Elbows Up, Canada!
A Rallying Cry for Sovereignty and Unity
Helen Powell
In early 2025, amid escalating tensions with the United States, Canadians embraced a powerful new rallying cry: “Elbows Up, Canada!” This phrase, rooted in the grit and resilience of hockey culture, quickly evolved into a symbol of unity, sovereignty, and cultural pride. I often wondered if this united front would continue or not. What do you think? Let me know.
Origins of the Movement
The phrase gained momentum on March 1, 2025, when Canadian comedian Mike Myers appeared on Saturday Night Live wearing a bold white T-shirt emblazoned with the message: “Canada is not for sale.” During the segment, he referenced the late hockey legend Gordie Howe, making the “elbows up” gesture—an iconic move in hockey used to assert strength and presence on the ice.
The moment struck a nerve. With Canada facing unfair tariffs and thinly veiled annexation threats from the U.S., Myers' performance became more than comedy—it became a catalyst. Within days, "Elbows Up, Canada!" was trending across social media, resonating deeply with Canadians across the country.
Grassroots Energy and National Pride
The movement didn’t remain on screens—it spilled into the streets. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montréal saw spontaneous rallies. One of the most notable was held on March 22, 2025, in Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square, where thousands gathered, waving flags, wearing red "Elbows Up" tees, and listening to speeches from artists, Canadian military and activists. Then it went viral on social media, started the Elbows Up movement. Canadians started coordinating local meetups, sharing patriotic art and memes, and reinforcing a renewed commitment to Canadian values.
Political Endorsements
The energy was not lost on political leaders. Outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau referenced the movement in his farewell speech, stating:
“We’ve shown the world before that Canadians don’t back down. Elbows up, Canada—always.”
His successor, Prime Minister Mark Carney, fully embraced the moment. Sworn in during a critical time for Canada’s international position, Carney made headlines by stating:
“We are a proud, sovereign nation. We seek peace and cooperation—but we expect respect.”
Carney’s calm but firm demeanour, rooted in his extensive experience as Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, gave Canadians confidence in a stable future amidst uncertain global politics.
Mike Myers: From Actor to Cultural Icon
Though known for his characters in Austin Powers and Wayne’s World, Mike Myers stepped into an unexpected role: cultural catalyst. After his SNL appearance, he appeared in a Liberal Party campaign ad beside Prime Minister Carney, further signalling solidarity and pride.
His voice joined a chorus of Canadian artists and public figures calling for unity, independence, and respect for Canadian sovereignty. Myers reminded Canadians—and the world—that humour and heritage can be powerful tools in defending national identity.
