(AP) – Anthem singer who played the Canadian national anthem before 4 Nations Face Off Championship Game On Thursday night, President Donald Trump changed the lyrics to “O Canada” in response to repeated remarks about making the country a 51st state.
In an email to the Associated Press, spokesperson Adam Gonshor changed Chantal Kreviazuk from “In of Us Command” to “That Us Command,” confirming that Trump's 51st State comments are the reason. I've confirmed that. During Canada's 3-2 overtime victory, Klebiazuk told the Associated Press, “I believe in democracy and sovereign states don't need to protect themselves from tyranny and fascism.”
“I was a person who grew up with the music I spoke to in my heart and the moment, which shaped me as a songwriter and truly as a person,” she added. “I don't think it's real to be given a world stage and not express myself and be faithful to myself.”
Kleviazuk, a native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, wrote the phrase “Our command alone” on his left hand. She posted the photo on Instagram with a Canadian flag and bent muscle emoji.
“We just put it there, so if you spend a moment and freeze, you'll be able to look at your hands and see it,” Klebiazuk said. “I want to see people get inspired and set fire to say more about their hearts with their art. … Sometimes you have to tell the truth in your art, and that's great. That's what it should be.”
The NHL declined to comment on the situation.
Boston fans booed the song lightly, but quickly became owned by the Klebiazuk song. The Montreal crowd booed the “Star Spangled Banner” more vocally before the team faced Canada before the tournament game at Bell Centre last week.
Tensions have been rising between neighbors and longtime allies over the past few weeks. It has repeatedly suggested that Canada has become the 51st US state since Trump took office, in relation to trade disputes, threatening a series of tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it would never happen.
The subject of Canada becoming the 51st province was raised on Thursday at a press conference with Canadian Minister of Public Safety David McGinty.
“It sounds like President Trump is worried about the outcome of a hockey game,” McGinty said. “Canada is a sovereign and independent country. It has been like this for over 150 years and remains as it is. This argument for the 51st province is a non-starter.”
Trump called the US team before his skate on Thursday morning to wish the players good luck in the game. The player told reporters in Boston that he was honored to hear from him, and defensive man Noah Hanifin said, “I hope we can get our country and Trump's victory tonight.” I said.
