The Pearson Centre for Progressive Policy

Progressive Dialogue and Policy for a Better Canada

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The Canadian Flag Represents a Free and Democratic Nation

Feb 13, 2017 By

February 15, 2017

The Canadian Flag Represents a Free and Democratic Nation

By Attiya Hirji

The Canadian flag is a symbol that represents a free and democratic nation, where I feel safe and secure as a Canadian citizen. It reminds me that I am a part of a welcoming and understanding community whose strength lies in the diversity of its people. It reminds me that my parents came to this country as refugees and were offered all the rights and freedoms every human being, around the world, should have. Without the kindness shown by the Canadian government towards my family, decades ago, I would not be here today, doing everything that I can to give back to the country I call home.

Corporate Engagement, Aga Khan Foundation
Vancouver, Canada,

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Together, let’s build a dynamic voice for progressive policy in Canada.

What’s New

Jun 11

2025 Laureate Dinner honouring Irwin Cotler

Oct 30

Pearson Centre Leadership Awards 2024: Salute Organized Labour

May 22

An Evening with the Right Honourable Joe Clark

Current Initiatives

The Canadian Flag

What are Your Thoughts About the Canadian Flag? Invitation to a National Conversation

Send us your thoughts in words, pictures or videos. What do you feel the flag stands for and what does it mean to you?  Keep the words to under 150 and the videos to under 60 seconds and we'll post them.  The only requirements are that you be respectful and you post in English or French so they can have the widest reach.

Please send them to: Flag Project Coordinator, Pearson Centre: info@thepearsoncentre.ca

Learn more.

Lester B Pearson: Canadian Visionary

Lester B. Pearson and his contribution to Canada.

Learn more.

New Members of Parliament

New Members of Parliament share their thoughts and plans for the upcoming year.

Learn more.

Progressive Podium

An innovative series of policy proposals that are bold, progressive, innovative and future-focused.

Learn more.

About Us

The Pearson Centre is a dynamic think tank that engages Canadians in an active dialogue about a progressive future for Canada, building on the success of the past and exploring new ideas for a bright future.

Policy Areas

  • Economic Recovery

  • Pursuing Justice & Equality

  • Climate Change

  • Social & Health

  • Canada & The world

  • Canada: Who we are

  • Lester B. Pearson

Get In Touch

Address: Suite 600
225 Metcalfe Street
Ottawa ON K2P 1P9

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