Many young Canadians, particularly those who identify as conservatives, are expressing feelings of disconnection from their country. They face challenges such as high housing costs and a narrative from educators, media, and politicians that portrays Canada as a construct, suggesting that Canadians are inherently guilty of historical injustices as "settlers" due to their heritage. This has led to significant frustration among this demographic.

The Conservative Party of Canada has not secured a federal majority since 2011, despite building a coalition that could potentially dominate Canadian politics for years. Observers suggest that the party must offer a clear national purpose to engage this new generation of voters effectively. The future of Canadian conservatism may need to embrace a form of nationalism that is unapologetic and rooted in the country’s historical foundations.

Confederation, established in 1867 as a partnership between English and French communities, was a deliberate act of nation-building. However, many younger conservatives feel that the essence of Anglo-Canada has been neglected. Quebec has maintained a strong sense of nationalism, but the sentiment of loss is particularly pronounced in Anglo-Canada. For decades, mainstream thought leaders have promoted the idea that all cultural expressions are equally "Canadian," leading to a dilution of a distinct national identity.

This situation has created a paradox where both progressive activists and far-right groups share a similar view of Canada’s historical narrative. Progressives often argue that Canada’s past is tainted by colonialism, while far-right groups advocate for a vision of Canadian identity rooted in the legacy of its founding figures. Both perspectives tend to treat Canada’s foundational history as something to be either discarded or preserved in a static form, rather than as a living heritage that requires ongoing commitment.

Critics argue that the erosion of a distinct Canadian identity is not primarily due to recent immigrants but rather the actions of long-established Canadians and their leaders. Historical figures such as Louis St. Laurent, William Lyon Mackenzie King, Lester Pearson, and the Trudeaus have been accused of undermining the country’s foundational identity. They removed the term "Dominion" from Canada’s title, changed Dominion Day, and replaced the Red Ensign, a symbol of Canada’s military history, with new national symbols.

Pierre Trudeau’s policies shifted the focus from a bicultural Canada to a multicultural one, promoting the idea that unity could be achieved through diversity. However, this concept has evolved into a more rigid interpretation that discourages the notion of a mainstream culture. As noted by Michael Bonner, the original idea of diversity has transformed into a doctrine that prioritizes individual identities over a collective Canadian identity.

In contemporary discourse, media outlets emphasize personal identity over national identity, suggesting that Canada is merely a backdrop for individual experiences rather than a cohesive nation. This shift has left many young conservatives feeling alienated and questioning their place within the national narrative.