Hon. Chantal Petitclerc: Dear colleagues, I rise today to note the death of Kiska, at the approximate age of 47 years.

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Known as “the world’s loneliest orca,” she died last week after four decades in captivity in Ontario.

Captured off Iceland in 1979, she spent her first year in Canada with the orca Keiko, who was later sold to Mexico and then returned to freedom in Iceland a few years later. Kiska, however, would have no such luck. She remained in captivity and mothered five calves, none of which survived.

After the death of her tank mate, Kiska was to live her last 12 years in solitary confinement.

Many have said Kiska inspired change. I agree, but change also came from the efforts of amazing and strong champions. Today, I want to recognize the many individuals who fight for animal rights and who are committed to making those changes happen.

We make our decisions from the comfort of our suits and seats. As I was reading about the death of Kiska, it allowed me to dive into the many stories of courageous, passionate and strong activists who give their time and lives to defending the rights of animals. They include Phil Demers, Dylan Powell, Camille Labchuk, the humane societies and many others. They dedicate years and decades of their lives. They show up at peaceful protests. They seek justice. They document. They research. They never give up. In the end, they push society — they push Canada — to become a better place. Today, I want to thank them, as they are devastated by the passing of Kiska.

It may feel like they have failed, but they haven’t. Because of their relentless actions in the defence of animals, Kiska may very well have been the last captive orca in Canada. Let’s hope so.

Meegwetch. Thank you.