Senator Clement: To the young people, thank you for taking up space in this institution. I can’t wait to see what good you do in this world. Nia:wen.

Hon. Bernadette Clement: Honourable senators, it is a pleasure to rise in recognition of this incredible group of young people who have distinguished themselves already through their contributions to the community and their exemplary leadership.

The folks you see in the gallery are the 2023 cohort of the 1834 Fellowship Project, an initiative led by Velma Morgan and Operation Black Vote Canada.

Let me tell you about the 1834 Fellowship. Named in honour of the year that slavery was abolished in Canada, the 1834 Fellowship seeks out 20 high-potential Black youth every year who wish to enter or increase their capacity for civic leadership roles. The fellowship supports them in their skills and career development.

The selection criteria tells you about the calibre of these young people: maturity, self-awareness, respect for others, leadership, critical thinking and motivation.

This outstanding group of young people are the guests of the African Canadian Senate Group. Tomorrow, we’re going to connect over a meal, and talk about shared experiences and the very specific challenges we face as Black people — as people of African descent — in 2023 and beyond.

To the 2023 fellows, thank you for being here today — on this day when the other place elected the first Black Speaker of the House of Commons ever. Congratulations to Speaker Greg Fergus.