Canada's Flag Day: Standing tall against Trump's threats
Canada is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its maple leaf flag. Former prime ministers are calling on citizens to display the flag to highlight 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 proclaiming independence in 1867, the British Union Jack was used. It was not until 1960 that Lester B. Pearson decided Canada needed its own flag. In 1964, George Stanley's design was chosen and approved by Parliament.
"Trump effect" in Canada?
In recent weeks, Donald Trump has repeatedly called Canada the "51st state." His words, perceived by many as threats, have had a rather surprising effect and have contributed to an increase in national pride.
Research from the Angus Reid Institute shows that the percentage of Canadians who are "very proud" of their country rose from 34% to 44% within two months. Meanwhile, the number of people who are not proud of Canada dropped from 18% to 13%.
Canadians choose local products
Canadians are increasingly choosing local products. A study by Leger indicates that 81% of citizens consciously buy Canadian products. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promotes the slogan "Buy Canadian", which is reflected in consumer decisions.
Pride in the maple leaf also translates into increased sales of patriotic merchandise. The "Winnipeg Free Press" cites a T-shirt shop owner who noticed a rising interest in products with 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 mean the elimination of the 8,890-kilometre border between the two countries. Trump claims that this would eliminate the need for tariffs he threatens to impose on Canada.
This idea was initially dismissed by Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau firmly stated that Canada would never become part of the USA. However, in private conversations, he admitted that concerns about Trump's proposal are real.
Trump also considered the possibility of purchasing Greenland, despite Denmark firmly denying that the island was for sale. The President did not specify if Greenland could become a state but said that its inhabitants "want to be with us."
