Last Updated on April 28, 2024 by YGK News Staff
Convocation ceremonies will be missing a familiar tune this year.
On April 18th, the Queen’s University Senate formally voted to remove the singing of the British National Anthem following a recommendation from the Senate Committee on Academic Development and Procedures (SCADP).
A spokesperson for Queen’s University confirmed that the vote passed and will be reflected in the upcoming convocation ceremonies.
Western University was the last university to eliminate the singing of the Royal Anthem in 2023, stating that it would be an “inclusive step that most others have already taken in support of equity, diversity, and inclusion and reconciliation.”
According to a report by the SCAPD, Queen’s University, along with the Royal Military College of Canada, are the last two universities to still sing the anthem during their convocation ceremonies.
The report outlined several reasons why the move was made to remove “God Save the King.”
The committee noted that the “dialogue around Canada’s national identity, equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation has progressed” since the question to continue singing the anthem was last brought up in 2018. At that time, no action was taken to remove the anthem following campus consultations.
“Canada continues to evolve as a nation with a distinct identity that extends beyond its colonial history. While acknowledging historical legacies is important, a convocation ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the present and future of Canada,” the report states.
Lastly, the report questioned whether graduates were familiar with “God Save the King.”
“It was noted that many of our graduates are not familiar with the Royal Anthem, and members in attendance at recent convocations observed what was perceived as noticeable discomfort from the audience when it was sung,” the report noted.
Convocation ceremonies will take place on May 24 and from June 18th to June 21st.
