Statement on Heritage Week

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, 

Next week, February 20th-26th, is Heritage Week across Canada. In my home province of British Columbia, the Heritage Week theme is “Always in All Ways” - inviting citizens to explore and celebrate the culture and heritage of the communities that make up the places we each call home.  Heritage Week is a time for all Canadians to reflect on how to keep our heritage alive. 

MPs can play a role in protecting heritage places in our communities, while also advancing reconciliation by supporting Bill C-23. When passed, Bill C-23 will create the Historic Places of Canada Act, which will add First Nations, Inuit, and Métis representation to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. This action would implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 79.   

Additionally, this legislation delivers on developing and implementing a national heritage plan and strategy for commemorating residential school sites, the history and legacy of residential schools, and the contributions of Aboriginal peoples to Canada's history. 

Therefore, I ask my colleagues to vote in favour of Bill C-23.  I wish everyone a wonderful Heritage Week in their communities. 

Thank you.