Mr. Speaker, I join today with Cape Bretoners, Nova Scotians and Canadians in honouring and celebrating the life of Rita MacNeil, a treasured artist and performer who passed away last night. Our thoughts are with her loved ones.
Rita will be remembered for her iconic ability to mix storytelling with music, bringing audiences with her on a journey of triumphs, heartbreaks and the struggle for justice. Her decades of music making earned her accolades. Her passion, strength and kindness won her hearts.
Rita's progressive work with women and workers was well known and appreciated. She aptly demonstrated her quick wit and political sense, remarking in 2008, “What’s radical about equal pay for equal work?” She was a passionate and beautiful voice for us.
Rita spoke often of family and community and of breaking down barriers between people. Her lyrics from Sweet Wisdom remain powerful:
And if we could see inside each other's hearts
Would it make a difference, would we understand
Find no resistance, just love, joy and peace
I thank Rita for her wisdom and her passion. We will miss her.