
The singer of the national anthem, who performed “O Canada” before the recent 4 Nations Face-Off championship on Thursday, modified a line in the anthem as a response to President Trump’s frequent comments about making Canada the 51st state.
Publicist Adam Gonshor confirmed to CBS News that artist Chantal Kreviazuk altered the lyric from “in all of us command” to “that only us command.”
During Canada’s thrilling 3-2 overtime win, Kreviazuk expressed to The Associated Press her motivation, stating, “I did it because I believe in democracy; a sovereign nation shouldn’t have to defend itself against tyranny and fascism.”
“As a person who has always been influenced by music that resonates deeply and captures the moment, it has shaped my identity as a songwriter and human being,” Kreviazuk elaborated. “It wouldn’t feel authentic for me to utilize a global platform without expressing my true self.”
Originating from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Kreviazuk wrote “that only us command” in mascara on her left hand, sharing a photo of it on Instagram alongside Canadian flag and flexed muscle emojis.
“I wanted to have that visible in case I got nervous and needed a reminder,” Kreviazuk explained. “I hope this inspires others to express their truths through their art. Sometimes, you just have to boldly speak your truth, and that’s what art is all about.”
In her Instagram post, Kreviazuk expressed, “I apologize if my rendition of our national anthem offended anyone. … I regret if you believe we’d be better off as part of the U.S. … We must voice our outrage against any misuse of power. … Canada, like Ukraine, is a sovereign nation. Period.”
In a statement on social media, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asserted, “You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game.”
The NHL declined to comment on the unfolding situation.
While fans in Boston initially booed the anthem, their jeering was soon eclipsed by Kreviazuk’s powerful voice. In contrast, the Montreal crowd had booed “The Star-Spangled Banner” prior to U.S. games at Bell Centre just the week before, particularly before the clash with Canada.
Tensions have escalated recently between the two neighboring nations as President Trump has repeatedly insinuated Canada could become the 51st state amid trade disputes and threats of tariffs. Prime Minister Trudeau remains firm in stating that this is not an option.
The topic of Canada potentially being the 51st state came up again during a press conference with David McGuinty, Canada’s Public Safety Minister, who remarked, “It sounds like President Trump is concerned about the hockey game results. Canada has been a sovereign and independent country for over 150 years, and it intends to stay that way. Discussions around the 51st state are pointless.”
Prior to the game, President Trump called the U.S. team to wish them luck. Players reported feeling honored to receive his call, with defenseman Noah Hanifin stating, “We’re determined to secure a win for our country and for Trump.”
