Canada rallies under the maple leaf as Trump's remarks stir pride
Canada is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its maple leaf flag. Former prime ministers are urging citizens to display the flag to underscore national pride "in the face of threats and insults from Donald Trump."
"In the face of threats and insults from Donald Trump, Canadians have come together to express their love for our country and their determination to defend Canada’s values and our independence. (…) We call on our fellow Canadians to show the flag as never before," wrote Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper in a joint statement.
The maple leaf has been a symbol of Canadian identity since the 19th century. Despite achieving independence in 1867, Canada continued using the British Union Jack. It wasn't until 1960 that Lester B. Pearson decided Canada needed its own flag. In 1964, George Stanley's design was selected and approved by Parliament.
"Trump effect" in Canada?
In recent weeks, Donald Trump has repeatedly referred to Canada as the "51st state." His remarks, seen by many as threats, have unexpectedly contributed to a rise in national pride.
Research from the Angus Reid Institute shows that the percentage of Canadians who are "very proud" of their country increased from 34% to 44% in just two months. Meanwhile, the number of people who are not proud of Canada decreased from 18% to 13%.
Canadians choose local products
Canadians are increasingly opting for local products. A study by Leger indicates that 81% of citizens consciously purchase Canadian products. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is promoting the slogan "Buy Canadian", which is influencing consumer choices.
Pride in the maple leaf is also boosting sales of patriotic merchandise. The "Winnipeg Free Press" cites a T-shirt shop owner who has noticed growing interest in products featuring Canadian symbols.
Trump's territorial ambitions
Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested that Canada should become the 51st state of the United States. Such a move would eliminate the 5,525-mile border between the two countries. Trump claims this would negate the need for tariffs he threatens to impose on Canada.
This notion was initially dismissed by Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau firmly stated that Canada would never become part of the USA. However, in private discussions, he admitted that concerns about Trump's proposal are real.
Trump also considered the possibility of purchasing Greenland, despite Denmark's firm stance that the island is not for sale. The President didn't specify if Greenland could become a state but said its inhabitants "want to be with us."
