The decision to remove the U.S. flag from local sports arenas and locations along Lake Ontario is part of a trade war against U.S. President Donald Trump.
Parrish says In a social media post on Saturday night The decision was made “at the request of many people” and received a huge online response as well as support from the city councillors.
“This is a step the mayor has taken and I’m sure most councils support the American flag,” Ward 2 Coun said.
“We have questions about some of the policies that have emerged in the White House, and it’s a way for us to show obvious solidarity across the board, which is Canadians we are proud of and strong and free,” added Ward 1 Couns, Stephen Dasko.
The American flag will be removed from the Iceland Arena, but it will continue to fly outside the Paramount Food Center.
“The Raptors 905 and Toronto Rock are both professional sports teams, they play in the International League with Team USA, just like the Scotiabank Arena and the Rogers Center, they welcome Team USA to the American National Anthem, and we won’t change that. That will keep going.” Tedhoe.
The flag will also be removed at the local dock by the lake, including one of the port credits.
“We happen to use it as a tourist place for many, and frankly, it’s also the gateway for some to enter Lake Ontario off-road, which is what people see when they enter; they see the proud Canadian flag.” Dasco.
Citynews spoke with several residents who had different feelings about the city’s stance.
“Since we’re in a trade war, I can’t see why I don’t do that,” Tina said.
“I think knocking down the flag, I don’t think it does anything in a grand plan,” Stephen said.
“We are the first. We need to put our country first. The bottom line,” John said.
This is the latest move by Mississauga to Trump’s tariff threat, including amending its procurement regulations to prioritize Canadian and non-U.S. suppliers. It also launched the “Choose Canada” campaign last month, encouraging residents and businesses to support their local economy by purchasing products and services made in Canada.
Neither the Congressman Tedjo nor Dasko believed the move would create further hatred between cities and U.S. companies in Mississauga or among tourists visiting U.S.
“Almost 100% of the companies we’ve talked to say they have no intention of moving to the U.S. to appease the president. They want to continue doing business in Mississauga because they know how great it is to do business here,” Tedhoe.
Mayor Barry and Midland also ordered the U.S. flag to be evacuated from municipal buildings earlier this month. Citynews contacted the office of Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and the office of Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown to see if they plan to take similar moves, but has not received a response.
