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Home : Top Stories : Principal who cancelled 'O Canada' explains himself

Principal who cancelled 'O Canada' explains himself

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CTV Atlantic: Dina Bartolacci on the anthem outrage

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Fri. Jan. 30 2009 10:17 PM ET

As Conservative MPs called for the national anthem to return to a rural New Brunswick school's morning rituals, the principal of the school says he is taking the matter to a human rights commission.

Principal Erik Millett has been at the centre of controversy since it was learned he ended the daily O Canada ritual at Belleisle Elementary in Upper Belleisle, N.B. because of the complaints of two parents.

In a statement to CTV News Friday, Millett wrote "The only thing I really have to say at this point is that I have contacted the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission and I will be pursuing the question of accommodation around this issue of through the Human Rights Commission and hopefully some clarity will come from the ruling they provide."

Locals have been gathering signatures for a petition to bring back the anthem. Susan Boyd, who had a daughter at the school, has been leading the charge, but now others in the community are gathering behind her.

"I think it's very important we get it back in this school and many others," local resident Ron MacDonald told CTV Atlantic Friday.

New Brunswick Conservative MP Mike Allen raised the issue in the House of Commons Friday.

"This is political correctness run wild," he said. "There's nothing more inclusive than O Canada, it is a song that belongs to each and every Canadian."

Another N.B. Tory MP, Keith Ashfield, echoed those comments in a media scrum later Friday.

"We should celebrate our country and I believe the national anthem is one way we do that," he told reporters. "I don't believe in bans to our national anthem."

New Brunswick Education Minister Kelly Lamrock has said he will do everything in his power to make morning singings of O Canada mandatory.

Principal explains decision

Radio Host Tyler Glen of Star-FM in Brandon, Manitoba spoke to Millett Friday morning.

Millett, who ran as a candidate for the Green Party in the last election, has faced suggestions that his personal views were responsible for the decision. But he says there were two reasons for his decision; parent's complaints and that the anthem disrupted students in the morning.

"It's true that we have students, that for various reasons, are not allowed to sing the national anthem (for) whatever reasons, religion, beliefs, values," he told the radio station.

"The difficulty we were having were that children we having physical reactions to the anthem. They would scrunch up their face, put their fingers in their ears, bend down and get on the floor because they felt they were doing something they weren't allowed to do," he added.

Millett also said that because his school is rural, late buses in the winter meant that students would arrive during the playing of the anthem, which was "chaotic."

But he said that the anthem has not been completely cancelled, and is still played at monthly assemblies.

With files from CTV Atlantic's Dina Bartolacci

Comments are now closed for this story

Martin
said
0 0

All students in every elementary school in Canada should be required to stand at attention and sing our national anthem every weekday morning.


Richard D
said
0 0

"'The difficulty we were having were that children we having physical reactions to the anthem. They would scrunch up their face, put their fingers in their ears, bend down and get on the floor because they felt they were doing something they weren't allowed to do,' he added."

All I can say to this is: So what? So because some parents don't allow their kids to sing the national anthem that gives you the right to deprive the other kids of singing the anthem of a country that protects them, educates them, keeps them healthy, and does what it can to keep them happy?

I don't think so, pal. Your response to those parents who complained should have been: "There's the door. You know how to use it."

I also don't buy the "children were having physical reactions to the anthem" excuse. You make it sound like there were scores of kids having this reaction. How many kids were there in reality? Two? Three at the most?

You have done a dis-service to your kids, and you should not be allowed to run a school.


Dan (manitoba)
said
0 0

Glad he's not teaching my kids


Pat_from_Mississauga
said
0 0

Too bad these Conservative MP's didn't criticize Harper's recognition of Quebec as a nation. Many schools in Quebec also don't play the Canadian anthem. Why don't the Quebec Conservative MP's raise that issue in the house?


Paul Smith
said
0 0

I agree, playing the national anthem every morning would be disruptive to classes and I don't remember ever having to sing the national anthem in school, other than in assemblies.

But that does not give anyone the right to plug their ears or drop to the floor when the anthem is played. I don't care what your religous beliefs are, if you're in Canada or any country for that matter you respect their national anthem. Sometimes I think Canadian are too accepting.


Sean from Winnipeg
said
0 0

There should be no "religion, beliefs or values" that prevent ANYBODY from standing for their own countries national anthem. If somebody can't be bothered, they should find another country.


Rock Star
said
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Millett should be made to visit a Canadian Forces Base to explain why he has cancelled the singing of our anthem!


TD in TO
said
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Does anyone find any credit to his explanations? My highschool plays the anthem every morning regardless of who is late or not... here's a thought, either get on the bus drivers' cases to adjust to weather factors, play the anthem later, or start school later... all easier than angering the country don't you think? And as for the behaviour of those who act like that kid from the Omen when he goes into a church, here's a thought for the parents: Homeschool? Someone on another thread posted that children should be allowed to make their own decisions and that indoctrination is wrong... well, if children are have an allergic reaction to the anthem, don't you think it has to do with indoctrination at home? Don't you think that's wrong too then, due to that logic? This "principal" obviously doesn't care for his students' or their parents' thoughts to arbitrarily axe the anthem in his school. 2 kids' parents don't like it, but what about the other 99% of the school? Byu his logic, if I take offence to learning math, and one of my friends do too, then he should axe math class... seriously, is my logic flawed here or is it a "pick your own battle" scenario? Can you tell that I am outraged?


Karen in Alberta
said
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God forbid those parents should take it upon themselves to send their children to a school where they only had to do the things they were allowed to do and things that were acceptable to them rather than expect everyone else to change their ways to suit them. This self-centered way of thinking is what's wrong with this country today and the principal of this school has done nothing to help matters by caving in to that way of thinking.


Mike B
said
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Big deal!!!!
Dont we have more important things to worry about?????


Scott in Halifax
said
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So we leave it in the hands of the Human Rights Commission. How about the hands of "THIS IS CANADA, YOU MORON" commission. This shouldn't be an issue. This is not a case of the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few (or in this case the 2). This principle is lacking a very important part of his anatomy --- his spine, and another piece of his anatomy is up where the sun doesn't shine. I can't believe that this guy is a principal of a school. He is supposed to be educating children, not being a hinderance to their nationality. If you don't want to sing the National Anthem, then don't. The anthem is one of the things that Canadians hold near and dear to their hearts. But to sit there and have it removed for 2 students, well I think the principal needs to go to detention. SHAME ON YOU MR. MILLETT, SHAME ON YOU.


cfs Alberta
said
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Typical of the idiocy we see in this country all the time regarding so-called human rights.


Really Tired SK Taxpayer
said
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Great, a teacher with a social cause...how about doing what you're paid for? - and what I pay taxes for!


richard syms
said
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Astounding. Two parents complain, and the entire school population has to pay the price?
Good thing this idiot never got elected. He might let Quebec separate because two people vote "Oui."


DougB
said
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Up until yesterday, I thought our country was hanging in there by a thread. We have banned the use of Merry Christmas, navity scenes, halloween in some cities, swearing on the bible just to appease certain groups. Oh Canada we are to all BUT folks this has now put us in the bottom of the barrel. We look south and complain about the Americans that we are so better, yet to ban our national anethem in school or any other public place is beyond stupidity. I just can not waite to see what group next comes up with to top this. Folks we need to give our heads a good shake.


Bronco
said
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What a wonderful solution. Lets bring all of society down to the the level of the lowest whiner. Then wea can all be unhappy together.

Im sure some children have an 'adverse reaction' to math as well. Does that mean we should scrap Mathematics from the curriculum?


Mike from Canmore!
said
0 0

I remember back to an era when the national anthem was played at the start of movies in theatres (maybe it still is..I haven't been to a theatre in years), at all sporting games, every day in school, etc, etc, etc. My comment is, "that's enough". I don't have to show my patriotism at the start of a movie or before a hockey game. I support the decision of the school principal.

On the other hand, if it's that big of an issue then play the anthem at a different time of the day. Just before lunch, or just after lunch or at the end of the day or something like that. At a certain point each day, the kids and staff are in theory in the building. Play it then.

Again, you don't have to show how great a Canadian you are by playing the national anthem on a regular and frequent basis.

What gets me are the weasels who complain about having an election, who don't vote and feel that it's all a waste of their time yet snap to action when they find out that a school in rural New Brunswick does not play daily the national anthem. What a crock. Make it the law that people MUST vote in federal, provincial and municipal elections. Isn't that what hundreds of thousands have died for in WWs 1 and 2, Korea, Afghanistan and in countless peace keeping missions about? Canadian democracy! Not that some kids have to stand up for the daily rendition of our rather boring ode to the past..?


Enough Already
said
0 0

So he's taking it to the Human Rights Commission, eh? He's an idiot but a smart idiot. He has put his finger on one group who will for sure support him and his decision, considering the records of Human Rights Commissions wherever they exist. Millet should be fired immediately, and if and when the Commission comes out in support of this fiasco, they too should be fired!!!


Trent 'and I AM CANADIAN'
said
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The last time I checked, this is CANADA!!! We sing O' CANADA as our National Anthem and it has been sung every morning at darn near every school in this great country for as long as my parents and grandparents remember. This principal is 100% WRONG with his decision to cancel O' CANADA!!! Since when do a few dictate what majority have the RIGHT to sing. These few can be removed from the classroom during the singing of our National Anthem. As a senior educator and adminisrator, he has set the bar so low that no one can get under it. He needs to be removed from his position and bring in a TRUE CANADIAN who isn't afrais to say 'NO' to the few. Shame on you Mr. Millett!!!


john
said
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what is this country coming to when our own national anthem offends people?!?!?!
well i guess the fact that it offends you offends me!!
why do we have to be a country that tries to please everyone? if people dont like it here then go elsewhere. canada has really begun to loose its idenity.
Sad.


Pat, Dorchester, Ontario
said
0 0

It was sad to read this story. Everyone should be proud to be Canadian and to sing the national anthem. We wonder why the world is in the shape it is in? Children should be taught what sacrifices were made by the many brave men and women who have served our country, so we have the freedoms we enjoy!! Wake up parents, wake up Canada, we need to end political correctness as it doesn't serve any good purpose if our morals, values and standards decline as they have!! I am proud to be Canadian and hope the same sentiments are felt by fellow Canadians!! Parents, it is your job to teach your children the right way, not run to the school to complain because your child finds it a nuisance to have to do something.


R/H Ontario
said
0 0

I guess Ms May has just lost a lot of votes! "Green Party says NO to Canada's Anthem" Wow, I can just see the headlines. Get rid of this idiot, anyone who does not like the anthem is not FORCED to sing it. Other people, the VAST MAJORITY, will sing it with pride. When you take the Oath you are a Canadian? That means, to me, you sing the National Anthem of the Country that protects you, feeds you and generally cares for you! This idiot should either have the Anthem back or resign. The rest of the parents that "Do Not Want The Anthem can leave our great Country, as far as I am concerned.


ex-Canadian
said
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Trouble is, too many of Canada's "educators" are of this ilk. I shudder to think of their influence on young minds and the damage being done to the country's future.


Mark
said
0 0

This is a disgrace and that Principal should be reprimanded or preferably FIRED! I am sick and tired of the minorities trying to dictate to the majority of Canadians their beliefs.

If these particular individuals don't want to listen to the CANADIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM then consider going back to your country of original origin, so you don't have to listen to it anymore. You came to Canada, presumably took a citizenship oath so respect the National anthem, as the MAJORITY of true Canadians do!




Lynne
said
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Now I have heard everything


Gary Thunder
said
0 0

Is it not the school board that determines these types of things and pays this mans wages??


Sarah
said
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Surprise surprise. The leftie principal knows he's been busted forcing his beliefs on his students and now turns to an illiberal Ultra-PC Human rights commission to enforce a binding (and most likely agreeable) decision in his favour. Not only does this get him off the hook but he will still end up getting what he wants.

How cozy the far-Left in this country are with such institutions. The result? You can't even be proud of your country any more without 'offending' somebody.


Anne - Brantford, ON
said
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Anyone who comes to Canada should accept what we Canadians believe in. If they do not agree, then they should not choose to live in this country.

If we tried to move to another country, I highly doubt they would alter their ways so that a couple of immigrants could have things their way.

I do not think it is a lot to ask to have our anthem played daily in schools. I think this should be mandatory in schools across the country.

People have given a lot to make what Canada is today. If you want to live here, you need to understand and be taught what it means to be Canadian.

I take great pride in our National Anthem and our country. I am very thankful for what people have done to make Canada the wonderful place it is.

If Erik Millett tries to run again for MP, I certainly hope that all people in his riding do NOT vote for him as he obviously doesn't believe our National Anthem is worth keeping in his school and fighting for! Elizabeth May should get after him for his actions!


aaarrggghh
said
0 0

If these parents who complained to the principle object to O Canada our national anthem... then let THEM pull up stakes and get the heck out of MY COUNTRY!

Our anthem, our country, our right to play it any time we Canadians want to!


Charlie in NS
said
0 0

In addition to the petition to get the National Anthem back into this school, there should also be a petition to get Millet out of the school.


Drew in NS
said
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It's too bad this twit is using children and there school to steal his 15 minutes of fame.

I'm sure Jack Layton will be running to defend him.


CoryE
said
0 0

"It's true that we have students, that for various reasons, are not allowed to sing the national anthem (for) whatever reasons, religion, beliefs, values," he told the radio station.

If that is true, these parents/students need to seriously re-think their choice in the country the call home. I'm tired of this "trying to accommodate everyone" attitude our country has. It has completely watered down what it means to be a Canadian.


BarrieBob
said
0 0

Mr.Millett's rationale is hardly compelling. Disrespectful kids, or the parents that fail to instill any such values of respect should be excluded, not the greater numbers to whom this is important. But, even more so, what poor judgment by a person in such an influential role.

Green Party take note! This is not the kind of associate you need to go forward!

And to Mike B: I'll bet your kid is the disrespectful one making faces! If you can't understand why it isn't a big deal, then it's time for a 6 month detention in Afghanistan.. Oh...and take Mr. Millett with you.



Lydia
said
0 0

I was at a school where the national anthem was sung every morning and the students that could not join in for religous reasons just left the classroom until the singing was over and everybody simply accepted it.


Robert in Ontario
said
0 0

The principal's politically correct, knee-jerk reaction is typical.I don't buy that ridiculous excuse for a second.What nationality/religion is there that disproves of a national anthem?Not one I've ever heard of.This man needs to be fired forthwith.Constituents in the riding he ran in under the Green Party banner should take serious note!


John Luft
said
0 0

"The difficulty we were having were that children we having physical reactions to the anthem. They would scrunch up their face, put their fingers in their ears, bend down and get on the floor because they felt they were doing something they weren't allowed to do,' he added."

Sounds to me that the problem is with those kids and their parents. Maybe the parents should be investigated for child cruelty. They are raising lunatics



TAXPAYER
said
0 0

I was responsible for getting the "lord's Prayer" eliminated from my school. I was the school hero for years to come. The National Anthem is the same thing, but basically worship of a country instead. CANADA is NOT worth singing about. Like every other country in the world it is full of corruption. It is not stong and certainly not free, at least not when 60 percent of our income goes to a swiss bank through political corruption. GIVE ME A BREAK.
PUUULEEEEASE!


Layton B in Moncton NB
said
0 0

So what a kid scrunches up his face at green beans and you just roll over and stop serving them? No. This is so much more important than that any way, this is patriotism. I listened to the National Anthem more or less daily throughout my entire public schooling. It taught me respect. Respect for our anthem, our country. 'True North strong and free' well freedom ain't free and its us, who make it free. Remind these kids of that all the way to grade 12.


Mike from Mississauga
said
0 0

This is ridiculous. You have students that are not allowed to sing the anthem for personal or religious reasons in Canada. They are in a country that allows them those individual beliefs and freedoms, surely they can acknowledge that by participating in the anthem!


Stacey
said
0 0

Good grief, this ranks right up there with not having the right to display Merry Christmas in our store windows...this is our National Anthem...we should be teaching our children to stand up and sing it proudly. If other parents have a problem with it, their children should sit and not participate.


Sid in MTL
said
0 0

Mr. Millett would get along just fine in the Quebec school system. I pushed to get the Anthem played at my child's school only to be told that the Ministere de l'Education du Quebec explicitly prohibits recitations of our national anthem, God Save the Queen and the Lord's Prayer, in all Quebec schools. When I went to school in Quebec eons ago we did all three.

And we wonder why this country is so fragmented?....duh! This country is like a rudder-less ship. We, as a nation, struggle with an identity crisis and its roots lie in stupidity like this! Though we may not have the most elegant flag in the world, it is never the less our flag, and if there is at least one lesson we could learn from the U.S., its that we need to collectively wrap ourselves in it. Only then will we be a strong and free nation.

God Bless Canada and God Save The Queen!


Darlene in Halifax
said
0 0

Oh my. This actually made me feel very 'old'. I hope I am not the only one who remembers when CBC Television used to play 'Oh Canada' every morning when they came back on the air. Nowadays, all the stations are 24 hours so....lol.

Seriously though, I also recall a few times when final exams caused some pretty serious 'physical reactions' to my classmates - why didn't we think to ban final exams :~


keith in ontario
said
0 0

What an idiot, this principal, manufacturing reasons/excuses as to why he should not play the national anthem.

An embarrassement to all New Brunswickers.

I sure hope the politicians have it in them to sort this out now


Enough of Political Correctness
said
0 0

To Mike B.
This certainly IS a big deal. It's our National Anthem. I am so tired of hearing how we must stop doing this, that and the other thing under the guise of being politically correct. I can tell you that if we lived in another country they would not stop singing their national anthem if we requested it. These political correctness issues have gone far enough. If you live here, take an oath to live by our rules and regulations, don't expect to be able to change your mind somewhere down the road. If you don't agree with the rules, don't ask to be granted citizenship.


Mike from Canada
said
0 0

Now the truth is coming out...two parents complaining gave this principal the excuse he wanted to force his own personal and quasi-political agenda. This was his excuse, not a reason. Why has the school board not stepped in and over-ruled him?

I suppose next he will take the national flag down because the maple leaf is a symbol of a tree, and he fears e will pluck all of the leaves off them...


Military Wife
said
0 0

As a military wife in a province that the military has such a huge impact on the economy I am disgusted that this is allowed. Since the principle was running for federal politics it makes me wonder if he was ready for the resonsibility that he didn't get and that he should never receive after this act.


GGower
said
0 0

I personally know this principal, and I am not entirely surprised by this. I am sure he did not think this through carefully and would come to understand our dismay as Canadians if this were explained. In my opinion he is very politically correct, extremely left wing (he ran for the green party) and well intentioned, but misguided. Please don't demonize him, but we do need to stand up to this affront to our national identity.


Jon
said
0 0

Millett's response to run to the HRC is typical of left wing activists who wish to turn the world into a socialist, atheist, John Lennon-inspired commune.

He cannot use logic to explain his decision, so he looks to the ideological rulings of a kangaroo court to justify his lack of patriotism.

He should be just as ashamed as those brats who 'scrunch up their faces' during the anthem. Pathetic.


Toby
said
0 0

What a crock.

If the parents don't wish their children to participate then home school them with their twisted beliefs


The Coyote in Ottawa
said
0 0

Well Mr Mullett, oops Millett, now I've seen it all.

I lived in the US for a few years and stood up for their Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem out of respect. I did this because I was in a foreign country and understood why they did it because I'm a student of the world.

You Sir (and I use that term extremely loosely), are a mental midget. The really sad thing here is that the Human Rights Commission will most likely support your idea.

I remember Oh Canada being played at movies and I'm only 39. I remember singing the anthem, saying the Lord's Prayer and singing God Save the Queen in Public School.

This country is going to hell in a handbasket, so we better all hang on, because it will be a fast and furious ride.

I'm wondering when it is that our flag will be replaced by the White Ensign to symbolize our total surrender to Political Correctness?

I can't believe that this mental midget is involved in any way shape or form in educating our children.

But then again, nothing surprises me anymore.

The Coyote.


Give kids a chance not to be sheep
said
0 0

Bernard Shaw said, "Patriotism is the belief that your country is better than all others because you were born there."

It is a song. It is a flag the space between lines on a map that define where we were born should not define you - they are an abstraction that is peddled to the mouth-breathing knuckle-dragging sheep who also fall on their knees to obey giant, invisible sky-dwelling entities. A little more intellect and respect for human values that transcend flags and fundamentalism suits me - and my children - just fine. If you need to teach your kids to define themselves by primitive notions like nationalism, and religion - do it at home. Let the rest of us evolve to an understanding of the self as something that transcends the nonsense we are sold to keep us in line. Why O Canada? why not let the kids bleat like sheep for 45 seconds - same difference. I'm sick of the simple "us and them" mentality morons use to define themselves.


Brad G - Edmonton
said
0 0

Thank goodness this guy didn't get elected federally. He is obviously unable to sort through the most minor of issues, two complaints! Ask our war vets & their families what they think of this fellow.


James from Peterborough
said
0 0

Our former Prime Minsters and especially Sir John A. Macdonald would be turning over in his grave if he knew "O Canada" was not sung in Elementary schools across this land prior to first class.

I am 40 years old and still sing "O Canada" at hockey games and any major sporting event I attend. It is with tremendous pride I sing our national anthem as this country has provided me with so much. What else can I say?


No Respect
said
0 0

When I attended Elementary School, we sang O Cananda every morning. There were a few students who did not participate in the singing due to religious beliefs, however, they were respectful enough to sit properly in their seats until it was over.
I totally respect anyone's personal belief's and religious stance, however, there is also a degree of respect and tolerance that needs to be shown on their part as well.
If the students who are not participating in the singing are "acting out", then they need a lesson in respect...and apparently, so do their parents, who obviously have not taught them to respect other's and their beliefs.
We live in a great Country...it is Canada, and ther eis no reason why our National Anthem can not be sung in our schools...if that goes...what is next???


Steve in BC
said
0 0

How can one person have the authority as to say "no, we won't play the CANADIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM in my school". I hope this becomes law. He should be fired


Dan
said
0 0

With the economy tanking I've got better things to worry about than whether some bumpkin school is playing an anthem in a country where Quebec wants to take a hike and the West thing the country revolves around them.




jane
said
0 0

I consider myself patriotic and a proud Canadian I wear red most Fridays to support our troops and I am exceptionally proud of my country.

And guess what?

In elementary/Jr High/Sr High school we did not sing Oh Canada every morning. We sang it once a month at assemblies. Does this make me a bad person? or does it make somebody who did sing it every day a better person? it doesnt! Many schools do not sing the national anthem every day. And although it is a nice sentiment how much difference does it really make? When a school decides to cancel remembrance day ceremonies I will fight it. When a school stops flying the Canadian flag I will fight.

Also I would love to know if this much controversy would have came about if Mr.Millett had run for Liberal MP ? or Conservative MP? His political views have no bearing on any of this.


R Richard
said
0 0

I applaud Mr. Millet's decision to stop the morning singings of O'Canada. Our anthem should be sung with pride at international sporting events. With respect to our fallen soldiers and dignity in our polictical venues.
Forcing a child to sing O' Canada daily, who does not want to, will only instill contempt for the song. We cannot allow children to feel that way towards our/thier own anthem.
Perhaps there is a better course of action. Teach children why our national anthem should be respected. You never know, some of that respect might find it's way elsewhere.


elaine
said
0 0

i for one as a canadian can not believe a canadian school in rural canada would not allow the national them if the parents object tell them to go home to where they belong which of course can not be in canada


lori c
said
0 0

Lori from Winnipeg;
I remember school days where the "only" children not allowed to sing our national anthem were Jehovah Witness religion. I do not remember it being a problem for any of these children, they simply left class and stood in the hallway. Still disrespectful to our country but this is our country! I agree with the majority of Canadians...if you don't like our country and the way Canadians do things...the majority say "leave!!!" After hearing some minority groups want to sing our anthem in a different language and people actual are considering this for major events...this is the last straw for me! You conform to Canada, we should not have to conform to you.


Reonda
said
0 0

This is Canada. If we Canadians were living in any other country and going to school etc, we would be expected to abide by that countries customs. So what is wrong with people coming to Canada and living here and abiding with established Canadian customs. They have taken away the Lords Prayer and now the National Anthem. What is next? Why come to Canada if you can't except our ways that have been practiced for generation. We have become so politically correct we are losing our Canadian identity.


Brian OC
said
0 0

Just another lefist, socialist activist trying to make a name for himself...the picture says it all. And you wonder why our education system strives for failure and mediocraty.


A Koster
said
0 0

Where was the big outcry when the Lord's prayer was taken out of schools ? If these people who complain, if they would be honest, they'd acknowledge that if any of us went to their home countries and tried to change their traditions we wouldn't get very far would we? All Canada has done is to be successful at having erased it's own identity by trying to please everybody else, and that's not just in our schools. Big deal on the melting pot scenario... can't even think RCMP anymore to try to get a hold of what is true Canadian tradition.


K
said
0 0

What scares me is what other decisions has this principal made. I am thankful that my kids are not in that school and my thoughts go to the parents whose kids are.
I believe it is important for children to be educated on their country and to be reminded every day and be thankful to be living in our great country Canada. Shame on those who disrespect our national anthem and for those who do there's the door and oh ya don't let it hit you on the way out!!!


our great nation
said
0 0

I don't think it is too much to ask that our NATIONAL ANTHEM be played in the schools.

We are a country are we not?


John
said
0 0

Gee. isn't that something. Here is a man saying that we shouldn't play the national anthem at school then running to complain to human rights! Send him to a communist country. We don't need idiots like him teaching our kids.


Mark (Wellington County, ON)
said
0 0

Political correctness or some other foolishness run wild. I remember classmates who were Jehovah's Witnesses, who sat quietly and respectfully, while the rest of us sang the National Anthem and at that time in Ontario, prayed the Lord's Prayer. At other times, the same classmates waited outside the classroom for the 2 minutes it took for opening exercises; then joined us, as was their choice. We made nothing of it. We simply respected their choice. It is unfortunate that the principal of this NB School decided to make the choice of the minority, the rule for the majority. He's shown lousy judgment on this one!


Randie Scott
said
0 0

One word - outrageous. Of course, our country's National Anthem ought to be played. It is a ridiculous local decision that was taken and it needs to be corrected.

Kandahar, Afghansitan


New Brunswicker
said
0 0

RE Introduce the Anthem and cancel millet.

He has no excuse.

And as far as the so called human rights commission goes
thats where millet should be not teaching our kids here in New Brunswick.




jen
said
0 0

Who cares? This isn't going to ruin the students or undermine the fabric of the nation. We don't sing the anthem every morning before our workday, so why is it necessary at school? The point of school is to learn. If the parents care so much, they can wake up and sing O Canada at home as a family. Problem solved.


GWinnipeg
said
0 0

Since this principal ran for office as a member of the Green Party, is it safe to say that a Green Party PM would bow down to pressure imposed by 0.5% of the population?


New Brunswick student
said
0 0

I'm Sorry, but in my opinion banning the national anthem in this school is just like walking up to every veteran both dead and alive, punching them in the face and walking away. there are men and women who have fought and are still fighting for our country. millions of Canadians have died and left their families alone in the defense of our country. wouldn't you say that we should show at least some sort of gratitude towards them? argh this just gives me the chills every time i think about it!


Mac
said
0 0

Be a man. Make a decision. Using a human rights commission as an instrument to avoid your responsibilities and duty as a person in authority, particularly in circumstances that can only reinforce the best measures of civic responsibility in any Canadian citizen, regardless of ethnic background, religion or political stripe, simply underscores your irresponsibility. You need another job.


Tim
said
0 0

In grade five (1995) I had the following situation in my class; a Jehovah's Witness was in my class. If you know anything about them, they do not stand for the anthem, this is acceptable as an aspect to their religion. The solution you ask? ... She stood in the hall when the anthem was playing.

I went to a high school where 95% of the population was of ethnic origin, we had the national anthem. A number of times comments were made that indicated a removal of the anthem because it was disrespectful to those of other religions. It is still played.

My point is, I completely agree that political correctness has gotten wildly out of control. One of the most useful things I've ever read "you can please some of the people all the time, or all of the people some of the time, but you can never please everyone all of the time" ...

If you find the anthem to be disrespectful to your beliefs, faith, morals, do what a reasonable person does when in a situation they don't agree with; remove yourself. There is nothing wrong with that. I can accept someone removing themselves during the anthem. I will not accept for a second that I have to bend to the will of a few and fundamentally change the culture of my country.


Mike Montreal
said
0 0

Green Party Statement

OTTAWA--The Green Party of Canada supports the singing of O Canada in schools. The principal who was involved in a New Brunswick school's review of the matter was once a Green Party candidate; however, the decision to dispense with the daily singing of O Canada is not Green Party policy. The tradition of singing O Canada has long been a way of showing respect and love for our country, our veterans and those who gave their lives in defense of Canada.

Erik Millet has been unfairly singled out as though the decision, which was made over a year ago, was his unilaterally. Erik Millett served three years in the Canadian military and has a degree in Human Rights. While we disagree with the school's decision, we reject as unworthy the personal attacks on a very decent and dedicated education professional.


N. Blais, Calgary, Alberta
said
0 0

As a middle school principaI can report that none of our 600 children have adverse physical afflictions singing the national anthem. We sing the anthem on the first day of the week every week. Everything stops and everyone, with heads bared, faces the nearest Canadian flag. There is one in every classroom.
I've found that if we do it every day that the level of respect and participation declines.
So I'm fine with once a week and making it count. The only problem is some parents who insist in walking around and talking during the anthem. Mind you they are also wearing their hats and muddy boots in the building too. Something about the unwashed masses and public education. Mr. Millette show some backbone. Does being Green mean being ashamed of Canada?


Graham Godlien
said
0 0

Perhaps the parents and their children should view the pictures of the tens of thousands of Candians that have given their lives for this great country in 2 World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Peacekeeping, Regular Duty, each and every day and then they can comment on what is Canadian or not.


Anne
said
0 0

So because of a few students, there's no more playing the national anthem...What about the students (and parents) that do beleive in the national anthem? This is our country...this is our song...if someone is not happy about it...go elsewhere...Canadians are too tolerate to changing their ways just to please others...we have to stand up to what we beleive in...we are recognize as being a friendly country but let us not be recognize as being pushovers Yours truly OH CANADA!!!


Glenn in BC
said
0 0

Why do people like you Mr.Millet have drag everyone and everything through the mud just to (try) and prove a point? Get real!~ Give your
school and country their Anthem back (who are you to take it away anyway)


DB Cooper
said
0 0

I am a proud Canadian my brother is a retired member of Strathcona's Horse. He, like all of our veterans of war, fought for our freedoms and one of those is the freedom of religion. It is against the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses to salute the flag of any nation, or to stand for, or sing, the national anthem. Who among you is going to tell them, as Canadians, that they must choose their country over their god?

I am not a religious person, but I have been taught to show respect for others and their beliefs. Those of you who say stand or leave obviously do not have that same respect.

When was the last time you sang our anthem? Whenever I hear it played, all I hear from the crowd is mumbling. I ask you, who is showing the greatest disrespect; those who can't sing for religious reasons, or those who fault them but won't sing it either?

And for those of you who mentioned our military, I would have no problem walking on to any base and asking any soldier if he respected these childrens' right to be free from religious persecution and not be forced to sing our anthem. While that soldier may disagree with their belief, he/she also knows that others have laid down their lives to protect that right.

Stand for our anthem and sing it with the pride that you profess to have in this forum, but at the same time, respect those whose faith will not allow them to participate.


Rob O.
said
0 0

Relax people. It's a song. It was like when the catholic church didn't want radio stations to play Madonna's Like a Prayer in the 90s. Who cares.

I am, i would say, uber-patriotic. I am so proud to be Canadian. Whether kids sing or don't sing doesn't take away from their patriotism. It's going through the motions. At the end of the day, how they feel about Canada is what is patriotic. Not whether they standup or not.

Good grief people.. chill out.


Sebastian
said
0 0

This isn't a big deal. I understand that people believe singing the national anthem every morning molds people into better citizens, but there's no evidence of that being true. If a student is apathetic about their country there's little difference between them and an adult. Except that adults aren't required to sing O Canada at their workplace everyday. A person should genuinely care about their country through their own experience; it can't be bred into them through these blind exercises in nationalism. So what's the point of taking away school time?


alexb
said
0 0

Because we are living in democratic country, the parents who are against singing "O Canada" are free to pack their stuff and kids and go to any other country of their choice.
Remember - democracy is not equal to anarchy or an extreme liberalism. Democracy is power of will of majority.


JJ
said
0 0

Just another example of why the green party will always remain completely irrelevant. I guess we can hope that this time the HRC actually cares about the rights of CANADIANS for a change, but somehow I doubt it.


sdgreen, North Saanich BC
said
0 0

It is clear, Mr Millett is using his position of authority as a political platform which I believe is contrary to most public service jobs. Millett must therefore be removed immediately. If the Human Rights people uphold his cause, then we will also know that we must get rid of those organizations as well.

The observance of national instruments is not and must not be subject to any religious beliefs.


Richard L. Provencher
said
0 0

What kind of dictator is allowed to be a principal of a school. Somebody better review his credentials. What a disgusting thing because TWO parents complained. Smarten up School BOARD and get the anthem back on board.


Ian Ottawa
said
0 0

Take it to the Human Rights Commission on your way to collect your EI.


AlexB
said
0 0

This is why that so-called Green Party has not enough support to win even single seat in the Parliament ;)


karen in williams lake
said
0 0

everyone is entitled to their opinion and i know how i feel HOWEVER i am beyond thrilled to see how many people have strong feelings on our anthem. at a time where it seems we, as canadians, have lost our national pride, it is great to see that it is strong and alive.
yeah to the maple leaf and the greatest place in the world. sing sing sing...and be proud. this is certainly something to stand up for...


Kara
said
0 0

I am ok with not forcing prayers on children of different faiths, but the anthem is a whole different animal. If you don't like the anthem then go find another country whose anthem you prefer. I think you should also not feel the need to protest the anthem just because you don't agree with absolutely everything going on in the country either. Everyone has certain things they are not happy about, but every person here should feel darn lucky they are privileged enough to live here in plenty, safety and freedom as compared to other places in the world, and thats what the anthem is all about to me.


Mario in Ottawa
said
0 0

Mr DB Cooper.
Re para 2 of your comment. I'm glad you feel this way.
So respect our belief in the signing of the National Anthem.
Re para 3, have you ever been to a hockey game in Ottawa, Vancouver Edmonton etc,.. where the crowd takes over the singing of the anthem. Tell them this is mumbling and you'll rightfully fare no better than the puck used in the game.


glen
said
0 0

what is up with society and people. 2 complaints and we have to give in. i hear it so often oh someone complained so we stopped doing it.


Fran Selig
said
0 0

"They would scrunch up their face, put their fingers in their ears, bend down and get on the floor because they felt they were doing something they weren't allowed to do."

Perhaps this could be considered a 'teachable moment.' At our school, we teach our children to respect each other and to be accepting of differences. We need to teach the children who do not participate how to respectfully refrain from participating, just as we need to teach the children who do participate how to do so respectfully (ie. standing at attention, etc.) Sticking one's fingers in one's ears is not an acceptable response to any situation in my classroom. We're talking about basic tolerance and respect here!

I've taught in schools with as few as 100 children and as many as 700 children. In both situations, when the national anthem begins, staff and students alike, stop where they are and stand at attention. It has never been an issue, even at the school with a large multicultural population.

Let's be proud of the fact and celebrate that we are Canadians!


J.
said
0 0

To ban the singing of our National Anthem is beyond belief. Of course it should be sung in schools. When I was in school not only did we sing our national anthem we were given a lesson in respect for the anthems of other countries and the proper behavior when another country's anthem was sung.
Children who make faces and put their fingers in their ears should have it explained to them how disrespectful that is. If the behavior continues they need to be disciplined. The parents who have an issue with the singing of the anthem need to find another country to live in where perhaps they can be more respectful that is assuming they are Canadian. Every Canadian should be proud of our country. Non Canadians need to be respectful or leave. This principal needs to find other employment. If he finds it difficult to handle a couple of very misbehaved children over such a black and white issue how can he possibly handle his other responsibilities.
His lack of respect for his own country speaks volumes. In school we were taught to have pride in our country and the singing of our anthem was only part of it. It was a very important part.


Supakorn K
said
0 0

There should be no excuse to singing Canadian anthem as long as you are a Canadian. If you don't teach children to love the nation that loves them, what do you expect the country to be like in the future? If you don't want to be a Canadian, then why are you in Canada?


Ka
said
0 0

Is there a religion where I can opt out of paying a countries taxes or abiding by a countries laws? I don't think so. Funny how the anthem is so bad, yet the other items are a must. Very odd.


jay
said
0 0

TAXPAYER
I find it hard to beleave you were a hero.The person at my former school that had the lords pray removed had to transfer to another school.


Martin D
said
0 0

I wonder if a group of parents went in and complained about his actions as a principal saying tat they were unhappy w and found him offensive and contrary to their beliefs. Would he take the same action and eliminate from the school that which they found offensive namely himself. I think not. This is about him and his beliefs nothing more and I am happy he is not in any proximity to my grandchildren.


Gregory D
said
0 0

re Mike B

No there is nothing more important than standing up for the country you live in. In my opinion it is pretty arrogant to make a statement that it does not matter when you live in a country that gives you an exceptional way of life. Maybe you should go to Iran or Somalia for a few years then you might think it is a big deal.




Standing in New Brunswick
said
0 0

I personally went through a stage in High School where I felt that it was my CHOICE as a human to stand or not stand during the playing of our national anthem.

I felt I could not stand to pay homage to a country that had forced my ancestors into Residential Schools and Chinese Immigrants into concentration Camps.

It has been 10 years since I sat down during the National Anthem. Being older, I now stand for our Anthem out of pride. Pride in our diversity no matter our history. Although sometimes time cannot heal everything, a desire to stand united as Canadians in the face of our times is essential.

Standing for the Anthem shouldn't be mandatory for High School Students. Every person has the right to choose to stand for this Country.

If we start making it mandatory, are we then declaring that our personal beliefs, rights, and freedoms are moot?




James from Peterborough
said
0 0

In America, they are American first and it does not matter where in the world they came from.

Lets face it, we are all Canadians here in Canada unless we are not Canadian citizens. I don't think it is too much to ask that our Elementary schools have "O Canada" sung first thing in the morning. People living in Canada should know we are all proud of our country, progress and heritage and the young kids will realize this importance as they learn and get older.


Ontario1
said
0 0

Millett should be fired for making worse and dumbest excuse I have ever heard!! Who does he think he is!

He denies the rights of Canadians to sing our beloved national anthem...


Jessica(BritishColumbia)
said
0 0

It is really hard to say what is right.I agree of having the National Anthem in schools but not everyday.I had to sing it in school at assemblys,I did not mind it at all.Im proud to be canadian and my daughter has it in her school and she could'nt wait to sing it for me.It makes them proud and safe to know who they are. My daughter asked me so many questions about it and what it ment. Thats where it all starts is from the anthem you have to teach them young and educate them. Some people may think its just an Anthem but its much more then that.So my words to Mr.Mills is how can you take it away when it represents us, who we are, what we are. I'm trying to teach my daughter at home but if your not going to teach at your shcool and be a great role model for these children of the future then maybe you should think of a different occupation.....


Kim in New Brunswick
said
0 0

My brother is currently deployed in Afghanistan and a born and bred New Brunswicker.
Too bad Mr. Millet could not go and do the "tour" with him and walk a mile in his army boots. No doubt Millet would experience some "bad reactions","cringing" and "crouching on the floor" too.
BUT I guarantee he'd probably be singing a different "tune" afterwards!
Only then would he understand why we sing O Canada and mean every word.
By the way Mr.Millet,no need to thank him for his sacrifices...it's his "job" to ensure you are safe and free and he has your back.
He stands on guard for thee~~



mintie
said
0 0

Make it mandatory! We're Canadians...next they'll try to ban Canadian history from the classroom. Fire the principal!


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