On Parliament Hill

This past Tuesday, Canadians across the country celebrated the birth of our great nation. Canada Day is truly a celebration of what it means to be Canadian. As Canada marked its 147th birthday, it was an opportunity to celebrate our past while looking ahead with great anticipation to our future. Over the past 147 years, we have built a united and prosperous nation, based on the principles of peace, order and good government.

As Canadians, we have so much of which to be proud. Canada is a nation strong and free. We have inherited this legacy from the incredible sacrifices and determination of those who have gone before us. Throughout our history, Canada’s men and women in uniform have fought tyranny and opposed injustice around the world, standing for what is principled. Today, they continue to serve valiantly, and we are forever indebted to them.

As Canada’s prominence on the world stage continues to grow, we will continue to excel and lead. Our Government remains committed to addressing issues of human rights and equality, as we stand as a beacon of hope and prosperity in the global community.

We as Canadians believe that freedom of religion, including the ability to worship in peace and security, is a universal human right. In our efforts to promote these important values, our Government created the Office of Religious Freedom and named Dr. Andrew Bennett as its Ambassador.

Through the Office of Religious Freedom, Canada will continue to work with like-minded partners to speak out against violations of freedom of religion, denounce violence against human-rights defenders and condemn attacks on worshippers and places of worship around the world.

Promoting religious freedoms is one of the many accomplishments we as Canadians can proudly boast. As Canadians across the country continue to contribute to Canada’s great legacy, together we uphold and promote Canadian values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law at home, and abroad.

As one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, and our diversity is truly one of our greatest strengths. With Canada’s rich history, tremendous natural and cultural heritage, strong values and sense of purpose, we truly have so much to celebrate on Canada Day.

As the Member of Parliament for Provencher, I had the pleasure of celebrating this special day with many of you. I hope everyone had a very happy and enjoyable Canada Day.