Anita visited the Ottawa Carleton Association of Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OCAPDD) waste diversion facility at Tunney's Pasture. This green project diverts 99% of waste from government offices away from landfills, while providing valuable employment to OCAPDD members.

Last weekend, I had the honour of attending a Remembrance Day ceremony hosted by the National Congress of Italian Canadians and the Italian Canadian Historical Centre. The ceremony paid homage to the young Italo-Canadian men who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. We will remember them.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month we remember them. I was honoured to lay the wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada at the Nepean cenotaph today. We are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice for peace and freedom.

It was an an honour to attend the Remembrance Day ceremonies at West End Villa and Carlingview Manor put on by Westboro Legion. Lest we forget.

I joined the Jewish community for #RiseUpOttawa. The testimonies of the teenagers who spoke about the pervasiveness of hate and anti-semitism in Ottawa schools was horrifying. To be silent or indifferent to the oppression of others is to do harm. It’s up to all of us to #EndJewHatred.

It was a pleasure to join the India Canada Association at St. Paul’s High School for an evening of good food & great company to celebrate Diwali.

Today marks the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence Day!

We join Indo-Canadians and the people of India in marking this occasion and in recognizing Indo-Canadian contributions to our country.

Yesterday, I was honoured to light lamps at the The Great India Festival to open festivities for its final day and welcome light to the venue.

At The Great India Festival, we were treated to a wonderful evening full of music, traditional dance, great people, and good food (Including having the opportunity to make a dosa)!

Thank you to the organizers and performers for a night showcasing the rich, diverse cultures of India.

Swatantrata Diwas ki hardik shubhkamnaye!

A fantastic evening to celebrate the last day of the Ottawa Greek festival.

Thanks to all the organizers and volunteers for another really enjoyable celebration!

Loved the music and the food! Ottawa Greek-Festival

Today is International Youth Day, and we celebrate the youth who are both leaders of today and of tomorrow. We value the young Canadians who have stepped up during the pandemic to care for their loved ones, and their communities.

Youth have been vocal on addressing issues of note such as the climate crisis, affordable housing, mental health, ending systemic racism, economic opportunity, and gender equality.

We know these are all issues that impact youth, and that’s why listening to their voices is so important. In Ottawa West-Nepean, that means having a youth council so their MP can hear directly from them (where applications remain open for youth in the riding between the ages of 13-24)!

Let’s ensure we recognize the contributions, accomplishments, leadership, and potential of youth across the country, and around the world.

#InternationalYouthDay

Today I joined veterans, diplomats, Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Mona Fortier at the Peacekeeping monument for #NationalPeacekeepersDay.

This is an annual celebration to honour Canadian military, police and civilian peacekeepers who have sacrificed in the service of peace.

My amazing team of staff work hard every day to help constituents. I could not do what I do without them.

Even in the middle of summer, they work tirelessly to help constituents solve problems - whether it is with their pensions, taxes, passports, immigration, Employment Insurance - or it is correspondence, community events, policy, helping to prepare me for committees, writing speeches, communications - or any other tasks to respond to the needs of the community - these are the unsung heroes.

Since the beginning of COVID, my office has handled almost ten times the amount of calls and requests with the same number of staff. They often work long hours including evenings and weekends. They stay on hold sometimes for 4-5 hours to get answers for constituents about their files. They care deeply and I have seen them cry when they can’t help someone and the pure joy when they know they have made a difference in someone’s life.

The next time you call my office, please say a kind word of thanks. They believe deeply in making our community and our country better. I rely on them every day.

Thank you Kathleen, Kelly, Rachelle, Dan, Shazin, Aryan, Justin and Christiane!

As a Member of Parliament, so much of my impact and success depends on having dedicated and talented staff. These are the unsung heroes who work day and night to listen to constituents, help solve their problems and inform public policy.

Especially during the pandemic, they work tirelessly and often take home the stress, never complaining, always committed to making our country a little bit better each day.

I know how lucky I am to have staff who care deeply and have an intuitive sense for politics and social justice.

Especially my Executive Assistant, Kathleen Brimacombe who has been with me since I was first elected in 2015. Today I am so proud to see that I am not the only one who recognizes how wonderful she is.

Today Kathleen was named number two Liberal constituency staffer in the country by the Hill Times! Kathleen - I am so lucky to have you by my side on this adventure we call politics. Because of you, we are making a real difference in people’s lives. I can’t imagine anyone more deserving of this award. Congratulations and thank you from the bottom of my heart.

What better way to spend a warm summer evening than taking my mom for ice cream and live music at Beachconers!

Applications are now open for my Youth Council!

We’re looking for youth ages 13-24 that live in Ottawa West-Nepean who are:

✅ Interested in federal politics
✅ Full of ideas for policy solutions
✅ Who want to make your voice heard on issues that matter

To apply, please email [email protected] with "OWN Youth Council" in the subject line.

Know a youth who might be interested? Feel free to share this opportunity with them!

Today is International Non-Binary People's Day and it is both a time to celebrate diversity and resilience, and also a time of raising awareness about people with gender identities in-between and outside the gender binary.

It is also a day to commit to making our systems and society safe and more inclusive for all, no matter who people are, or how they express themselves.

Our government will continue to work with LGBTQ2+ Canadians and especially those who are Non-Binary to create a more diverse and more inclusive Canada.

We see you, and we will always stand with you against hate and discrimination.

#InternationalNonBinaryPeoplesDay
#NonBinaryPeoplesDay

C’est avec un grand plaisir que je me joins à la communauté congolais d’Ottawa-Gatineau pour célébrer la 62e anniversaire de l’independence de la RDC et de la fête du Canada.

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It was a pleasure to join the Congolese community of Ottawa-Gatineau to celebrate the 62nd Independence Day of DRC and Canada Day!

Join the fun at Andrew Haydon Park until 8pm tonight for the multicultural dance & music festival hosted by Panda Settlement Services.

Listen to cultural performances from local Ottawa artists & celebrate Canada and all our rich diversity! Check out the display tables too!

Happy Canada Day! 

We are a country that values diversity, celebrating our differences, and inclusion of all.

We welcome Canadians of all backgrounds, and celebrate our shared values of human rights, protecting our freedoms, democratic principles, kindness to our neighbours inside and outside our country, and more.

We also recognize that there is always room for improvement to do more, and to do better. As we celebrate all our accomplishments and the work we are doing together, let's make Canada better for generations to come.

Happy Canada Day to you and your families!

#CanadaDay

Please view my Video Message here: https://fb.watch/eYVOgMz7IA/

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Bonne Fête du Canada! 

Nous sommes un pays qui accorde de l'importance à la diversité, qui célèbre nos différences, et de l'inclusion de tout le monde.

On accueille les Canadiens et les nouveaux venus de tous les milieux et on célèbre nos valeurs partagées des droits de personne, protéger nos libertés, principes démocratiques, la gentillesse envers nos voisins dedans et dehors de notre pays, et plus.

On reconnaît qu'il y a toujours place pour amélioration pour faire plus, et pour faire mieux. Comme on commémore nos réussites et le travail qu'on fait ensemble, travaillons pour créer un Canada meilleur pour les générations à venir.

Bonne Fête du Canada à vous et à votre famille!

#FeteDuCanada

Veuillez trouver ci-joint mon enregistrement vidéo: https://fb.watch/eYVNHXDVCC/

I had such a fun time at the Lincoln Heights Park Fiesta last Saturday in Ottawa West-Nepean!

Lots of great family-friendly activities and games put on by volunteers with the Lincoln Heights Parkway Community Association.

A beautiful day, accompanied by some beautiful art as well!

As we approach Canada day, our office is excited to hand out free flags! 🇨🇦

To get yours, please call or email our constituency office while limited supplies last!

You can call us at 613-990-7720 or email [email protected]

It was an honour to hand out certificates at the Ottawa Islamic School graduation today!

Quite a beautiful ceremony that took place in Ottawa West–Nepean at Algonquin College Commons Theatre.

I would like to wish a heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2022! I also wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors and your journeys ahead.

The most inspiring event I’ve attended - “Community Unity”, an Indigenous fashion, music and arts show at Algonquin College organized by Indigenous youth to counter the colonial concept of beauty. It was authentic, uplifting, glamorous, diverse, creative, loving and beautiful.

Thanks to Kyrsten Dumont for making her idea into reality. What a wonderful way to celebrate #IndigenousHistoryMonth.

Please click here to watch a recap video: https://fb.watch/eYUymZjSum/

What a joy to meet the talented artists, artisans and musicians in our neighbourhood and admire their work during the Britannia Village Arts Crawl today.

Such a fantastic idea to bring people together! I brought my mom who loved it. Thanks to all the community volunteers!

J’ai eu l’opportunité de participer à une réunion avec les membres de la communauté congolaise d’Ottawa Ouest Nepean.

Ils m’ont partagé leurs craintes et leurs préoccupations face à la situation désastreuse qui a lieu dans l’est de la République Démocratique du Congo.

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I had the opportunity to meet with members of the Congolese-Canadian community in Ottawa West-Nepean.

They shared with me their fears and worries about the dire situation currently taking place in eastern Congo.

Aujourd’hui, j’ai eu l’occasion d’assister en personne à la fête de la famille organisée par le Point d’Accueil francophone à la maison de la francophonie.

Après deux ans de célébration virtuelle ce fut un plaisir de participer à ce rassemblement et célébrer avec la grande famille de francophone et francophile d’Ottawa Ouest Nepean.

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Today I had the opportunity to join the in-person family day celebrations organized by PAF- Point d'Accueil Francophone at the Maison de la francophonie d'Ottawa.

After two years of virtual celebrations, it was such a pleasure to participate in this gathering and celebrate the larger family of Francophones and francophiles in Ottawa West-Nepean.

Poignant, beautiful and thought-provoking multi-media art exhibit by Thehouse.ottawa at Britannia Woods CH community. I enjoyed the BBQ and music by M19, and reconnecting with community members in person.

Thanks to all the hardworking staff and volunteers, and talented artists! #OttWN

It was a beautiful evening to join the Muslim-Christian interfaith dialogue annual picnic in Andrew Haydon Park. It is more important now than ever that we listen to and understand each other.

Congratulations to the volunteers, like Nazira, who have led this dialogue and built bridges in our community for decades.

Congratulations to the Algonquin College graduating classes who are participating in person in the largest convocation ceremony in the history of the college! I wish you success in your future! #Algonquin2022

To view my graduation message, please visit:

https://fb.watch/eYTW6iHGHZ/

A sneak behind-the-scenes look at my weekly virtual coffee hour. Each week constituents set the topic and everyone has a chance to speak. It’s my best way to stay in touch with what matters to you.

Join me every Friday 5:30-6:30pm to share your ideas. Email [email protected] for details.

It’s that time of year - signing certificates of congratulation to the high school graduates in Ottawa West-Nepean! Congratulations Class of 2022!

A big thank you to all the volunteers from Britannia who painted the intersection this morning. It looks fantastic!

This week I attended the Esprit de Corps Top Women in Defence Award reception 2022. As a past recipient, it was even more meaningful to meet and congratulate this year’s nominees and recipients and to reconnect with good friends like Karen McCrimmon, Karen Breeck, Christine Vincent and so many of the strong Canadian Armed Forces members I got to know while I was Parliamentary Secretary for National Defence.

It was wonderful that Anita Anand was able to attend, considering what a busy day it was with the release of the Arbour Report. These are the women who have blazed the trails and fought for decades to make room for women to serve their country with the same respect as men.

To be amongst them, celebrating each other, looking with cautious optimism toward the future is both humbling and exhilarating. These are the women whose voices we need to amplify and to whom our country owes a deep debt of gratitude! BZ!

Today Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came to Ottawa West-Nepean to hear from constituents impacted by the storm.

He served coffee/timbits/hot chocolate to those still without electricity, toured the Centrepointe library, spoke with students doing homework there and those using the wifi and charging stations, and thanked library and city staff who are working extra hard to help those in need.

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Aujourd’hui, le Premier ministre Justin Trudeau est venu à Ottawa Ouest-Nepean pour écouter les expériences des électeurs impactés par l’orage.

Il a servi du café chaud et des Timbits aux personnes quand même sans électricité, visité la bibliothèque Centrepointe, parlé avec des étudiants qui ont fait leurs devoirs là et les personnes qui ont utilisé le Wi-Fi et les stations de rechargement pour les appareils, et a remercié le personnel de Bibliotheque Centrepointe et de Ville d'Ottawa qui travaillent très fort pour aider les personnes qui en ont besoin.

Businesses in Ottawa West-Nepean are stepping up to help those who still have no power after the storm.

Thanks to Dutch Groceries and Giftware for donating ice packs (for people to keep medicine cold) and stroop-waffles for our coffee/tea/snack stand at Ben Franklin Place.

For those still without power in Ottawa West-Nepean, this morning I set up a coffee/tea/snacks stand at Ben Franklin Place. There is wifi/outlets and the library is open. We’ll be here today until we run out and back again tomorrow morning.

I had a chance to talk to so many constituents, despite the difficult circumstances we had some good conversations. If you have no electricity and need a hot coffee or tea and some company please drop by!

Today I dropped by the three City of Ottawa emergency reception centres in #OttWN to thank City staff and Red Cross and Salvation Army volunteers.

Howard Darwin Centennial arena (beside Merivale High School) is difficult to get to for residents of our riding (unless you park at Merivale mall and walk), but the The Salvation Army in Canada is providing meals twice a day and Canadian Red Cross volunteers provide reception services, there are showers and charging stations, including for those on oxygen.

J.A. Dulude arena (941 Clyde) is much quieter. A wonderful community member named Sue took it upon herself to set up a coffee/sandwich station for her neighbours. I met a student who requires software for assistance with reading, who was able to plug in his laptop. No line-up for the showers. Better to come here if you need a shower or wifi/charging. It’s easier to get to and less busy.

Ben Franklin Place is open, as is the Centrepointe library, for wifi, charging devices and washrooms. There are plenty of quiet spaces to work.

For up to date info about City of Ottawa reception centres: https://bit.ly/3Nwa6VB

Earlier today I dropped frozen ice packs to vulnerable constituents who have no electricity to keep medicines cold, especially for seniors or children with diabetes.

There is much more need. Residents also need flashlights and thermoses with hot water (to warm up baby formula).

Let’s look after each other at this difficult time. It will be dark soon, check on your neighbours.

It was an honour to attend a reception for the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia last night with Minister Randy Boissonnault, co-hosted by Dignity Network Canada and Fondation Emergence.

We marked the occasion in-person with LGBTQ2 Canadians, allies, advocates, and partners, highlighting the progress made to protect LGBTQ2 rights at home and abroad, and reaffirming our commitment to protecting them everyday.

Our Government will continue to work alongside the LGBTQ2 community to create a diverse and more inclusive Canada.

#IDAHOBIT #IDAHOBIT2022

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C'était un plaisir d'aller à une réception pour la Journée Internationale Contre l'Homophobie, la Transphobie, et la Biphobie hier soir avec Ministre Boissonnault, co-présenté par Le Réseau Dignité du Canada et Fondation Émergence.

On a marqué l’occasion en personne avec les Canadiens LGBTQ2, les alliés, leurs défenseurs, et les partenaires, qui ont souligné le progrès pour protéger les droits des personnes LGBTQ2 ici et partout, et en réaffirmant notre engagement pour les protéger chaque jour.

Notre gouvernement continuera de travailler ensemble avec la communauté LGBTQ2 pour créer un divers et plus inclusif Canada

#JICHTB #JICHTB2022

Today is the 77th anniversary of V-E Day.

As the child of Dutch immigrants, I am forever grateful to the Canadians who liberated my parents. My dad got his first candy from a Canadian soldier at the age of 5 during the liberation parades in his city of Deventer.

Today we remember the high cost of war and honour the bravery of those who fought for our freedom. #CanadaRemembers

Today is Liberation Day in the Netherlands. In Canada we commemorate this day as Dutch Heritage Day, a day to honour the sacrifices made by Canadian veterans in the liberation of the Netherlands during the Second World War. It is also a day to celebrate the many contributions the over 1 million Canadians of Dutch descent have made to Canada.

As a Dutch-Canadian whose parents immigrated in the 1960's, I feel profoundly grateful to the Canadian soldiers who liberated my own family. Happy Dutch Heritage Day! Happy Liberation Day!

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Vandaag is Bevrijdingsdag in Nederland. In Canada herdenken we deze dag als Dutch Heritage Day, een dag van eerbetoon aan de Canadese veteranen die deelnamen in de bevrijding van Nederland tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog. We vieren vandaag ook de vele bijdragen die de ruim 1 miljoen Canadezen van Nederlandse afkomst gemaakt hebben aan Canada.

Als Canadees-Nederlander wiens ouders naar Canada emigreerden in de jaren 60, ben ik de Canadese soldaten die mijn eigen familie hebben bevrijd hartelijk dankbaar. Happy Dutch Heritage Day! Fijne Bevrijdingsdag!

Today Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-al-Fitr, to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is a time to gather and celebrate with family and community, to mark the end of the fast, and of charitable giving to those less fortunate.

Today I joined Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and my Liberal colleagues at the Eid morning prayers hosted by Muslim Association of Canada, to celebrate the contributions of Muslim Canadians to our city and our country. #EidMubarak #urimefitërbajrami

It was a pleasure meeting Jenna Sudds, David McGuinty, Yasir Naqvi, Marie-France Lalonde, Mona Fortier, Omar Alghabra, and Justin Trudeau there!

This month of May is the 20th anniversary of #AsianHeritageMonth, thanks to my constituents Monica and Alek and the Ottawa Asian Heritage Month Society, we enjoy cultural and scholarly activities every May to celebrate the contributions of Asian Canadians and the rich and diverse heritage they bring to our city and our country. #AHM2022

This morning, I was thrilled to mark the beginning of a new era at Carlington by attending the official opening of their newly renovated and expanded health centre.

Over the last six years of representing Ottawa West---Nepean, I've gotten to know the importance of the Carlington Community Health Centre to our riding and beyond.

I am happy to see that through creative collaboration with our provincial and municipal partners that we are helping to create a more modern and accessible space for generations to come.

It isn’t Easter without the Easter bunny!

Thanks to the volunteers from the City View Community Association and Julian of Norwich Anglican Church for sponsoring their first annual Easter Egg Hunt this afternoon at City View Park!

Lots of family fun - and not just for the kids, but parents and grandparents too - I brought my mom and she loved it! Happy Easter!

Showing solidarity with the Ottawa Ukrainian community at the Aid-to-Ukraine Easter bazaar today at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Ottawa on Byron ave in Ottawa West-Nepean.

Easter is a time for rebirth & hope, something we dearly wish for the people of Ukraine.

#StandWithUkraine

Yesterday while touring the Algonquin College Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) I had a chance to talk with the students learning cabinet-making.

I spent much of my childhood in my dad’s woodshop, he was a Master Piano Tuner who built cabinets and beautiful furniture in the shop in our garage - some of it out of old pianos and organs that didn’t play anymore.

It was fun to exchange with these students about my dad’s projects and some that they are working on, including one who made an armchair out of his parents old bed frame. Maybe one of them will take up my dad’s concept of a “piano-bar” - making a bar out of an old piano!

Thanks to the college and to these learners for sharing their time with me!

Yesterday we toured the ‘maker space’ at the Algonquin College DARE (Discovery, Applied Research, and Entrepreneurship) district, where students use cutting-edge equipment – from 3D printers, VR stations, and a laser engraver – to innovate and explore their creativity.

I met Ryan, who explained the idea of “unintentional innovation” - when experimentation and artistic exploration leads to new ideas without pre-planning. In his case, he perfected printing 3D photographs and then when challenged about what it was for, he had an aha moment realizing that for the visually impaired they can now “feel” photos and paintings.

I am excited to see what else students and our community develop using this special space! I’m proud of the investments our federal government made in the DARE district to make this possible!

#Budget2022 focuses on good jobs, clean air and a strong economy.

Today I joined FilomenaTassi and Jenna Sudds at Algonquin College to hear from learners & instructors about innovative ways they are partnering to provide skills for the workforce & entrepreneurs of the future.

Today is the #InternationalDayOfPink to stand against homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and all other forms of discrimination.

To anyone who is being bullied: you are not alone. You matter.

To those who witness bullying: be an ally, speak up.

Today we celebrate being yourself and proud of it!

Yesterday, we commemorated the 105th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

This was the first battle where the four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together, achieving what no Allied army had done before. They battled for four days to achieve this decisive victory. Nearly 3,600 Canadians were killed, and over 7,000 more were wounded.

We honour and remember their sacrifice. Lest we forget.

This evening we gathered with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, MP’s, Ministers & Ukrainian Canadians for a vigil.

I spoke with my constituent Iryna who has been volunteering to answer immigration questions from refugees through the Ottawa UCC National - Ukrainian Canadian Congress website. She is one of many generous Canadians who want to do their part.

It takes all of us to #StandWithUkraine.

To support a local Ukrainian business in Ottawa West-Nepean and donate medical supplies or cash, go to Ottawa Perogies at 1129 Baxter road (behind IKEA). They also have amazing perogies!

Or donate online to Canadian Red Cross and the federal government will match up to $30 million.

#StandWithUkraine

The Britannia Winter Trail is a great way to have fun outdoors and get excercise right here in Ottawa West-Nepean.

With this $29,232 federal grant, they will be able to buy a second groomer and trailer which will allow permanent expansion of the trail, as well as a ski-lending program and other sports equipment and lessons for families that can’t afford it.

I am so pleased to support this wonderul community-led initiative!

Today is #PinkShirtDay, we wear pink to stand up against bullying, whether online or in person.

This year let’s do more - make an effort to build someone up, to share a kind word, to be generous & positive.

Let others know that being yourself is not just ok, let’s celebrate it!

Tonight I joined a virtual #BlackHistoryMonth celebration with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and many Canadian Black artists, musicians & leaders.

The theme “February and Forever- celebrating Black history today and every day” encourages us to celebrate contributions of Black Canadians all the time, not just in February.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and safe New Year.

Tonight we reflect on all we have been through with hope and anticipation that the future will bring with it better days when we can all be together again and celebrate a healthier, more peaceful, greener and more joyful world.

Yesterday afternoon the sun came out just long enough for a perfect day of snowshoeing along the Britannia Winter Trail with my niece!

What a jewel right here in Ottawa West-Nepean.

A Covid-safe way to have fun with loved ones, get exercise, and enjoy nature!

I’m at the Bayshore Shoppers Drug Mart where I just got my booster COVID-19 vaccine from friendly and professional pharmacists Amer and Kate.

Get your booster and protect yourself and others from COVID-19 and Omicron. #BoosterJab #FeelingGrateful

This Christmas I encourage everyone to buy local.

I enjoyed the Ottawa Artisans market at Carlingwood mall where I bought a wood polar bear pen from Distinctive Woodworking, spicy sauce from La Chula, and a soy wax candle from Wick-o-Roma.

Check out ottawaartisans.com for more gift ideas!

It was a pleasure to join the Ottawa Muslim Women’s Organization for a hybrid annual general meeting.

Thanks to OMWO for the work they do in promoting inter-faith dialogue and understanding in our community, and supporting charities in Canada and around the world.

A heartwarming way to begin the day with the 70th annual breakfast to benefit Ottawa charities like the Caldwell Family Centre in Ottawa West-Nepean at #ChristmasCheer2021.

Even Santa showed up to spread joy!

Today is Economic Abuse Awareness Day, I joined a panel hosted by the Canadian Centre for Women’s Empowerment to discuss ways to raise awareness, recognize economic abuse as a form of domestic violence & end this form of control over women.

Thanks to the other panelists for insightful remarks and solutions. #16Days

Today is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of the 30th anniversary of the UN #16DaysofActivism to #EndVAW.

I joined The Grandmothers Advocacy Network to light up Ottawa City Hall in purple to raise awareness and put an end to gender-based violence.

Thank you to the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project for inviting me to speak at the Uyghur Solidarity Event this morning on Parliament hill.

I was glad to see so many Canadians, including my constituent Phil, co-founder of Stop Uyghur Genocide Canada, as well as Members of Parliament and Senators from all parties.

Canada was the first Parliament in the world to hold hearings about the Uyghurs when I chaired the Subcommittee on International Human Rights in 2018, and the first Parliament to officially declare that it is a genocide.

The world once said, "Never Again." It is our obligation, not just as elected officials but as human beings, to act.

Congratulations to Loreen and Maureen and all the volunteers from the Ottawa Humane Society Auxiliary for a successful holiday handmade craft sale at Carlingwood mall “The Spot” raising over $10,000 for Ottawa Humane Society and their important work for animals in our community.

I was honoured to join the Ottawa Sikh community at the Gurdwara to celebrate the 552nd birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru & founder of Sikhism who fought for the equality of all and preached “Seva” - service to those in need.

#HappyGurpurab to all who celebrate!

Getting into the holiday spirit last night at the Nepean night market Christmas craft show, where I met impressive young entrepreneurs Jamie and Andrée from Franco-ouest High school. They sell environmentally safe shampoo bars as part of their school Focus program. Their business floraa.ca is an Ottawa based youth led social enterprise which donates 15% of their profits to Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa / Bureau des services à la jeunesse. I am inspired by their passion and initiative! #LeadersOfToday

There was also festive music and local vendors, artisans and innovative young entrepreneurs like Sarah and Champagne from OrangeTheory fitness on Merivale. I bought a new face mask with Canada flags on it and a shampoo bar made by student entrepreneurs and even met a man who makes home-made guitars! What a fantastic way to get to know our neighbors! 

Wonderful to meet people and buy local crafts at the Cityview United Church Snowflake Bazaar and Craft Fair.

Thanks to all the volunteers and artisans who organized it.

I got a great scarf and a jar of orange marmalade and the Rotary Ottawa calendar!

I was honoured to lay the wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada at a beautiful ceremony for #RemembranceDay  at the Bells Corners Legion today.

We honour those who sacrificed and those who continue to serve so that we can live in freedom and democracy.

Today and every day we remember them. #LestWeForget

Today I stopped by the Westboro Legion poppy store at Carlingwood mall (beside Laura Secord). You can get your poppies and other beautiful Remembrance items there until Nov 10th.

This is the 100th anniversary of the poppy.

Thanks to volunteers Doreen, Coleene, Beverly, Roy and Carol for ensuring that we always remember those who sacrificed for our freedom. #LestWeForget

Marci Ien and I met with BGC Ottawa to speak about food insecurity, mental health, and access to employment opportunities.

Hats off to this incredible organization for supporting youth in #Ottawa.

Thanks to Lincoln Heights-Parkway community association for asking me to drop in to say a few words & hear your priorities for the federal government- including protecting green space & promoting more active transportation.

Thanks to the volunteers for strengthening our community!

Congratulations to Shade Tosan and her family for today’s grand opening of the Merinnade market providing African and Caribbean and international foods and products.

It is a pleasure to see a new business opening in Ottawa West-Nepean and to celebrate the diversity of our community together!

Thanks to Hélène Cayer for hosting the opening of the exhibit “Homage: The Art of Elaine Goble” at the Canadian War Museum, featuring poignant portraits of veterans and survivors of WWII, including Indigenous veteran Philip Favel.

It was very good to see my constituent, elder and Korean War veteran, James Eagle and his wife Cecelia,  who will be the subject of Goble’s next portrait, to be unveiled in 2022.

October marks Islamic Heritage Month in Canada, a month in which we celebrate the culture and contributions of Canadian Muslims.

Thank you to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamāʻat Ottawa and Laura Dudas for inviting my colleagues Marie-France Lalonde and Jenna Sudds and I to your exhibition at Ottawa City Hall, which showcased the rich history of Islam. Love for all, hatred for none.

Boys and Girls Clubs provide much-needed programs for children and youth in our community.

It was great to cut the ribbon today at BGC Ottawa Ron Kolbus clubhouse’ new kitchen - where kids will get healthy meals and snacks and learn about nutrition and healthy eating.

Today is the 50th anniversary of Canada’s multiculturalism policy, making us a truly special country in the world - one where we are all Canadians, celebrating one another’s differences and rich cultures.

We enjoy a stronger and more resilient society built on diversity and inclusion.

Looking to support local business during the pandemic? Try out the new Biagio’s Italian gelato! It goes great after one of their delicious pizzas from the wood oven. All available for pick-up at the pizza truck in their parking lot or the Mercato window! Comment below with your favourite kind of pizza, Anita's favourite is the Brocollini!

Click here to see their website: https://www.biagios.ca/ 

Today was my turn! I got my #COVID19 vaccine today at Ottawa City Hall. Thanks to staff and volunteers who made it efficient and safe. The best vaccine is the one in your arm! Everyone please get vaccinated when you are eligible. Today we reached 50% of Canadian adults who have had at least one dose!

Click here to check your eligibility and book your vaccine: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/

Today Anita was joined by her colleagues at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels to announce $835,000 in infrastructure funding for Carling Family Shelter as part of a larger announcement of $8.9 million federal funding to Ottawa through the COVID-19 Resiliency Stream. This funding will help Carling Shelter upgrade its generator, air conditioning system, and digital connectivity, ensuring that families who need a safe place will also be better protected from Covid-19 and children will be better able to attend virtual school classes. This will benefit the most vulnerable in our community.

Anita has been selected by Esprit de Corps magazine as one of their 2021 ‘Breaking Down the Barricades - Top Women in Defence”. Being profiled alongside so many extraordinary women is a great and humbling honour, and is especially important now, as we need to amplify the voices of women in defense in order to break down the barriers they face.

It was a pleasure to join Minister Ahmed Hussen and the students from Omer-Deslauriers school in my riding to celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth. What an articulate and bright group of young leaders working toward a fairer, greener and more inclusive Canada.

In February 2021, Anita had the pleasure of meeting virtually with the Ottawa West—Nepean Youth Council to listen to and discuss ideas for the 2021 federal budget. If you are between 14 and 24 and interested in joining please email my office at [email protected]

On February 8, 2021, Anita spoke in the House of Commons to highlight Thehouse.podcast and to celebrate Black History Month. This podcast is a part of the Britannia Woods Community House, where Black youth in Ottawa-West Nepean are expressing their voices.

On January 31, 2021, Anita gave a speech in the House of Commons addressing how the Canadian Armed Forces are working to support Canada's vaccine distribution in fighting COVID-19

On 22 October 2020, Anita rose in the House to raise awareness on the economic abuse often faced by women in abusive relationships. Thank you to the Canadian Centre for Women’s Empowerment for their hard work in raising awareness about this very important issue.

During the last election, constituents asked Anita for funding to restore critical infrastructure that had been damaged in the 2017 and 2019 floods. On October 9th, 2020, Anita joined Minister Anand and the NCC to announce $52.4 in federal funding to restore the Belltown Berm, which will ensure the community is better protected against future floods. The funds will also be used to restore the paths and boardwalks at Mud Lake. As our federal government continues to leads the fight climate change, flood mitigation and natural infrastructure will be a vital part of our plan.

On June 27, 2020 Anita hosted a virtual Canada Day event, with artists of all ages and wonderful performances. Although Canada Day has passed, the talents of these artists deserve to be seen. Therefore, take a moment to enjoy this wonderful video of local music and dance performances in celebration of our beauiful country!

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Le 27 juin 2020, Anita a organisé une fête du Canada virtuelle regroupant des artistes de tous les tranches d’âges, ayant des expériences de vie différent et beaucoup de talent. Ils ont filmer des performances magnifique. Bien que la fête du Canada soit passée, les talents de ces artistes mérites d’être vue. Ainsi profiter de cette magnifique vidéo regroupant des spectacles de musique et de danse locale afin de célébrer la beauté et la diversité  notre merveilleux pays!

Anita participated in a meeting organized by the Carrefour des femmes et des familles with black Francophone youth in our community on how to fight racism and discrimination.

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Anita a participé à une rencontre à une rencontre organiser par le Carrefour des femmes et des familles avec les jeunes noirs francophones de notre communauté portant sur la façon de lutter contre le racisme et la discrimination.

Anita attended the in Andrew Haydon Park. Even with the rain and the need to physically distance in household bubbles, she was thrilled to see everyone again. OMWO does so much to build bridges of understanding in our community.

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Anita a assisté au pique-nique de l'Organisation des femmes musulmanes d'Ottawa au parc Andrew Haydon. Même avec la pluie et la nécessité de s'éloigner physiquement dans les bulles des foyers, elle était ravie de revoir tout le monde. L'OMWO fait beaucoup pour créer des ponts de compréhension dans notre communauté.

With the help of federal funding, the Jewish Family Services of Ottawa are providing much-needed support to the most vulnerable community members during COVID-19 including settlement services for new Canadians, on-line counseling, food packets for those most in need, help for isolated seniors and much more.

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Avec l'aide de fonds fédéraux, les services familiaux juifs d'Ottawa fournissent un soutien indispensable aux membres les plus vulnérables de la communauté pendant COVID-19, notamment des services d'établissement pour les nouveaux Canadiens, des conseils en ligne, des paquets de nourriture pour ceux qui en ont le plus besoin, une aide aux personnes âgées isolées et bien plus encore.