By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A sea of orange filled the La Salle Park Pavilion on Saturday, May 2, as residents of all ages gathered to celebrate Netherlands-Canada Friendship Day, a vibrant tribute to a relationship rooted in history, sacrifice, and enduring connection.
The event brought together community members, Canadian dignitaries, and students, all united in honouring the liberation of the Netherlands by Canadian forces during the Second World War and the decades of friendship that followed.
Major Ian Shirley of the Canadian Armed Forces reflected on the deep historical ties between Canada and the Netherlands, highlighting personal stories that continue to shape the relationship today.
He spoke of Lieutenant Colonel Dennis Whitaker, a former quarterback for the Hamilton Tigers (later the Tiger-Cats) who went on to serve with distinction during the war. “He became the highest-ranking officer to survive the Dieppe Raid in 1942,” Shirley shared. “In the years that followed, he returned to the town several times, where he was warmly remembered and honoured.”
Despite the passing of the wartime generation, Shirley emphasized that the bond remains strong.
“In today’s uncertain and often tumultuous world, it’s important to remember that friendships transcend policies and politics,” he said. “The bond between Canada and the Netherlands is enduring, meaningful, and deeply rooted in shared history and sacrifice.”
Looking ahead, he also spoke of continued exchanges, including a planned Dutch delegation visit to Burlington and Hamilton, reinforcing ties between communities and future generations.
Chris Wolters of Apeldoorn, whose career spans journalism and public communications, delivered a heartfelt message on the importance of maintaining these connections.
“It’s Friendship Day today, but wouldn’t it be nice if all 365 days were spent on friendship?” he said. Wolters reflected on the origins of the bond, tracing it back to April 17, 1945, when Canadian soldiers liberated Apeldoorn.
“It’s more than an official declaration,” he explained. “It’s a personal friendship.”
He acknowledged the challenges of today’s global climate but positioned the Canada-Netherlands relationship as a powerful example of unity. “In a world where differences between cultures and beliefs can divide us, the bond between Canada and the Netherlands, Apeldoorn and Burlington, is a welcome exception.”
Wolters also emphasized the importance of continuing this legacy across generations, urging young people to carry forward the spirit of cooperation, peace, and mutual understanding.
That future was front and centre with students and educators from Nelson High School, who are actively maintaining Burlington’s connection with Apeldoorn.
Representing the school, educator Ms. Yott spoke about her students’ role in caring for the Apeldoorn Friendship Garden, a living symbol of the relationship between the two cities.
Last year, in recognition of the 80th anniversary of the Netherlands’ liberation, Apeldoorn donated more than 200 orange tulips to the garden. “They are just flourishing right now,” she said. “They’re absolutely gorgeous.” Yott shared that her students have embraced the responsibility with pride.
Alongside contributors from Trinity Christian School, they created paper mosaic artworks depicting Burlington landmarks. The pieces will be sent to Apeldoorn as part of a cultural exchange.
“That’s what friendship is about,” Yott said. “Establishing a legacy of cultural understanding between two cities so that we can continue it into the future.”
This event served as a powerful reminder that the Canada-Netherlands connection is a living legacy, carried forward by each new generation. International relationships are not only built through treaties and politics, but through people: shared stories, acts of remembrance, and continued efforts to connect across borders.
With vibrant displays of orange, music from the Teen Tour Band, and a strong sense of community, the day’s message resonated far beyond celebration.
