Why Did Canada Revise Its National Anthem- A Look into the Reasons Behind the Change

Why did they change the Canadian national anthem? This question has sparked a heated debate among Canadians for years. The national anthem, “O Canada,” has been a symbol of pride and unity for the country since its adoption in 1980. However, in 2018, the government announced a decision to change the lyrics of the anthem, which has left many people puzzled and questioning the reasons behind the change.

The original lyrics of “O Canada” were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1880 and were intended to be a patriotic song for Canadians. Over the years, the anthem has been revised several times to reflect the country’s evolving identity and values. In 2018, the government decided to make further changes to the anthem, specifically focusing on the removal of gender-specific language and the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives.

One of the main reasons for the change was to make the anthem more inclusive and reflective of Canada’s diverse population. The original lyrics included phrases such as “in all thy sons command,” which was seen as excluding women and other genders. By removing these gender-specific references, the government aimed to show respect for all Canadians, regardless of their gender identity.

Another reason for the change was to acknowledge the importance of Indigenous peoples in Canada’s history and culture. The revised lyrics include a line that recognizes the Indigenous people as the “true first nations,” which is intended to give credit to the original inhabitants of the land. This change is a significant step towards reconciliation and recognizing the contributions of Indigenous peoples to Canada’s identity.

Despite the government’s intentions, the decision to change the anthem has been met with mixed reactions. Some Canadians believe that the revised lyrics are a positive step towards a more inclusive and respectful national anthem, while others argue that the changes are unnecessary and undermine the traditional values of the anthem. The debate has highlighted the challenges of balancing tradition and modernity in a country that is constantly evolving.

In conclusion, the decision to change the Canadian national anthem was driven by a desire to make the anthem more inclusive and reflective of Canada’s diverse population and Indigenous heritage. While the change has sparked controversy, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to reconcile and celebrate the country’s complex history and identity. Whether or not the revised lyrics will ultimately be embraced by Canadians remains to be seen, but the conversation surrounding the anthem has certainly brought important issues to the forefront.