The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation:

 Speaker, I am tremendously proud to tell you about a special milestone that took place on March 31 – the 50th anniversary of the Labrador flag.

The Labrador flag was conceived by a group of people and designed by Labrador’s first native-born MHA, Mike Martin of Cartwright, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Province’s union with Canada in 1974.

Sixty-four flags were hand-sewn by Mike and his wife Patricia – one each for the 59 towns and villages in Labrador, one each for the three Labrador members of the House of Assembly, and one each for Martin and his wife.

The colours represent Labrador’s elements – white for the snow, blue for the waters and green for the lands. The branches represent the people of Labrador, including Inuit, Innu and non-Indigenous settler.

The flag is a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and landscapes and reflects the uniqueness of Labrador and the resilience of its people.

Over the past five decades, the flag witnessed the triumphs and challenges faced by our communities. From Nain to L’Anse au Clair to Labrador West, the Labrador flag is an iconic symbol which aligns with our beautiful land and the strong, resourceful and warm-hearted people who call this place home.

Planning is under way to celebrate this special anniversary. In recognition of this milestone, let us raise our spirits in celebration of the flag’s values – solidarity, resilience and a deep-rooted love for our homeland.

May it continue to inspire generations to come and serve as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond that ties us together as Labradorians.

Happy 50th anniversary to our treasured and beloved Labrador flag! Here’s to many more years of pride and honour under its watchful gaze.