Canadians Protest US Tariffs, Boo National Anthem During Hockey Game
The imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian imports by President Donald Trump has sparked protests in Canada, including vocal dissent at recent sports events and a push for boycotts of American goods.
The imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian imports by U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited widespread protests and discontent across Canada.
The tariffs, which include a 25% levy on Canadian goods and a 10% tariff on energy, were met with vocal protests at National Hockey League (NHL) and National Basketball Association (NBA) games in Canada.
At a recent NHL game in Ottawa, fans booed the U.S. national anthem during its performance by Ottawa-based singer Mandia, a demonstration of frustration with the new trade measures.
Mandia continued with the performance, followed by the Canadian anthem, 'O Canada,' which garnered support from the fans.The tariffs, set to take effect on Tuesday, have also led to calls for boycotts of American-made products in Canada.
In one example, a Toronto grocery store prominently labeled Canadian yogurt for shoppers, and some individuals have canceled plans to travel to the U.S. in protest.
Canadian author Seth Klein posted on Bluesky about canceling a family trip to the U.S. in response to the tariffs.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged Canadians to stand united, acknowledging the potential hardships and encouraging solidarity, stating, 'Now is the time to choose Canada.'In retaliation, Canada has announced a tariff package worth C$155 billion on U.S. goods, including vegetables, clothing, sports equipment, and perfume.
Some U.S. products, such as Florida orange juice, have been specifically targeted in the measures, particularly from Republican-led states.
Trudeau emphasized that Canada is not seeking escalation but will defend Canadian jobs and interests.
He also warned that the tariffs would not only impact Canada but also have 'real consequences' for Americans.The trade dispute has been met with criticism from Canadian political figures.
Opposition Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre called the tariffs 'massive, unjust, and unjustified,' emphasizing Canada's longstanding relationship with the U.S. Former Liberal Party leader Michael Ignatieff expressed concern, stating that the tariffs have raised questions about the reliability of the U.S. as a trusted ally, adding that the situation has created a 'new world' in foreign policy.