Canadians living in Los Angeles are experiencing a blend of nostalgia and national pride as the Toronto Blue Jays advance in the World Series. The team currently leads the series against the Philadelphia Phillies 3-2, with Game 6 set to take place in Toronto. For many fans, this championship run transcends sports, symbolizing a collective Canadian identity and resilience.
Cory Litwin, a Canadian expatriate and managing partner at Range Media, fondly recalls his first memory of the Blue Jays during their victorious run in 1993. Litwin, who watched the victory parade with his family, says, “This isn’t just about sports. It’s a much deeper point of national pride. This is our country versus the world.”
The significance of the Blue Jays extends beyond Toronto, uniting Canadians from coast to coast. Litwin, who has lived in Los Angeles for nearly a decade, emphasizes that the team represents all Canadians, not just those from a specific city or province. At Dodger Stadium, fans from various regions of Canada, including Vancouver and Winnipeg, have come together to support their team. The atmosphere in L.A. has transformed into a sea of blue, reflecting the pride that Canadians share.
For Litwin, attending Game 3—a marathon that stretched to 18 innings—was a heartfelt experience. He remembers his grandmother, who instilled his passion for the Blue Jays. “I was thinking of my grandmother with fingers crossed behind my back. It was a sentimental, nostalgic moment for me and my pride swelled. This is my city,” he shared.
The broader implications of the Blue Jays’ success resonate with many Canadians. Litwin connects their journey to other Canadian cultural icons, such as The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, and Shawn Mendes, who have made significant impacts in the United States. He notes that the Blue Jays’ presence in the World Series is not solely about winning but about proving themselves on an international stage.
As the World Series unfolds, the competition mirrors the complex relationship between the United States and Canada, showcasing shared challenges and triumphs. Litwin appreciates this moment not only for the team’s performance but also for the way it brings Canadians together, both at home and abroad. “This is such a moment for us,” he stated, excited to share it with fellow Canadians in Los Angeles and his family back in Toronto.
The Toronto Raptors’ previous championship victory in 2019 serves as a reminder of the significance of representation in sports. While the Raptors faced the Golden State Warriors, the focus was not just on winning but on being part of the competition, a sentiment echoed in the current series.
In a city known for its diversity, Litwin finds common ground with fellow Canadians and Los Angeles residents alike. He notes that while many people in L.A. hail from different backgrounds, the shared experience of being Canadian fosters a unique bond.
As the Blue Jays continue their quest for the championship, they symbolize more than just athletic success; they embody a story of national pride and resilience that resonates deeply with Canadians, no matter where they are. The journey to the World Series has become a celebration of identity, unity, and the enduring spirit of Canada.
