“I want to congratulate and thank seven people and groups named as this year's mental health champions. They help Canadians through advocacy, research, community leadership, and telling their stories.”

“Mr. Speaker, first, I want to give a quick shout-out to the Canucks Autism Network for an incredible charity hockey tournament this past weekend. I proudly bear the scars to prove I was there. Today, I rise to recognize seven remarkable Canadians and organizations being honoured as the 2026 champions of mental health by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health. Each has made a meaningful contribution to mental health and substance use health in Canada through advocacy, research, storytelling, community leadership and a commitment to ensuring that Canadians are heard and supported. This year’s champions are Anis Boukhari, Erica Djossa, Kyle Moore, The Kettle Society, Agnes Chen, Dr. Cindy Blackstock and our colleague, the member for Courtenay—Alberni. As we celebrate their contributions, let us also continue working toward a Canada where everyone can access the mental health care they need, when they need it. I ask all members to join me in congratulating and thanking this year’s champions for the difference they continue to make for people across the country and around the world.”