June 27, 2010 8:35 AM 
The flag of choice
- Posted by Saphia Khambalia
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The World Cup experience here in Canada isn't like anywhere else.
I always say one of the amazing things about this country is that no matter where you are, from St. John's to Victoria, flags from all 32 nations can be seen waving proudly.
However, lately it's occurred to me that something may be missing amongst the call of the vuvuzela and the Brazilian samba. Where are all the Maple Leafs? Is our Canadian patriotism lost in these four weeks of soccer mayhem?
One Uruguayan fan from Ajax Ontario would say yes.
Fernando Garcia. Shortly after the start of the tournament I received a passionate email from his daughter Laura, she said that her dad moved to Canada from Uruguay in the 70's, but always flies the Canadian flag alongside the Uruguayan. He says it's out of respect for this beautiful country we call home. It's flag etiquette.
Some would argue against that, saying that in a country known for diversity, showcasing a mosaic of other nations is truly wonderful. Like these English and German fans from North Vancouver. For them seeing other flags is truly 'Canadian.'
I haven't come to my own conclusion yet. What I do know is that one of the greatest things about this Country is that we are able to have this incredible discussion. And the icing on the cake is we get to have it during the biggest sports event on the planet.
Wave this conversation with me Canada, do you think our flag should be flown alongside other nations during the World Cup? twitter: @saphiakhambalia
I always say one of the amazing things about this country is that no matter where you are, from St. John's to Victoria, flags from all 32 nations can be seen waving proudly.
However, lately it's occurred to me that something may be missing amongst the call of the vuvuzela and the Brazilian samba. Where are all the Maple Leafs? Is our Canadian patriotism lost in these four weeks of soccer mayhem? One Uruguayan fan from Ajax Ontario would say yes.
Fernando Garcia. Shortly after the start of the tournament I received a passionate email from his daughter Laura, she said that her dad moved to Canada from Uruguay in the 70's, but always flies the Canadian flag alongside the Uruguayan. He says it's out of respect for this beautiful country we call home. It's flag etiquette.
Some would argue against that, saying that in a country known for diversity, showcasing a mosaic of other nations is truly wonderful. Like these English and German fans from North Vancouver. For them seeing other flags is truly 'Canadian.'
I haven't come to my own conclusion yet. What I do know is that one of the greatest things about this Country is that we are able to have this incredible discussion. And the icing on the cake is we get to have it during the biggest sports event on the planet.
Wave this conversation with me Canada, do you think our flag should be flown alongside other nations during the World Cup? twitter: @saphiakhambalia
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About the Author
Saphia Khambalia
Saphia Khambalia, says this year's final in South Africa holds a special meaning to her. Khambalia spent time on the continent getting to know her East African roots, and filmed a documentary profiling the lives of young orphaned children. She saw first hand the incredible power that soccer has in Africa. "Soccer in Africa isn't just a game, it's a way of life...and now with the 2010 World Cup, it's also an opportunity for all of Africa to welcome the world."
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