Toronto-The conjecture that the Olympics build sustainable nationalism is one of many myths surrounding the financial abyss. “I’ll never forget where I was when…” is a ubiquitous locution during the hangover. However, the celebration ends and jingoism soon follows suit. Stories become foggy and are eventually relegated to obscure trivia.
For two weeks, unknown sports and athletes rivet the world. Nobodies become somebodies and strangers become bear hug recipients. But like a party’s attraction, whose shirt removal, ridiculous dancing, and karaoke singing results in a guffaw, the curlers, skiers, snowboarders, lugers, bobsledders, et al will be forgotten. They will be relegated to the far ends of their respective country’s collective consciousness.
Levels of nationalism, a word that is twisted more often than a balloon animal, return to pre-Olympic states, as patriotism* is expressed through actions, not memories. For most spectators, the 2010 Olympics was a fantastic experience. People had a great time and cheered on their country’s “heroes.” The overall event will not escape the minds of the masses, but the action-based national pride will vanish.
The Olympics will not lead to more people voting, singing the national anthem, joining the military, or buying homegrown products. Frankly, the number of patriotic acts will not meaningfully increase.
Some occurrences and names will not be erased. Most notably, Sidney Crosby’s gold-medal winning goal against the United States will remain in the host country’s psyche for decades. Yet, the suggestion that a lasting amplification of Canadiana has arrived is fallacious.
There is no question that many nations, Canada especially, were closer to unification for sixteen days than they normally are. But, the conversation should end there. Alas, commentators choose to use slippery slope arguments, such as “this nation will never be the same.” Unless one is referring to governmental deficits, this supposition is patently absurd. History does not support it.
The “Miracle on Ice” and 1972 Summit Series, two paradigms of inspirational sporting moments, did not forever change degrees of nationalism. Sure, one remembers when Al Michaels belted his famous call, “Do you believe in miracles?” or Paul Henderson scored for Canada. But, we must not confuse pleasant reminiscence with patriotism.
These were not national game changers. They were tremendous moments.
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*”Patriotism” and “nationalism” are interchangeable terms.
