Written by Anna Mehler PapernyTORONTO (Reuters) – Canadians are feeling a strong sense of frustration. Initially, it was the looming threat of tariffs, which then became a harsh reality. Now, U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about Canada’s potential forced annexation – once dismissed as a joke – have stirred genuine anger among a populace known for their politeness.Canadians are uniting in support of their country, witnessing a resurgence in nationalism as Canada-U.S. relations dominate the concerns of its citizens, as shown by recent polls. “Elbows up,” a term from hockey symbolizing readiness for combat, has become the new rallying cry. It can be seen on apparel, headlining gatherings, and serving as the focal point of a new podcast that explores the practicalities of establishing a civil defense force.It is uncertain how long Trump’s tariffs will endure or the rationale behind his vision of Canada as the 51st U.S. state. However, 11 disgruntled Canadians interviewed by Reuters expressed their belief that irreversible harm has been inflicted.Canadians are boycotting American products and scrapping U.S. travel plans. Some provinces are removing American alcohol from their shelves. The feeling of betrayal lingers deep within the populace.”It’s a mix of worry, annoyance, and rage. Our long-standing ally has turned its back on us, and we are uncertain about the next steps,” shared Peter Wall, one of the Elbows Up rally organizers.Wall and a small group of fellow organizers swiftly arranged a rally on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada’s capital. The gathering, featuring speakers, live music, and a hockey stick coat check for a post-event game, drew over 1,000 attendees on March 9. Additional events are planned for Toronto and other locations in the upcoming weeks.Signs at the Ottawa rally condemned Trump as an imperialist, displaying slogans like “Elbows up” and “True north strong and peeved,” a clever twist on Canada’s national anthem lyrics. The crowd proudly waved Canadian flags.Journalist Jordan Heath-Rawlings, who channeled his discontent into a podcast named Elbows Up, likened the current state of U.S.-Canada relations to the abruptness of a divorce. “All that you once took for granted in your life suddenly disappears. You need to redefine yourself, and I think that’s where our country stands,” he remarked.”Many Canadians feel deeply wounded. Many are genuinely furious. I personally share those sentiments,” he added.Comedian and actor Shaun Majumder, who recently relocated with his family from Los Angeles back to Canada and performed at the “Elbows Up” rally, envisions this period as a turning point. “Will this be marked as a shift in our maturity, where we truly discover our identity? It’s not just about beavers, mounties, or politeness – there’s something more profound underneath,” he pondered.In his farewell speech last Sunday, preceding the swearing
