Marketing the Canadian identity

In regards to today's discussion about marketing Canada, I am wondering if in recent years, Canada has failed to continue to successfully market itself as a brand or does it continue to be successful?

We discussed favourite commercials. One mentioned was the "I am Canadian" commercial. Does this market Canadian pride or does it just sell beer?

In regards to backpacks and luggage with the Canadian flag. Why do we do it? And do you think that seeing the Canadian flag still has the strong effect it once had? I feel that Canadians used to get a more welcoming and friendly treatment than that of Americans while abroad, however, in recent years I find that more and more travelers are hearing, "Canadians are just like Americans." And this comment is not in a joking manner anymore as it once was. Why is this? I feel that it is because of the changing political position of our nation. We are no longer seen as accepting, peacekeepers but as friends and allies of Bush. Harper has done a lot to change the way Canada is marketed on the international stage and I feel that in recent times, Canada has been unable to market itself on both the national and international stage as a positive entity.