Canada's younger generation, particularly conservative youth, increasingly feel disconnected from their country. Many are struggling with high housing costs and face narratives from educators, media, and politicians that portray Canada as a flawed construct. This has led to a growing sense of frustration among these young people, who feel marginalized in their own nation.
The Conservative Party of Canada has not secured a federal majority since 2011. Despite this, it has the potential to build a strong coalition among the working and middle classes. However, experts warn that merely implementing political or economic reforms will not be enough to engage this new generation of voters. They argue that the party must adopt a clear national purpose to resonate with young conservatives.
The future of Canadian conservatism is expected to embrace a form of nationalism that is unapologetic and rooted in the country's foundational values. This perspective emphasizes the importance of a distinct Canadian identity, which many believe has been diluted over the past several decades.
Historically, Canada was conceived as an Anglo-French partnership in 1867, a deliberate act of nation-building. However, there is a growing sentiment among some that this identity has been undermined. Critics argue that the narrative surrounding Canadian identity has shifted, with both progressive activists and far-right groups offering conflicting interpretations of the country's history and values.
Progressives often highlight Canada's colonial past, viewing Confederation as a pact among privileged white men. Conversely, far-right groups advocate for a vision of Canada that centers on this same demographic. Both perspectives, critics say, fail to recognize the need for a living, evolving Canadian identity that honors its heritage while embracing diversity.
The erosion of a distinct Canadian identity is attributed not to recent immigrants but to the actions of long-standing Canadians and their leaders. Historical figures such as Louis St. Laurent and Pierre Trudeau are noted for their roles in redefining Canada, often at the expense of its original cultural framework. Trudeau's policies, in particular, shifted the focus from a bicultural to a multicultural identity, which some argue has led to a dilution of the foundational ideals.
As Canada becomes increasingly diverse, the challenge remains for the Conservative Party to connect with young voters who seek meaning and belonging. Many young conservatives are not anti-capitalist but are looking for a sense of purpose that transcends economic discussions. They desire a national identity that celebrates their heritage and offers a vision for the future.
The question facing the Canadian right is whether it can evolve into a national movement that resonates with the aspirations of its youth. If it fails to do so, there is a risk that another group will step in to fill that void, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Canada.

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