Introduction

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's gesture of 'taking a knee' at the Canadian Parliament to protest against anti-black racism and police brutality highlights the significance of this practice in a political context. However, if this gesture were to be replicated in sports, particularly during the singing of the national anthem, O Canada, the impact and reception might differ significantly. This article explores potential issues that might prompt a similar protest in Canadian sports, as well as the broader issues Canada needs to address, including Indigenous rights and Quebec independence.

The Impact of 'Taking a Knee' in Canadian Sports

The practice of 'taking a knee' during sporting events, such as during the singing of the national anthem, has become a symbol of solidarity and protest for many athletes. In Canada, where baseball and basketball are primarily played in Toronto and hockey is a foundational sport, the impact of this gesture would vary widely.

Major sports like baseball and basketball have few Canadian-born players. For example, the Raptors' 17-man roster has only one Canadian-born player, while the Blue Jays' 40-man roster includes only two, one of whom is the superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. In hockey, where the majority of players are Canadian, the practice of taking a knee at the start of a game, where only one-third of the players are on the ice, would likely go unnoticed.

Addressing Canadian Issues through Sports

The question of whether athletes' protests during the national anthem would take place in Canada is closely linked to the broader issues the country needs to address. Among these, the treatment of Indigenous peoples and the question of Quebec independence stand out as significant challenges.

Canadians have made progress in incorporating Indigenous representation and leadership in sports. For instance, teams across the country have embraced initiatives aimed at supporting Indigenous athletes, and team owners often lead these movements. This underscores the involvement of the broader sports community in addressing inequality and systemic issues.

Other Domains of Canadian Concerns

Beyond the national sports arena, there are other critical issues that might influence protest movements. One example is the growing concern for climate action and the growing Black Lives Matter movement, which have both sparked widespread discussions and demonstrations across the globe, including in Canada.

Canadians generally tend not to engage in large-scale public protests, except in specific circumstances. Examples include the sporadic riots following the results of important hockey games in Montreal and Vancouver.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the gesture of 'taking a knee' at the national anthem might not resonate strongly in the context of Canadian sports, the underlying issues of Indigenous rights and Quebec independence remain critical. Athletes in Canada have the platform and voice to bring attention to these topics, just as they do across the globe. As for other global and US concerns, they often find a response in Canada, as evidenced by the influence of movements like Black Lives Matter and climate action.

It is important to recognize the depth of thought required for such discussions and to engage in informed and respectful discourse about the issues that affect our country.