Guelph Legion makes plans for an online Nov. 11 ceremony in light of the current pandemic
D uring times of uncertainty, community engagement is needed more than ever. With Remembrance Day approaching, changes have been made to the organization of ceremonies in order to comply with COVID-19 restrictions and social distancing mandates.
Danny Martin, national ceremony director at the Royal Canadian Legion, said, “at a time when we have all been isolated for months by the pandemic, ensuring the symbolism of the Legion, and community leaders paying homage to our veterans, is more important than ever.”
Recognizing that many members and attendees of Remembrance Day ceremonies are in vulnerable and compromised conditions in regards to the pandemic, Guelph organizations have ensured a safe alternative to previously held events.
The John McCrae house is hosting an event on Nov. 11, 2020. They have extended their operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission is by donation, and at 9 a.m. Royal Canadian Legion Col. John McCrae Memorial Branch 234 Guelph will be hosting a brief service at the McCrae Memorial Gardens. Guelph Museums’ Facebook page will also be hosting a livestream of the ceremony for those who are unable to attend. They have outlined that the museum has introduced new safety guidelines including: cleaning protocol, face coverings, and physical distancing.
The Guelph Legion called on members of the community to volunteer in handing out poppies on Oct. 30, 2020, and after the ceremony. Cadet corps are unable to distribute the poppies outside of shopping centres due to COVID-19 restrictions.
David Thompson, the poppy chairman at the Guelph Legion, explains that Legion members are working hard to finalize the service plans so that proper safety protocol (face covering, physical distancing, etc.) is prioritized. Thompson encourages Legion members and the general public to stay home and watch a televised memorial service. The Legion will also be hosting a national Remembrance Day ceremony through the Facebook livestream platform found on their page.
When asked about how COVID-19 restrictions change the significance of ceremonies, Thompson replied, “My personal thinking is that over the years there have been changes made to ceremonial protocol and we have experienced some wintry weather on occasions, and now COVID-19, but none of these have or will make any impact on the significance of Remembrance Day.”
A version of this article appeared in print in The Ontarion issue 189.3 on Oct. 29, 2020.
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