Colleagues, we want to see a better world for the generations that follow us. Indeed, that is why we are here, trying to make that happen.

We are well aware of the many Canadians working as individuals or as members of various organizations toward the same goal — to make this Canada a better place, a place in which everyone can thrive and be able to live free from harms by others. These are rights that we take as givens, and we expect that all Canadians have these rights protected. Yet, we realize this is not always the case.

Today, I recognize the good work some Canadians are doing to help ensure that our young people can grow up in environments that are nurturing and not toxic, compassionate and not cruel, healthy and not harmful. April 30 is the International Day to End Corporal Punishment, and I want to bring to this chamber’s attention the work of Canadians who are striving to help make Canada a place where children can thrive and live free from physical violence. Many of us champion this ideal, and Canada is a better place for those who stand up for this.

Cindy Blackstock is such a champion. Through her tireless work promoting the safety and well-being of First Nations children, young people and families, Dr. Blackstock and her team at the Caring Society are indefatigable in their work to improve the lives of Indigenous peoples.

Corinne Robertshaw was a lawyer and stalwart advocate for the ending of physical punishment of children. Sadly, her voice was silenced in 2014, but her spirit and energy live on in the organization Corinne’s Quest.

Dr. Joan Durrant from Manitoba and social worker Ron Ensom from here in Ottawa, along with other child-serving organizations, saw the impact of violence on children’s lives and wrote the Joint Statement on Physical Punishment of Children and Youth, which almost 700 Canadian child-serving organizations have endorsed.

The Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children, No Violence for Kids Canada, Children First Canada, Kids Help Phone, Children’s Healthcare Canada and UNICEF Canada are but a few of the exceptional and committed organizations making a difference for children and youth across this land.

I ask you to join with me today to thank all these individuals and their organizations for their efforts in championing children’s rights and to applaud their steadfast commitment to creating a Canada in which all our children can have a better chance to be what they can become. Wela’lioq. Thank you.