An immigrant here. White, 16 years in Canada.
First of all, to be offended by Don Cherry's comment is like to be offended by Trump's tweets. Why take seriously some loud TV clowns whose job is to be loud in the first place?
Second point. It may come as a surprise to "seasoned" Canadians, but in reality unless one went to a Canadian school one has very chance to learn what is the Remembrance Day about. And, as we may see in this very thread, even Canadians themselves are not 100% sure what is remembered. Only the fallen? All soldiers? Who fought for freedom, democracy, the Queen? Yeah, I am sure someone can post a quote from wiki with a detailed explanation, but I just asked 3 colleagues around me (all white Canadians, not wearing poppy) - and didn't get a conclusive answer. So, how an immigrant can learn about something what Canadians themselves are not 100% sure about? What are Canadians seems to be sure is to wear poppy on November 11 as a sign of something related to veterans.
Which brings me to the third point.
One my grandfather served in Soviet Army 1930 - 1950, he went through entire WW2, survived.
Another grandfather survived German extermination camp in Poland.
I would not exist if they weren't' survivors.
I do remember them. I do pay respect to them. But never in my clear mind I would think about wearing a BADGE, to show to the World that I appreciate what they have done. Because remembrance and appreciation has nothing to do with showing off. You either feel it deep inside you, or don't. And I can't imagine wanting to show off your deep feelings or substitute them with a poppy on a pin.
I have great respect to Canadian soldiers, and in fact, all soldiers who fought to what they considered to be the right cause. But I will not wear a badge to "prove" that I have that respect as I consider it to be the part of the freedoms for which I appreciate Canada. Unlike most Canadians, I wore enough state-enforced badges on me in my life and I don't want any more. And I thank Canada for that.