Waterloo Region unleashes patriotism on National Flag Day

Saturday was National Flag Day in Canada and with U.S tariff and amalgamation threats looming, Canadians were flying the flag high and speaking out.

From bustling city squares to tranquil suburban lawns, Canadians are making a bold statement this National Flag Day - by flying the flag high and proud.

With U.S tariff and amalgamation threats looming, Waterloo Region residents have taken to their rooftops, front yards and balconies, transforming their homes into canvases of national pride.

This year marked the 60th year since the flag was raised at Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Mayor Berry Vrbanovic told CTV News that Canadians are prouder than ever before.

“Because of events in recent days, weeks and, and months, it’s become even more important is, Canadian pride and patriotism are really coming to the forefront,” said Vrbanovic.

Vrbanovic recently returned to Kitchener after visiting Washington D.C as part of an initial local government delegation to speak with American politicians about working together.

“This really was an initial step for local governments to work with provincial and federal governments, around a Team Canada approach,” said Vrbanovic. “Delivering a message to our partners in Washington… about the strength of the Canadian U.S. relationship; about the fact that needs to be respected and about the fact that we want to continue to see it thrive.”

The Canadian flag was marked on the ice at Kitchener City Hall for National Flag Day, with the words: “Celebrating 60 years of the Canadian flag” below the red and white image. Carl Zehr Square was also lit up red Saturday night.

“It looks like a Canadian rink,” said skater Chase Gaweda. His mom, Jen Gaweda, agreed.

“It’s nice and big and vibrant for us to see,” said Jen. “It’s a good representation, right? Downtown here in Kitchener where a lot of people come frequently, especially being on the ice. It’s nice to see that among the flags on top [of the flagpoles].”

Prior to National Flag Day, residents displayed their patriotism, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments on placing tariffs and turning Canada into the U.S.' 51st state.

Since then, former prime ministers Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin and Stephen Harper released an open letter telling Canadians to “show the flag as never before.”

Jack Lautenschlager is a Kitchener resident who displayed seven Canadian flags in his front yard and passed extra flags out to his neighbours.

“I am Canadian, I was born here. I’ve lived here my whole life,” Lautenschlager told CTV News. “We sing the national anthem at hockey games… we’re just Canadian.”

Lautenschlager said he doesn’t agree with Trump’s comments on Canada.

“[It makes me feel] angry,” said Lautenschlager. “I think the majority of Canadians are proud to be Canada and we’re a sovereign country. We shouldn’t be joining the States.”