This week’s most important issue, the founding establishment of the lives we all have today. Remembrance Day, a time to pause, reflect, and honour those who have shown courage in serving the North Strong and Free. Thank you to the veterans and all of the people who had once served for our country. In honour of Remembrance Day, there are city-wide celebratory events that encourages us to bring our loved ones to learn and appreciate those who were our leaders.

All of metro Vancouver, the cities are giving spaces for the Remembrance Day ceremonies, here are some of the events that I find that you should attend and pay respects to learn and understand the hardships from our ancestors.

In Vancouver, Victory Square, Chinatown Memorial Square and Stanley Park host ceremonies and parades to highlight Canadians along with special memorial parades to celebrate. In West Vancouver, a parade leads toward the Memorial Arch at Memorial Park. UBC is also hosting its annual ceremony at the War Memorial Gym. In North Vancouver, around the Deep Cove area, there is another ceremony which encourages land and watercrafts to join.

In Richmond, a parade and ceremony near city hall, including units of veterans and current members of the military, celebrating and acknowledging the veterans and the current members in this special day. In Burnaby, at Bonsor Park there’s a parade and ceremony inviting those who wish to celebrate the day as well. In New Westminster, a special wreath pickup event at city hall honouring former and current veterans.

In Surrey, there are seven places where people can celebrate the event and pay their respects. The Veterans Square, Surrey Centre Cemetery, Sunnyside Lawn Cemetery and Hazelmere Cemetery are open to the public. In Delta, there are multiple parades and ceremonies that are taking place, Social Heart Plaza and Memorial Park cenotaph. Also another parade from the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 61 leading one of the parades.

Lastly, Port Moody brings cadets, scout, girl guides and Brownies to join the colour party of veterans, legion member and first responders for a parade which invites the public to join in the event. Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam also hosts parades and ceremonies that take place in two cenotaphs, one at Blue Mountain Park Cenotaph, and the other at Veterans Park.

As the ceremonies unfold, we are reminded that remembrance isn’t just about the past, its about connection. It’s about recognizing the courage, sacrifice, and humanity of those who built the freedom we enjoy today. On this Remembrance Day, we stand still not just to remember, but to be grateful for every light that continues to shine through even the darkest of times.

Ben Chan kchan467@mybcit.ca