O Canada! Maple Leafs flying off store shelves ahead of Flag Day

Canadian flags are in high demand at flag stores in Dartmouth as Canadians prepare to celebrate Flag Day this weekend. The surge in sales comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs and potentially annex Canada as a 51st state.

All of Canada’s living former prime ministers – Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper – have come together to urge Canadians to proudly display the red and white Maple Leaf in honor of Flag Day, observed annually on February 15. In an open letter, they encouraged Canadians to show the world their pride in their country’s history and heritage.

Carole Aylard, a longtime employee at the Flag Shop in Dartmouth, expressed astonishment at the increase in Maple Leaf sales this year. She noted that the political climate has fueled a sense of patriotism among Canadians, leading to a heightened interest in displaying the national flag.

Similarly, Robert Luer of the Flag Emporium in Dartmouth has observed a significant uptick in Canadian flag sales, attributing the surge to concerns over Trump’s threats to Canada’s sovereignty. He emphasized that the challenge to Canada’s independence has sparked a strong reaction from citizens who are eager to show their support for the country.

Despite Trump’s provocative rhetoric, Defense Minister Bill Blair dismissed the notion of Canada being absorbed into the U.S. as “not a real threat.” Luer, echoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s sentiments, firmly believes that Canada will remain an independent nation.

Interestingly, a portion of the Canadian flag sales at the Flag Emporium has come from customers in the United States, indicating solidarity and support from across the border. This gesture of unity underscores the importance of national pride and sovereignty in the face of external pressures.

As Canadians gear up to celebrate Flag Day, the collective display of the Maple Leaf serves as a powerful symbol of unity and resilience in the face of political challenges. The words of the former prime ministers resonate strongly, urging citizens to stand together and demonstrate their unwavering pride in their country.