Metis/Michif Senator representing Ontario in the Senate of Canada. Working on reproductive justice for all & the implementation of Indigenous rights in Canada.
Yesterday, I delivered my statement in the Senate Chamber in Michif, the language of the Metis Nation.
I hope this historic occasion will show Michif children across the Homeland that there is a place for them in every decision-making space, even the Senate of Canada.
Today, on Canada Day, we reflect on the country we have inherited and recommit to the Canada we must continue building: one rooted in truth, reconciliation, dignity, justice and respect for all.
Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Canada Day.
I am honoured to be recognized by the Women of the Metis Nation - Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak as an Indigenous women who has shaped Canada.
Marsii for this honour
Today we recognize Senator Yvonne Boyer, a Métis leader whose work has advanced Indigenous health, human rights, and reconciliation across Canada. She was appointed on International Women’s Day in 2018.
Today on National Indigenous Peoples Day we recognize the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Metis, First Nations, and Inuit across Canada.
And as we reflect on our history, we make a collective commitment to preserving our culture for the future generations to come.
Yesterday in the Senate Chamber, I paid tribute to a dear friend and leader, Gregory Brass.
This statement was made especially meaningful with the attendance of his daughter, the Honourable Judge Michelle R. Brass joining us in the gallery.
Rest in peace Gregory.
Today Bill S228 received Royal Assent & is now law across Canada; making sterilizing someone against their will an aggravated assault in the Criminal Code.
Thank you to the survivors who guided this work & to the allies who supported them. We have changed the course of history.
I was honoured to attend the graduation ceremony for the Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year (ILOY) Cadets at RMC! These future leaders have bright futures ahead of them!
Thank you for your service and commitment.
Last week, I had the privilege of visiting Muskeg Lake Cree Nation to talk about a wide range of issues impacting their citizens and was honoured to receive many thoughtful gifts.
Thank you to leaders and community members for sharing your time and knowledge with me.
It was great to welcome members of the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice in the Senate Chamber today after having Bill S-228 pass third reading in the House of Commons yesterday!
They are the reason this bill has made it this far and will become law.
Today Bill S228 passed third reading in the House of Commons, and now will await Royal Assent before becoming law across Canada.
This is a momentous day for survivors of forced and coerced sterilization. Thank you to everyone who made this possible.
June marks National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on how First Nations, Métis, and Inuit have been treated.
This June, I encourage everyone to watch “We Were Children” to learn more about this dark chapter of our collective history.
nfb.ca/film/we_were_children…
Data reveals alarming obstetric violence toward Indigenous women in Quebec
“Nearly four years after finding at least 22 Indigenous women that had gone through forced sterilization in Quebec, a group of researchers now says that number is much higher.”
cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/…
“Including this latest phase, the research is now based on 132 testimonies. The total of documented cases of forced sterilization now stands at 77.”
cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/…
Thank you Senator Rob Black for the invitation to have a meal hosted by the Canadian Pork Council at the annual Sparks Street Ribfest in Ottawa today! Thank you for the delicious food and good conversations. @SenatorRobBlack@cdnpork
It was great to take part in “Leadership in Uncertainty: A Discussion on Human Rights and the Role of United Nations in Old Age” at the Senate of Canada yesterday.
Thank you to the speakers for sharing their knowledge and to the Senators who organized this important event.
Coming soon to Roblox: Back to Batoche, Métis history and the Michif language | CBC News
“A virtual Roblox replica of the festival is now in the making through a partnership between Maskwa Games and Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN-S).”
cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatche…
Last week I joined more than 300 students in the Senate for Bear Witness Day to honour Jordan River Anderson and reflect on the importance of justice and equity for Indigenous children.
But bearing witness cannot happen only one day a year.
I was pleased to join the Accademy for Life Long Learning in Toronto as part of their Distinguished Speakers Series to discuss the issue of forced and coerced sterilization in Canada.
Everyone has a part to play in ending this horrific practice once and for all.
Today, on Red Dress Day, we remember.
This red dress hangs in the forest as a witness — to the lives stolen, the families still searching, and the silence that must never be allowed to settle again.
For MMIWG2S+ people — we honour you. We carry your memory. We demand justice.