Homegrown support for Canada has never been stronger. With all that’s been going on recently, it’s important to remember that Canada’s sovereignty, economy, and national identity don’t just rely on government policies—they depend on the choices of everyday Canadians.
Whether it’s protecting Canadian businesses, prioritizing local products, or standing up for national interests, there are plenty of ways to make a difference. Here are 10 practical things you can do right now to help keep Canada strong and independent.
10 Ways to Support Canada
1. Buy Canadian & Support Local Businesses
Where you spend your money matters. Buy Made in Canada products, shop at locally owned stores, and order from Canadian websites instead of foreign e-commerce giants. Supporting Canadian farmers, manufacturers, and retailers keeps wealth and jobs within the country.
The website MadeInCA.ca offers a large directly of Canadian companies, making it easier to ensure that you’re supporting local business. There’s also apps like Buy Beaver or O SCANada, which allow you to scan barcodes for more information about a particular product.
Example: Chenille Williams, owner of a small condiment business in Pickering, Ontario, credits the /r/BuyCanadian Reddit community with saving her business after a post about her product went viral, significantly boosting sales.
Get Involved: Join the /r/BuyCanadian Reddit community or read the CBC article on its impact here.
2. Bank with Canadian Institutions
Your banking choices affect Canada’s economy. Use Canadian-owned banks and credit unions instead of foreign financial institutions to ensure profits stay in the country and benefit Canadians.
Example: Switching from a foreign-owned bank to a Canadian credit union or institution ensures profits stay within Canada, funding local businesses and community projects.
Get Involved: In Nov. 2024, Moving2Canada.com released an informative piece with info on “How To Choose The Best Bank in Canada For You.” You can find a Canadian credit union near you using the Canadian Credit Union Association directory.
3. Watch, Read, and Listen to Canadian Media
Support Canadian culture by subscribing to Canadian news outlets, watching homegrown films, and listening to local artists. Avoid relying solely on U.S. streaming services and international media conglomerates.
Example: Instead of relying on U.S. streaming services, Canadians can watch homegrown content on CBC Gem, Crave, or Telefilm Canada productions.
Get Involved: Support Canadian content by subscribing to CBC Gem, watching movies from Telefilm Canada, or listening to Canadian artists on SiriusXM Canada.
4. Attend Peaceful Rallies and Protests (Where Needed)
Make your voice heard on issues that impact Canada’s sovereignty and future. Peacefully participating in rallies, town halls, and public forums helps shape policies and ensures Canadian interests remain a priority.
Example: When Bill C-11 (the Copyright Modernization Act) was proposed, Canadians gathered at town halls and rallies to voice concerns over government control of digital content.
Get Involved: Learn about your rights and how to get involved through the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.
5. Drive Canadian (or as Canadian as Possible)
If you’re buying a car, consider brands that manufacture in Canada, such as Toyota, Honda, Ford, GM, and Chrysler. When filling up, choose Canadian-owned gas stations like Petro-Canada or Co-op instead of U.S.-based chains.
Example: Toyota and Honda manufacture vehicles in Ontario, supporting thousands of Canadian jobs. Choosing a car made in Canada helps sustain the auto industry.
Get Involved: Check which vehicles are assembled in Canada on the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association website.
6. Vacation in Canada
Support the local economy by traveling within Canada instead of taking vacations abroad. Explore national parks, visit Canadian-owned resorts, and dine at locally owned restaurants to help boost tourism.
Example: Instead of traveling to the U.S. or overseas, Canadians can visit Banff, Niagara Falls, or PEI, keeping tourism dollars within the country.
Get Involved: Plan your next local vacation with Destination Canada.
7. Protect Canada’s Natural Resources
Canada is rich in natural beauty, but preserving it requires action. Support conservation efforts by reducing waste, using less plastic, and choosing sustainable Canadian products. Participate in local clean-ups and advocate for responsible resource management to keep Canada’s environment thriving.
Example: The Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup has removed over 2 million kg of trash from Canadian waterways, showing how local action makes a difference.
Get Involved: Participate in a cleanup near you through the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup.
8. Learn a Second Official Language
Bilingualism strengthens Canada’s national identity and unity. Learning French (or English if you primarily speak French) helps bridge cultural divides and allows for better communication across the country.
Example: Programs like French immersion in schools or adult courses help Canadians bridge language gaps and foster national unity.
Get Involved: Enrol in a free online course with Government of Canada Language Portal.
9. Support Veterans & First Responders
Show appreciation for those who protect Canada. Donate to organizations that support veterans and first responders, attend remembrance events, or simply thank those who serve. A strong country values those who defend it.
Example: Organizations like Wounded Warriors Canada provide mental health support for veterans and first responders.
Get Involved: Donate or volunteer with Wounded Warriors Canada.
10. Spread Awareness and Encourage Others to Take Action
Small actions multiply when more people get involved. Share these ideas with family, friends, and neighbours. Use social media to promote Canadian businesses, highlight local products, and educate others on the importance of keeping Canada strong and independent.
Example: The Buy Canadian movement gained traction through social media, with people sharing alternatives to foreign brands and encouraging others to shop locally.
Get Involved: Follow and share content on social media, and engage in discussions about how to support Canada and Canadian communities.
By making conscious choices, everyday Canadians can have a significant impact on the country’s economic health, national security, and cultural identity. The power to shape the future of Canada starts with small, daily decisions—what will yours be?
