A western Manitoba school division’s decision to reinstate the royal anthem “God Save the King” during morning announcements has stirred discussions about its implications for reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
The Mountain View School Division, which oversees 16 schools near Dauphin, has mandated the inclusion of the anthem alongside O Canada and land acknowledgments in daily routines. Board chair Jason Gryba justified the move, stating it complies with provincial legislation, even if the practice has been dormant for years.
“Good governance involves adhering to laws, regardless of how often they have been observed,” Gryba said, emphasizing that the regulation remains valid under Manitoba’s Schools Patriotic Observances Regulation. This regulation specifies that O Canada is played at the start of the school day and “God Save the King” at its conclusion.
While the anthem is a salute to the British monarchy, its revival has prompted criticism from Indigenous groups and education stakeholders, who argue it contradicts reconciliation efforts. The Manitoba Teachers’ Society has questioned the consultation process and the timing of the decision.
“Why now, and is this aligned with reconciliation efforts?” society president Nathan Martindale asked, adding, “Does this regulation still serve a purpose?”
The controversy comes amid a history of strained relations. Last year, the school division faced backlash when a trustee made remarks downplaying the harm of residential schools. Indigenous leaders and advocates viewed those comments as harmful, further complicating the division’s reconciliation efforts.
Cam Bennett, a retired teacher from Dauphin, expressed disappointment in the directive, calling it a return to outdated traditions.
“This feels like a step backward, counterproductive to reconciliation,” Bennett said.
Premier Wab Kinew has acknowledged the school board’s autonomy but suggested his government may revisit the regulation to better align with modern values.
The decision has sparked broader conversations about the role of historical symbols in contemporary education and their impact on fostering inclusivity.
Source: The Canadian Press
