Across the country, an inclusive and positive form of Canadian nationalism is gaining strength

Nationalism is often criticized, and understandably so, given that it is sometimes based on excluding others. But it can be a positive force when built around inclusive values.

The rise of nationalism in Canada is something that often confounds those looking for easy narratives. And that’s the case with Canada’s nationalist shift. Unlike in many other nations, rising nationalism has not coincided with the right-wing taking power (though Canada has moved more to the centre), nor is it being driven by any kind of ethnonationalism. Yet, many of the hallmarks of a nationalist resurgence, including growing expressions of national pride, a military expansion, more prominent national symbolism, a push for more political unity and cooperation, criticism of those seen as undermining the nation, and growing social cohesion, are all present.

So, what exactly is going on here?

In my view, what we are seeing is the growth and strengthening of a uniquely Canadian form of nationalism, a nationalism that is positive and inclusive, rather than negative and exclusionary. And it could form a template for others around the world who believe that pride in the accomplishments and values of their country can go hand in hand with openness and respect for others.

Let’s look at this more closely. The surge in Canadian nationalism is – as is often the case – a result of an external threat. In this instance, the external threat comes from the Trump Administration. The U.S. President has threatened to annex Canada on multiple occasions, has talked about inflicting economic pain on Canadians to force us to give up our sovereignty, regularly posts images depicting fake maps showing the erasure of Canada, and leads a political movement that often expresses hostility to Canadian values. That political movement is also nationalistic, but generally expresses its nationalism through the exclusion of the ‘other’ and through casting its nation as superior to all others.

In response, Canadians are increasingly appreciative of what we have built in this country, including our sense of openness and our compassion. These values are not normally associated with nationalism, yet there is no reason they can’t go hand in hand. Taking pride in national values does not in itself mean those values have to be about pushing others away. Rather, those values can be positive ones.

And while some seek to invalidate the growth of Canadian nationalism by saying it is simply about ‘not being American,’ not only does that downplay the complexity of Canadian identity, but it also ignores that it is often logical to look at the actions of others and, if we disapprove of those actions, define ourselves as people who act differently. Looking at the dishonesty and cruelty that is a large part of ‘Trumpism,’ and deciding that we wish to be the opposite of that, is ethically and logically sound. It also fits with our longstanding Canadian identity as a nation where kindness and care for others are important.

Positive nationalism is compatible with deeper ties with other nations

Some will push back on this notion of Canadian nationalism by citing how open Canada is to increasing cultural, political, and economic ties with other nations. But this is also a misreading of Canadian identity. Canada is a nation comprised of people from every part of the globe, so it makes perfect sense for Canada to be one of the most open nations on the planet. Further, with openness being a key Canadian value, and with our desire to contrast ourselves from the ‘we don’t need anyone else’ attitude of the Trump Administration, forming closer ties with other countries aligns well with Canadian national identity.

Something to be proud of

The unique form of nationalism Canadians are forging may be unsatisfying to those looking for aggression towards the ‘other,’ but it is something to be proud of. When we think of how many conflicts there are around the world, and how people have so often clashed over petty differences rather than focus on our common humanity, Canada’s identity as a diverse, kind, innovative, and successful nation is a significant achievement. This doesn’t mean we don’t have our issues, and it doesn’t mean we should pretend everything is perfect. But it does mean we should take a moment to appreciate what we have built, and recognize that Canada’s values can help lead the way to a better world.

Being Canadian is something to be proud of, and we Canadians are demonstrating that national pride and national strength don’t have to come at the expense of others.

Spencer Fernando

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