Hon. Pierre J. Dalphond: Honourable senators, I rise to congratulate Manitobans and, more specifically, their newly elected premier, Wab Kinew, on his inspiring and historic victory in yesterday’s election. In forming a majority government, Mr. Kinew has become the first Indigenous premier of a province in the Canadian federation. This is a great day for reconciliation and Canadian democracy.

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In the words of Mr. Kinew, “Manitoba did something more progressive than any of those big cities ever did.” He added, “Seek your vision. Dreams come true.”

Mr. Kinew’s victory was especially beautiful following the outgoing governing party’s negative and divisive campaign with overtones of racism. As Michelle Obama says, “When they go low, we go high.”

Yesterday, our Parliament was also the site of a historic election. Greg Fergus, MP from my province, became the first Black Speaker of the House of Commons. Congratulations to Speaker Fergus! I know this chamber wishes him all success in his new role.

In addressing the other place, he said:

. . . respect is a fundamental part of what we do here. We need to make sure that we treat each other with respect and that we show Canadians an example, because there can be no dialogue unless there is a mutual understanding of respect. There can be no ability to pursue arguments, to make points be heard, unless we all agree to extend to each other that sense of respect and decorum.

Colleagues, these messages are as important in the Senate as in other debating places in this country. Canada must guard against the regression threatening American democracy through the falsehoods and divisive rhetoric against diversity, minorities and newcomers.

[Translation]

On behalf of the Progressive Senate Group, but also on behalf of progressives across Canada, I extend my congratulations to the new premier, Mr. Kinew, and to Speaker Fergus. Through them, Canada has demonstrated that it remains a wonderfully progressive country.

Thank you. Meegwetch.

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