Writing this week about the demise of the Hudson’s Bay Company, pc28Star opinion columnist Edward Keenan posed this thought-provoking question: beyond universal health care, gun control and buying Canadian, what are we protecting when we defend Canadian culture from U.S. expansion?
After all, Canadian identity and culture have become “indistinguishable” from that of our American neighbours, Keenan asserted. When it comes to the question of what we’re trying to protect from the Americans, Canadians feel the answer in their “gut” yet have a hard time pinpointing it, articulating it, Keenan argued.
As public editor, my feeling is that trade wars, 25 per cent tariffs and talk of annexation are concrete, tangible concepts that we can all grasp. It’s a bit tougher, I would argue, for us to get our heads around — and for journalists to explain to the public — notions of our culture and identity.
For example, there aren’t a lot of published news articles describing what “being Canadian” entails. (It’s a state of being that’s assumed, perhaps?)
However, there are explanations from online sources such as encyclopedias, YouTube videos, the Government of Canada and institutions like universities. Some of this content is amusing.
“Small talk and tipping. Just a couple of examples of Canadian customs and culture,” states put out by Pocket Passport, a website geared toward teaching English.
“Canadians often apologize frequently, even when they haven’t done anything wrong. This is a sign of politeness and respect,” the video goes on to say, advising, somewhat comically: “if you accidentally bump into someone, for example, you should say ‘sorry,’ even if it wasn’t your fault.”
On Simon Fraser University’s website, under the section “international students advising and programs” some tips on “” include:
- Eye contact is a sign of honesty and, or sincerity. While it isn’t always required, Canadians appreciate a certain level of eye contact during conversations, as it implies a level of trust and honesty.
- Being on time is important. Canadians value their time and expect others to be on schedule. Whether for a class, meeting, work or other scheduled event, it is best to arrive at the allotted time or even a few minutes early.
A site called offers what I would call a rather concise breakdown of what it means to be Canadian.
We are known as a “just society” and our culture and norms are reinforced by our tolerance, respect and our community-oriented approach to the way we operate — even though “individualism” still drives much of what we do, the atlas notes.
That sense of community, the website goes on to state, has influenced our global profile — playing significant roles in our UN peacekeeping efforts and Canada giving generously toward foreign aid.
“Canadians share the informality, freedom of expression, pioneer spirit (particularly in the north of the country) and entrepreneurial imagination of the USA. Yet, Canadians tend to be noticeably more modest, indirect and considered in voicing their opinions,” the atlas says.
Canadian society has also “harnessed cultural diversity” as a source of unity in a distinct manner, the site goes on to state. In fact, there are several references online to Canada’s tolerance and respect for individual differences — be it race, gender, religion, country of origin etc.
This point will surely give many Canadians pause, however. We’ve seen fissures in our society of late, caused by the worrying rise in hatred and intolerance. Police are noting a rise in hate crimes, much of this generated by world events.
Are we becoming “less Canadian” in this regard, as many are wont to ask?
Still, one symbol of Canadianness and our freedoms — our flag — has made a solid comeback recently. In February we saw Canada’s five surviving former prime ministers all telling Canadians to vigorously wave the flag to mark Flag Day on its 60th anniversary. Amid repeated mentions from the U.S. about taking over Canada, in this existential moment our flag has become a hot commodity, a sign of our defiance against American expansionism.
“Back in 2013 there was the beginning of Orange Shirt Day,” writes Donovan Vincent. “Around that time, many Canadians eschewed wearing or waving the Canadian flag, opting instead to wear orange.”
NAOMI STOCKThat wasn’t always the case. Our collective view of the flag has evolved over the past decade and a bit.
Back in 2013 there was the beginning of Orange Shirt Day, launched to recognize Truth and Reconciliation and the immense harm and loss of life for Indigenous people that was caused by Canada’s residential school system. Around that time, many Canadians eschewed wearing or waving the Canadian flag, opting instead to wear orange.
Then years later, beginning in 2022, the “Freedom Convoy” protests erupted as truckers rallied against COVID-19 vaccine mandates. The movement expanded, culminating with many protesters setting up blockades with their trucks in downtown Ottawa and co-opting the Canadian flag.
Many Canadians felt the protesters weaponized the flag and turned it into a symbol of malevolence. We became somewhat estranged from the flag at that time.
Those feelings are gone now, with the flag reclaimed as a representation of who we all are.
To join the conversation set a first and last name in your user profile.
Sign in or register for free to join the Conversation