(October 28, 2022, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Education and MHA for Conception Bay South, says insulting Newfoundlanders and Labradorians by removing the Ode to Newfoundland is no way to include Labradorians in convocation ceremonies.

“Inclusion of one group should not come from the exclusion of another. The Ode to Newfoundland has been a fixture of our culture for over a century. Simply removing the song from convocation ceremonies is a quick reaction taken without thought, without consultation, and without common sense,” said Petten.

“We recognize the importance of inclusion throughout our society, but apparently none of MUNL’s leadership team could think of a simple solution: sing the Labrador anthem, too.”

Petten says there is room for conversation and adjustment to a 120 year old song, but to unilaterally make a decision to remove the Ode is frankly ridiculous.

“If the public decides they would like to see changes to the anthem, then we as a province should listen. MUNL’s team has acted out of step with public sentiment and the need for proper consultation. These conversations must be led by the public, not hastily explained after the fact by the University,” said Petten.

“MUNL is out of touch with the public on this matter. University officials must learn they are accountable to the public, too, and take public voices and consideration into any such decisions that affect the cultural fabric of our province.”

-30-

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca