BY DANIELLE OBAL
Courage, sacrifice, and freedom – these are the three words that come to mind in the days leading up to Nov. 11.
Nov. 11 is recognized as Remembrance Day across Canada, a day to honour veterans who fought for the freedom of our country and encourages Canadians to “Never forget.”
Throughout the month of November, red poppies become an important accessory. But the meaning behind the poppy is so much more than just a pin. It is a visual representation of honour and respect for the lives lost of those who served.
Sharon Oseivhi, a Public Relations and Communications student, says “Just a simple act of wearing a poppy never gets lost on me. I think it is one of the most important things I can do to say thank you to the veterans for all they have done for us.”
Students enrolled in history courses at Sheridan are given the opportunity to create a meaningful, visual poster dedicated to World War I and Remembrance Day.
This year, the history department is working toward presenting students’ work through SOURCE – a scholarly output for undergraduate research and creative excellence – where these posters will be available for viewing.
This gives students the opportunity to say thank you and to be more involved with Canadian military history. Dr. Mauro Marsella, a professor of history at Sheridan says, “These initiatives may also encourage students to further engage with history through volunteer work, activism, etc.”
Sheridan College is a school that encourages freedom of speech, and without the veterans who served and soldiers who continue to serve our country, acts of freedom could be lost.
On Friday, Nov. 11, Sheridan will host a commemorative ceremony, including a student choir, at Davis Campus at 10:45 a.m. Sheridan invites those able to attend to join the community in paying respects to the veterans and taking part in the service.
“No matter how many times I lose my poppy, I always get a new one to show that we care, that I care,” Oseivhi says.
Campuses will lay wreaths and a live stream will be available from the Sheridan homepage for those unable to attend the ceremony.