We’re feeling energized and inspired after Nature Canada’s 7th annual Nature on the Hill!

This was our biggest event yet, uniting over 70 dedicated partners from across the country in Ottawa. Our collective goal: to ensure nature is a top priority for our decision-makers.

In just two days, our advocates held over 50 meetings with Members of Parliament, Ministers and Senators, championing the defense and restoration of Canada’s natural legacy.

Our reception was grounded in a deep acknowledgement of our gathering on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Peoples. We were moved by powerful words from Kyrstin Dumont who called on us all to push beyond “promises” to “progression” and reminded us that our collective action is a form of resistance and healing.

As our new Board Chair, Sonia Theroux and Executive Director, Emily McMillan, both noted, this work cannot be done alone. Emily reminded us that “hope is social” it grows through shared effort and the knowledge that we are not alone.

We were honoured to host Canada’s first Secretary of State for Nature, Nathalie Provost, who emphasized that effective conservation requires partnership and “nature building projects,” not just concrete and steel.

Our Director of Policy, Akaash Maharaj welcomed the Hon. Steven Guilbeault for a fireside chat, with a panel of nature groups including, Cheryl Bozarth Soll (Nature Alberta), Joshua Charleson (Coastal Restoration Society), and Janell Smith (Island Nature Trust). The full house of advocates, their passion evident, gathered for a heartfelt discussion exploring the profound link between Canadian identity and nature.

Fireside chat with Hon. Steven Guilbeault. From left to right, Cheryl Bozarth Soll (Nature Alberta), Akaash Maharaj (Nature Canada), Hon. Steven Guilbeault, Emily McMillan (Nature Canada), Joshua Charleson (Coastal Restoration Society), Janell Smith (Island Trust PEI)

Thank you to the passionate advocates (including many first-timers!) who traveled to Ottawa to raise their voices. You are the foundation of this movement.

This was our most impactful “Super Bowl” of advocacy yet, thank you for supporting this important work.