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Hello, I’m Jean Crowder, the Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Cowichan.

On this very special day I want to take this opportunity to wish my constituents a very safe, happy and fun-filled Canada Day.

We are privileged to be members of a free, democratic and dynamic society that welcomes people of all cultures and backgrounds.

I am so proud to celebrate the different voices and different cultures who have blessed our nation with a rich history and vibrant diversity.

I hope that all of you have a great Canada Day.

Mr. Speaker,

It has been an unacceptable struggle for many Aboriginal mothers to pass status to their children. For over 20 years, Sharon McIvor has fought for the sake of all Aboriginal women and their descendants.
As the daughter of a status Indian woman and a non-status Indian man, McIvor’s children were not recognized as status.
In 1985 the Court ruled that this was discriminatory based on gender and contravened international conventions on human rights, and the Canadian Charter.

Mr. Speaker,

Volunteers are the cornerstone of every community. They drive the ill, care for the weary, talk to the lonely and cook for armies of the hungry.

Volunteer Cowichan was established in 1977 to raise volunteer awareness in my riding.

Volunteer Nanaimo has been serving my constituents for almost 30 years. Both organizations have created programs that enhance the quality of life by increasing the impact individuals can have on their community.

Groups like Volunteer Cowichan and Volunteer Nanaimo work with partners to respond to community needs.

The red maple leaf is in all our hearts. New Democrats want to put it in our calendars, too.

The party has introduced a bill to declare February 15—Flag Day—a national holiday. It’s time to fully recognize this powerful symbol and give Canadians this chance to reflect on the privileges and responsibilities of living in this great country.