Image Credit: CFJC / Kent Simmonds

By Dylana Kneeshaw

first poppy ceremony

Kamloops mayor, Tkʼemlúps Kúkwpi7 presented with first poppies

Oct 22, 2025 | 4:57 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 pinned the first poppies on local officials Wednesday (Oct. 22) ahead of Remembrance Day and this year’s poppy campaign.

For a little more than 100 years, the poppy has been a symbol of remembrance for veterans and sacrifices made in conflicts around the world. Leaders from the City of Kamloops and Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc say the pinning of the first poppy is a thought-provoking moment.

“Well, at this time of the year, I’m always thinking about our veterans and those who served to make Canada what it is today. And thinking about not only all those who served but also our Indigenous veterans who also served,” says Kúkwpi7 Rosanne Casimir, who was presented a first poppy alongside Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson. “To be pinned this first poppy of the season really draws me back to remembrance.”

Today, the poppy campaign is a visible sign of public support and respect for those who have served. Donations made to the poppy fund are put towards veterans services in Canada.

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“We’ve had a number of people come down to the ceremony but it’s the generosity of the people in Kamloops that helps our poppy fund,” explained Kamloops Legion President Mike Young. “I’m always amazed every year at the generosity of the people in this city and it warms my heart.”