EMPIRE DAY IN CANADA

Te Aroha News, Volume XXVI, Issue 43085, 27 April 1907, Page 4

EMPIRE DAY IN CANADA

Empire Day in Canada, says Mr T. B. Race, Canadian Commissioner ' tothe (Exhibition, is used to foster the 'lmperial sentiment, just as July Ist, the anniversary of the inauguration of the Dominion, is used' to foster local patriotism. Oh Dominion Day, the maple leaf is worn, and Canada, is exalted as must as rvossible. But if this day were observed alone, the vouth of Canada might be brought up with a relatively narrow outlook, and Empire Day is celebrated in a way designed to make them realise the greatness of thie 'Empire, of which Canada is bub a part. At the same time, it commemorates the justice, goodness, and greatness of the late Queen Victoria. Efcnpire Day falls at a happy time in Canada, for then the spring work of the farmer is just finished, and he is eager to make holiday in the city. It is thegreat day for sports and picnics, and of recent years, has been observed in a very special manner 'by the school children of the, Dominion, whlo assemble together in the different towns to salute the flag, and perform flag exercises. At any meetings that may be 'held upon' this day, reference is naturally made to the Imperial spirit, and to the friendly link that, binds' the Empire’s parts. The Prince of Wales’ birthday has never been observed in Canadians a holiday.