What was changed in the Canadian anthem? This question has sparked considerable debate and discussion among Canadians since the government announced a series of modifications to the national anthem in 2018. The changes, which were introduced to make the anthem more inclusive and reflective of the country’s diverse population, have been both celebrated and criticized by various groups across the nation.
The original version of the Canadian anthem, “O Canada,” was written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier in 1880 and set to music composed by Calixa Lavallée. The anthem has remained largely unchanged since its inception, with the exception of a few minor alterations over the years. However, in 2018, the government of Canada announced that it would be making significant changes to the anthem, including the removal of the word “in” from the phrase “true and loyal and kind” in the second verse. The revised version now reads, “from far and near, we stand on guard for thee.”
The primary motivation behind the changes was to make the anthem more inclusive and to recognize the contributions of Indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups in Canada. By removing the word “in,” the government aimed to emphasize the anthem’s universality and to show respect for the diverse cultures and languages that make up Canada’s population. The revised anthem also includes a new gender-neutral pronoun, “us,” in the first verse, replacing the original “thee.”
While many Canadians have welcomed these changes, others have expressed concern about altering a cherished national symbol. Critics argue that the anthem should remain as it is, reflecting the original intentions of its creators. They believe that changing the anthem could undermine its historical significance and weaken the sense of national identity it represents.
Supporters of the changes, on the other hand, argue that the anthem should evolve to reflect the changing nature of Canada as a country. They contend that the revised anthem is a more accurate representation of the diverse and inclusive society that Canada has become. Additionally, they argue that the changes are not as significant as some critics suggest, as the anthem still retains its original melody and many of its original lyrics.
The debate over the changes to the Canadian anthem has highlighted the complexities of national identity and the challenges of balancing tradition with modernity. While some Canadians may be uncomfortable with the changes, it is clear that the anthem will continue to be a source of pride and unity for many. As Canada continues to grow and change, the anthem will undoubtedly continue to evolve, reflecting the country’s ever-changing landscape.
