An NDP MPP is offering up a Private Member’s Bill that she hopes will lead to more people taking part in Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Jennie Stevens’ proposal calls for businesses to close for four hours on Remembrance Day, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
She says Royal Canadian Legions across this province put immense time, effort and thought into local Remembrance Day ceremonies, yet many people are unable to attend because of work commitments and cannot afford to take a day off.
She is hoping her suggestion of a Remembrance Day Observance will change that.
“Working Ontarians and modern-day Veterans still in the workforce will now have the opportunity to meaningfully participate and attend their local services before returning to work in the afternoon,” says Stevens.
Schools would remain open on Remembrance Day.
Steven proposes that students have stronger opportunities to honour the day than they do now.
“Students should deserve more than a pre-recorded service on the PA system. It’s why this bill requires all schools to hold a dedicated in-person service for students on November 11, whether that be a class trip to a local cemetery, a wreath laying at the school, or a dedicated assembly, children will actively participate in Remembrance Day, not just watch it from afar.”
Stevens says passage of the bill will also mandate curriculum development that teaches the act of reflection and how we honour bravery, sacrifice and the freedoms we enjoy today.
Ontario is the only one of three provinces across Canada that does not have a legislated Statutory Day of Remembrance on November 11.
