SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — International Day of Peaceful Coexistence

Honourable senators, January 28 marked the very first International Day of Peaceful Coexistence, a moment to reaffirm our shared commitment to building societies grounded in mutual respect, understanding and dignity.

Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in March 2025, this day reminds us that peace is more than the absence of conflict. It is the active, ongoing work of learning to live together amid differences of culture, faith, language and world view.

Peaceful coexistence is something Canadians rightly take pride in, but it is also a choice and a responsibility — one that demands constant vigilance and collective effort at every level of society.

As the world grows more complex and polarized, we must remain steadfast in promoting peace, tolerance and dialogue.

Here in Canada, we are fortunate to have community leaders who are translating this global vision into meaningful grassroots action.

In Montreal, the Peace Network for Social Harmony, which is presided over by Brian Bronfman, has been a beacon for peace, diversity and inclusion for more than a decade. By bringing people together across cultural and faith divides, the network fosters dialogue, strengthens relationships and promotes the prevention of violence in everyday community life. I had the privilege of participating in several of its Peace Days events last fall and witnessed first-hand its remarkable ability to mobilize citizens as peace-builders.

Similarly, the International Forum for Peace, Security & Prosperity, led by Montreal’s Steve Gregory and an exceptional team of volunteers, engages young people, academics and civic leaders in critical conversations about the intersection of peace, security, justice and prosperity. By encouraging thoughtful dialogue and diverse perspectives, the forum exemplifies collaboration and inclusive leadership. Its next edition will take place in Palermo, Italy, this March.

I also wish to recognize the global impact of Million Peacemakers, an organization dedicated to empowering youth with practical tools for everyday peacemaking. Through its innovative “Nonflict” methodology, young people are learning how to transform conflict into cooperation. Montreal’s own Jon Moyal leads this important initiative, which will partner with the YMCA later this summer in Toronto and host more than 1,200 delegates at the upcoming YMCA World Council.

Honourable senators, in the spirit of the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence, let us honour these organizations and Canadian leaders who embody our values of inclusion, compassion and human dignity. Let us recommit to fostering a culture of peace here at home and around the world.

Thank you. Meegwetch.