Canada's national identity is defined by a balance of tolerance and firm determination rather than weakness.

"Standing in the town that sheltered thousands of stranded Americans after the Sept. 11 attacks, former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien marked the 25th anniversary Friday with a pointed message for the United States: 'Never mistake our generosity for weakness.' The 92-year-old former leader, who was prime minister at the time of the attacks, drew a standing ovation after telling his 'American friends' that Canadians may be tolerant and kind but 'we bow to no one.'" https://apnews.com/article/sept-11-attacks-canada-gander-chretien-us-1bbee874edea1e8dead484c0c1e118dc

“Former prime minister Jean Chrétien had a message for 'our American friends' while speaking in Gander, N.L., at the 25-year commemoration of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. 'Canadians are tolerant and kind,' said Chrétien at the event, which was attended by U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra. '[But] never mistake our tolerance for lack of determination. And never, never mistake our kindness for softness.'“ https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/jean-chretien-says-we-bow-to-no-one-in-fiery-9-11-speech-in-gander-n-l-9.7340903