Happy Canada Day! I look forward to celebrating Canada Day each year, and usually enjoy spending the day alongside residents at our local community celebrations. This year, we know that festivities will look different, and that we need to do everything we can to protect one another during COVID-19.
As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, we reflect on Canada’s history and recognize the importance of all Canadians in shaping the country we call home. From the Indigenous peoples who inhabited these lands for generations to those helped build the communities we live in now, we celebrate their contributions to our cultural heritage and distinct national identity.
I am proud to live in a country that values the rights and freedoms we share as Canadians. It is what makes our region—and our country—a great place to live. In Halton, we respect, value and celebrate the diversity of all residents. By welcoming diverse backgrounds, religions and traditions, we embrace new perspectives that help build a strong community.
There are many ways to safely join the celebrations this week. Please visit the Canadian Heritage’s website (external link) to watch virtual Canada Day performances, shows and find activities for people of all ages. You can also explore some of our parks and conservation areas in Halton, but I encourage you to check the Local Municipality’s website before heading out.
No matter how you are celebrating, please remember to keep safety a top priority. I encourage you to continue to practice physical distancing on Canada Day by celebrating virtually and gathering with no more than 10 people. For more information on how to stay safe during COVID-19, please visit our COVID-19 page.
As a reminder, Halton Region’s 24-hour and essential services remain available on Canada Day and during long weekends throughout the summer. For more information, please visit halton.ca, use our OneHalton App or call 311.
On behalf of Regional Council, I wish you and your family a very happy Canada Day. By taking pride in being Canadian and by celebrating our identity, we live the values that keep Halton a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire.