Canada’s five living former prime ministers are calling for Canadians to embrace the flag amid “threats and insults” from U.S. President Donald Trump.

In recent weeks, Trump has repeatedly called for Canada to become the 51st state and has threatened its neighbour to the north with 25 per cent tariffs. The Bank of Canada has described the tariffs as potentially “highly disruptive” to both economies if it were to take effect.

In a joint letter, former Prime Minister Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin and Stephen Harper called on Canadians to “show the flag as never before” ahead of National Flag Day on Feb. 15 — which marked the 60th anniversary of the Canada’s red and white maple leaf flag.

“On Flag Day 2025, let’s fly our flag with pride,” wrote the former prime ministers. “Let’s show the world that we are proud of our history and proud of our country.”

The joint letter acknowledged that the former head of states came from different political parties and had their disagreements, but stated that they are united in patriotism.

“Canada, the true north, strong and free, the best country in the world, is worth celebrating and fighting for,” the letter read. “As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our national flag, let’s make this flag day one to remember!”

Minister of Canadian Heritage Pascale St-Onge also urged Canadians to raise the flag to mark the occasion in a press release.

“This year, more than ever, not only do we have to celebrate our flag but also remind ourselves what it represents: our values, our resilience and our sovereignty,” stated St-Onge.

“In the last week, public displays of national pride have become more prominent following external economic pressures. The growing sense of unity and national identity is an occasion to engage Canadians to mark the flag’s anniversary.”