‘Dedication to Democracy’ award recipients
The ‘Dedication to Democracy’ award celebrates Canadians whose outstanding achievements safeguard and strengthen our democratic values and practices.
In recognition of their leadership, the Parliamentary Centre has chosen the co-chairs of the Coalition for a Better Future as co-recipients of this year’s award.
The Hon. Anne McLellan and Hon. Lisa Raitt, a former liberal Deputy Prime Minister liberal and a former conservative Deputy Leader of the Opposition respectively, have been steering a cross-partisan, whole-of-society effort to shape a transformative vision for inclusive, sustainable economic prosperity and opportunity for all Canadians.
The Parliamentary Centre’s chair of the board of directors, Yaroslav Baran, is delighted with this year’s choice and says, “these two exceptional leaders are a model of what public life should be: they exemplify constructive cross-aisle collaboration, putting their country ahead of partisanship.”
Ivo Balinov, executive director of programs at the Parliamentary Centre adds, “Anne McLellan and Lisa Raitt’s high-level contribution to public policy after elected life is a true example of the resilience of democracy in challenging times.”
The recipients’ mission at the Coalition for a Better Future has been to strengthen the economic foundations of Canadian society and create the wealth necessary to fund and enhance the social programs and public services on which Canadians depend.
Anne McLellan, co-chair, Coalition for a Better Future said she is, “…deeply grateful to the Parliamentary Centre for this honour. This award underscores the importance of democracy as a foundation for cooperation—both within Canada and globally. At a time when democracies face profound challenges, we must actively defend and strengthen our own through open dialogue, collaboration, and respect for one another. This award is a reminder that when we set aside partisanship and work together, we can make a real difference for Canadians.”
Lisa Raitt, co-chair, Coalition for a Better Future also expressed her gratitude, “Thank you to the Parliamentary Centre for this tremendous honour. This award reflects the shared commitment of Canadians from all parties, sectors, and communities who believe in working together to accomplish great things for the greater whole of society. In an era when too often division makes the headlines, this recognition is a call to focus on what unites us—our shared belief in democracy, civility, and collaboration. Canadians expect their leaders to work together, and that’s the spirit we are proud to champion as co-chairs of the Coalition for a Better Future.”
The Parliamentary Centre will host the fourth annual Democracy Awards at the new British High Commission in Ottawa on Friday, November 28th. Guests include parliamentarians, diplomats, academics, bureaucrats, members of the business community, thought leaders, and media.
This will be the fourth time a British High Commissioner has co-hosted our annual awards show and we are indebted to H.E. Rob Tinline for his ongoing and generous support for the Parliamentary Centre.
