Despite a faint boo from Boston fans as the anthem began, Kreviazuk’s performance was powerful. She explained her decision to CTV News, citing The Associated Press. She said, “Because I believe in democracy, and a sovereign nation should not have to be defending itself against tyranny and fascism.” She also added that growing up on music that spoke to the heart and the moment had shaped her as a songwriter and as a human being, and it wouldn’t be authentic for her to have a world stage and not express herself or stay true to who she is.
Kreviazuk, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, had also written the phrase “that only us command” with mascara on her left hand and posted a picture of it on her Instagram along with emojis of a Canadian flag and a flexed muscle. She said she did it so that if she froze during the performance, she could look at her hand and remember. She also hoped people would be inspired to speak the truth in their art.
After Canada won in thrilling overtime with superstar Connor McDavid scoring the decisive goal, “O Canada” was sung again in the arena. This time, there was no booing. Canadian players and fans united in song as they watched their flag rise inside TD Garden.
Kreviazuk’s act of changing the anthem lyrics has sparked a debate, with some praising her bold stand while others questioning whether it was appropriate for such a public moment.