Metis/Michif Senator representing Ontario in the Senate of Canada. Working on reproductive justice for all & the implementation of Indigenous rights in Canada.
Leeds - Grenville, Ontario
Joined September 2009
- Tweets2.5K
- Following522
- Followers2.3K
- Likes2.6K
Pinned Tweet
Yesterday, I delivered my statement in the Senate Chamber in Michif, the language of the Metis Nation.
I hope this historic occasion will show Michif children across the Homeland that there is a place for them in every decision-making space, even the Senate of Canada.
Earlier this week I had the chance to connect with Col Melissa Ramessar, Director Army Force Sustainment, over lunch.
We discussed wide range of issues impacting the Canadian Armed Forces and how we can improve the lives of those serving Canada.
I was pleased to attend a celebration of Louis Riel Day, hosted by the Metis Nation - Saskatchewan and the Speaker of the House of Commons.
It was great to see friends and family from Saskatchewan bringing our Michif culture to Parliament Hill.
My heart is with the families, friends, and colleagues of those affected by the tragedy at CFB Wainwright.
These brave Canadians dedicated their lives to serving our country.
I am deeply honoured to be named a 2027 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame inductee.
I share this recognition with the survivors of forced & coerced sterilization, whose courage & determination have driven this work forward. This honour belongs to them, too.
cdnmedhall.ca/induction
It was great to speak with François Rihouay & Joanne Profeta from France24, who have a reach of 100 million, about the issue of forced & coerced sterilization in Canada, & specially the work being done in Quebec by Prof. Suzy Basile and how Bill S228 impacts that important work.
This year to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I was honoured to spend time with members of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Survivors Circle. Thank you to these elders for sharing their time and wisdom with us on this important day.
It was great to meet with Angela Bishop and Leon McCaulay from Camponi Housing Corporation, a Métis-led social and non-profit housing provider in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to discuss the important work they are doing, and what the federal government can do to help.
The partnership between SaskEnergy and Cosmo Industries is an example that should be followed across Canada.
Together, they are providing adults with intellectual and related disabilities the opportunity to do meaningful work.
Thank you to everyone who was part of our visit.
While visiting Saskatchewan, it was great to connect with my dear friend Wilna Masuskapoe. Wilna was a key part of my team when I authored the External Review on the Saskatoon Health Authority which brought the issue of forced sterilization into the national conversation.
Forced sterilization of Indigenous women isn’t just an issue in Canada, this racist practice happens all over the world.
CBC News: Denmark passes compensation bill for thousands of Inuit in Greenland forced to get IUDs
cbc.ca/news/canada/north/den…
A meaningful step toward reconciliation within our justice system. The gifting of an Eagle Feather to Saskatchewan’s Provincial Court honours Indigenous traditions and creates space for culturally meaningful practices within our courts.
cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatche…
Senator Yvonne Boyer retweeted
The Hon. Todd Lewis was a deeply cherished member of @SenateCA
His unexpected passing is an immense shock to anyone who had the privilege of working alongside him
We heartbroken at his loss
Please keep his family & loved ones in your thoughts, hearts, and prayers
As wildfires continue to impact communities across Ontario, my thoughts are with everyone who has been forced to evacuate, along with the firefighters, emergency personnel, and volunteers working tirelessly to keep people safe.
Many First Nations are among the hardest hit. If you need support, call 211 or visit 211Ontario.ca to connect with emergency shelters, food, mental health services, and other local assistance. Stay safe.
Back to Batoche is more than a gathering. It’s a homecoming.
Each year, Métis citizens, families, Elders, youth, and friends come together to celebrate our culture, honour our history, and strengthen the ties that connect us.
Louis Riel Dancers video credit: Madelaine McCallum
Nunavut Day is an opportunity to recognize the vision and determination of Inuit leaders whose work helped shape Canada.