Buffy Sainte-Marie’s induction into Canada’s Walk of Fame and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame was revoked late Friday after the singer confirmed she is not Canadian.
Canada’s Walk of Fame announced its decision to rescind Sainte-Marie’s 1998 induction, stating it was a “difficult decision.” A spokesperson said details regarding her maple leaf-shaped star outside Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre are yet to be finalized.
Several Canadian arts organizations withdrew their honors after Sainte-Marie admitted she is an American citizen with a U.S. passport and was adopted as a young adult by a Cree family in Saskatchewan.
On Friday evening, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame stated she no longer meets the citizenship requirements, disqualifying her 2019 induction.
Earlier in the day, the Juno Awards confirmed they would revoke her five Juno wins and her 2017 humanitarian award following a review of eligibility requirements. As a result, Sainte-Marie will also be removed from the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Additionally, the Polaris Music Prize rescinded her two awards, including her 2015 win for best Canadian album, though representatives confirmed they would not request the return of the $50,000 cash prize.
Source: Swifteradio.com.
