Until now, I have enthusiastically sung the anthem at public events, despite its gender-exclusive language. I knew the language was in there, but I was willing to be good-humoured about lyrics that were clearly of another time. But by raising the issue of the gender-exclusive language in the anthem, then deciding against removing it, the Prime Minister has brought the lyrics into our time. From now on, when I hear "in all thy sons command," I will hear painful evidence that our government still regards women as second-class citizens.
Fine. I will henceforth remain seated and silent for the singing of our national anthem. If Canada doesn't need to include women in its anthem, it surely doesn't need them singing it. Happy International Women's Day, Canada.