On November 11, members of our community gathered at the Grand Parade Cenotaph in Halifax to mark Remembrance Day — a solemn occasion to honour the courage, service, and sacrifice of those who have served in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping.
This year, Rotary Halifax Harbour was represented by Honourary Member and Veteran Alex Handyside, who laid a wreath on behalf of our club. The wreath serves as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude to those who gave so much — and to those who continue to serve in pursuit of peace and freedom.
The poppy, worn proudly by Canadians in the weeks leading up to November 11, stands as a vivid reminder of the bloodshed and resilience of those who served. Inspired by the famous poem In Flanders Fields, the poppy reminds us of the cost of conflict and our shared duty to remember, reflect, and work toward a more peaceful world.
Rotary’s Legacy of Peace
Rotary’s connection to peace runs deep. In 1945, Rotary played a significant role in the creation of the United Nations, with 49 Rotarians serving as delegates, advisers, and consultants at the San Francisco Conference that drafted the UN Charter. Rotary’s long-standing principles of international understanding, goodwill, and cooperation helped shape the foundation of the organization — values that remain central to Rotary’s mission today. 👉 Read more about Rotary and the United Nations
During times of conflict, Rotarians have supported relief efforts, aided refugees, rebuilt communities, and helped bridge divides through dialogue and service. That commitment continues through Rotary’s Peacebuilding initiatives — including the Rotary Peace Fellowships and the Rotary Action Group for Peace — which empower leaders and communities worldwide to address the root causes of conflict and build lasting peace.
Here in Halifax, Rotary Halifax Harbour is proud to carry that tradition forward. In May, together with Rotary District 7815, our club planted a Peace Pole on the Halifax Waterfront — a living monument that bears the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages. It stands as a local reminder of Rotary’s enduring pursuit of peace and the importance of community in building a better, more compassionate world.
As we remember those who served, we also reaffirm Rotary’s mission: to create hope in the world by fostering peace, goodwill, and understanding — at home and around the globe.