Chantal Kreviazuk, the singer of the Canadian anthem at the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game Thursday, altered a lyric in “O Canada” as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments about possibly making Canada the 51st state.
Publicist Adam Gonshor confirmed via email that Kreviazuk changed the line from “in all of us command” to “that only us command,” explicitly stating that Trump’s remarks motivated this decision. Following Canada’s thrilling 3-2 overtime win, Kreviazuk expressed her stance, emphasizing her belief in democracy and the need for a sovereign nation to stand against tyranny and fascism.
“Growing up with music that resonated deeply has influenced my songwriting and shaped who I am today,” Kreviazuk stated. “I felt it was necessary to use this global platform to be authentic and true to myself.”
Hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Kreviazuk wrote the modified phrase “that only us command” on her left hand using mascara. She later shared an image of this on Instagram, accompanied by emojis of a Canadian flag and a flexed muscle.
“I wrote it on my hand to reference in case I ever felt nervous,” she noted. “I hope this inspires others to express their truth in their art… sometimes it’s essential to boldly present the truth through art, and that should be encouraged.”
The NHL chose not to comment on the incident.
While fans in Boston initially reacted with light boos during the song, they soon became overshadowed by Kreviazuk’s powerful performance. Conversely, during previous games in Montreal, the crowd had booed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” with heightened chorus preceding the match against Canada.
Escalating tensions between Canada and the United States have emerged recently due to Trump’s repeated assertions about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state amidst a trade dispute, along with threats of tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has firmly stated that this scenario will not occur.
The topic of Canada as the 51st state surfaced during a news conference featuring David McGuinty, Canada’s Public Safety Minister.
“It seems like President Trump is concerned about the hockey game’s results,” McGuinty observed. “Canada has been a sovereign and independent nation for more than 150 years, and it will stay that way. The notion of becoming the 51st state is simply not a consideration.”
Prior to the game, Trump reached out to the U.S. team to wish them luck, a gesture that players appreciated. Defenseman Noah Hanifin mentioned how honored they felt, stating, “We hope to secure a victory tonight for our country and for Trump.”