Canadian Heritage

The committee met to conduct clause-by-clause consideration of Bill S-227, An Act respecting Arab heritage month, and Bill S-210, An Act respecting Ukrainian heritage month. Both bills are declaratory and seek to designate a month—April for Arab heritage and September for Ukrainian heritage—without creating new regulatory burdens or appropriating funds.

The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, sponsor of Bill S-227, told the committee that the bill builds on prior unanimous support in the House for a similar bill in the previous Parliament. He emphasized that Arab Canadians have contributed to Canada for over 140 years and that a federal designation would provide national coherence, promote education about the community, and help counter anti-Arab racism and misperceptions. Members from all parties spoke in support, noting the importance of recognizing the community’s diversity and contributions to Canadian society.

For Bill S-210, sponsor Yvan Baker and Senator Stanley Kutcher, appearing by video from a hospital, urged passage. Baker argued that the bill honours the contributions of Ukrainian Canadians over nearly 135 years and, in the context of Russia’s ongoing invasion, sends a message of solidarity. Senator Kutcher described the bill as a symbol of hope for Ukrainians in Canada and in Ukraine. Members highlighted the community’s role in building the Prairies and the importance of celebrating Ukrainian culture beyond the war.

The committee adopted both bills without amendment. No unresolved issues were left, and the committee proceeded to order the bills reprinted for report stage in the House.