Ontario
Flag of the Province of Ontario
The flag of Ontario is a powerful symbol of the province's identity, history, and place within Canada. Introduced in 1965, it has evoked both pride and debate over the decades.
The history of Ontario’s flag is deeply intertwined with Canada’s transition from its colonial past to its modern national identity. Before the current flag was adopted, the Red Ensign, bearing the Union Jack and a shield representing Canada’s provinces, was widely used across the country, including Ontario. However, the introduction of Canada’s national flag in 1965—the iconic red and white maple leaf design—marked a significant departure from colonial symbols and sparked discussions about provincial identity.
Ontario, under Premier John Robarts, sought to preserve elements of its British heritage, which many in the province felt were being overshadowed by the new national flag. The provincial government proposed the adoption of a distinct flag that retained the Red Ensign’s connection to British and Canadian traditions. The Ontario flag was officially adopted on May 21, 1965, following approval by the provincial legislature.
The flag of Ontario is a 2:1 red field featuring the Union Jack in the upper left canton, symbolizing Ontario’s historical ties to Britain. To the right of the Union Jack is the provincial shield of arms, a green field with three golden maple leaves joined on a single stem beneath a white band bearing a red cross, which is a nod to St. George’s Cross and England’s patron saint. The flag’s design embodies a blend of British and Canadian heritage. The Union Jack represents Ontario’s historical association with the British Empire and the United Kingdom, while the shield incorporates Canadian symbols, including the maple leaves, which have long been associated with Canada’s natural heritage.
The Ontario flag has been the subject of controversy since its inception. Critics argue that the flag’s design overly emphasizes Ontario’s colonial past and does not adequately reflect the province’s diversity or Indigenous history. The prominence of the Union Jack has been particularly contentious, as it is seen by some as a reminder of colonialism and the marginalization of Indigenous peoples. Others contend that the flag fails to capture the multicultural and modern identity of Ontario, a province that has evolved significantly since 1965. They argue that a new design could better represent the province’s inclusive and forward-looking spirit.
On the other hand, supporters of the flag view it as an important connection to Ontario’s historical roots and the values that shaped its development. They assert that the flag’s design pays homage to the province’s founding and the contributions of British settlers, while the inclusion of the maple leaves acknowledges Ontario’s place within Canada. In recent years, the debate has been reignited as movements to reevaluate historical symbols gain momentum. Calls for a redesign of the flag have emerged from various quarters, including academics, cultural groups, and younger Ontarians seeking a flag that resonates with contemporary values.
The adoption of the Ontario flag mirrors similar efforts in other provinces to establish distinct identities while maintaining ties to Canadian and British heritage. Manitoba’s flag, also a Red Ensign variant, was adopted in the same year for similar reasons. These flags highlight the broader tension between tradition and modernity in Canada’s provincial symbols. It is worth noting that the flag’s design was not subject to a public referendum or widespread consultation at the time of its adoption. This top-down approach has contributed to the perception that the flag reflects the values of a specific era rather than those of the province as a whole.
Despite the controversy, the Ontario flag remains a familiar sight at provincial government buildings, public events, and ceremonies. It is often displayed alongside the Canadian flag, symbolizing Ontario’s role as a key part of the federation. For many Ontarians, the flag is a source of pride, a reminder of the province’s rich history, as well as its resilience and achievements.
