Minister Lisa MacLeod and the Jewish Federation of Ottawa honour Lillian Freiman’s legacy
Honouring the legacy of Lillian Freiman – a Jewish Canadian philanthropist, first veterans advocate and the first manufacturer of the poppy.
Ottawa, ON – On the eve of Remembrance Day, during a week when we pause to remember the significant contributions made by veterans, service members, and their families, the Hon. Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, and the Jewish Federation of Ottawa held an event to honour the legacy of Lillian Freiman – a Jewish Canadian philanthropist. Ms. Freiman’s dedication to remembrance helped popularize the poppy in Canada.
Ms. Freiman’s contribution is important to our collective efforts to honour and give thanks to veterans, soldiers, and their families on Remembrance Day. Event participants expressed their gratitude to the Royal Canadian Legion for their dedication to the wellbeing of Canada’s veterans and their tireless efforts to ensure Canadians remember the sacrifices of all veterans across our country.
Minister Lisa MacLeod (Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries), issued the following statement:
“Lillian Freiman is a true example of Canadian patriotism. Nicknamed “Canada’s greatest philanthropist” and the “Poppy Lady” both before and after her death, Lillian’s historic place as Canada’s – and Ontario’s – first veterans advocate and the first manufacturer of the poppy in our nation deserves celebration and recognition on the poppy’s 100th anniversary.”
Andrea Freedman, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, issued the following statement:
“This event is important to the Jewish Federation of Ottawa as it provides an opportunity, on the eve of Remembrance Day, to honour our veterans for their service to our country and to celebrate the powerful impact of a Jewish community leader, philanthropist, and dedicated veterans’ advocate, Lillian Freiman Z”L.”
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) is the advocacy agent of the Jewish Federations across Canada, including the Jewish Federation of Ottawa.
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