Honourable senators, I’m standing today as chair of the Progressive Senate Group, or PSG, to take a moment to celebrate some of the incredible women I’ve had the privilege of working alongside this past year. I’ve taken to calling these folks “our famous four for 2025.” They are colleagues who lead with heart, lift us up and do it all with their own unique styles and personalities.

Senator Michèle Audette was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from Saint Paul University. Michèle brings people together in ways few others can. A tireless champion for reconciliation and Indigenous women and girls, she reminds us to listen more deeply, believe in the strength of our voice and lead with empathy.

Senator Amina Gerba, PSG liaison, was crowned Afro-Ancestral Queen of Canada, and honestly, this title suits her perfectly. Amina has built bridges across communities and championed women in business. She has inspired entrepreneurs to dream bigger and leads with energy and joy, qualities that follow her wherever she goes.

Senator Judy White, PSG Deputy Leader, was inducted into Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law’s Bertha Wilson Honour Society, which celebrates extraordinary alumni and their contributions to law and public service. She is grounded, thoughtful and full of humour. She brings a steady voice and a sharp wit to every conversation, both here in the chamber and in our PSG family.

Finally, colleagues, this year Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard received an honorary doctorate from the University of Sheffield in recognition of her outstanding work as a social worker, educator, researcher and community activist.

Senator Bernard also received an award that now bears her own name: the inaugural Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard Legends Award. There’s really no better way to describe her; she truly is a legend, I think you’ll all agree. Wanda has spent her life opening doors for others and making sure no one is left behind.

Senator Bernard has always been a leader in our group, and this recognition acknowledges the leading she’s done outside this place, inspiring generations to believe they belong in every room.

Together, our famous four remind us of the efforts so many of our colleagues have put in, not only here in Ottawa but also in their communities and regions across the country.

I feel gratitude to call each of you colleagues and friends. For my part, you’ve made this first year in the Senate richer, more enjoyable and far more inspiring than I could have imagined.

Congratulations, and here’s to many more years of working, learning and laughing together.

Thank you. Meegwetch.