Canada takes on Morocco in a World Cup match in Houston July 4.
As always when Canada faces the homeland of many of its immigrants, an old question resurfaces: Where should one’s sporting loyalty lie, toward the country of birth or the country one now calls home?
For many Moroccan Canadians, will the flag they proudly wave be the red flag with the green star, or Canada’s red-and-white Maple Leaf?
If Canada were not playing, support would naturally be divided among fans cheering for the teams representing their countries of origin.
That is one of the defining features of Canada’s multicultural society, a nation where diverse cultures and identities coexist and flourish.
But when Canada itself is on the field, multiculturalism can create an emotional dilemma.
Many immigrants find themselves genuinely torn between the land of their birth and the country that has given them a new life.
I’m from India, and the same question will arise if ever an Indian team faces Canada on Canadian turf.
Having lived in Canada for more than 50 years, I would support my adopted homeland. Canada has given me opportunities, security, and a sense of belonging.
While India will always remain the land of my birth and cherished memories, the India of today, under its present political leadership, is not the India I left behind. But that does not fully justify my reason not to side with India in a sporting event against Canada.
Patriotism and gratitude need not erase one’s heritage. One can honour the country of one’s roots while wholeheartedly cheering for the country one proudly calls home.
Promod Puri
promodpuri.com
Promod Puri.com 