Public Not Bound by Federal Flag Policy
The fact that the Federal Government has decided not to lower flags on federal buildings has little or no bearing on individuals, organisations and other levels of government. In this writer’s opinion it is an appalling decision made by a “half-mast” government that I was actually starting to have a little faith in. Or it could be a brilliant device to unify the country behind our troops through good old fashioned reverse-psychology? Naw…couldn’t be, but it seems to be working.
Recently, upon the death of a Canadian soldier, I brought up the subject of lowering the flags at the War Memorial in the town in which I live. I was informed by a town official that the Province dictates when to lower flags. Further investigation revealed that this is not the case. In fact, the Honorable Cecil Clarke, Speaker of the House, informed me that municipalities are free to make their own decisions when it comes to honouring the fallen. I was also advised that the province was revisiting flag protocol and policy in light of the Canadian Forces involvement in Afghanistan. This was, indeed, refreshing and reassuring in light of the fact that many civil servants are apparently confused.
“The manner in which flags may be displayed in Canada is not governed by any legislation but by established practice….The rules applied by the federal government are in no way mandatory for individuals or organizations; they may serve as guidelines for all persons who wish to display the Canadian Flag and other flags in Canada.”
- Flag Protocol, Heritage Canada.
Most Canadians, because we are not generally the “flag-waving” type, have little or no understanding of the etiquette and traditions for displaying national or provincial flags. Not since the days of the British Empire when Britannia ruled the waves have we seen flags, banners and bunting lining our streets and avenues. Not since the end of the Second World War have we seen troops welcomed home with fanfare and patriotic pageantry. Why is it that we only wave our little paper flags on Canada Day or in the event of a visit from our aged and obsolete monarch? Does it hark back to the days when we were fervent supporters and loyal subjects of an empire? What are we afraid of now that we are not part an empire? Pride? Is it wrong to be proud who we are now? Most Canadians are quick to sew a maple leaf on our back packs for a trip abroad, but rather reticent to commit to an outward public display of national pride by flying a flag in our yard. What is the stumbling block that prevents us from showing each other that we are proud to be Canadian?
Few people likely realise that lowering of a flag in mourning is by choice not by edict or proclamation. In fact one of the provisions in Canadian flag protocol allows for the lowering of a flag to half mast for, “whom it is desired to honour.” This means that we are not bound by the Government’s decision not to lower the flag on our federal buildings. Provinces, Municipalities, organisations and individuals are free to conduct this solemn observance if they so choose. And if the occupants of a federal building did lower the flag outside, what would the implications be? Would it be a federal crime? I think not. I think it would be a display of respect and dignity and would send a clear message to the Harper government.
Some organisations, inclusive of some branches of the Royal Canadian Legion have informed me that they have voted not to lower their flags because they feel it is too complicated. Too complicated? Combat. Now that’s complicated. Leaving hearth and home and putting your life on hold to serve your country. That’s complicated too.
