PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau issued the following statement on Canada Day:

“No matter where you are, July 1 is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the country we call home, the people we share it with, and the future we’re building together.

“We can – and we should – take pride in all those things. After all, Canada is the envy of the world: people fleeing violence and persecution dream of a life here, businesses open headquarters in our cities and manufacturing plants in our towns, and world leaders look to us for leadership in times of crisis.

“Wherever our flag flies, it’s recognized as a symbol of democracy, of freedom, and of hope. It represents the values we all hold dear. And it is a promise. A promise of a country where newcomers are welcomed with open arms, where differences are celebrated and diversity is embraced, a country where you’re free to be who you are and love whom you love, where everyone has a real and fair chance at success, and a country where we acknowledge historical wrongs and learn from the past in order to build a better future – for everyone.

“Canada has withstood incredible challenges throughout our history, and we’ve always made it through by working hard together and staying true to our values. We did it when our grandparents stood up to fascism on the beaches of Normandy and across Europe. We’re doing it now when we step up to help those affected by wildfires. And we do it every day when we take a stand against hatred and discrimination.

“We are from far and wide, but united we are 40 million strong – and there is no challenge we cannot overcome together. So today, let’s celebrate each other, and let’s celebrate as we continue to build this great country. And let’s continue to seize every opportunity we can to make this country even better for our children and our children’s children.

“Happy Canada Day, everyone!”

PREMIER David Eby said in a statement:

“Today, people in British Columbia and throughout the country are celebrating and reflecting on Canada Day.

“Many people will watch parades and fireworks, enjoy barbecues with friends and family, and have conversations about what Canada means to them.

“We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful, welcoming and peaceful country. People from around the world come here to build better lives, and we all benefit from this growing diversity. Yet many people continue to face barriers to fully participating in society.

“This Canada Day, I think of the Indigenous people who are driving change in their communities, the province and the country. I think of the more than 15,000 people who fled war in Ukraine and found peace in British Columbia. I think of them and all Canadians from coast to coast to coast who make this country a safe and welcoming place for all.

“Canada Day is also an opportunity to acknowledge the impact Canada’s colonial history has had on generations of Indigenous people and the importance of creating true and lasting reconciliation. Our government is dedicated to this work. Last year, we became the first jurisdiction in Canada to release an action plan to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and we’ve made significant progress on the action items in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

“Canadian values of diversity, equity, inclusion and peace underpin our work on reconciliation and on other issues we’re addressing to make life better for people in British Columbia, Canada and around the world, from creating more homes for people and making life more affordable, to welcoming more newcomers and tackling climate change.

“As we come together today, let’s continue to listen and learn. Let’s reflect on the past, present and future of Canada, and what we can do to build a better country – one where everyone belongs and no one is left behind.”

PIERRE Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party and the Official Opposition, released the following video: 

JAGMEET Singh, Leader of Canada’s NDP said in a statement:

“Today, New Democrats join Canadians everywhere in celebrating Canada’s 156th anniversary, where families and friends will get together to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate and spend time with one another.

“It’s a day to acknowledge what makes Canada so tremendous. Our rich multiculturalism, diversity, and strong social programs that help every Canadian, from our cherished universal health-care system to public education.

“It’s also important to use Canada Day to reflect on the work ahead of us to continue building a more just and inclusive society.

“Part of that is remembering that today is a difficult anniversary for Indigenous communities, as it celebrates the formal displacement and the start of the genocide for the first people of this land.

“We cannot mark this day without a solemn and respectful acknowledgement of Canada’s history if we are truly in the spirit of reconciliation.

“On this Canada Day, let us celebrate the values we continuously aim to aspire to while remembering the past and committing to working for better days for all.

“On behalf of all New Democrats, I wish you and your family a fun and happy Canada Day.”