Canadians are a patriotic people.
While not always apparent, that patriotism has become louder in the days and weeks since newly re-elected U.S. President Donald Trump launched hostile trade attacks on his country’s northern neighbour.
From threatening tariffs on all Canadian exports into the United States, to Mr. Trump’s repeated statements that Canada should cede its sovereignty and become the 51st state, the challenges with the U.S. seem to have lit a flag-waving fire in Canadians.
On March 9, hundreds of people gathered on Parliament Hill in Ottawa for the “Elbows Up Canada” rally. The core message was simple: Canada is not for sale.
People hold Elbows Up signs during a rally on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on March 9, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to Canadian sovereignty.Justin Tang/The Canadian Press
This rally was but one manifestation of a wave of pride and unity sweeping across Canada, as people choose to support their national economy by buying Canadian products (and boycotting American ones), and redirecting U.S. travel plans to Canadian destinations.
The hashtag #ElbowsUp has graced thousands of social-media posts, calling on Canadians to keep strong in this trade war.
Politicians, including outgoing prime minister Justin Trudeau, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, have vocalized the phrase, evoking Canadian pride.