Every November 11, Canadians come together to honor the brave men and women who served our country and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
It's a day to pause, reflect, and say thank you. It's also an opportunity to think about how we can keep the spirit of Remembrance alive throughout the year.
A Tradition That Brings Canadians Together
From wearing a poppy to attending local ceremonies, Remembrance Day is marked by traditions that help Canadians honor those who served.
According to an Ipsos survey*, 82% of Canadians believe Remembrance Day is just as relevant today as when it first began. The research also found that 72% planned to wear a poppy, while 37% intended to attend an official Remembrance Day service.
These findings show that Remembrance Day continues to be an important moment for Canadians to come together, reflect on our shared history, and express gratitude for those who served.
Keeping Veterans' Stories Alive
Remembrance is also about ensuring that the experiences and sacrifices of veterans are never forgotten.
In the same Ipsos survey, 90% of Canadians said the stories of modern veterans, including those who served on peacekeeping missions, should be recorded for students to access.
What's more, 87% believe Canada should do more to educate young people about its military history, while 88% think Canada's involvement in global conflicts should be taught in schools.
These findings highlight the importance Canadians place on preserving veterans' stories and sharing them with future generations. Listening, learning, and remembering are all meaningful ways to honor those who served.
Carrying the Spirit of Service Forward
The values we reflect on during Remembrance Day, service, generosity, and looking out for one another, are worth carrying with us throughout the year.
Whether it's volunteering your time, supporting a local initiative, helping a neighbor, or contributing to a cause that's important to you, even small actions can have a positive impact.
At Ipsos iSay, we believe that when people come together, small contributions can add up to something meaningful. It's a belief shared by the Ipsos Foundation, whose mission is to support communities and create positive social impact around the world.
This Remembrance Day, let's honor those who served, keep their stories alive, and remember that acts of kindness and service can make a difference every day of the year.
And there's more to come! This December, keep an eye out for the Ipsos Foundation's upcoming campaign as we once again bring our community together around the power of giving back.
*Source: Ipsos Not Forgotten: Canadians More Likely to Attend Remembrance Day Service Than Pre-Pandemic. Survey conducted between 20 and 24 October 2023 in Canada, with a sample of 1,001 adults aged 18 and older.
