Before receiving their diplomas, students may no longer be required to sing for the King.
The Senate Committee on Academic Development and Procedures (SCADP) is currently reviewing the singing of Britain’s national anthem, “God Save the King,” and “O Canada” at convocation ceremonies. Senate recommended a review of “God Save the King” in November and Senator Nathan Brinklow proposed extending this review to include “O Canada.”
Brinklow described the two national anthems as a “package deal” with both referencing Queen’s historical roots. Questions arose at Senate about both songs, with focus on the British national anthem following Queen Elizabeth’s death.
Brinklow prompted Senators to ask themselves why students, faculty, and parents need to sing “God Save the King” or “O Canada” at convocation. He has yet to hear a concrete rationale.
“I have not found a good reason why. People are saying ‘we just do it because we do,’” Brinklow said in an interview with The Journal.
The British national anthem at convocation speaks to the University’s historical identity and name, Brinklow said. The Royal Charter was issued by Queen Victoria, and it established Queen’s University in 1841, tying the institution to the British monarchy.
University of Western Ontario axed “God Save the King” at graduation ceremonies in September, citing the removal would make Western more inclusive and equitable.
Despite enjoying the tune of “God Save the King,” Brinklow’s primary concern lies in its lack of relevance to the celebration of convocation.
“Convocation requires neither civic nor patriotic reinforcement,” Brinklow said. “We’re not gathering at an international sporting event where you have to demonstrate a kind of Canadian identity.”
Neither song holds the same community value as “Ode to Newfoundland” does to Memorial University Newfoundland, Brinklow said. Yet, in 2022, Memorial University dropped “Ode to Newfoundland” to push for more inclusivity, according to a report by CBC. The decision received significant pushback from Newfoundland politicians arguing the song was integral to Memorial University’s identity.
For Brinklow, if Senate votes to remove “God Save the King” it shouldn’t be treated as a momentous step towards decolonizing campus—it’s just too easy.
“You can’t use removing ‘God Save the King’ as part of a decolonial project. It is the simplest and most easy, uncontroversial thing you can do,” Brinklow said. “Let’s talk about the things that actually matter.”
Queen’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDII) underscores its commitment to engaging in dialogue about decolonization.
This isn’t the first time the British national anthem has come under question. In 2018, a Senate committee recommended “God Save the Queen” be discontinued, but the motion failed on a tie vote.
SCADP will present their conclusions to Senate this year but haven’t reached a decision on their recommendations and are unable to provide a decision delivery date.
Tags
Convocation, national anthem, Senate
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