Bill S-240

2nd Session, 40th Parliament,

57-58 Elizabeth II, 2009

senate of canada

BILL S-240

An Act respecting a national day of service to honour the courage and sacrifice of Canadians in the face of terrorism, particularly the events of September 11, 2001

Whereas the terrorist attacks in the United States of America on September 11, 2001 took the lives of thousands of citizens from 90 countries, including 24 citizens of Canada;

Whereas Canada has no national memorial or official protocol to commemorate the events and the aftermath of September 11, 2001;

And whereas it would be a fitting legacy for those who have suffered loss as a result of terrorism, and for all those who have demonstrated courage and compassion in its face, to rekindle the spirit of kindness, generosity and goodwill that unified our country on September 11, 2001;

Now, therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows:

SHORT TITLE

1. This Act may be cited as the National Day of Service Act.

NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE

2. (1) Throughout Canada, in each and every year, the 11th day of September shall be known as “National Day of Service”.

(2) National Day of Service is a day to voluntarily engage in community service, perform good deeds and participate in activities within our communities to honour the victims of terrorism, pay tribute to Canada’s civilian and military efforts in the battle against terrorism, and commemorate the events of September 11, 2001.