TORONTO — During a visit to Gander, Newfoundland on Monday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed sorrow over Canada’s deteriorating relationship with the United States, citing the town’s role in aiding thousands of stranded American airline passengers during the tragic events of 9/11. This visit coincided with the second day of Canada’s national election campaign and occurred amidst rising tensions marked by a trade war and challenges to Canada’s sovereignty from U.S. President Donald Trump. These challenges have led Canadians to feel a sense of betrayal due to Trump’s frequent criticisms.
“In the crisis provoked by the U.S. President and his supporters, we lament a friendship lost,” Carney stated. “In Gander, Canadians extended extraordinary kindness to Americans in their hour of need. Now, it is crucial for us to undertake extraordinary actions for ourselves.” The town of Gander compassionately welcomed approximately 6,600 airline passengers diverted there when U.S. airspace was shut down during 9/11. As a result, Gander’s population of about 10,000 in 2001 was suddenly inundated with travelers from 38 diverted planes. Nevertheless, the residents mobilized to cook meals and prepared accommodations to support their unexpected guests.
During the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, over 200 flights were rerouted to Canada, and the influx of air traffic was redirected away from cities like Toronto and Montreal to Canada’s eastern seaboard. Gander, which used to be a bustling stopover during the early days of transatlantic flights, took in 38 flights, second only to Halifax, Nova Scotia. The town, which was home to one of the world’s longest runways since 1938, found itself revisiting its historical significance in hosting large volumes of air traffic.
With local hotels quickly filled by flight crews, passengers were sheltered in schools, fire halls, and churches. The Canadian military provided 5,000 cots, while businesses generously donated necessities and comforts. Without access to their luggage, passengers relied on the town’s hospitality, which manifested in offers of clothing, showers, toys for children, free long-distance calls, and a makeshift refrigerated space for food supplies.
“As over 6,000 passengers arrived, Gander’s population nearly doubled overnight,” Carney reflected in a speech to the townspeople. “You showcased true friendship to those in fear. Amidst crises, your character showed resilience. When others needed help, you answered the call.” Carney also visited Beulah Cooper, a resident of Gander who provided comfort to many, including Dennis and Hannah O’Rourke. Their son Kevin, a New York firefighter, tragically perished in the World Trade Center attacks. The O’Rourkes formed a lasting bond with Cooper and revisited Gander, expressing their gratitude.
Nowadays, Cooper disclosed feeling let down by the current U.S. administration, although she cherishes her enduring friendship with Hannah O’Rourke. “There are many unprintable words to describe my feelings towards Trump,” Cooper commented. “Canada was their best ally.” The legendary story of Gander’s kindness inspired the celebrated musical, “Come from Away”, which underscores the spirit of compassion shown during those difficult days.
Carney emphasized that while Canadians have continually stood alongside Americans, from the Iran hostage crisis to ongoing support during disasters such as California wildfires, Canada has also faced tragic losses, such as 158 members of their armed forces in Afghanistan. However, President Trump’s trade disputes and proposals likening Canada to a U.S. state have struck a nerve with Canadians. The imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum further strained bilateral relations.
Canadians, Carney explains, have moved past the initial shock of these developments and now prioritize their own interests. Historically characterized by fraternal bonds, Canada’s relationship with America has been challenged, and not due to actions initiated by Canadians. “Unfortunately, President Trump’s conduct has tested this kinship more than ever before,” observed Carney.
As the five-week election campaign proceeds, culminating in a vote on April 28, Carney affirmed he seeks respect from Americans instead of friendship. “I am only asking for mutual respect,” he remarked. Since assuming office on March 14, Carney has not spoken with Trump, and suggested that any such conversation might occur only post-election. “I’m open to dialogue, but insist on engaging as equals, as a sovereign nation and not as subordinates,” Carney declared.
He criticized the American perspective in the trade confrontation as fundamentally flawed. “They presume they can diminish and control us, frankly,” he asserted. “However, we intend to emerge more resilient and will wait patiently until they are ready to negotiate favorable terms for Canadians.”