The Feds Are Going Ahead With Canada Day Celebrations Despite Calls To Cancel

The federal government has announced its plans for Canada Day 2021 and the annual celebration isn't going to be cancelled this year.

Minister of Canadian Heritage Steven Guilbeault announced on June 18 that there will be a broadcast on TV and YouTube at 8 p.m. ET on July 1 featuring performing artists and entertainers from across the country.

There will also be a virtual fireworks display at 10 p.m. local time when anyone can point their smartphone to the sky and see the show.

"July 1 is about celebrating what makes Canada beautiful and strong," he said. "This year, more than ever, Canada Day invites Canadians to show empathy, understanding and resilience. It also offers an opportunity to reflect, reaffirm our commitment to address systemic racism and discrimination, and learn from each other with open hearts and minds."

Following the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children at a former residential school in Kamloops, B.C., there were plenty of calls to cancel Canada Day celebrations entirely. Some places in the country have done just that, including Wilmot Township in Ontario and Victoria, B.C.

Some are also planning to wear orange on July 1 to raise awareness of the impacts of residential schools that are still being felt today.