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06-18 Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act 57 statements 06-18 Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act 19 statements 06-18 Arab Heritage Month Act 5 statements 06-18 The Economy 15 statements 06-18 Government Priorities 2 statements 06-18 Government Priorities 2 statements 06-18 Housing 12 statements 06-18 The Environment 2 statements

Private Members' Business

Arab Heritage Month Act

2026-06-02 Sitting 127 Showing 1–2 of 2

A bill to designate April as Arab Heritage Month in Canada. During debate, members from all parties expressed support and discussed the contributions of Arab Canadians. Some shared personal anecdotes about Arab culture and friends.

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Hon. Ahmed Hussen

Liberal 5:20 p.m.

“I want Canadians to learn about the history and contributions of Arab Canadians. I want young Arab Canadians to see themselves reflected in our national narrative. This legislation is simple but powerful. It won't cost anything. Let's pass it so we can all feel good.”

Official Hansard

moved that the bill be read the third time and passed. He said: Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a profound sense of gratitude and optimism as we approach the final stage of Bill S-227, an act respecting Arab heritage month. Today, we stand at the finish line of a journey that began several years ago with the member of Parliament for Ottawa South, and that has been built upon through collaboration, goodwill and a shared belief that Canada's diversity is one of its greatest strengths. This legislation is simple in its wording but powerful in its purpose. This bill is not new to Parliament. Today we have the opportunity to complete that work. We have the opportunity to fulfill the commitment made by Parliament and deliver a recognition that Arab Canadians have long sought and richly deserve. For more than 140 years, Arab Canadians have helped build this country. They have served as entrepreneurs, teachers, physicians, engineers, artists, public servants, military personnel, community leaders and, indeed, elected representatives. They have opened businesses on our main streets, cared for patients in our hospitals, educated our children, strengthened our communities and enriched our national culture. Their stories are not separate from the Canadian story. Indeed, they are woven and they are part of the Canadian fabric. Bill S-227 is about ensuring that future generations understand that reality. It is about ensuring that young Arab Canadians see themselves reflected in our national narrative and know that their heritage is valued, respected and cherished. It is about education as well. Arab heritage month would provide Canadians of all backgrounds with an opportunity to learn about the history, contributions, traditions and languages of Arab Canadians. At a time when misinformation, stereotyping and division can too often find space in public discourse, education remains one of the strongest tools that we all have to build social cohesion. This understanding builds trust. Recognition builds belonging, and belonging strengthens our country. Throughout this process, I have been reminded of what makes Canada special. We are a country where people from every corner of the world can build a life, raise a family, contribute to their communities and proudly call themselves Canadians. We do not ask people to leave their heritage behind. We ask them to contribute to the rich tapestry that defines our nation. That is the spirit of Bill S-227. This legislation is not about one community alone. It is about the Canada we continue to build together, where diversity is celebrated, where every community is recognized and where every child can see themselves reflected in our shared history. I want to thank Senator Mohammad Al Zaibak for his leadership and perseverance in guiding this bill through the Senate. His advocacy has been instrumental in bringing us to this special moment. After years of effort, collaboration and support from parliamentarians across party lines, Conservative members of Parliament, Bloc Québécois MPs, New Democrats and Greens, and from communities right across our country, we now have the opportunity to make Arab heritage month a permanent part of Canada's legislative framework. I encourage all members, all colleagues in this House, to support Bill S-227 and help send it to the next and final stage on its journey towards becoming law so that we can signal to Arab Canadians that they are indeed integral to Canada.

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Hon. Kevin Lamoureux

Liberal 6:05 p.m.

“I want the last speaker to stay on topic about Arab heritage month.”

What they said. What they meant.

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