80 Years of Freedom:
A Dutch Tribute to Canada
80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Liberation of the Netherlands by the Canadian Armed Forces
The people of the Netherlands are forever grateful for the significant role Canada played in the liberation of the Netherlands during the Second World War. Canada's tremendous sacrifice for our peace and freedom must never be forgotten.
Though unable to attend in person, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands opens this poignant outdoor exhibition with a message of thanks—honouring 80 years since Canada’s liberation of the Netherlands and the enduring bond forged through sacrifice.
A TRIBUTE
This exhibition blends storytelling, sculpture, and photography into a powerful experience along a parkland trail that follows the historic route taken by Canadian forces during the liberation of the Netherlands.
Freedom is made visible here. Sculpted tank barriers—once symbols of war—now carry the faces of those freed and those who freed them, inviting us to witness their bond and reflect on what it means to live free.
THE VISION
This Tribute celebrates the Dutch-Canadian bond and introduces a lasting cultural landmark to inspire future generations to honour the values of freedom, democracy, and mutual respect.
This is more than a memorial—it’s a conversation across time. Each sculpture invites you to listen, to wonder, and to remember. Their stories speak quietly, asking what freedom has meant, and what it should still mean.
THE EXPERIENCE
Twenty hedgehogs mark twenty cities liberated by Canadian forces. Each pairs a Dutch survivor with their liberator. Scan a QR code, explore their journey, and consider how you will carry their legacy forward.
THE TRAIL
The stories associated with the exhibition will help communicate the enduring bond between our countries, our entangled lives.
STORIES
Please consider supporting this initiative with a donation as we honour the extraordinary courage and sacrifice that have forever linked our two countries and continue to illuminate our path forward.
SUPPORT US
Donate today to make this meaningful Tribute a reality.
Your donation will help us create a fitting tribute that reflects the magnitude of our gratitude.
Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to our goal.
Sponsorship Levels
Legacy Sponsor | $25,000 and above
All benefits of the lower tiers, PLUS exclusive sponsorship of one of 20 outdoor art installations, signifying your role in preserving history.
Liberator Sponsor | $10,000 and above
Prominent logo placement at the event, recognition in all media releases, and a special mention during our keynote tribute.
Valour Sponsor | $5,000 to $9,999
Logo placement on event materials and recognition in our event program.
Freedom Sponsor | $1,000 to $4,999
Recognition in our event program and a commemorative certificate of appreciation.
Friend of the Dutch Tribute | Up to $999
Acknowledgment on our event website and a heartfelt thank-you letter.
Tax receipts are available.
