Standing Up for Canada: What We Can Do

There are moments in a country’s history when we are reminded of what matters.

Not just because of the decisions made by our leaders, but because of the choices we make as citizens. Read: When values are tested: what Canada's moment teaches us about leadership.

Right now, Canadians are watching a significant moment unfold in our relationship with the United States. The breakdown of trade talks, new tariffs, and the uncertainty facing businesses and workers have left many people asking the same question:

What can we do? How do we stand up for Canada?

Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently expressed the frustration many Canadians are feeling with a very Canadian analogy. “President Trump, he can’t be trusted,” Ford said. He went on to say:

“President Trump is the type of person that would steal your lunch money the first day, he’d steal the toque off your head the second day, and the third day he’d steal your running shoes.”

It is a colourful statement, but behind the humour is a serious message. Canada must protect its interests and ensure that our relationships, including those with our closest allies and trading partners, are built on respect, fairness and trust. Standing up for Canada does not mean being anti-American. It does not mean turning our backs on our neighbours, many of whom share our values and our communities. It means believing in the strength of our own country. It means recognizing what we have here: talented people, incredible businesses, world-class innovators, creative thinkers, natural resources, strong communities and a culture we should be proud of.

So what can each of us do?

Buy Canadian

One of the simplest ways to support Canada is to think about where our money goes.

Whenever possible, choose Canadian products, Canadian companies and Canadian services. Even small choices, made by millions of Canadians, can have an impact.

Support Canadian farmers. Look for Canadian-made products. Learn more about the businesses behind the things you buy. Every dollar we spend helps shape the economy we want to build.

Support local businesses

Behind every small business is a person, a family and a community.

When we shop locally, support independent restaurants, hire Canadian professionals and recommend businesses we believe in, we help strengthen the places where we live.

Small businesses are the heart of our communities. A purchase, a positive review or simply telling someone about a great Canadian business can make a real difference.

Explore Canada

We live in one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world. From our cities and cultural communities to our lakes, mountains and coastlines, there is so much to discover right here at home. Choosing a Canadian vacation, visiting local attractions and supporting Canadian tourism helps keep those dollars in our own communities.

Support Canadian creators, innovators and entrepreneurs

Canada is home to remarkable thinkers, artists, entrepreneurs, researchers and builders.

We should celebrate the people who create, invent and grow businesses here. Buy from Canadian creators. Attend Canadian events. Share Canadian stories. Support the people who are helping shape our future. A country is defined by more than its economy. It is also defined by its ideas, creativity and culture.

Stay informed and engaged

This is a time when it matters that Canadians pay attention. There is a lot of information, opinion and emotion circulating. It is important to understand what is happening, listen to different perspectives and have thoughtful conversations. Being proud of Canada does not mean we all have to agree on everything. It means caring enough to be involved.

Remember what makes Canada special

Canada has always been at its best when we come together. Our greatest strengths are our people, our resilience, our compassion and our belief that fairness matters.

Standing up for Canada does not mean standing against anyone else. It means standing up for our workers, our businesses, our communities and the future we want to build.

Canada is not just a country on a map. It is something we all contribute to every day.

And right now, one of the most powerful things we can do is choose Canada.

About the author: 

Catherine Cameron is a proud Canadian (and British citizen) and a Toronto-based Senior Communications Executive and Strategic Advisor with more than 30 years of experience. Her work focuses on trust, reputation, leadership communication, stakeholder engagement, crisis communications, and public confidence.