I’m proud to be able to speak to the Murray Whetung Community Service Award Act because it holds profound significance. It acknowledges the sacrifices and contributions made by all Indigenous people who have honourably served in the Canadian military. During the First and Second World Wars, more than 7,000 First Nation members voluntarily joined the Canadian Armed Forces to fight overseas, as they were exempt from conscription. Their choice to put their lives on the line, their valour on foreign soil, speaks volumes about their love for this country and their commitment to defending its values, but their dedication came at a steep cost. After serving in the wars for a period of time, many First Nations members were forced to give up their Indian status, and, as a result, were denied their rights they so valiantly fought to protect.

Despite these injustices, they returned to their country with a spirit of service. Through serving on councils as chiefs and as volunteers on various initiatives, they continued to give back to their community. One such individual was Murray Whetung, a Curve Lake First Nation veteran who served during World War II. His story is not just one of dedication to his responsibilities as a communication specialist. Murray was mistreated. He faced discrimination. Upon his return from serving overseas, he was not allowed in the Royal Canadian Legion. He was not permitted to wear his medals. But such hardship did not deter his commitment to serving his community, and passing on the values of duty and compassion, as he continued his volunteerism. Today, his dedication and leadership are a beacon of inspiration for us all. That is why the commemoration of the sacrifice and contributions of our local First Nations members like Murray is imperative.

Through this legislation, we have the opportunity to celebrate and honour individuals like Murray Whetung, whose selflessness and dedication continue to have a positive impact on their societies. The values embodied by Murray—community involvement, volunteerism and a deep sense of responsibility—resonate profoundly within the army, air and sea cadets of Ontario. This award will be bestowed upon deserving members of the cadet corps and squadrons, recognizing their exceptional volunteerism and citizenship within their communities. This initiative will not only honour the legacy of Indigenous veterans like Murray, but also inspire future generations to embody the values of service and community, instilling a culture of giving back and making a positive impact at a grassroots level.

No one is too young to make a difference because, in the end, community service and volunteerism are not just actions, they are fundamental aspects of what it means to be an Ontarian. They embody the spirit of compassion, empathy and solidarity that defines us as a province—and yes, as a people.

Whether it’s lending a helping hand to your neighbour, participating in local initiatives or supporting charitable causes, every act of service contributes to the fabric of our society. That is what Murray believed, Speaker. And that is what it means to be an Ontarian.

The Murray Whetung Community Service Award Act, 2023, will ensure that the service and protection of Canada by the Indigenous people will always be recognized and honoured, as it should. Their stories of resilience will remain an integral part of our province’s history—in fact, our country’s history.

As we move forward with the Murray Whetung Community Service Award Act, we acknowledge that our journey toward reconciliation is ongoing. Through the passage of this bill, we not only heighten awareness of past injustices, but embrace a future with a renewed commitment to inclusivity, understanding and respect. It’s about weaving the stories of Indigenous veterans into the fabric of our province, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. It’s about shedding light on the personal fulfillment derived from giving back, giving people a hand up, and will contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and thriving society for all people, serving as a catalyst for meaningful action.

Speaker, it’s heartening to note that this bill has also garnered widespread support. Murray’s family stands proudly behind this legislation, recognizing it as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy. The cadets across Ontario who embody the very values that Murray was known for have also expressed their support for this recognition of exceptional volunteerism and citizenship. I’d like to read a quote into the record, Speaker, if I may. It’s from one of the representatives of the board of the governors of the Air Cadet League of Canada: “The board of governors supports the proposed legislation, using the service of Murray Whetung as an example to recognize a cadet in every corps or squadron in Ontario for volunteerism in their community.”

And the Anishinabek Nation, specifically the veterans committee, have lent their support to this bill as well, recognizing it as a meaningful step towards honouring the contributions of Indigenous veterans and fostering a spirit of reconciliation and unity. The collective support that the Murray Whetung Community Service Award Act has is more than just legislation; it’s a testament to the power of the community. It’s a reminder that every act of service, no matter how small, plays a vital role in shaping our community and enriching the lives of our fellow neighbours. It’s a collective commitment to honouring our past, embracing our present and building a future where the spirit of service and community shines in every corner of our province.

The member from Mississauga–Malton, please.

Further debate?