Linked statement

“Eighty teachers from across Canada are visiting Parliament Hill this week to learn how our democracy works. Teaching students about government is more important than ever because of false information and political division. I want to thank these teachers and the staff who run the program.”

“Mr. Speaker, as a former educator, I know that teaching civics is about more than explaining how our institutions work. It is also about inspiring young people to participate in our democracy. That is why I rise today to recognize the Teachers Institute on Canadian Parliamentary Democracy, which brings outstanding teachers from across Canada this week to Parliament Hill to experience our democratic institutions first-hand. These 80 educators return to their classrooms with a deeper understanding of Parliament and a renewed ability to engage students in the democratic process. At a time when misinformation and political polarization can undermine our trust in public institutions, civic education has never been more important. I want to thank the people participating this week, as well as the House of Commons staff who make this program possible every single year. Together we are helping to build a more informed, engaged and democratic Canada.”