québec

6 articles

Oct21

2017What is Canada's first veterans' monument dedicated to those suffering from PTSD and homelessness?

Canada’s first veterans' monument specifically dedicated to those suffering from PTSD and homelessness stands along the Trans-Canada Highway in Kirkland, on Montréal’s West Island. Unveiled on October 21, 2017, the "Trans Canada Respect Monument" features a bronze sculpture titled "The Return," marking key anniversaries including Canada’s 150th and the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Designed by Colonel (Retired) André D. Gauthier, the statue poignantly depicts a Second World War veteran offering a peace sign, reminding viewers that not all who return from service find peace. Seen by over 100,000 people daily, this monument remains a powerful symbol of respect and a witness to the ongoing struggles faced by Canadian veterans.

Jul28

2016What Canadian Heritage River watershed is larger than England?

The Ottawa River, spanning the boundary between Ontario and Québec, stands out as one of North America's great waterways and was officially designated a Canadian Heritage River on July 28, 2016. This recognition marked the culmination of fifteen years of community effort, government collaboration, and stakeholder advocacy to honor the river’s vast ecological, historical, and cultural importance. Remarkably, the Ottawa River watershed covers approximately 146,000 square kilometres—making it not only the twelfth largest watershed in Canada but also larger than the entire country of England. Its designation was commemorated by a trilingual plaque at Petawawa Point Park, highlighting its significance to Algonquin heritage and Canadian history.

Oct22

2014What are the tragic events that occurred in Canada in October 2014?

In October 2014, Canada was shaken by two separate attacks that claimed the lives of Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec, and Corporal Nathan Cirillo in Ottawa. These acts of violence marked a somber moment in Canadian history, as both soldiers were targeted while serving on home soil, the latter at the iconic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In a powerful display of solidarity, thousands gathered at the National War Memorial in Ottawa for an anniversary ceremony, with national leaders and the families of the fallen in attendance. A unique tribute to Corporal Cirillo was added to the site: a commemorative plaque unveiled in a private ceremony, ensuring his memory endures.

Sep13

2014What are 'Flags of Remembrance'?

Flags of Remembrance is a national tribute launched in 2014 by Al Cameron and Veterans Voices of Canada to honour members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Military Police, and First Responders. Each fall, 128 Canadian flags line the roads in communities such as Sylvan Lake, Dunnville, and Charlottetown, with every flag representing one thousand Canadian war dead or missing in action from the South African War to today, as well as fallen RCMP officers. Unique plaques beneath each flag individually recognize veterans, both past and present, and serve as personal tributes from families and friends. Celebrating its 12th anniversary in 2025, this powerful display not only preserves Canada’s military heritage but also supports ongoing efforts to document veterans’ stories for future generations.

Nov9

1989Where in Canada are pieces of the Berlin Wall?

Pieces of the historic Berlin Wall, which once separated East and West Berlin from 1961 until its fall in 1989, can be found at six locations across Canada, serving as powerful reminders of the country’s divided past and the widespread desire for freedom. These concrete segments, distributed to institutions and cities worldwide after the Wall’s dramatic demolition in 1989-1991, now stand as memorials at places like the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, Montréal's Centre de Commerce Mondial, and Nova Scotia’s Lunenburg foundry. One particularly notable section arrived in Lunenburg thanks to the efforts of Lieutenant Governor J. James Kinley, who secured the artifact as a testament to the town’s German heritage after its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1995. Today, more than 240 fragments of the Wall endure in over 140 countries, providing tangible links to a defining moment in 20th-century history.

Mar3

1678Which 17th century heroine is known as the "Canadian Joan of Arc"?

Marie-Madeleine Jarret de Verchères, born in 1678 near Montréal, is celebrated as the "Canadian Joan of Arc" for her remarkable courage during a surprise Iroquois attack on her family’s fort in October 1692. Only fourteen years old at the time, Madeleine’s quick thinking and leadership saved the settlers by convincing the attackers that the fort was heavily defended, holding out for eight days until reinforcements arrived. Her heroism has been immortalized in a statue unveiled in Verchères in 1913, Canada’s second monument dedicated to a woman heroine. Today, her legacy continues to inspire, with her storied defense commemorated as a turning point in Canadian history and national identity.