FridayOL

OTTAWA, ON, July 17, 2025 /CNW/ – Canada Post has launched a poignant new stamp commemorating a significant, yet often overlooked, chapter in Canadian history: the internment of civilians during both World Wars. This commemorative stamp serves as a powerful reminder of the experiences of tens of thousands of individuals unjustly incarcerated due to their ethnicity and origin.

During the First World War (1914-1918) and the Second World War (1939-1945), the Canadian government implemented policies that led to the mass internment of individuals deemed “enemy aliens.” These were primarily individuals of Ukrainian, Austro-Hungarian, German, Italian, and Japanese descent. The internment camps, scattered across the country, were harsh and dehumanizing, with internees facing forced labor, poor living conditions, and the separation of families.

“This stamp is more than just a piece of postal history; it’s a testament to the resilience of those who endured hardship and a call for remembrance,” stated a Canada Post spokesperson. “We believe it’s crucial to acknowledge this difficult past, learn from it, and ensure that such injustices are never repeated.”

The stamp design features a compelling image symbolizing the internment experience – a barbed-wire fence overlaid with a maple leaf, a potent symbol of Canada. The design aims to evoke a sense of constraint and loss while simultaneously honoring the Canadian identity of those affected.

A Dark Chapter in Canadian History: The Facts

• First World War Internment (1914-1920): Approximately 8,579 Austro-Hungarian, German, Ukrainian, Bulgarian, Turkish, and Serbian men were interned. Many were forced to work on public works projects, often in remote and challenging environments.
• Second World War Internment (1939-1947): Over 4700 naturalized and non-naturalized Italian, German, and Japanese Canadians were interned. The internment of Japanese Canadians was particularly devastating, resulting in the loss of homes, businesses, and livelihoods. After the war, Japanese Canadians were forcibly dispersed across Canada, preventing them from returning to their homes in British Columbia.
• Compensation and Apology: The Canadian government has since apologized for the internment policies and provided financial compensation to survivors and their descendants. However, the legacy of internment continues to impact communities and serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance against discrimination and prejudice.

The release of this stamp is accompanied by an educational campaign designed to raise awareness about the history of civilian internment in Canada. Canada Post has partnered with historical societies and educational institutions to develop resources for schools and the public. These resources include online exhibits, educational materials, and opportunities for community engagement.

The new stamp is available for purchase at post offices across Canada and online at canadapost.ca. It’s a valuable addition to any stamp collection and a powerful tool for promoting historical understanding and reconciliation.

By remembering this challenging period in our nation's history, we can work towards building a more just and equitable future for all Canadians.