The Red Ensign was the civil ensign, nautical ensign, and unofficial flag for Canada from 1892 until 1965. In recent years, the Red Ensign has become a frequent fixture of rallies organized by hate groups, who view it as a symbol of Canada’s pre-multicultural and colonial past. Many memes referencing the Red Ensign often feature modified versions of the flag, for example by changing its colours.

Like other Canadian flags that have been appropriated, the Red Ensign is not an inherently hateful symbol. Context must be taken into account when evaluating its appearance.