The Importance of Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day is a time for the acknowledgment of bravery, sacrifice, and duty of all those who are or have served.

Remembrance Day has been traditionally celebrated in honour of the sacrifices made in relation to World War 1 (WW1) which lasted from July 28, 1914, to November 11, 1918. We use this day to acknowledge the more than 650,000 Canadian soldiers who served in this war, more than 66,000 of whom were killed and 172,000 wounded. We now use this opportunity to recognize all those who have or are currently serving our country.  This day is very personal to many people in the country, representing sacrifices made within families, and atrocities that we are forced to remember. We recognize Canada’s involvement, influence, and support of the war effort, and also celebrate our victories. Through Remembrance Day, we celebrate being a part of something bigger than ourselves, and we stand united as a country. 

But contrary to its typical celebration, Remembrance Day is much more than the vast and proud displays of poppies, bowed heads, and moments of silence; it is a day in which we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. Sometimes, when we think of events like this one, that are discussed as if they are a distant memory, it can be hard to grasp the severity of the topic, and truly understand its relevance. If it happened in the past, why does it matter? If it happened in the past, and other societal issues are more relevant in my daily life now, well why should I care? I wholeheartedly believe that if we do not properly discuss and learn about the past, and make connections with history on a deeper level, such events are far more likely to resurface or happen again. In simpler terms, by learning we are helping to ensure history does not in fact repeat itself.