The Crown Reconsidered

Tuesday May 27 2025

The Crown Reconsidered - Tuesday May 27 2025

Today, Canada is buzzing with excitement as King Charles III delivers the Speech from the Throne—a rare treat since it's only the third time a reigning monarch has done this in our history. This event underscores Canada's independence and identity, especially after some cheeky comments from U.S. President Donald Trump about us becoming the 51st state. As history buffs and political enthusiasts cheer, I'm reminded of my journey from a cheeky cartoonist poking fun at the monarchy to someone who now appreciates its changing role.

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Back in the day, the monarchy seemed like an old-timey relic, perfect for a good laugh. Inspired by cartoonists like James Gillray, Terry Mosher, and Steve Bell, I jumped on the bandwagon of poking fun at the royals, seeing them as out of sync with modern times. My cartoons, fueled by anti-monarchist vibes, especially in Quebec, often took a playful jab at the royals, matching the rebellious spirit of young artists.

From November 1988, it was the first year of my foray into the print media, specifically The Fulcrum, student newspaper at the University of Ottawa. I was possibly releasing some pressure with all the medieval history of England filling my head with this puerile rendering of Young Princess Elizabeth. Ten years later I would have another young future monarch featured on page one of the Hamilton Spectator.

But as I grew older and a bit wiser, my perspective started to shift. I discovered the monarchy's positive side—like its knack for providing stability in our ever-changing world. Their support for diversity, equality, and environmental causes revealed a side I hadn't noticed before.

King Charles III, in particular, has been quite the advocate for these causes, showing that the monarchy can adapt and evolve. His visit to Canada and role in delivering the Speech from the Throne highlights the monarchy's relevance today. As Canada faces challenges and pressures, the royal visit is a cheerful reminder of our national identity and our ties to the Commonwealth.

Thursday April 26, 2001 - Prince Charles, wrapped in Saran wrap as a precaution against Mad Cow Disease, received a warm welcome from thousands of Canadian fans in Ottawa, collecting gifts and expressing gratitude during his five-day visit.

Tuesday April 9, 2002 - Proof that I can be nice and reverential. The passing of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the Queen Mother, marked the end of an era, reminding Canadians of her 1939 visit with King George VI, which Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King had skillfully used to address national unity and highlight Canada's sovereignty during a time when the monarchy and its symbolism played a significant role in the country's identity.

Thursday October 3, 2002 - Tickets for Queen Elizabeth's visit to Hamilton's Copps Coliseum, where the city's senior MP Sheila Copps was prominently involved, quickly sold out as demand exceeded the limited availability for the event dedicated to presenting new colours to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

Thursday November 5, 2009 - In another local royal swing, during her visit to Dundurn Castle in Hamilton on November 5, 2009, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, explored her ancestral roots linked to Sir Allan Napier MacNab, received a warm welcome from fans, and was part of an 11-day royal tour of Canada alongside Prince Charles.

Monday June 4, 2012 - Despite heavy rain during the diamond jubilee river pageant on the Thames, an estimated 1 million spectators celebrated the 1,000-boat flotilla featuring the Queen marking a very British occasion. To those outside the motherland, it marked an expansion and evolution of the Commonwealth, with Queen Elizabeth II sustaining figurehead status in various forms.

Wednesday November 25, 2015 - During a visit to London, New Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reacquainted himself with Queen Elizabeth II, whom he first met as a child (this is a parody of a pirouette photo that featured dad Pierre Trudeau in an earlier photo with the Queen, and discussed key issues such as climate change and trade with Prime Minister David Cameron, before heading to Malta for the Commonwealth leaders summit and later to France for the UN climate conference.

Tuesday September 27, 2016 - During the young royal family's visit to Canada, an awkward moment occurred when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's attempted to greet young Prince George with a low-five, high-five, and handshake but was politely declined, showcasing British reserve. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children, engaged in numerous official engagements, including meetings with local communities and leaders, as part of their week-long tour. Despite the lighthearted snub, the visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Canada.

Looking back, I see how my views on the monarchy have evolved. While I once thought it was a bit outdated, I now see its importance and positive influence. The monarchy has become more forward-thinking than many critics realize, and my earlier jabs now feel more outdated than the institution itself.

Today's King’s Speech is more than just a ceremony; it’s a lively celebration of Canada’s independence and our shared history. As we enjoy this historic moment, I'm reminded that the monarchy is not just a thing of the past, but an important part of our present and future.

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. Please Enjoy the animated making of my May 27, 2025 editorial cartoon below and thank you for your continued support!