As the only recognized Canadian national anthem, “O Canada” holds a special place in the hearts of Canadians, despite undergoing a few notable lyric revisions over the years. And now, in an effort to further reconciliation throughout the country, Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie has proposed another important change: From “Our home and native land” to “Our home on Native land.”
The motion comes on the heels of artist Jully Black’s performance at the NBA All-Star game, during which time the JUNO-winning artist performed a slightly (but significantly) altered version of “O Canada.” While small, the alteration highlighted the truth of the history of Canada, which has been echoed by Mayor Crombie along with Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
The lyric change would be “an Act of Reconciliation and speaking of the truth,” according to the motion, which calls on the City of Mississauga to write a letter urging the federal government to take action.
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The motion also proposes that the City of Mississauga share a copy with the Ontario Big City Mayors and the Minister of Indigenous Affairs, as well as encourage cities across the province to call for change.
The City council will vote on the motion to change the Canadian national anthem on Wednesday, May 31st.
