Angela Xiao (9) | STAFF REPORTER
November 11 marks the end of the First World War, honoring those who have bravely fought for our country. For the majority, we know this day as “Remembrance Day.” Unlike Easter or Christmas, Remembrance Day is not a statutory holiday (meaning that adults must go to work while students must attend school), and it should most certainly continue to remain this way.
Although a statutory holiday may allow families to reflect, it doesn’t guarantee that Remembrance Day will be used to remember these soldiers. At school, they hold assemblies and show videos about this event, bringing awareness to the students about the past. Thanks to the school’s activities and stories, students are able to understand the importance of this day (especially since some students may not have relatives who served in this war). Additionally, making Remembrance Day a statutory holiday will simply add a “rest” day for others instead of a day to remember the soldiers.
Therefore, making Remembrance Day a statutory holiday will most certainly result in diverting attention away from its importance.
