A new poll shows that an overwhelming 85% of Canadians express pride in their nationality, marking a five percentage point increase from the same time last year. The Leger poll, conducted for the Association for Canadian Studies, reveals that the highest levels of national pride are found in Atlantic Canada, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, with 91% of residents in these regions reporting pride in being Canadian. Alberta follows closely with 86%, while 85% of Ontarians and 84% of British Columbians share similar sentiments.

Quebecers, however, feel the least national pride, with 79% saying they are proud to be Canadian. This sentiment is a slight decrease compared to earlier this year. In March, 86% of Quebecers reported pride, while only 77% of Albertans felt the same way. The survey also shows that in November 2024, 70% of British Columbians felt pride in their Canadian identity.

Jack Jedwab, president and CEO of the Association for Canadian Studies, notes that the current national pride sentiment is influenced by factors such as the volatile relationship with the United States, particularly following the election of Donald Trump. He says, “There’s a lot of volatility right now in terms of our relationship with the United States, a lot of head-scratching and people asking themselves, ‘Where do we stand with the country we perceive to be our closest ally, and what does this mean for who we are?’”

National unity has been a hot topic leading up to the 2025 federal election. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has voiced concerns about a potential “unprecedented national unity crisis” if several of Alberta’s demands are not addressed by the new government.

Despite these concerns, the poll results, along with other recent surveys, suggest that most Canadians maintain a strong attachment to their country, with national pride remaining high across the majority of provinces.