Canadian — and proud of it

New Statistics Canada Can survey of national symbols and shared national values found some surprising results about what makes Canadians proud,

Hockey’s a powerful national symbol, but not as strong as the Charter of Rights and Freedoms or the flag for most Canadians.

That’s one of the findings of the newly released General Social Survey, which determined that more than nine in10 Canadians believe the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the flag are important symbols of the Canadian identity.

The next highest rated symbols are the national anthem at 88 per cent, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at 87 per cent. Hockey lags, in fifth place; 77 per cent of respondents believe it’s a powerful national symbol.

Also on the list of commonly cited national symbols are the beaver (16 per cent) and the maple leaf (14 per cent).

The survey studied national symbols, shared national values and pride and found that almost 90 per cent of Canadians are proud to be Canadian.

There are regional differences in perceptions of Canadian identity. Quebec residents are the least likely to find that national symbols, such as the charter and flag, are important, reports the survey, taken in 2013.

Meanwhile, residents of Newfoundland and Labrador tend to find national symbols to be very important to the Canadian identity.

Immigrants generally hold the strongest feelings of pride in being Canadian and in Canadian achievements.

Respondents said they believe that 92 per cent of Canadians value human rights, while linguistic duality scored a 73 per cent rating.

Respect for aboriginal culture is a value shared by 68 per cent of Canadians, according to the survey.

Canada’s history is considered the top-rated national achievement, followed by the armed forces, healthcare system and Constitution.