Greenland Isn’t For Sale, and Neither Is Canadian Sovereignty: Why We Must Stand Against American Bullying

Let’s be clear: Greenland is not for sale. Its people have the right to self-determination, free from the coercive influence of a superpower that seems to think it can simply buy its way to geopolitical dominance. And while Greenland is geographically distant, the underlying principle at stake – the right of nations to chart their own course – is deeply relevant to Canada.

We, too, live in the shadow of a powerful neighbour. We’ve seen how American economic and cultural influence can subtly, and sometimes not so subtly, erode our distinct identity. We know the challenges of balancing a close relationship with the United States with the need to protect our own interests and values.

The situation with Greenland exposes a dangerous trend. Under certain political currents brewing down south, multilateralism and respect for international norms are increasingly seen as weaknesses, rather than strengths. This “America First” mentality, often cloaked in the language of national security, threatens to unravel the very fabric of global cooperation that has, however imperfectly, maintained a degree of peace and stability for decades.

And while it would be easy to dismiss this as simply another example of American overreach, we must recognize that the same impulses – the urge to prioritize narrow national interests above all else, the willingness to disregard the rights of others – can manifest in different forms closer to home. We see it in the rise of populist movements that seek to divide us, that scapegoat vulnerable communities, and that undermine the foundations of our democratic institutions. We see it in the erosion of trust in science and expertise, the spread of misinformation, and the growing polarization of our political discourse.

For progressives, the Greenland situation is not just a foreign policy issue; it’s a reminder of the values we must defend at home. We must stand in solidarity with Greenlanders and all peoples who are fighting for self-determination. We must advocate for a foreign policy that prioritizes diplomacy, cooperation, and respect for international law. And we must resist the forces of division and authoritarianism that threaten to undermine our own democracy.

This means supporting leaders who understand the importance of multilateralism and who are committed to building a more just and equitable world. It means challenging the rhetoric of fear and division that seeks to pit us against each other. And it means working together to build a more resilient and inclusive society, one that is strong enough to withstand the pressures of a changing world.

The lesson from Greenland is clear: sovereignty is not a commodity to be bought and sold. It is a fundamental right that must be defended at all costs. And as Canadians, we have a responsibility to stand up for that right, not just for ourselves, but for all people who aspire to live in a world where peace, justice, and cooperation prevail.

It’s time for Canada to assert itself as a strong, independent voice on the world stage, a champion of multilateralism and a defender of international law. We must show the world that we will not be bullied, that we will not be silenced, and that we will always stand up for what is right. The future of our sovereignty, and the future of the world, depends on it.