Canadians Rally with 'Elbows Up' Against Trump's Threats
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The phrase "Elbows up" has gained popularity in Canada in response to President Trump's recent threats against the country. Comedian Mike Myers popularized the phrase by wearing a "Canada is not for sale" shirt and raising his elbow during a SNL episode. Canadians have adopted the phrase in protests, on social media, and in political speeches to resist Trump's policies.
During his farewell speech, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the country's stance of being diplomatic yet ready to fight when necessary, stating, “We’re a country that will be diplomatic when we can, but fight when we must. Elbows up!” The phrase is linked to Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, known for using his elbows to defend himself on the ice.
In addition to the symbolic phrase, Canadians are demonstrating resistance to US policies in various ways. Some are boycotting American products in favor of local alternatives. Certain coffee shops have renamed the Americano drink to "Canadiano" as a form of protest. Moreover, many Canadians are calling for Elon Musk's Canadian citizenship to be revoked after he made derogatory comments about Canada despite holding citizenship there.
Trump's tariffs on Canada are aimed at reducing drug influx, particularly fentanyl, into the US. However, government data shows that the amount of fentanyl coming from Canada is minimal. Trudeau condemned Trump's tariffs on Canadian energy and exports, emphasizing that there is no justification for such actions. Trump recently announced a 25 percent tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports in response to Ontario's surcharge on electricity exports to the US.