Family Day Message from Tom Reid, International Vice President

This mid-February holiday first began in 1990, in Alberta, celebrated as “Family Day”. In most provinces of Canada (BC, AB, SK, ON, NB) the third Monday in February is observed as a regional statutory holiday, often known in general as Family Day. In Manitoba, the 3rd Monday in February is recognized as Louis Riel Day and commemorates his life. It is an opportunity for families to spend time together or learn about Metis culture. Heritage Day was created in 1973 by the National Trust for Canada to preserve and promote Canada’s natural, architectural, and historical heritage. For most of Canada’s provinces, Heritage Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February, however, there are some notable exceptions: in Alberta, it occurs on the first Monday of August; in Yukon, the Friday before the last Sunday in February. Islander Day is a holiday in the Province of PEI on the third Monday of February. It gives people the chance to have a day off to relax or to take a short winter break.

As the final Object of our IBEW Constitution states, “And by legal and proper means to elevate the moral, intellectual and social conditions of our members, their families and dependents, in the interest of a higher standard of citizenship”, this long weekend reminds us of what is important, and is an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends. It is a time set aside to focus on getting closer to your loved ones, a time that is significant to every one of us as members of IBEW Canada.

On this long weekend, I encourage you to get outside to enjoy some winter activities and learn more about Metis culture, with your family. Celebrate by visiting one of the many amazing heritage, cultural or tourist attractions across this great nation, with your family.

From my family to yours, I want to wish everyone a safe, joyful and refreshing holiday weekend.

In solidarity,
Tom Reid
International Vice President