A recent poll conducted by Leger Marketing for the Association for Canadian Studies indicates that Canadians’ sense of national pride has significantly increased in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and threats against the country’s sovereignty. The poll found that the number of people expressing pride in being Canadian has risen from 80 percent in November 2024 to 86 percent in the current month. The boost in national pride was particularly pronounced among older demographics, with 92 percent of those aged 55 and over expressing pride, compared to 86 percent of those aged 35-54 and 75 percent of those aged 18-34.
Regional variations were also observed, with increased levels of national pride reported in Quebec, Ontario, the Prairies, and British Columbia. In Quebec, the percentage of people expressing pride in Canada rose from 81 percent to 86 percent, while in Ontario, it increased from 80 percent to 87 percent. The survey also highlighted the differences in pride levels between francophones and anglophones, with higher levels of pride among anglophones in various age groups. Additionally, the survey showed that pride in being Canadian remained high among visible minorities, immigrants, and Indigenous respondents.
Jack Jedwab, president and CEO of the Metropolis Institute and the Association for Canadian Studies, stated that the threats posed by the Trump administration have led Canadians to reflect on the value of their country, fostering a sense of unity and national identity. Another poll conducted by Leger for the Association for Canadian Studies revealed that the majority of Canadians believe they have more in common with Americans than with any other people in the world. However, most respondents also highlighted key differences between the two countries, emphasizing Canadian values such as inclusivity, respect for civil rights, kindness, and politeness.
The poll results suggest that Canadians are increasingly defining their national identity in contrast to the policies and actions of the Trump administration, which they perceive as aggressive and bullying. This sense of distinctiveness is reflected in the strong levels of pride expressed by Canadians across various demographic groups. The survey findings reveal a deepening sense of patriotism and unity in response to external threats and challenges. Former prime minister Jean Chrétien’s remarks about Trump’s role in unifying Canadians underscore the significance of external events in shaping national pride and identity.
While the poll findings provide insights into the changing dynamics of Canadian nationalism in the current political climate, the limitations of online surveys in accurately representing the population should be acknowledged. The absence of a margin of error in online surveys is a crucial factor to consider when interpreting the results. Overall, the poll results point to a complex interplay between national pride, external influences, and perceptions of Canadian identity in the face of global challenges. The evolving landscape of Canadian nationalism highlights the importance of understanding the factors that shape and influence collective sentiments of pride and belonging.
