SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Tribute to Journalists—National Indigenous Peoples Day

Honourable senators, as we prepare to rise for the summer, please bear with me, as this statement is going to go in a couple of different directions.

I will kick off by paying tribute to local journalists: To the reporters working in small towns and big cities across this country, writing in newspapers and online, on radio and TV, podcasting and livestreaming to make sure Canadians know what’s up. We all know that journalists are essential to a healthy democracy.

I felt it as a city councillor and a mayor when reporters came to council meetings and community events. They held us accountable, and they pulled us together. We can be more united as a community when news outlets tell our stories, whether they are heartbreaking, uplifting or straight-up truth telling.

You all know that Cornwall is my centre. So, of course, this statement is also about Cornwall and how fortunate it is to have the Standard-Freeholder, the Seaway News, The Cornwall Seeker, Cornwall Newswatch and On a le choix.

Yes, we have multiple sources providing media coverage in both English and French. That’s rare. I’m deeply grateful to the journalists of Cornwall for the work they’re doing.

As a senator, I rely on journalists to tell me what’s happening in the world, but also to tell the stories of our work here at the Senate. Last night, at an incredible meeting with advocates for the Black Justice Strategy, I felt inspired, motivated and hopeful. Journalists were a topic of our discussions. How would we tell the story of the Black Justice Strategy? Who would care to write about it? Here, too, we are relying on local outlets across the country that will connect with Black Canadians where they are.

Honourable senators, next, I am honoured to share my statement space with Senator Greenwood. She asked that National Indigenous Peoples Day be recognized before we rise. June 21, 2026, marks the thirtieth anniversary of this day. The month of June is also National Indigenous History Month. This is an opportunity for celebration, learning and connection.

It is my hope and intention that the African Canadian Senate Group and the Indigenous Senators Working Group connect before the end of this year. Let’s learn, advocate and share space together.

Lastly, the past few weeks have been emotionally taxing. I went on the record and made statements, but I didn’t always feel effective. I’m going to spend the summer meeting with communities whose voices and priorities need to be amplified. Meeting with Black people and talking about their work always makes me feel inspired.

Honourable colleagues, I hope you feel as inspired as I am when you’re back home this summer — inspired by your communities, by the people you care about, and by the issues that matter to you.

Thank you. Nia:wen.