Following the tragic death of Calgary Herald journalist Michelle Lang in Afghanistan, the Foundation for Public Poetry/Fondation Poésie Publique in January 2010 commenced a contest to rewrite the line "True patriot love in all thy sons command." This initiative was done so in her memory, in her honour, and in honour of all women who contribute to building our great nation.
Entries were received from all 10 provinces. After considerable review, the selected line chosen was: True patriot love in all persons command. The word "persons" is to be sung with the same "sons" sound as in the current version(i.e. True patriot love in all per/sons command.)
A shortlist had been submitted to three members of the original author's (Robert Stanley Weir's) descendants. The shortlist can be seen at
www.publicpoetry.wordpress.com
The idea of replacing a poet's words(even a long-departed one) is not to be taken lightly. If O Canada was not Canada's national anthem, designated by Parliamentary decree, the original author's work ought not be altered.
However, the object of ensuring the anthem reflect gender inclusivity is significant. This was the underlying reason for initiating the "contest." Another major object was to maintain as best as possible Judge Robert Stanley Weir's original spirit and words.
"I favour #3 (True patriot love in all persons command) as it will mean the least disruption to the way we sing it now, even though the sentiment of #1(Faithful and diverse, in unity we stand) is most appealing," commented Sonia Weir Stairs of British Columbia, a Judge Weir great-granddaughter.
Another Weir family member, Timothy J. Foulkes of New Brunswick found the "person" version acceptable.
"I was singing O Canada to myself last night on a walk through the woods and, like Sonia, I also like "per sons" because it can be sung by hold-outs who wish to sing "thy sons" without creating disharmony," wrote Foulkes(grandson of Judge Weir) in an email.
Another Weir family member, Stephen W.W. Simpson of Quebec, submitted his comments by telephone.
This recommendation has been forwarded to the Canadian Senate, as the amendment contains an historic Senate reference. More information about the Persons reference can be seen at
The Persons Case . Regardless of the process that ultimately comes forward, we seek your support.
The individual who submitted the selected line has requested anonymity, citing "the credit for O Canada is rightfully Robert Stanley Weir's." The Foundation for Public Poetry agrees.
It looks like the issue is going into overtime.