QUESTION PERIOD — Canadian Heritage
Anti-Racism Strategy
October 2, 2024
My question is for the Government Representative. Senator Gold, after my speech on national immigration month, my colleague, Senator Simons, rightly pointed out that the American Republican candidate’s comments about dogs and cats were disingenuous and racist.
That same week, our Prime Minister was invited to appear on “The Late Show” in the United States. The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau said that Canada plays a role internationally by actively engaging in bringing people together. He spoke about Haiti in particular. That is when the interviewer asked him how our cats and dogs were doing here in Canada. Our Prime Minister avoided the question by saying, “I’m gonna move right past that one.”
Senator Gold, I am having a hard time understanding the dichotomy between the government’s anti-racism rhetoric here and its silence elsewhere. As an ally, does Canada intend to make its voice heard against the rise in racism and xenophobia?
Thank you for the question. The Government of Canada is deeply concerned about the rise in xenophobic, if not outright racist, discourse, not only in the United States, but also in Canada and other parts of the world. The government is going to keep promoting a discourse and political engagement based on human rights, respect for diversity, and all the values that I hope are central to our society as a whole.
That said, the Prime Minister has decided to refrain from engaging or involving himself in the current political situation in the United States precisely because the Prime Minister’s role demands a cautious approach, especially before an election.
Two hundred years ago, Canada took in Black Americans fleeing the racist and pro-slavery policies of the South. If candidate Trump is elected, will Canada be ready to receive more foreign nationals from the communities in question, and what will happen to the Safe Third Country Agreement?
At the moment, I don’t feel comfortable about commenting on possible scenarios related to the election. I’m sure you can appreciate that the government has to show discretion for now, not only with regard to what will eventually happen in the United States, but also in terms of its response, whatever that may be, to the situation facing our southern neighbour.
