The hockey fans in Montreal continued the trend of booing the American Anthem prior to NHL / 4 Nations Face Off Tournament games on February 13 and February 15. This trend initiated on February 01, 2025 in Ottawa prior to the NHL game between the Senators and the visiting Minnesota Wild (see article https://gingerdonkeyhockey.com/shout-out-to-the-ottawa-senators-fans-for-standing-up-for-canada-and-starting-a-trend/).
On February 1, 2025, USA President Donald Trump declared economic war with Canada. He expressed his desire to annex Canada and make Canada the USA’s 51st State. His goal is to economically suffocate Canada into submission. He has initiated Tariff after Tariff. The Canadian government is responding in kind.
On the front lines of this form of warfare are regular Canadians who are trying to make ends meet. Folks who are among the kindest populations of people in the world. People who have viewed American’s as their greatest friend and ally. Two countries who share the longest undefended border in the world and have a longstanding shared positive economical relationship. Two countries who have bled for each other in past conflicts.
Books can be written (probably have been written) about Canada’s honour, bravery and positive character. Canadians are known for being polite and friendly, frequently saying “sorry” when bumping into someone. But, do not mistake this for weakness.
Some folks have been saying that “booing” the American Anthem is disrespectful. That the Anthem is in honour of past and current service folks who have fought for the country. Many NHL hockey players are choosing to stay neutral on the matter, which is understanding given how connected the league is to both countries.
Yet, One must wonder what these same service members would say about their country treating Canada in such an aggressive and negative manner. These actions by the USA can have devastating consequences to the people of Canada.
So what do folks do when under threat. You either run and hide, freeze or you stand up and make yourself counted. Every Canadian is now on the front Line. Across the Country, every Canadian NHL city has followed the path of the Ottawa Senators, and has provided a loud Raspberry to the visiting team from the USA. This is a message to the American government and people.
The message is, “stop this form of attack on Canada”. Stop being a bully. Stop being disrespectful. If there is a grievance, sit down and work it out, as has been the way in the past.
How Will American Fans React to the Canadian Anthem
Team Canada plays in Boston on February 17 in the 4 Nations Face-Off. This will be an opportunity to find out how American’s view Canadians following repeated instances of Canadians booing their Anthem. Will they cheer on Canada, understanding the duress induced by their government? Will they boo the Anthem, in defiance of the action by Canadians? Will there be a mixed response or no response?
Also, for Canadians that are in attendance in Boston, how will they react to the American Anthem?
Stay tuned. Go Canada Go!
Greetings. In introducing myself, I must relate that family is most important. I am a husband, father and grandfather. Beautiful extended family. I was born in the 60’s. Graduated from Laurentian University in Sudbury in 1985 with a degree in Social Work. Recently retired.
Sports has been and continues to be my foremost outlet for stress. I have been a coach/ trainer on over 40 youth teams, including hockey, baseball and soccer. Hockey is my number one sport. Began playing as a young child and continue to play several times per week. Huge Fan. I am not an expert per say when it comes to having close contacts to the hockey world. Still have expertise as a Fan. I have probably earned some form of “Hockey PTSD” over the years with the highs and lows of the cheering for the Leafs. I want to respectfully share my opinion and respectfully view your opinions. Should be fun. Keep your stick on the ice.
Take Care and Stay Safe.