Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 22, 2025
On Thin Ice: Canada’s Cool Defiance
February 20, 2025
Canada’s recent victory over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off final was more than just a sports triumph; it was a powerful moment of national pride at a time when we needed it most. With President Trump’s provocative remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state and his soft stance towards Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Canadians have felt an increasing need to stand together and assert our sovereignty.
News: Trudeau swipes at Trump as Canada revels in hockey win against US
The game in Boston was a symbol of our resilience and unity. Prime Minister Trudeau’s quick response, “You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game,” resonated deeply with Canadians. It reminded us that our identity and values remain strong, no matter the external pressures we face.
Chantal Kreviazuk’s change to the national anthem lyrics, though contentious, was a bold way to express our stance against Trump’s comments. It showed that we won’t back down when our nationhood is questioned, and highlighted the importance of national symbols in rallying our collective spirit.
News: Chantal Kreviazuk’s revised ‘O Canada’ booed ahead of 4 Nations Face-Off final
January 11, 2025
This hockey win has sparked a wave of patriotism across the country. It’s a reminder that, even in challenging times, we can come together and celebrate what makes us uniquely Canadian. Now is the time to harness this sense of pride and turn it into action. We need to strengthen our position on the global stage, stand firm in our independence, and ensure that our friendly rivalry with the U.S. remains just that—friendly.
In these times, let’s build on this momentum, ensuring that Canada remains strong and united. The hockey victory is more than just a win on the ice; it’s a rallying point that urges us to look forward with confidence and determination. As we face challenges ahead, let this victory inspire us to secure our place in the world, ensuring that our values and identity are never compromised.