Minister Harper, Quebec Premier Charest, Governor General Jean, and many politicians and dignitaries were present. A Solemn Mass and a military parade highlighted the ceremonies. The military parade featured a look in the past from the first militiamen of the 1600s to the present. French President François Filion also attended the ceremonies as well as Grand Chief Max Gros-Louis, of the Huron-Wendat nation, whose nation was honoured to play host for the ceremonies.

Two weeks later on July 18^th. 2008, the Canadian Duality Flag was in Quebec City again, this time for the occasion of the Premiers’s ‘Council of the Federation’ summer meeting that brought together several hundred people from across Canada, Premiers, their families and their entourage. The Canadian Duality Flag flew at the base of Samuel de Champlain’s bronze statue and later met many of these Canadians as they stolled outside and the flag overlooked the photo session of the provincial Premiers as they stood outside the Chateau Frontenac grounds. The Premiers and their entourage then walked through the narrow streets of Québec, with hundreds of carolers cordoned off along one side of the street, and the general public cordoned off on the other side. The beautiful singing filled the streets with a ‘joie de vivre’ that you would not experience anywhere else in Canada. It was a wonderful occasion to show the rest of Canada, the true values and beauty of the French culture and language. The Canadian Duality Flag had the occasion to walk alongside the Premiers for a good part of the journey, through the narrow streets, to the Armoury where they were treated to fine French cuisine.

Following the call for a federal election by the Tory government, two Canadian Duality Flags lined Elgin Street in Ottawa, across from the National Arts Centre where the televised Leaders’ French debate took place on Oct. 1, 2008. Hundreds of screaming partisan fans, from all federal parties, were in the streets awaiting the arrival of their respective leaders. While they all shouted obscure remarks to each other, nobody denounced the flag for its value and symbolism, most gave ‘thumbs up’ for its recognition of our linguistic duality.

The Canadian Spirit Train, connecting Canadians to Vancouver 2010 Olympics, rolled into Montreal, on Oct. 18^th. at the quays of the Old Port, with entertainers from across Canada. Highlighting the show was Colin James, the avid rocker from Vancouver, who did not disappoint the crowd. The Canadian Duality Flag sent a message of unity to Canadians aboard the train.

The following day, Oct. 19^th. 2008, the Canadian Duality Flag once again went off to ‘La Ville de Québec’ for the Summit of La Francophonie where Heads of State from French-speaking countries around the world came to Québec, during its 400^th. anniversary, for their annual meeting. Many parts of the city were ‘off-limits’ as military and police forces provided security for the guest leaders. There was a special ceremony held at La Citadelle, by the Governor-General Michaelle Jean, for visiting heads of African states of the delegation. The Canadian Duality Flag toured around the outside grounds of the Citadelle, and the Plains of Abraham, and finally ended up at the main entrance of the Citadelle. There the huge 15 ft. flag was hoisted above the pedestrian entrance to the complex, until military officials asked that it be removed from its emplacement. However, the 6ft. Duality Flag flew brightly on the top grounds of the Citadelle, overlooking the Plains, for the remainder of the afternoon to the delight of many. The flag was even given a once-over by the security forces helicopter that flew around the city. The chopper stopped and hovered about 250 ft. above the flag, for a few minutes, then waved and continued on its way.

Remembrance Day, Nov. 11 2008, at the National Cenotaph in Ottawa, was once again observed by the Canadian Duality Flag for the 15^th. consecutive year. As usual, the event was attended by Prime Minister Harper, Governor-General Michaelle Jean, dignitaries and the hundreds of veterans who served for our country. Bless the souls of the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the face of tyranny.

On Nov. 18^th, 2008, the Canadian Duality Flag was on Parliament Hill for the Speech from the Throne to kick off the 40^th. Parliament, following the federal election in which the Conservatives won a minority government.

With the Grey Cup being held in Montreal between the Calgary Stampeders and the Montreal Alouettes, on Nov. 23^rd. 2008, the Canadian Duality Flag welcomed many out-of-town visitors around the Grey Cup Village on Saturday Nov. 22^nd at Dominion Square. Of special interest were the Canadian Forces Exhibition along with the entertainment pavillions setup for the pre-game event. The Canadian Duality Flag also welcomed fans to the game at the Olympic Stadium, on game day Nov. 23^rd, and drew the attention of many of the fans. The flag was photographed by the Calgary Herald for their website. Unfortunately for Montreal, the Stampeders won the game, lead by their star quarterback Henry Burris.

The Canadian Duality Flag kept to its federal roots and made no appearance for Quebec’s provincial election on Dec. 8^th, 2008. Nor was it present at Rideau Hall, on Dec. 4^th. when Prime Minister Harper prorogued government to avoid a coalition defeat, in the House of Commons, in the hands of the Liberals, the NPD and the Bloc.

The prestigious NHL All-Star Game was held in Montreal on Jan. 25^th 2009. The Canadian Duality Flag toured outside the Bell Center to the delight of many. The ‘red and white with streak of blue’ of the Canadian Duality Flag fit in perfectly with the 100^th. anniversary of ‘les glorieux: bleu-blanc-rouge’ les Canadiens. Great Canadians of both French and English mother-tongues have contributed to the success of the greatest sports club in Canadian history. As the flag toured the numerous activities outdoors, nowhere was Canadian Duality Flag more relevant, showing mutual respect for French and English, than on the Plaza of Honour, where bronze sculptures of the ‘Greats’ were erected by the Montreal Canadiens’ Hockey Club: Howie Morentz, Rocket Richard, Jean Béliveau, and Guy Lafleur.

With the prorogued government set to return governing the country, on Jan 26^th 2009, the Governor General was again asked to deliver the newest Speech from the Throne. The Canadian Duality Flag was present on the Hill to attend the ceremony. Unfortunately, the usual military parade and ‘review of the guard’ by the GG, was cancelled by Heritage Canada due to the rather cold weather, however the Canadian Duality Flag weathered the cold and attended the full ceremony.

For our 15^th. consecutive appearance in the 185^th. St. Patrick’s Day Parade, on March 22nd 2009, the Canadian Duality Flag was joined by a special addition to our group, our multicoloured ‘Mascot’. He was an instant hit with the crowd of the couple of hundred thousand people who came out to watch the parade. Many in the crowd had their pictures taken with our Mascot. Pictures of the parade can be found on the web site. Hats off to the Montreal Irish who had to delay the parade by one week, due to the March 15^th. 13^th. Annual International Day against Police Brutality, falling on the Sunday. Rioting broke out and downtown Montreal was not a place to be visiting, or strolling through, on that day. The Irish managed the activities extremely well and the parade did not suffer from the discontinuance of St. Patrick’ Day festivities from the previous week.

On July 1^st. 2009, the Canadian Duality Flag celebrated Canada Day, on Parliament Hill for the noon ceremonies with various artists from all across the country, performing on national TV for CBC’s coverage of the festivities. The Canadian Duality Flag made its 15^th. consecutive appearance in the nation’s capital for the celebrations which lasted all day until the fireworks at night.

In Sept. 2009, the Canadian History Book ‘Creating Canada’ was published by McGraw Hill Ryerson for Ontario Grade 10 Canadian History course students. The Canadian Duality Flag was featured on pg. 54 of Chapter 2 relating to ‘Politics and Diversity’ and dealing with the aftermath of the failure of the Meech Lake and the Charlottetown Accords. The caption illustrates the flag’s historic ties to our British and French heritage. Re: www.creatingcanada.ca

Remembrance Day, Nov. 11 2009, had a special guest in Ottawa at the National Cenotaph. Prince Charles was in attendance along with the Governor General and the Prime Minister. The Canadian Duality Flag made its 16^th. straight appearance to commemorate the veterans who served their country and for some who paid the ultimate sacrifice. The Prince was intrigued at the sight of the flag in the crowd.

On Dec. 2, 2009, following the Grey Cup victory of the Montreal Alouettes over the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Montreal threw a parade for the champions followed by an outdoor party in the centre of city. The Canadian Duality Flag flew over the festivities with a quaint hommage to former Alouette player Herb Trawick (No.56), who 60 years earlier, had captured his Grey Cup victory. Equally pleased to see former Alouette player Tony Proudfoot present, who is fighting ALS, among his former team. Also had the pleasure to meet Jamal ‘Two-hands’ Richardson, one of the star receivers in the Grey Cup game.

The Olympic Torch Relay passed through Montreal on Dec. 11, 2009. The whole country was thrilled as the Torch made its way from community to community across Canada, in a prelude to the Olympic Winter Games of Vancouver in Feb. 2010. The Canadian Duality Flag was captured on the front page of the Montreal Gazette newspaper when former F1 champ Jacques Villeneuve passed the torch to speed skater Sylvie Daigle right in front of Notre Dame Basilica in ‘old’ Montreal. Surprisingly enough, the first Canadian athlete to win a ‘gold medal’ on Canadian soil during an Olympics, was Alexandre Bilodeau, a French Canadian from Quebec. His story and that of his brother, touched the hearts of Canadians across the land.

Another Quebecer, who touched the hearts of Canadians, was figure skater Joannie Rochette, who’s mother passed away upon her arrival to Vancouver to attend the games. Joannie went on with her competition, under severe distress, and proudly won a Bronze Medal for Canada. At about the same time, Jasey-Jay Anderson of Quebec, won a Gold Medal for Canada in Snowboard racing. On March 1, 2010, the Canadian Duality Flag welcomed our Olympic athletes upon their return home at Trudeau Airport in Montreal. The flag was shown on CTV Pulse News among the crowd. It was also a backdrop for RDS’ interview with Jasey-Jay in the terminal.

On March 3^rd 2010, the Canadian Duality Flag was again on Parliament Hill for the Speech from the Throne ,delivered by the Governor General, to start the 3^rd session of the 40th. Parliament after the governing Conservative Party prorogued government following a coalition by the opposition parties to overthrow it in Dec 2009. The lengthy period, before returning to Parliament, allowed the Olympic Games to be the centre of attention in the country, in which Canada won the Olympic Gold Medal in Ice Hockey, to the thrill of the entire nation.

Tragedy hit the 186^th. St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14^th. 2010. The weather had been terrible, the worst in the last 16 years of the Canadian Duality Flag’s participation in the Irish parade. This was a prelude of what was to come. With smaller crowds beaten down by the weather, and less security patrols, an intoxicated young man from the crowd, managed to climb aboard the Marianopolis float behind us and fell between the wheels of the tractor trailer to his death. With this incident developing behind us, we never knew what happened until after the parade. Due to the weather, we were unable to deploy the huge flag as usual, and depended on the presence of 8 regular-sized flags with our group.

The Federal Liberal Party of Canada held a brain-storming convention on the weekend of March 27^th. at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Montreal. Ideas were put forth to steer the party into the future. At this Canada 150 convention, Canadian Duality Flag cards and decals were passed out to some of the attendees. An actual Duality Flag was presented to the office of the Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff.

Montreal held another parade on April 23th. to welcome and celebrate the success of the Olympic athletes, many of them from French Canada. Ten floats carried the athletes down Ste. Catherine Street to the cheering crowds of thousands of people, as they made their way to Philip’s Square. Here, ceremonies to introduce the athletes were received by thunderous applause by the packed crowd. On hand was Marcel Aubut, newly appointed head of the Canadian Olympic Committee, MP Gary Lunn Minister of Sports, Gold-medalists Jon Montgomery, Ashley McIvor, and Jasey-Jay Anderson as well as Bronze medalist Joannie Rochette…among the many athletes present. The celebrations were kicked off by the insatiable performer Gregory Charles who performs brilliantly in both French and English. The Canadian Duality Flag was omnipresent in the middle of the crowd and shown many times on CTV News and RDI of the French television network. Cdn. Duality Flag cards and decals were passed out to the athletes on the ten floats before the start of the parade.

Montreal hosted and sponsored F1’s Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday June 13^th, and again the Canadian Duality Flag greeted visitors from across the world, at the gate before the race. A flyby by Canadian Air Force military jets from the St. Hubert base, precluded the race to the delight of many.

The Canadian Duality Flag will again be in Ottawa for the celebrations of Canada Day 2010. This year’s special guest will be Her Majesty Queen ElizabethII. The Canadian Duality Flag previously greeted the Queen on July 1^st, 1997 and again on Oct. 3 2002 for HM’s 50^th. Jubilee celebration. Performing for the celebration will be the headliners Bare Naked Ladies and Isabelle Boulay.

Note: Apart from these specific events, the Canadian Duality Flag makes regular appearances on Parliament Hill promoting the idea to our politicians and fellow Canadians. Many decals and cards are handed out to them as well as to visitors touring the Parliament Buildings. These decals and cards are also handed out to the general public on most of the occasions listed above.

Remarks:

You may be pleasantly surprised by the feedback and remarks if you conducted your own informal survey. You would find that many Canadians would immediately back this proposal. It especially lit up the faces of Francophones giving them a sense of identity and pride in our flag and our nation.

This idea was proposed to the Honourable Joe Clark back in October of 1992 during the Constitutional talks: Add blue giving a Francophone flavour or identity to the flag, and you will win the hearts of many Francophones.

Too much emphasis is put on the country breaking up. Let us put the focus back into Canadian unity, recognize and support the distinct Francophone society who, for the majority, still believe in Canada, and as a result make our Canadian flag even more beautiful then it already is.

We should be proud of our respective mother tongues, our distinct cultures and heritage, continue to enrich them while working and flourishing together in unity and harmony, with mutual respect for each other. C'est normal.

Renew the flag? Anything is possible. On Remembrance Day after 49 years, the Canadian Government finally recognized the role of the Merchant Navy during World Wars I and II.

If this proposal has merit and makes sense, is presented to the Canadian people and most agreed to it, then why not do it? It is a long term commitment for stability in our country and the belief is that most people still have their hearts in the right place and would actually support it. It's a win-win situation.

How did the Union Jack get the blue colour when England's colours were red and white?

The Jack of Anne represented the union of Scotland (blue and white) and England (red and white) and later became the Union Jack with diagonal red bars when Ireland joined the union. The identity of each participant in the United Kingdom was symbolized with this renewed flag.

How would you feel if you were going to cheer the Toronto Maple Leafs and when you arrived at the Garden you were asked to wear a Montreal Canadiens' jersey, or vice versa?

Support is being sought from the public and private sectors and dedicated individuals, to form a consolidated effort towards this goal.

After the Maple Leaf flag was officially adopted on Feb. 15, 1965, John Ross Matheson said "Now that we have our own distinct Canadian flag, it is up to us to maintain it, and the day that we stop maintaining it, is the day that nobody cares anymore."

It is a bold and daring move to promote Canadian unity and linguistic duality. Are you up to the challenge? The ball has already started rolling!