“I want the House to pass this bill to make April Arab Heritage Month. Arab Canadians have helped build this country for over 140 years. This bill recognizes their history and helps all Canadians learn about their culture.”

“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.”

“I want the member to stay on topic. We are debating a bill about the Arab community, not the opposition motion.”

“Mr. Speaker, on a point of order, we are not on the opposition day motion. We are on a very respectful bill that was brought forward that deals with the Arab community. I would ask the member to be relevant.”