No specific dates have been set yet and planning is still ongoing, with responses expected in the coming days. But established procedures and early press releases can help clear the fog from subsequent commemorations.
Read more: Queen Elizabeth II, longest-reigning monarch in British history, dies aged 96
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Queen Elizabeth II, longest-reigning monarch in British history, dies aged 96
2:37 Queen Elizabeth II is remembered in Canada Queen Elizabeth II is remembered in Canada
In Canada, the Queen’s death marks the start of 10 days of mourning. Story continues below ad Packed with special events, ceremonies and symbolic gestures, here’s what Canadians can expect in the coming days.
The day the queen died
On Thursday, the day of the Queen’s death, high-profile figures wore black while flags across the country were at half-mast. Flags will be flown at half-mast across the country until sunset on the day of the funeral — with the exception of the day Charles III is proclaimed King. Within hours of the Queen’s death, many political leaders issued statements and speeches expressing their sadness at the news. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon both gave short, heartfelt tributes. “He was one of my favorite people in the world and I will miss him dearly,” Trudeau said, speaking at a news conference on Thursday. Story continues below ad 1:31 Queen Elizabeth death: Emotional Trudeau says ‘Canada is in mourning’ Queen Elizabeth death: Emotional Trudeau says ‘Canada is in mourning’ Simon, meanwhile, shared a quote the Queen told her after she was appointed Governor-General. “Her Majesty said to me, ‘be kind to yourself,’” Simon said. “I took her words to mean that while we should work hard on the issues that matter, we should also take time to pause, be patient, lead with understanding and respect.” Before the end of Thursday, the Department of Canadian Heritage opened a book of condolence for Canadians to share their memories of the queen and their grief at her loss. Story continues below ad Canadians can write a short tribute to the Queen in the online condolence book. The government has also created alternative options, such as an email address dedicated to receiving condolences for those who may wish to send a more private message. Trending Stories
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As of Friday morning, most cities across Canada also opened in-person and online books of condolence for Canadians to sign. These books are expected to remain open until the day of the funeral, which has yet to be announced. Canadians can check their local council’s website for more details if they wish to participate in the tribute.
The declaration of accession
Information from the United Kingdom states that King Charles III will be proclaimed on Saturday. Story continues below ad
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When this happens, an Accession Council will be convened at the Palace of St. James in London. Canadian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ralph Goodale, will be invited to attend and sign the declaration of accession, according to an article by Nathan Tidridge, vice-president of the Institute for the Study of the Crown in Canada. While no official details have been announced, Tidridge added that the Canadian Privy Council will likely also hold an accession proclamation ceremony, and the provinces should hold similar events. During the official ten-day mourning period, portraits of the queen and flags displayed indoors “may be draped with black ribbon,” Tidridge wrote. Others may also wear symbols of mourning. According to the City of Ottawa, a black lapel pin with a ribbon is an “acceptable symbol” to be worn during the period of mourning and on the day of the funeral if Canadians so desire. Story continues below ad Other small tributes will appear around the country. For example, the City of Ottawa has created a collection of photos of the Queen, which will be displayed in city hall. Anglican churches in Ottawa have also planned to ring their bells 96 times at noon on Friday in honor of the queen.
Will the buildings be closed?
According to a City of Ottawa memo obtained by Global News, “there will be no federal, provincial or municipal closure of any buildings or facilities.” This means there is no federal directive to close official buildings. However, Canadians may want to check their local council’s website or call their favorite business to ensure all services are available this week.
Queen Elizabeth II Funeral Day
The date of the funeral has not yet been announced, leaving details on the timing up in the air. Traditionally, it takes place 10 or 11 days after the monarch’s death — suggesting the likely but unconfirmed date will be either September 18 or 19. Story continues below ad When the date of the funeral is known, Canadians can expect that to be the date of Canada’s national memorial service. That ceremony will take place in Ottawa at Christ Church Cathedral, according to the Canadian heritage department. Government officials, officials and “representatives of organizations with which Her Majesty has had a close relationship”, including charities and military regiments, will be invited. The official event will be broadcast live and available to watch online. 6:43 Look at Queen’s impact on Canada Look at Queen’s impact on Canada The day will begin with a memorial parade, with participants from the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. During the parade, there will be a gun salute — one round per year of the Queen’s life, according to the department, which means 96 shots. There will also be a CF-18 flyover over Parliament Hill and the cathedral where the ceremony will take place. Story continues below ad More details, including specific dates, are expected to be revealed in the coming days. © 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
