Celebrate Canada, one pin at a time
Former Glebe resident Greg Szabo with the Canada pins he designed for his company I Make Pins
Celebrate Canada, one pin at a time
By Greg Szabo
Two long-time friends and Glebe Collegiate alums, M. Jay Burch and I, are making waves across Canada with our artistic response to political challenges. Through our company, I Make Pins, we have designed a collection of enamel pins that unite Canadians and celebrate national pride.
I Make Pins (imakepins.ca) was born from a passion for art and a commitment to standing up for what is right. It began with a simple tribute to a Victoria, B.C. landmark but quickly evolved into something much greater − a movement that uses art as a means of self-expression, solidarity and activism. Now, the latest collection resonates with Canadians who want to show their support for their country in the face of political adversity.
In recent years, shifting political landscapes and rhetoric from international leaders have prompted M. Jay and me to take action. Frustrated by threats against Canadian sovereignty − ranging from economic policies to discussions of annexation − we decided to channel our emotions into our work. Our new collection of pins is more than just an artistic endeavour; it is a visual statement of patriotism and resilience. These pins are about more than just fashion − they’re a way for people to show their pride and support for this country.
My journey into the pin-making business began unexpectedly. My first pin, featuring the phrase “You’re my boy, Blue!” in reference to the iconic blue bridge in Victoria, was created out of admiration for a local landmark. However, when someone attempted to reproduce the design without permission, I realized the importance of protecting my work and standing up for myself. Instead of backing down, I turned this moment into an opportunity, launching I Make Pins as a business rooted in artistic integrity and creative resistance.
- Jay, a cybersecurity specialist still living in the Ottawa area, soon joined forces with me, and together we built a company that thrives on originality and advocacy. Over time, our work expanded beyond local tributes to designs that address broader social and political issues.
Throughout history, art has played a critical role in shaping political discourse and uniting people under common causes. M. Jay’s and my latest collection is a testament to that tradition. The designs reflect Canada’s strength, resilience and independence, transforming small enamel pins into powerful symbols of national identity.
One standout piece from the collection features a well-known symbol of resistance from the Star Wars movie franchise with a reimagined Canadian maple leaf. Another design showcases “flipping the bird” at tariffs aimed at destabilizing our economy with the slogan “Tariff This” across the knuckles.
“These pins allow Canadians to wear their beliefs with pride,” M. Jay explains. “It’s not just about expressing frustration − it’s about showing that we care about this country and its future.”
Beyond their artistic appeal, these pins serve as a rallying cry for Canadians to come together and stand firm in their convictions. We hope the collection will spark conversations and encourage people to engage in meaningful discussions about Canada’s future. Our work is a reminder that small actions − whether through art, activism or everyday choices − can collectively make a difference.
By supporting I Make Pins, customers are not only purchasing a piece of wearable art but also contributing to a movement that promotes local businesses, homegrown talent, artistic expression and national unity. Every pin is designed with thoughtfulness and produced with quality, ensuring that wearers feel a genuine connection to the message behind the art.
In today’s world, where global uncertainty and political tensions often make headlines, it is more important than ever to celebrate what makes Canada unique. We have taken an artistic stand, turning our passion for design into a symbol of patriotism. Even the smallest accessories can carry great meaning.
So, the next time you’re looking for a way to express your love for Canada, consider wearing one of our pins as a declaration of pride, unity and unwavering support for the values that define us as a nation. To explore the collection and show your support, visit imakepins.ca and join the movement − one pin at a time.
Greg Szabo is a Glebe Collegiate grad who now lives in Victoria where he undertakes creative projects.